Funding and Rebates

Hurry, the deadline is Nov. 30, 2011

Now through the end of November is the time to apply for a just-announced mobility grant through The Ralph Braun Foundation offers up to $5,000 to assist people with disabilities who need help affording a mobility equipment purchase.

You must have been through evaluation and have met with an accredited mobility dealer to obtain the appropriate mobility products that meet your transportation needs. Needs include a wheelchair van, lift or other mobility equipment. Read More →

We pay taxes, yet many of us find it difficult to ask for government help with our disabilities. We need to get over that mind set, especially if we want to get a job or go back to work. That’s why each state has a Vocational Rehabilitation Services (VRFS) Division or Division of Developmental Services. Such programs may help fund your adaptive equipment or van conversion for transportation to work.

Such state financing programs can be an especially valuable accessible van option if you do not qualify for VA financial assistance.

Eligibility

• Those with a physical or mental impairment

• Those whose impairment constitutes or results in a substantial impediment to employment

• Those who can benefit in terms of an employment outcome from the provision of vocational rehabilitation services

• Those who require services to help prepare for gainful employment

Read More →

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. 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.

Need more info? Google: handicapped funding.

All tolled, 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.

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!