How Much Does Reclast Infusion Cost?

Reclast, the brand name of the prescription drug zoledronic acid, is an intravenous injection of a bisphosphonate, which is able to slow down the cells that break down the bones, resulting in greater bone mass, effectively reducing the possibility of fractures.

It’s commonly used to treat and prevent osteoporosis or to increase bone mass.

The total cost of Reclast infusion depends on if insurance is involved, the clinic, the dose, the length of the infusion treatment, the doctor and inclusions in the bill.

How much does Reclast cost?

Most of the time, the costs for an infusion will be between $4,000 to $9,000 without insurance.

According to a forum member on this HealthCentral.com question thread, they claimed that in 2007, the retail price was around $800.  This price, however, did not include the actual infusion price.  Another forum member claimed that a 15-minute session cost $5,438.  Most price ranges, within this forum thread, were between $4,000 to $6,500 without insurance.

Another forum thread on MedsChat.com discussed the costs of Reclast, with the original poster claiming he was billed $7,000, but his HMO insurance covered $5,800 of it.  Aside from the original posters, other forum members stated they had paid anywhere from $1,500 to $12,000+

GoodRX, according to their price list, states a bottle of 5mg/100ml solution retails for $1,100 to $1,300 at most local pharmacies.  This price, however, is for the solution only and won’t include the infusion center/hospital, doctor and miscellaneous fees charged.

What are the extra costs?

There are several costs associated with Reclast infusion other than the price of the medication.  There are out-patient room fees, doctor and nurse fees, the charge of the actual infusion session and the cost of the drug itself.  There are often four to five different fees associated with each infusion session, so the estimates mentioned above will be much higher when the infusion is completed and billed.  A patient should ask for a written breakdown of all possible charges associated with the infusion session so there will be no surprises.

You will need follow-up appointments once the Reclast infusion therapy is completed.  This will give the doctor a chance to see whether or not the treatment has worked.

If you experience any negative side effects from Reclast infusion, you may need other medication or therapy to resolve these issues.

Tips to know:

Reclast infusion is an injection of zoledronic acid that is given over a short period of time, usually 15 to 30 minutes. It is sometimes used to treat osteoporosis and is usually administered once yearly. When used for treating Paget’s Disease, it may be administered more often, however. The medication helps strengthen and thicken bones and can also be used to treat patients with bone cancer or thinning bones due to cancer treatments. Both men and women can undergo Reclast infusion therapy.  The dosage size will greatly depend on your medical condition.

Reclast, according to EverydayHealth.com, may cause severe bone or joint pains within days of starting the treatment.  Other side effects may include diarrhea, vomiting, stomach pain, heartburn, weight loss, hair loss, redness/infection at the injection site or red/teary eyes.

How can I save money?

As long as medically necessary, the infusion will be covered by insurance.  Be sure to choose a doctor within the network and always confirm with your insurance company before proceeding.  As for Medicare, it will cover the costs of Reclast under Medicare Part B.  If you’re looking for a new policy or want to switch, eHealthInsurance.com has thousands of policies that you can browse through for free.

Novartis, the company that manufactures the drug, offers financial assistance for those who qualify.

If possible, try to have the procedure performed inside an outpatient setting rather than the hospital.  As with any medical procedure, a freestanding outpatient center will always be cheaper than the hospital.

Infusion centers are often able to offer an out-of-pocket estimate over the phone.  Call a few billing offices to compare the prices and facilities to make the best choice.

How Much Does Phone Screen Repair Cost?

All phones, no matter how durable they may seem, won’t be immune to damage.

Unfortunately, phone screens are made from glass, and if not protected, it will break when it’s dropped.

While it may not break the first time, it may do so on the 35th time, requiring a repair.

If you don’t have insurance for your phone, then you have a few options for repair.

Broken iPhone by Jay Tamboli, on Flickr
Broken iPhone” (CC BY 2.0) by  Jay Tamboli

How much does it cost to repair a phone screen?

On average, the cost to repair a phone screen will depend on the phone make/model, if you have a protection plan/warranty and the company fixing the phone.  A screen repair should cost anywhere from as little as $40 to more than $300.

The estimates mentioned prior will include all parts and labor.  The manufacturer will always use genuine parts, whereas third-party cellphone repair services may use third-party parts.

Refer to our table below to see what it may cost to have a particular phone’s cracked screen repaired at either a third-party repair shop or via the manufacturer:

CellphoneAverage Repair Price
Amazon Fire- $125
Google Pixel- $130
HTC ONE- $175 to $275, depending on exact model
iPhone- $29 w/ AppleCare+
- $129 to $169 out of warranty with Apple
- $80 to $150 with third-party
LG G- $165
LG Stylo- $165
MOTO G- $175
MOTO X- $175
Nexus- $200
Nokia Lumia- $175 to $250, depending on exact model
Samsung Galaxy- $175 to $275, depending on exact model
Sony Xperia- $125

NOTE:  Most of these quotes came from third-party repair facilities, not the main manufacturer unless noted.  Your results may vary when searching for quotes.

