How to Pay for Home Modifications: Medicare, VA and Texas Programs
What Medicare, the VA and Texas Medicaid will and won’t pay for when you make a home safer, and where Austin-area families can look for help.
The Short Answer
Most home modifications are paid for out of pocket, but several programs can help if you qualify. Program rules change, so confirm eligibility and amounts with the program before you start. We are a remodeling company, not a benefits office, and we cannot decide coverage.
| Program | What it can help with | Amount |
|---|---|---|
| Original Medicare | Generally does not cover stair lifts, walk-in tubs or ramps (treated as home modifications, not medical equipment) | — |
| Medicare Advantage | Some plans offer supplemental benefits that can include home safety items | Varies by plan |
| VA HISA grant | Medically necessary home improvements for eligible veterans | Up to $6,800 (service-connected) or $2,000 (other), lifetime |
| Texas STAR+PLUS waiver | Minor home modifications for eligible Medicaid members | Up to $7,500 lifetime, plus $300 a year for repairs |
Does Medicare Cover Stair Lifts or Walk-In Tubs?
Original Medicare (Parts A and B) generally does not pay for stair lifts, walk-in tubs, grab bars or ramps, because they are considered home modifications rather than durable medical equipment. Some Medicare Advantage plans offer supplemental benefits for home safety; check your plan’s Evidence of Coverage or call the plan.
VA Home Improvements and Structural Alterations (HISA) Grant
The VA HISA grant helps eligible veterans pay for medically necessary changes such as accessible bathrooms, entry ramps and wider doorways. It is a lifetime benefit: up to $6,800 for a service-connected condition (or a 50% or higher rating), and up to $2,000 otherwise. Ask your VA provider or the Prosthetic and Sensory Aids Service to start an application. Larger grants (SAH and SHA) exist for veterans with certain severe disabilities.
Texas STAR+PLUS Minor Home Modifications
Texas Medicaid members in the STAR+PLUS Home and Community Based Services waiver may qualify for minor home modifications such as ramps, grab bars and bathroom changes, up to a $7,500 lifetime limit plus $300 a year for repairs. Your health plan service coordinator arranges it.
Other Places to Check
- Your Area Agency on Aging (Capital Area, for Austin and surrounding counties)
- Local nonprofit repair programs for older homeowners
- Long-term care insurance policies with home modification riders
- Tax rules for medical-expense deductions; ask your tax preparer
How We Help
Our assessment report lists each recommended change and why it matters, which is the kind of documentation programs often ask for. Bring the report to your plan, VA provider or service coordinator.
Frequently Asked Questions
Does Medicare pay for walk-in tubs?+
Original Medicare generally does not, because a walk-in tub is a home modification, not durable medical equipment. Some Medicare Advantage plans offer supplemental home-safety benefits, so check your plan.
Does Medicare cover stair lifts?+
Original Medicare generally does not cover stair lifts. Some Medicare Advantage plans may help; confirm with your plan before you buy.
How much is the VA HISA grant?+
Up to $6,800 over a lifetime for a service-connected condition (or a 50% or higher rating), and up to $2,000 for other eligible veterans.
Are there grants for wheelchair ramps in Texas?+
Eligible veterans can use the VA HISA grant, and eligible Texas Medicaid members may get ramps through STAR+PLUS minor home modifications (up to $7,500 lifetime). Your Area Agency on Aging can point you to local programs.
Sources
Last updated October 2026
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