Understanding the Differences Between VA HISA, SAH, and SHA Grants

Making Homes Accessible for America’s Veterans

For many U.S. veterans living with service-connected or non-service-connected disabilities, home accessibility isn’t just a comfort—it’s a necessity. The Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) offers several grant programs to help modify or adapt homes for greater safety, comfort, and independence.

However, with multiple programs available, understanding which one fits your situation—HISA, SAH, or SHA—can be confusing. This comprehensive guide breaks down each grant, explaining who qualifies, how much funding is available, and what types of home modifications are covered.

What Are the Three Main VA Home Modification Grants?

The VA provides three key programs for home modifications:

• HISA (Home Improvements and Structural Alterations) Grant
• SAH (Specially Adapted Housing) Grant
• SHA (Special Housing Adaptation) Grant
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Each program supports veterans in different situations, from minor bathroom updates to major home reconstructions.

1. HISA Grant: Home Improvements and Structural Alterations

Purpose:

The HISA Grant helps veterans pay for medically necessary home improvements that make daily living safer and more accessible.

Who Qualifies:

• Veterans with service-connected disabilities (higher benefit)
• Veterans with non-service-connected disabilities (lower benefit)

Funding Amounts (2025):

• Up to $6,800 for service-connected conditions
• Up to $2,000 for non-service-connected conditions

Common Modifications Covered:

• Roll-in showers, walk-in tubs, and grab bars
• Ramps and widened doorways
• Lowered sinks, counters, and electrical outlets
• Plumbing or wiring for medical equipment

Best For: Veterans needing moderate, medically necessary home improvements.

2. SAH Grant: Specially Adapted Housing

Purpose:

The SAH Grant provides substantial financial assistance to veterans with severe service-connected disabilities who need to build, remodel, or purchase an adapted home.

Who Qualifies:

• Loss or loss of use of both legs or both arms
• Severe burns or certain types of paralysis
• Blindness in both eyes with additional mobility limitations

Funding Amount (2025):

Up to $117,014 (adjusted annually for construction costs)

Typical Modifications Include:

• Constructing or remodeling a fully wheelchair-accessible home
• Widened hallways and doorways
• Accessible bathrooms, kitchens, and bedrooms
• Ramps, lifts, and other structural adaptations

Best For: Veterans requiring major accessibility modifications or new construction.

3. SHA Grant: Special Housing Adaptation

Purpose:

The SHA Grant assists veterans with specific service-connected disabilities who need to adapt an existing home or purchase an already-adapted home.

Who Qualifies:

• Veterans with blindness in both eyes (20/200 vision or less)
• Veterans who have lost or lost the use of both hands
• Veterans with severe burns or respiratory injuries

Funding Amount (2025):



• Up to $23,444

Covered Modifications:

• Ramps and handrails
• Grab bars and accessible doors
• Modifications that promote independence without full structural changes

Best For: Veterans who need smaller-scale adaptations for safety and mobility.

How to Apply for a VA Home Modification Grant

1. Confirm eligibility with your VA representative.

2. Gather documentation, including medical records and proof of service connection (if applicable).

3. Submit your application (VA Form 10-0103 for HISA, or VA Form 26-4555 for SAH/SHA).

4. Work with a licensed contractor familiar with VA grant requirements.

Supporting Independence and Quality of Life

Navigating VA grants can seem complicated, but each program exists to ensure that veterans can live safely, comfortably, and independently at home.

• HISA supports medically necessary home updates.
• SAH funds major accessibility remodeling or new construction.
• SHA helps with targeted adaptations for independence.

Wherever you are in the country, your local VA office can guide you through the process of applying for a home modification grant.

At Altamira Ltd., we proudly support veterans nationwide by designing and installing accessible home solutions that meet VA HISA, SAH, and SHA standards.

To learn more, contact your local VA Regional Office or visit the VA’s official Housing Assistance page at www.va.gov/housing-assistance

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