All Apple phones, if you were to use Apple, will charge $29 for those who have AppleCare+ or $129 to $169, depending on the exact iPhone model for those who are out of warranty.  Refer to our broken iPhone screen costs guide to see what it may cost you.  Samsun, on the other hand, performs authorized repairs as well, with repairs in the $270 range, but can be as little as $79 if you purchased the Samsung Protection Plus plan.

CNET called a few third-party repair shops, trying to figure out what it would cost to replace a cracked screen.  According to their research, they were quoted anywhere from $100 to $250 for a Samsung Galaxy S5 to as much as $270 for the Samsung Galaxy S7.  Google Pixel, on the other hand, teamed up with uBreakiFix to help offer walk-in screen repairs, with prices ranging from $129 for the Pixel to $149 for the Pixel XL.

What are the extra costs?

If you are going to get your phone repaired via an online service, then most of the time, you will be responsible for the costs of shipping the phone there and back.  Apple, for example, charges $6.95 for shipping.

Tips to know:

Depending on the retailer and how busy they are, most repairs can be done with 24 hours, sometimes even less if you were to use a kiosk at the mall or a mobile repair service, for example.

Talk with your cell phone provider to see if your phone is under warranty.  Apple, for example, lets you check online to see if your phone is still under warranty and if eligible for repairs.

How can I save money?

If you’re in the market for a new phone, you may be able to trade your phone in for a credit, even though it has a cracked screen.  Ask if you are eligible for an early upgrade or anything that can bring down the cost of buying a new phone.

With your next phone, highly consider getting an extended warranty plan or investing in a high-end case to prevent a cracked screen in the future.

Get a handful of quotes ahead of time.  Most repair shops will be happy to offer you multiple quotes.  Most of the time, a repair shop is going to be cheaper than going straight to the manufacturer.  For example, the Apple store will probably charge more to replace the screen of an iPhone than an independent shop would, but if you do choose a third-party retailer and your phone is still under warranty, there’s a good chance it will be voided if you were to need to use it in the future.  Always read the fine print of your warranty to know your limitations.

Some screens are actually pretty easy to replace, and on Amazon or related retailers, there are DIY kits that include everything you need to perform the repair, ranging from the parts to the detailed step-by-step instructions.

As long as the broken screen isn’t affecting the functionality of the phone, you can simply deal with it, as long as it’s safe, of course.  Either save up money for a new phone or if it makes sense, save for the repair.  To be safe with broken glass, consider a low-cost glass screen protector to protect your fingers.

How Much Does a Remicade Infusion Cost?

Remicade, a part-human, part-mouse antibody, is a monoclonal chimeric antibody used as a treatment against TNF-alpha.

Also known as Infliximab, Remicade is approved for use alone or in combination with methotrexate for the treatment of rheumatoid arthritis in situations ranging from slight to severe.  It is also approved for the treatment of psoriatic arthritis and ankylosing spondylitis.

How much does a Remicade infusion cost?

The cost of Remicade infusions will greatly depend on the hospital/doctor you choose, where you live and if you have insurance.  For those who don’t have insurance, the costs can often range from $5,000 to $16,000 per infusion without health insurance coverage or any cost assistance.  This is the price for the infusion only and won’t include additional treatments/medication that’s necessary for your treatment.  Those who have health insurance can see costs ranging anywhere from as little as $0 to as much as $1,500.

Per vial, as according to GoodRX.com, can range from $1,100 to $1,300 without insurance for one 100mg vial at a local pharmacy.  The average treatment, depending on your condition, may need two to four vials.   This is just the price for the vial, and by the time you add in the doctor/hospital fees, you will get to the estimate mentioned prior.

According to this forum thread on CrohnsForum.com, forum members discussed the price of Remicade, with members claiming they had paid anywhere from as little as $0 after insurance to as much as seeing $16,000 being billed on their statement before insurance kicked in.

On another forum thread at HealingWell.com, a forum member who processes medical claims stated she sees prices ranging from $7,000 to $13,000 without insurance.

Forum members on BabyCenter.com talked about the costs of Remicade with insurance, and according to most of the members on the thread, they had paid anywhere from $750 until they hit the out of pocket maximum to $1,500.

Remicade is covered by most insurance plans as long as deemed medically necessary.  In this instance, you will only be responsible for your co-pay and deductible.  As for Medicare, the official Remicade website notes Medicare will only cover infusions in a doctors’ office or hospital outpatient facility.  Medicare does not cover infusions if provided by a retail pharmacy or home infusion company.  Medicaid also covers infusions for certain treatment settings with precertification.

Remicade infusion overview

Remicade is administered intravenously through an IV rather than injection.

On average, it could take up to three hours to perform the procedure, which is often done in an outpatient setting.

During the procedure, the powdered mixture will be blended with sterile water.  The solution will be injected into a large bag of sterile water.  Applying a tourniquet over the arm, the IV tubing is attached to the catheter inside of the vein.  Once attached, the infusion will drip slowly.  During the infusion, the nurse will monitor your blood pressure and check for any known symptoms.

