Resources of Funding for Accessible Vehicles & Adaptive Equipment

Wheelchair accessible vehicles and adaptive equipment prices can run from $5,000 to $60,000+. Thankfully there are ways to help pare that down to an affordable figure. Disability grants and loans, government assistance and other help is available. You can even use multiple sources.

State Agencies – Every state has a Vocational Rehabilitation Dept. Some provide funding for vehicle modifications. Phone numbers for state, federal and county agencies are in your local phone book or Google (your state) (+) “vocational rehabilitation” or “human services,” etc.

County – Social service or human services programs may assist in financing.

Veterans Administration – The VA funds adaptive equipment for qualifying veterans. View disabled veteran benefits by state, visit www.va.gov/about_va/ or call 202-273-7124.

Charitable Organizations/Churches – Philanthropy organizations are extensive, from MS Society to Easter Seals to Elks, Lions, Kiwanis, Rotary and more. Check with your local organizations.

Mobility Rebate Programs – Many leading vehicle manufacturers offer rebates for those that require modifications for disabilities. Ask your NMEDA dealership or search online.

Bank Financing – More and more banks and financing companies will work with you and the dealer to finance the vehicle with no down payment and up to 10 years to pay off the loan.

Your insurance or workman’s compensation policies may pay for vehicle adaptation.

Medicare will pay for adaptive equipment in certain instances. Call 1-800-MEDICARE.

To look for used (previously enjoyed) vehicles or equipment, check the classified ads. But also call or visit local nursing or assisted-living homes, Hospice, etc. and ask if they are planning on selling any of their accessible vehicles or equipment.

A doctor’s prescription may exempt your purchase from sales tax. You may also qualify for income tax credits at income tax time.

All told, your research could have a significant impact on the final cost of your accessible vehicle and equipment. No matter how you secure funding, it is always a good practice to work with a NMEDA dealer for a new or used vehicle that is customized to fit your particular needs.

Learn more about financing, government funding and rebates.

This mobility safety update has been brought to you by NMEDA – the National Mobility Equipment Dealers Association. Need some information on how to make your vehicle wheelchair accessible or upgraded with the latest and most convenient features? Contact a NMEDA dealer in your local area. Your local NMEDA member is a mobility equipment and accessibility expert!