The VA offers several programs that may help disabled veterans make their homes and vehicles more accessible.
The Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) provides support for veterans and some active-duty service members who were injured or became ill as a result of military service. These programs are designed to help eligible individuals with housing, medical care, and accessibility-related expenses. If you returned from service with a disability—or are currently serving and disabled—you may want to explore the VA benefits that could be available to you.
What Benefits May Be Available?
The VA offers a range of benefits for disabled veterans, depending on eligibility, disability rating, and available funding. These may include:
Specially Adapted Housing (SAH) Grant and Special Housing Adaptation (SHA) Grant
These grants may help with buying, building, or modifying a home to improve accessibility.
- The SHA Grant is more commonly used and may provide up to $77,307, depending on eligibility and current limits.
- The SAH Grant is another option and may provide up to $15,462.
Actual grant amounts depend on qualification criteria and VA approval.
Tricare Medical Care
The VA operates more than 1,400 medical facilities and offers specialized medical care programs. Veterans with service-connected disabilities may qualify for certain types of medical coverage or reduced-cost care, depending on enrollment and eligibility.
Disability Compensation
Veterans with a service-connected disability may be eligible for monthly, tax-free disability compensation. Payment amounts vary based on the VA disability rating and the number of qualifying dependents.
Vehicle Adaptation Assistance
Some disabled veterans may qualify for financial assistance to modify a vehicle for accessibility, such as installing adaptive equipment. Eligibility and benefit amounts depend on disability type and VA approval.
Who May Qualify for VA Disability Grants?
Veterans who receive VA disability compensation for a service-connected condition may be eligible for some or all of the benefits listed above.
Generally, eligibility requires:
- Active-duty service, and
- A VA-issued disability rating for a service-connected condition
A service connection may apply if:
- You became sick or injured during service and medical evidence links it to your service
- A preexisting condition was worsened by military service
- An illness or injury appeared after discharge but can be connected to service
In most cases, veterans must have a discharge status other than dishonorable. A dishonorable discharge generally makes an individual ineligible for these benefits.
How to Apply for VA Disability Benefits
Veterans can apply for disability benefits in several ways:
- Online: Complete the Veterans Online Application
- By mail: Submit the Application for Veterans Compensation and Pension
- By phone: Call 1-800-827-1000
- In person: Visit a local VA office
Applying sooner may help make it easier to gather documentation and establish service connection. Be prepared to provide medical records and supporting evidence. Processing times can vary and, in some cases, may take months or longer.
The VA provides programs intended to support eligible veterans with service-connected disabilities. If you believe you may qualify, consider contacting your local VA office or a VA-accredited representative for guidance.