A few side effects may be experienced during or shortly after administration.  These include but are not limited to chest pain, shortness of breath, rashes, itching, fever, nausea, vomiting, cough, etc.  Remicade should be discontinued if serious reactions occur.

On average, the treatment can last up to 12 weeks.

How can I save money?

Medication cost support is provided by Remicade, even if you have a private health insurance plan.  Refer to their official financial assistance page for more details.

A hospital setting, regardless of the situation, will always be cheaper than a doctors’ office or outpatient center.  If at all possible, try to have these infusions done at a local outpatient center to avoid the costly hospital charges.

An advocate at your local hospital or health department may be able to help point you in the right direction for financial assistance if you were to need it.

How Much Does Rituxan Cost?

Rituxan, the brand name of the drug rituximab, is used to treat non-Hodgkin lymphoma and chronic lymphocytic leukemia.  The drug is also used to treat rheumatoid arthritis, microscopic polyangiitis or other autoimmune diseases such as lupus.

Approved by the Federal Drug Administration in 1997, Rituxan, manufactured by Biogen and Genentech, works by killing the cancer cells and interfering with the immune system’s function.

P260509_14.52 by indy138, on Flickr
P260509_14.52” (CC BY-SA 2.0) by indy138

How much a Rituxan infusion cost?

The cost of a Rituxan infusion will depend on your insurance coverage, the hospital you choose and additional treatment costs beyond the infusions.  The average cost of one complete round of treatment, which would be two infusions, is about $20,000 to $25,000 or an average of $10,000 per infusion dose without health insurance.  Your health insurance carrier, however, will cover the procedure as long as medically necessary, leaving you responsible for your co-pay and deductible.

Lisa Emrich answered this very question on HealthCentral.com and said, of the six infusions she had so far, which was equivalent to three complete rounds of treatment, she was charged $11,288 to $18,544, but her insurance negotiated to pay $10,275 to $11,996.

According to one response on RXList.com, she was charged $13,000 for her first infusion.

ConsumersUnion.org, according to their study, claimed it cost the manufacturer $300 to make the drug, $3,500 for the hospital to buy it and $13,702 as the average patient charge, making the markup more than 1,065 percent.

On rheumatoidarthritis.net, he showed off his insurance claim, showcasing the costs and coverage.  According to the bill, the infusion clinic he used charged $8,690 for 1,000 mg of medicine.  This didn’t include the costs of the nurse, the equipment or the other premedication drugs.  Receiving eight infusions per year, the annual costs, without insurance, is close to $61,128, but thanks to Genentech, the manufacturer of the drug and his insurance company, the out of pocket costs were less than $800 per infusion.

What are the extra costs?

The cost averages mentioned above only include the cost estimates for the Rituxan infusion only.  In many cases, the injection is used in a combination with other medicines, for example.  Even if the infusion is used on its own, there will be additional charges that often come from the facility and/or doctor who prescribed the infusion.  If used together with other medications, then the costs will increase according to the medication prescribed.

Tips to know:

Rituxan is administered as a slow infusion via an IV by either a trained nurse or doctor inside of a medical facility or infusion center.  The dosage and treatment will greatly depend on your medical condition and how you respond to the therapy.

Common side effects, according to EverydayHealth.com, may include back pain, fatigue, headaches, night sweats, diarrhea, a runny nose and/or feeling anxious.  Serious side effects can include an earache, fever, sinus pain, unusual bleeding, painful urination, chest tightness and/or swelling.

How can I save money?

Rituxan, even if you have insurance, may be able to help assist with the costs, offering up to $24,000 in benefits annually.  Refer to the official financial assistance page to see if you qualify.

How Much Does a Cane Corso Cost?

The Cane Corso, or Corso for short, is one of the many Mastiff-type jobs.

Developed in Italy, this breed has said to descend from the Roman war dogs, bred to guard property and help at the farm, rounding up pigs and cattle.

Cane Corso by State Farm, on Flickr
Cane Corso” (CC BY 2.0) by  State Farm

How much does a Cane Corso cost?

While it may be common to find a Cane Corso for $200 to $500 at a local rescue group, a high-quality pedigree puppy coming from a breeder who does health testing and guarantees a temperament may charge $1,000 to $3,500 for a puppy.  As with any puppy, a breed-quality puppy with show potential can be in the $2,500 to $3,500 range, while a puppy that may not be a pedigree, but close to a show-quality, will be closer to $1,000 to $2,000.

On PuppyFind.com, an online dog classified website, for example, there were 350 active listings at the time of this publishing, with prices ranging from $700 to $3,000.

The official AKC website has a classified section, and when we checked out the postings, we saw more than 90 breeder listings, with prices averaging close to $2,500.

What is going to be included in the adoption fee?

