Veteran Accessibility Benefits: What You Qualify For and How to Apply

At Altamira Ltd., we proudly serve those who have served our country. As a service-disabled veteran-owned small business, we understand the unique challenges many veterans face when it comes to mobility, accessibility, and aging in place. One of the most frequent questions we hear from our clients and their families is: "What kind of assistance is available for veterans needing home modifications or mobility equipment?" This guide aims to answer that question—and walk you through the application process.

Understanding Veteran Accessibility Benefits

The U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) offers a range of benefits and grant programs to help eligible veterans improve the safety and accessibility of their homes and vehicles. These programs can assist with modifications such as:

• Stairlifts
• Wheelchair ramps
• Vertical platform lifts
• Bathroom safety upgrades
• Widened doorways
• Accessible kitchens
• Vehicle lifts and transfer seats

Top VA Programs for Accessibility Support

1. Specially Adapted Housing (SAH) Grant

• Who qualifies: Veterans with specific service-connected disabilities such as loss of use of limbs, severe burns, or blindness.
• What it covers: Permanent home modifications such as ramps, widened doors, and accessible bathrooms.
• Maximum benefit (2025): Up to $117,014.

2. Special Housing Adaptation (SHA) Grant

• Who qualifies: Veterans with specific permanent disabilities, such as loss of use of both hands or severe burns.
• What it covers: Modifications to an existing home or new construction to accommodate a disability.
• Maximum benefit (2025): Up to $23,444.

3. Home Improvements and Structural Alterations (HISA) Grant

• Who qualifies: Veterans with either service-connected or non-service-connected disabilities who need home modifications.
• What it covers: Projects like bathroom safety upgrades, wheelchair access routes, and stair lifts.
• Maximum benefit (2025):
• Service-connected: Up to $6,800
• Non-service-connected: Up to $2,000

4. Automobile Allowance and Adaptive Equipment

• Who qualifies: Veterans with qualifying disabilities such as loss of use of limbs or permanent vision loss.
• What it covers: Vehicle modifications including lifts, hand controls, and transfer seating systems.
• One-time allowance: Up to $24,115 for a vehicle + adaptive equipment.

How to Apply for These Benefits

Applying for VA mobility-related benefits involves a few steps, but with the right guidance, it doesn’t have to be overwhelming. Here’s how to start:

Step 1: Get Evaluated by a VA Physician

Visit your local VA medical center to be evaluated by a physician who can document the medical necessity for accessibility modifications.

Step 2: Work with a VA Social Worker or Care Coordinator

They can help determine eligibility and assist in submitting the correct forms for the grant that fits your situation.

Step 3: Submit the Application

Depending on the program, you may need to submit VA Form 26-4555 (for SAH/SHA) or VA Form 10-0103 (for HISA). You can file:

• Online at va.gov
• At your local VA regional office
• Through a Veterans Service Organization (VSO)

Important Note from Altamira

While we are deeply committed to supporting veterans through our products and services, we are not affiliated with the VA and cannot provide guidance on eligibility, benefits, or application processing. For personalized assistance, we recommend reaching out directly to your local VA facility.

To help get you started, here are some helpful links to regional VA locations and resources:

Find a VA Location

• https://www.va.gov/find-locations/

VA Pittsburgh Healthcare System

• https://www.va.gov/pittsburgh-health-care/

VA New Jersey Health Care System

• https://www.va.gov/new-jersey-health-care/

VA Indiana Health Care

• https://www.va.gov/indiana-health-care/

Veterans Benefits Administration Offices

• https://www.benefits.va.gov/benefits/offices.asp