What is generally true
We are contractors, not benefits counselors, so treat this as a starting point and confirm everything with the plan or agency itself.
- Original Medicare generally does not pay for home modifications such as a walk-in shower or a bathroom remodel.
- Medicare Advantage plans differ. Some include a supplemental benefit for home safety items. Call the number on your card and ask what is covered and which vendors they use.
- Veterans may qualify for VA grants that help with bathroom access changes when there is a medical need. Start with the VA.
- ALTCS, Arizona's long-term care program, may cover home modifications for members who qualify, through their case manager.
Questions to ask before you sign anything
- Is a home modification benefit part of my plan, and is there a dollar limit?
- Do I need approval before the work starts?
- Do I have to use the program's own contractor?
- What paperwork do you need from the contractor?
Ask these first. Many programs will not pay for work that was started or finished before they approved it.
Be careful with anyone who promises coverage
If a salesperson tells you Medicare will pay for your shower, ask them to show you where your plan says so. A contractor cannot approve a benefit. Only the plan or the agency can. We will never raise a price because a program might pay for it, and we will tell you honestly when we think a program is unlikely to apply.
What the shower costs if you pay yourself
Most of our clients pay from savings. Here is what the work costs in the Phoenix area:
| Project | Typical price | Days on site |
|---|---|---|
| Tub-to-shower conversion with low threshold | $7,900–$16,500 | 3–5 |
| Walk-in shower remodel | $9,800–$24,000 | 4–6 |
| Full accessible bathroom | $9,500–$28,000 | 4–7 |
After a free in-home visit you get a fixed, itemized price in writing. That is the document a plan, the VA or a case manager will ask to see, and you can hand it to them as is.
Key facts
- Original Medicare
- Generally does not pay for home modifications
- May help in specific cases
- Some Medicare Advantage plans, VA grants, Arizona ALTCS
- Who decides
- Your plan or the agency, never the contractor
- Tub-to-shower conversion
- $7,900–$16,500
Related questions
Where we do this work
Services: Accessible & Aging-in-Place Bath · Tub-to-Shower Conversion
Bathroom remodeling in Sun City, Surprise, Apache Junction, and across the Valley.