Depending on the quality, a breeder, if selling a pedigree puppy, will often dock the tail, remove the dewclaws, include the vaccinations, deworm, crop the ears, health/temperament check the parents, include a vet examination, offer AKC registration paperwork and offer a health guarantee with lifetime support.  Of course, this can all vary from one breeder to another, so it’s always important to know exactly what you’re getting with your adoption.

What are the extra costs?

Shipping is often an additional charge if you can’t personally pick up the puppy and the breeder allows it.  Shipping via an airline or even car, depending on the distance, can cost $300 to $450.  This should include the travel fee and crate.  If it’s shipped via the road, the average mileage rate is about $0.50 to $0.80 per mile.

As with any dog, food is a recurring commitment.  Generally, depending on the size and activity level of your dog, most Cane Corsos will eat up to 10 pounds of quality dog food per week.  High-quality dog food can cost $30 to $45 per 40-pound bag, depending on the brand and retailer.

They will shed twice a year, usually in the early spring and late fall as the seasons change.

The Cane Corso is not recommended for a rookie owner or one who can’t handle larger breeders due to its strength and dominance.  While the dog is considered to be intelligent, it will still require a variety of training methods and obedience classes to teach it the basics at a young age.

Ear cropping, a procedure commonly performed before adoption, is often given as an option to potential dog owners.  This procedure may or may not be an additional charge often charged by the breeder.  If so, this could cost an additional $400 to $600.

Tips to know:

Males, on average, will measure 25 to 27 inches at the shoulders and weigh 100 to 125 pounds.  Females, often one to two inches shorter than a male, can weigh as little as 85 to 105 pounds.

Available in a variety of coat colors, the most common includes black, slate, light grey and fawn.  Its coat is very short, harsh/coarse to the touch and will have a shiny-like appearance from a distance.

A reputable breeder won’t allow you to take home the puppies until they reach eight to 10 weeks in age.

Cane Corsos need at least 45 minutes of exercise per day to keep them happy and entertained.  This breed will require a fenced-in yard and won’t do well in an apartment-like setting.

Life expectancy, when in captivity, ranges from nine to 12 years.

Its temperament and character, as explained by NextDayPets.com, tends to be devoted, protective, balanced and makes a great family pet.

This breed is often restricted by some homeowner insurance policies and is even restricted in some communities.  Be sure to refer to your paperwork before proceeding with adopting.

How can I save money?

Some Corsos are often found at specialized rescue groups, which are located across the United States.  If you don’t mind adopting a dog with a defined personality, then it may be best to check out a group to not only help a dog in need of a forever home, but also help a rescue that could use your help.

While it may be rare, check out a local adoption center to see if any dogs available that closely resembles the Cane Corso.  Even if you’re not able to find a purebred, you may be able to find a dog you can fall in love with.

How Much Does a Clock Spring Replacement Cost?

The clock spring connects to a vehicle’s steering wheel, allowing it to turn while still running the other electronic components.  This device is found in the steering wheel of a car, but it also has other uses in technology.

In older vehicle models, a clock spring was not necessary since the steering wheel’s only function was to turn the car. In today’s automobiles, however, the steering wheel does a lot more.  Many steering wheels have buttons, such as cruise control or radio controls, that are also connected electronically, and in order for all of these to continue working while allowing the steering wheel to move freely, the clock spring is vital.

Usually, when the airbag light comes on or other electronic components fail, this could be a sign that the clock spring needs to be replaced.  The average cost of a clock spring is going to depend on the make and model of the car, the mechanic you choose and geographical location.

BMW Steering wheel by Debs (ò‿ó)♪, on Flickr
BMW Steering wheel” (CC BY 2.0) by  Debs (ò‿ó)♪

How much does an airbag clock spring replacement cost?

For a clock spring, the parts alone will cost $80 to $150; however, if a professional mechanic is going to replace the clock spring for you, the average job will cost anywhere from $200 to as much as $400.

According to JustAnswer.com, an ASE certified technician claimed that it could cost $82 for the part and less than one hour to perform the job.

Doityourselfandsave.blogspot.com stated that if you are going to take your car to the dealer for this repair, plan on spending $300 to $400 to have a clock spring replaced.




Airbag clock spring replacement overview

The clock spring is a special connector that allows the car’s steering wheel to turn while creating a connection with the airbag, horn, and other parts of the car’s electrical system.  This particular part is located between the steering wheel and the steering column.

A clock spring is a flat cable that is wound in a spiral shape that looks similar to a clock spring.

The average clock spring repair is going to take less than one hour.

During the repair, the steering wheel cover will be removed.  Once the cover is removed, the airbag will be unbolted and the wiring will be disconnected.  When disconnected, the entire steering wheel will be removed from the assembly.  When the steering wheel is removed, the clock spring will be accessible and replaced with the new part.  The entire steering column will then be reassembled, and the mechanic will ensure that all of the connections have been made correctly.

What are the extra costs?

With this type of repair, the steering column often has to be repaired or replaced.  If it has to be repaired, this can cost an additional $100 to $300.

