A single one-line drawing businessman holding a dollar money bag.

How to Find Cheap or Free Wheelchairs


Looking for a wheelchair without spending thousands? It's a common struggle to find a quality wheelchair for free or even at a reasonable price.

Luckily, there are programs that offer assistance to people who are looking for a new wheelchair. From government aid to private foundation assistance, you'll probably qualify for at least one of these financial assistance programs.

Even if you don't qualify for any of these programs, you can find plenty of cheap or free wheelchairs. You just have to know where to look.

You can stop typing "wheelchairs for sale near me" in every search engine. We've collected some effective resources that can help you find wheelchairs. Read below for information on the best programs and stores.

Government Programs

While not everyone qualifies, you should look into government programs that offer wheelchair assistance. The two programs we'll be discussing are Medicare and Medicaid.

Medicare

Medicare can reduce the cost of a new wheelchair by around 80% if you qualify. To be eligible, you must have mobility issues due to age, injury, disability, or surgery.

For information on Medicare coverage and qualification requirements, you can visit the Medicare Plan B page here.

Medicaid

If your insurance doesn't cover any wheelchair costs, you should look into Medicaid. Medicaid provides free electric-powered wheelchairs if you're eligible.

You can also apply for Medicaid in addition to Medicare for more cost coverage when you buy a wheelchair.

Medicaid qualifications vary widely depending on your state. If you're interested in Medicaid coverage, visit your state's official website and look for their Medicard information page.

Private Programs

If you're not eligible for those government programs, there are a few private programs that cover medical equipment.

The Wheelchair Foundation, for example, provides wheelchairs to those who can't find their own.

Unfortunately, this organization doesn't fulfill individual requests, but you can follow their events calendar and contact them to request wheelchair distribution in your area.

There are several private organizations that work to distribute wheelchairs. With a quick online search, you'll find an endless list of these organizations. Keep in mind that they usually have a large pool of people asking for assistance.

When you apply for any private program, look at the wheelchair dimensions and features to make sure they'll fit your lifestyle - and your car.

Community Aid

Your community may have local programs or charity events to provide wheelchairs. Many churches and charities run drives to help people who are elderly or disabled.

While some of these local institutions may have websites with information, you should call around to open your options. Even if that church or charity doesn't offer any aid, they will likely have a helpful recommendation for you.

Thrift Shops

If none of the above options are appealing to you, you can always visit thrift shops and buy a used wheelchair. Many big-name thrift shops offer any and everything at a reduced cost based on wear and tear, brand, and overall quality.

One popular destination for used wheelchairs is Goodwill. Goodwill attracts a lot of eager donors, so you have a good chance of finding a wheelchair.

If you don't have a Goodwill store near you, you can also look around your local thrift shops. Not every thrift store will sell medical equipment, but it doesn't hurt to call around and ask.

Unfortunately, Goodwill doesn't have accessible vehicles to go with your new wheelchair. We can help you finance a wheelchair-accessible vehicle.

Finding Wheelchairs for Sale Near Me

Every option on our list is worth considering if you want to find wheelchairs at a reduced cost or even free.

While government programs are helpful, reach out to your community if those programs aren't for you. Your local community can help you through outreach and fundraising.

Did we answer your "wheelchairs for sale near me" search? Explore our blog for more helpful tips about medical equipment, mobility awareness, and living your best life.


sign up for newsletter

Related Funding and Financing Articles

LIVE CHAT WITH AN AGENT