Making a home safer and more accessible can be expensive. Wheelchair ramps, stair lifts, walk-in tubs, widened doorways, and bathroom modifications often cost thousands of dollars. The good news is that there are grants, government programs, and nonprofit organizations that help people with disabilities pay for these upgrades.
If you or a loved one needs handicap aids or accessibility renovations, here are some of the best programs and resources available in the United States.
VA Grants for Disabled Veterans
The U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs offers several programs for veterans who need accessibility upgrades in their homes.
Specially Adapted Housing (SAH) Grant
The SAH grant helps veterans with severe service-connected disabilities buy, build, or modify an accessible home. Funding for 2026 can exceed $126,000 depending on eligibility.
Official VA information:
VA Specially Adapted Housing Grant
Special Housing Adaptation (SHA) Grant
The SHA grant assists veterans with certain service-connected disabilities, including blindness or loss of use of hands. Funding can reach more than $25,000.
Home Improvements and Structural Alterations (HISA) Grant
The HISA grant is one of the most widely used accessibility programs. It helps pay for medically necessary home improvements such as ramps, roll-in showers, grab bars, and widened entrances.
Veterans with service-connected disabilities may qualify for up to $6,800, while some non-service-connected conditions may qualify for up to $2,000.
Learn more here:
VA HISA Grant Information
Many veterans say the HISA grant helped them install walk-in showers and wheelchair ramps that would otherwise have been unaffordable.
USDA Rural Repair Grants
The U.S. Department of Agriculture offers grants and low-interest loans for homeowners in rural areas. Seniors and low-income homeowners may qualify for funding to improve safety and accessibility.
Official USDA website:
USDA Rural Repair and Rehabilitation Grants
These funds may help pay for:
- Accessibility renovations
- Bathroom upgrades
- Structural repairs
- Entry ramps
- Safety improvements
Medicaid Waiver Programs
Some states offer Medicaid Home and Community-Based Services (HCBS) waivers that help cover accessibility renovations and mobility equipment.
Depending on your state, Medicaid may help pay for:
- Wheelchair ramps
- Stair lifts
- Bathroom accessibility upgrades
- Home safety improvements
- Durable medical equipment
Because every state runs its own program, eligibility rules vary.
Rebuilding Together
Rebuilding Together helps low-income homeowners, seniors, and people with disabilities complete home safety and accessibility repairs.
Official website:
Rebuilding Together
Habitat for Humanity
Habitat for Humanity sometimes assists with accessibility modifications and critical home repairs through local chapters.
Official website:
Habitat for Humanity Critical Repair Programs
Easterseals
Easterseals offers disability services, caregiver support, and connections to accessibility funding resources.
Official website:
Easterseals
State and Local Assistance Programs
Many states and counties offer additional disability renovation grants through:
- Housing agencies
- Aging and disability resource centers
- Community development programs
- Independent living centers
Local programs often help with:
- Ramp installation
- Bathroom remodeling
- Accessibility upgrades
- Emergency repairs
You can search for local programs through your state housing authority or Area Agency on Aging.
Find local aging services here:
Eldercare Locator
Tips Before Applying for a Grant
Before applying, gather:
- Proof of disability
- Medical documentation
- Income information
- Contractor estimates
- Proof of home ownership or rental approval
Many programs also require:
- Photos of the home
- Accessibility assessments
- Doctor recommendations
Applying early is important because some grants have limited yearly funding.
Final Thoughts
Home accessibility renovations can dramatically improve independence, safety, and quality of life. Whether you need a wheelchair ramp, stair lift, accessible bathroom, or other handicap aids, there are grants and programs available to help reduce the financial burden.
Veterans should explore VA grants first, while homeowners in rural areas may qualify for USDA assistance. Nonprofits and local agencies can also provide valuable support, especially for seniors and low-income households.
The key is to research all available options and apply to multiple programs whenever possible.