If your car is a special make or model, you may have to wait for the parts to come in.  In this case, the parts will be more expensive.  In general, the higher the value of your car, the higher the price of auto repairs.

Tips to know:

Be sure to check with your car’s warranty.  Some manufacturers will replace this part if your car has a certain number of miles.  Even if you do not have an extended warranty, some may have a recall from the past or certain restrictions.  If you are unsure, call up the local dealer to see if they can point you in the right direction.

If you have a feeling your clock spring is going bad, get this repaired right away.  Failing to do so can lead to malfunctioning airbags, as well as other parts such as the horn, radio, cruise control, heat, and phone.

Clock springs will usually fail when the connectors melt during airbag deployment.  If you have been in an accident that caused the airbag to deploy, you should get the clock spring checked to make sure it is still working properly.

Symptoms of a bad clock spring can include an illuminated airbag light, the horn doesn’t work, the cruise control switch doesn’t work, the steering wheel buttons don’t work and/or you hear a rubbing-like noise when turning the steering wheel.

How can I save money?

Try your best to avoid the car dealership.  Many tend to charge two or even three times the amount of what local mechanics usually charge.

If you do not have a mechanic that you use every time your car needs a repair, consider talking with a handful of mechanics in the area.  If you know that the clock spring needs to be repaired, most mechanics will be more than happy to offer you a quote over the phone.

If you have some car knowledge, consider doing the job on your own.  Using that Blogspot link above, you can read their step-by-step instructions.  If you want to do the job on your own, you will need a screwdriver and wrench set.  These are simple tools that most people have around the house anyway.

How Much Does Carpet Binding Cost?

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Carpet binding is the process of modifying the edges of the carpet with a piece of fabric, adhesive, or stitches to protect the carpet from unraveling over time.

This process can either be done via a high-powered sewing machine or a small, portable machine that rides along the floor, often on wheels.

Carpet binding can be needed if you want to turn leftover carpet into a custom area rugh, repair a damaged area rug, fix a permanent stain on a rug or even attach existing rugs together.

Binding Two Rugs Together by emily @ go haus go, on Flickr
Binding Two Rugs Together” (CC BY 2.0) by  emily @ go haus go

How much does carpet binding cost?

Depending on the type of job that has to be done, the average cost of carpet binding will be between $1.50 to as much as $4 per linear foot.  The prices will greatly depend on the type of tape that will be used for the “binding” process.   Common tapes include leather, fabric and tapestry.

If you want an exact quote for your job, consider using HomeAdvisor.com to receive free multiple quotes for free from local and licensed contractors.

Home Depot, according to previous customers online, claim that they bind carpets as well.  The prices, again, according to the size, are close to $1 to $2 per foot, depending on the factors.

GarysCarpetBinding.com, a carpet binding service located in Florida, charges $1.60 to $1.90 per foot, depending on the thickness of the tape, according to his official website.  The 1-1/4-inch tape is $1.90 per foot, for instance, while the 7/8-inch tape will be $1.60 per foot.

Those who want to do the job on their own should be prepared to spend $0.50 to $1 per foot for a roll of carpet binding.   Most companies will usually sell bulk rolls of 50 feet or more.

Carpet binding overview

Carpet binding tapes can come in just about any color.  This way, you will always have an option for matching the piece of carpet you are binding.  Common thicknesses of carpet binding tape will be 7/8 and 1-1/4 inches.  The thicker the carpet, the thicker the binding tape will need to be.

As stated above, if you are going to purchase the binding on your own, most rolls will have more than 50 feet.

There are three common ways to bind a carpet: hot glue, stapling or sewing.  Stapling involves binding the top of the carpet with a stapler.  Once staples, the binding will be folded over the edge and glued.  The hot glue process will use products, such as instabind, uses a glue gun to apply the bind to stick to the carpet edge.  With sewing, the rug edges will be sewed on, followed by glue.  When sewing, the top edge will be folded over the bottom edge and glued back together.

During the professional process, the carpet will be cut to the desired shape.  Once cut, the carpet may have to be powered beveled, which is the process of tapering the edges.  After this, the binding will be applied using a high-powered binding machine.

What are the extra costs?

If the carpet has to be cut, plan on spending $10 to $20 per cut.  Custom cuts on the job, such as ovals and octagons, can be extra.  Plan on spending at least $10 more per custom cut.

Adding a felt backing can cost $1 to $2 per square foot.  A non-skidding backing can cost 20-30% more.  While this may be an extra cost, it is one that is well worth it so that you can avoid slipping or having to adjust the carpet.

Delivery charges can cost upwards of $50 to $100, depending upon the distance.

Tips to know:

Doing this job on your own can take a lot of time.  In fact, the average 10×10 rug could take longer than six hours.  Usually, hiring a professional can cost a pinch more; however, you are going to be able to save a lot of your time by doing so.  Most DIY products are designed to be used by hand, but most professionals will have carpet binding machines that can complete the job in less than an hour.  The only time an at-home job is really worth it is if there is a small repair of the rug itself is small (like the size of a bathroom rug, for instance).

