Funding sources for accessible vehicles
- VA Automobile Allowance and Adaptive Equipment: a one-time payment (about $27,000+ in 2026; confirm on va.gov) toward a vehicle for veterans with qualifying service-connected disabilities, plus adaptive equipment grants. File VA Form 21-4502. See help for veterans.
- State Vocational Rehabilitation: can fund vehicle modifications when you need them to work.
- Bridge to Mobility: “last-dollar” grants, typically up to $5,000, after other funding is used.
- Help Hope Live: a nonprofit fundraising platform that pays vendors directly.
- Manufacturer rebates on new vehicles for adaptive equipment.
Tips
Get an evaluation from a certified driver rehabilitation specialist, collect written quotes, and apply to several funding sources at once. Read more on our people with disabilities page.
Steps to buying an accessible vehicle
- Get a driver evaluation or a mobility assessment for the passenger.
- Decide between a rear-entry or side-entry ramp, a lift, or a transfer seat.
- Get written quotes from certified mobility dealers.
- Apply to funding sources at the same time: VA, vocational rehabilitation, grants and fundraising.
- Ask about manufacturer mobility rebates on new vehicles.
Used accessible vans
Used wheelchair vans can cost far less than new ones. Have a certified mobility technician inspect the conversion, ramp and securement system before you buy.
Help paying for wheelchair van maintenance
Ramps, lifts and securement systems need regular service. Ask your mobility dealer about service plans, and check whether vocational rehabilitation or the VA will cover repairs to adaptive equipment they funded.
Frequently asked questions
Are there free wheelchair vans for disabled people?
Completely free vans are rare. Most families combine VA benefits, vocational rehabilitation, grants and fundraising.
Does fundraising affect SSI or Medicaid?
It can. Platforms that pay vendors directly may help protect eligibility — confirm with the platform and your benefits counselor.
How much does a wheelchair-accessible van cost?
Prices vary widely; new converted vans often cost far more than used ones. Combining several funding sources is common.