Carpet binding is ideal for those who want to turn remnants into a rug to match a room, repair a rug that has damage, or attach an existing rug to make it longer.

If you are going to use the sewing process, it is important to check your sewing machine first.  Ordinary home sewing machines usually cannot handle the thickness of a rug, and may suffer damage to their motors or mechanisms if used to make bound carpets.

If the carpet is very thick, grading it, or cutting away part of the pile close to the edge, can make the binding lie more neatly and attractively.

How can I save money?

Consider doing the job on your own.  Products, such as InstaBind, can help you bind in no time.  The only supplies that you will need will be scissors, a hot glue gun and tape.

How Much Does an Electric Wheelchair Cost?

Unlike a manual wheelchair, an electric wheelchair is a great option for those who want to maneuver in tighter areas without using their arms.

With so many features, options and brands available, the prices can greatly vary.

Chase 1 by aldenchadwick, on Flickr
Chase 1” (CC BY 2.0) by  aldenchadwick

How much does an electrical wheelchair cost?

The cost of an electric wheelchair will depend on the size, the model, weight capacity, accessories, retailer and the accessories added to the purchase.

A folding electric wheelchair, for example, can cost $1,000 to $3,000, while a wheelchair designed for indoor use can cost $1,000 to as much as $4,000.  A combination wheelchair that is designed for inside and outside can cost $1,200 to as much as $7,000.  In the end, be prepared to spend $2,000 to as much as $10,000+ for a power wheelchair.  Just like a car, the costs can depend on the brand, features, power and the type.

High-tech electric wheelchairs that climb stairs, curbs and glide through tough terrains can cost upwards of $30,000.

We researched some brands online and included the prices we were quoted in the table below:

DescriptionPrice Quoted
- Weight Capacity: 300 pounds
- Turning Radius: 31.5"
- Driving Range: 15 miles
- Features: Foldable chair and flat free tires
$2,000
- Weight Capacity: 300 pounds
- Turning Radius: 25.4"
- Driving Range: 9 miles
- Features: One-hand disassembly
$1,500
- Weight Capacity: 300 pounds
- Turning Radius: 26"
- Driving Range: 16 miles
- Features: Underseat storage basket and no-scuffing tires
$1,500
- Weight Capacity: 250 pounds
- Turning Radius: 29"
- Driving Range: 7 miles
- Features: Folds quick and is lightweight
$2,200
- Weight Capacity: 250 pounds
- Turning Radius: 29"
- Driving Range: 12 miles
- Features: Easy to use joystick and foldable compact lightweight design
$2,000
- Weight Capacity: 300 pounds
- Turning Radius: 22"
- Driving Range: 12 miles
- Features: Elevated seat adjustment with maximum stability for non-elevated positions
$4,000

We also researched some of the top power wheelchair brands and included the price range inside our table below:

BrandPrice Range
CTM Homecare$1,500 to $2,500
Drive Medical$1,500 to $3,500
Golden Technologies$1,400 to $4,500
Heartway USA$1,500 to $3,500
Merits Health USA$1,200 to $3,100
Pride$1,400 to $3,700
Shoprider$1,400 to $3,400

1800Wheelchair.com had 20 listings at the time of this writing, with 12 of the 20 retailing for $1,900 to $2,900.

MobilityScootersDirect.com, another online electric scooter retailer, allows you to break down the costs by category, brand, weight, price range and travel range.  For the most part, regardless of the categories chosen, the prices ranged anywhere from $1,500 to $3,500.

On Amazon.com, the best-selling electric wheelchairs retailed for $1,500 to more than $2,500.




Electric wheelchair overview

There are a variety of electric wheelchairs on the market, including a portable, center-drive, front wheel drive and rear wheel drive.  A travel wheelchair is designed for portability; they tend to work well in crowded spaces such as an apartment or shopping mall.  These models can be disassembled by removing the seat, base and the battery pack.  A center-drive wheelchair will usually need an accessible van to transport, and out of most models, this type tends to be the most maneuverable.  A front wheel drive model will have a larger wheel toward the front, while a rear wheel, on the other hand, will have a larger wheel attached to the back.

When choosing an electric wheelchair, there are three common types of batteries commonly available: a wet, gel or AGM.  A wet battery will need to be filled with distilled water and are prone to leakage, whereas a gel battery will contain no liquid and won’t leak.  An AGM battery has an absorbent glass that is sandwiched between the plates which help prevent damage from vibration and jarring.

A basic electric wheelchair, regardless of the brand, will include a chair, armrest, footrest, tires, motor, battery and device to maneuver it.  Most brands will also contain some type of basket or area in the front to carry personal belongings/items.  Premium features can include a neck rest, lift device and extra batteries.

Reputable brands will often include a limited warranty that lasts upwards of five years.

What are the extra costs?

If purchased online, additional shipping fees can apply due to the weight.

Replacement batteries in the future can cost $100 to $400, depending on the type and brand.

A portable multipurpose wheelchair ramp can cost $800 to $1,000, depending on the ramp length and capacity.

A power chair lift, without professional installation, can cost about $2,000 if you were to install it on the back of your vehicle.  A utility ramp, which simply extends from the back of the vehicle, on the other hand, can cost $300 to $500.

A cover, if not included with the purchase, can cost $75 to $115.

Tips to know:

Medicare Part B won’t cover a power wheelchair if it’s being used for leisure or recreational purposes.  Before Medicare considers coverage, you must first meet with a doctor to help review your needs and decide if a wheelchair works best for your situation.  If so, your doctor will be able to medically a scooter and confirm you’re able to operate it for your condition.  As long as you can’t operate a manual wheelchair inside your home, there’s a good chance it will cover it.  MedicareInteractive.org goes into detail, explaining what you need to do in order to have the wheelchair covered.

How can I save money?

Talk with your insurance company to see if they cover wheelchairs.  Depending on your policy, they may cover a portion.  If you are looking for a new policy or want to switch, consider browsing through hundreds of policies for free at eHealthInsurance.com.  As long as you have a doctor’s note and a diagnosis, you may find you will not have a hard time getting coverage.

If you do not have the money to purchase a power wheelchair and you are not covered by your insurance, consider renting a power wheelchair until you’re able to come up with the funds.

Compare at least three to five retailers, both in person and online.  Regardless of where you purchase, make sure that you that you look for special promotions and the reputation of the retailer.

If you are having a hard time affording your wheelchair, look for low-income organizations in your area.  Contact your local hospital’s social worker or talk with the county’s health department to see if they can help point you in the right direction.

Consider purchasing a slightly used wheelchair to save up to 40 percent. On eBay.com, at the time of this publishing, we were able to find hundreds of scooters in great condition for less than $600.

How Much Does Cheddar Cheese Cost?

Cheddar cheese, the most widely purchased and consumed cheese in the entire world, will always be made from cow’s milk.  It’s a hard and natural cheese with a slightly crumbly texture if it cured appropriately.

As it matures, between 10 to 24 months, the sharper the taste will become.

Cheese! by ShardsOfBlue, on Flickr
Cheese!” (CC BY-SA 2.0) by  ShardsOfBlue

How much does cheddar cheese cost?

Cheddar cheese, commonly found at the local grocery store, either as a shredded pack or as a block, can retail for about $4 to $7 per pound, but the costs for an aged cheddar cheese at a local cheese retailer could cost more than $12 per pound.  The costs will greatly depend on the quantity, brand, ingredients, the market conditions and where it’s purchased.  Refer to our table below to see what the most popular brands will cost at your local grocery store in our table below:

TypeAverage Price
1-pound Store Branded Block Cheddar Cheese$2.50
5-pound Store Branded Shredded Cheddar Cheese$15
6-ounce Horizon Organic Shreds$3.50
8-ounce Kraft Shredded Cheddar Cheese$2.75
8-ounce Sargento Shredded Cheddar Cheese$2.50
8-ounce Store Branded Shredded Cheddar Cheese$2.50
8-ounce Store Branded Sliced Cheddar Cheese$2.50
16-ounce Kraft Shredded Cheddar Cheese$5
16-ounce Store Branded Shredded Cheddar Cheese$4.50
32-ounce Kraft Velveeta Sharp Cheddar Cheese$9
32-ounce Store Branded Shredded Cheddar Cheese$8
Costco Kirkland Signature (2 x 2.5-pound blocks)$17
Costco Kirkland Signature Shredded Cheddar Cheese (2 x 1.5-pound bags)$11
Kirkland Signature Mild Cheddar 2.5-pounds$5.50

For instance, the highest rated cheddar aged cheese on Amazon.com retails for close to $2 to $3 per ounce.

Statista, since 1995, has followed the costs of cheddar cheese per pound.  In 1995, for example, the costs of cheddar cheese averaged about $3.39 per pound, until now, in 2017, when cheese averages $4.90 per pound, a 44 percent difference.

The Wisconsin Cheese Mart, a cheese specialty retailer we had found online, offered a five-year-old aged sharp cheddar cheese for $4 per half a pound.




Cheddar cheese overview

Mild cheddar cheese, commonly found at the local grocery store, will be aged for about two to three months, whereas a sharp cheddar may be aged for as long as a year.  Aside from the “sharper” flavor, this is the only difference between the two.

The cheese, either vacuum sealed or wrapped in a wax paper, is done to remove the air before sealing.

Tips to know:

According to Cabot Cheese, mild cheddars will melt easier, but sharper cheddars, if melted, should be shredded or cut into strips first to create a nice consistency.

Cheddar cheese is always best served at room temperature.  Before serving, allow it to sit for up about 30 minutes to bring out its full flavor.

What makes cheddar cheese sharp? Cheddar cheese is unique in a way that it often has a description before its name, such as sharp.  Sharp is the term defining how the cheddar changes in its flavor and texture as it naturally ages.  Mild cheddar cheese ages for close to three months, while sharp cheese ages for about nine months.  An extra sharp cheese, the longest of the three, can age for close to two years.  As it ages, the flavor changes from a milder taste to something more tangier and deeper in flavor.

Cheddar cheese nutrition facts

How can I save money?

Often, if you visit a farm, they will have a whole cheese shop dedicated to homemade cheese.  Not only are these cheeses superior in quality to those found in the supermarket, they are often a better value for money since they are usually bought in larger quantities.  Farmers markets are also a good place to look for fresh cheese.

If you are going to buy inside of a grocery store, keep your eyes peeled for sales or promotions from leading brands such as Kraft and Sargento.  These companies commonly offer coupons in the local paper, online via their official website/email newsletter and/or on social media.

Store-branded cheese, as noted in the table above, is often up to 30 percent cheaper and will taste similar to the name branded counterpart.  In fact, all store-branded cheese is created in the same factories, with slightly modified ingredients.  Compare the ingredients on the packaging label to see which store-branded cheese closely matches up to its name branded counterpart.

How Much Does a Fruit Tray Cost?

Fruit trays are commonly found in the produce section at your local grocery store.

The costs will depend on the fruit on the tray, the amount of fruit needed, the presentation, and where it’s being purchased.

Fruit tray by Family O
“Fruit tray” (CC BY 2.0) by  Family O’Abé

How much does a fruit tray cost?

The prepackaged grocery store variety commonly found in the produce section can start as little as $10 to $30, while an over-the-top catered arrangement can run you in the hundreds.    Those who want to purchase from a grocery store should plan on spending around $2 to $3 per person, and experts recommend that the average person will eat a half cup per serving.

For instance, Publix sells a variety of fruit trays in its produce section, with these platters ranging anywhere from $25 to as much as $50.  A tray that feeds up to 12, for instance, will cost $25, while a platter that serves up to 20 can cost $38.

A fruit arrangement from Edible Arrangements can cost anywhere from $25 to $300, depending on the factors mentioned prior.

Chick-fil-A offers a small fruit tray for about $26 and a larger fruit tray for $54 if you pick it up at a local location.

RetailerCost
Costco- $10 for a bowl of three fruits divided in plastic container
Kroger- $11 for 40-ounce pre-cut fruit bowl
Publix- $25 to $40, depending on size
Sam's Club- $12 for 4-pound seasonal fruit tray
- $23 for fruit and cheese tray
Walmart- $9 for 40-ounce pre-cut fruit bowl

What are the extra costs?

Of course, you can plan on paying extra if you want to have your fruit platter catered or have your fruit arranged by a professional.  Like florists, there are creative hands out there that can make your fruit tray into a masterpiece, but this comes at a price.  Also, fruit that is imported, out of season, or uncommon will have a higher cost.  Hiring a professional company to design a fruit tray can cost two to three times the amount.  Unlike the grocery store, these companies can design your fruit tray into a flower bouquet, etc.

Adding vegetables and cheese can increase the costs.

Tips to know:

A fruit tray often purchased at a grocery store will be placed on a throwaway fruit platter tray.  Common fruits will be divided and will include grapes, strawberries, pineapples, melons, and oranges.  Most of the time, the fruits will be what is in season.   A fruit dip, often located in the center of the tray, is included as well.

The best fruit to include on a fruit tray is anything that can be neatly sliced or cubed such as melons, mangoes and pineapple, along with small fruit, such as cherries, grapes or berries. With so many fruits to choose from, it might help to use a theme, like tropical fruit, breakfast fruit or a harvest selection.

If you use apples or pears, keep them from turning brown on the tray by treating them with lemon juice or store-bought natural treatment that can be sprayed on.

Many people are allergic to strawberries, so if planning on purchasing a fruit tray or even creating one, consider keeping them in a separate container within the tray.

Melon tends to “wilt” once cut, so use ice to keep it chilled if it will be sitting out for a while.  Keep the fruit tray covered until right before the event begins.

Include yogurt based fruit dips or more indulgent chocolate or caramel sauces for guests to try with the fruit.

You can use all parts of the fruit on the fruit tray, even the inedible parts.  For example, the stems of strawberries or rinds of melons can be used to decorate parts of the tray.  There are many great ideas and suggestions on websites such as Pinterest.

How can I save money?

Making the fruit tray or arrangement yourself instead of having it catered or buying a pre-made tray from the grocery store is a great way to save money.  Look for the seasonal fruit to find the lowest prices and buy fruit like grapes and strawberries in bulk.  Also, use less expensive fruit to fill out your tray.  Chewonthatblog.com offers some tips on how to create an amazing fruit tray.

One way to save money on the tray needed to serve the fruit tray is to make your own.  If you purchase a watermelon, this can be cleaned out and used as a bowl.  This is a very good accent to any party and is also cheaper since it gives you a place to store the fruit and provides fruit for a fruit salad.

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