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5 Funding Options to Purchase a Wheelchair-Accessible Vehicle

Sep. 17 2024 Miscellaneous By Hudson Bus Sales

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5 Funding Options to Purchase a Wheelchair-Accessible Vehicle

Wheelchair-accessible vans provide a smoother and more convenient way to transport individuals with mobility challenges. These vehicles retain most of the standard van’s features but are typically equipped with ramps or lifts to accommodate wheelchairs and tie downs and straps to hold them in place while the van is in motion.

Cost is one of the main concerns everyone asks about when they start their research into wheelchair-accessible transportation.  And, while they can be significantly more expensive when you add the additional accessible features, there might be some savings as well.  Many states waive the sales tax when purchasing an accessible vehicle, which could return a savings of thousands of dollars.  For the remainder, here are some ideas to try to help mitigate the overall cost.

 Financial Aid: Grants and Programs

A common way to afford a wheelchair-accessible van is through grants. Many charities and organizations run programs that help individuals obtain mobility equipment.

Numerous non-profit organizations also support this process. The availability of grants may vary depending on factors such as income and specific disabilities. Below are a few organizations that might be able to help:

Plan to Achieve Self-Support (PASS)

If you receive Social Security Income (SSI), the PASS program could be a valuable resource. PASS, or Plan to Achieve Self-Support, helps individuals achieve predetermined goals by providing monthly payments. If your goal is purchasing a wheelchair accessible van, PASS might be able to assist you financially.

The PASS program’s website offers live chat support to answer any questions about eligibility. The program offers one- and two-step plans, allowing you to choose the best option for your needs.  For more in-depth information or to apply, visit the Social Security Administration https://www.ssa.gov/disabilityresearch/wi/pass.htm

 Medicare 

Medicare is a government-funded healthcare program for individuals aged 65 and older or those with disabilities, regardless of income level. While Medicare may fully or partially cover the cost of wheelchairs, the same doesn’t apply to wheelchair vans.

In some states, however, Medicare may help with the cost of converting a standard van to make it wheelchair accessible.  To know your options, contact your Medicare provider to inquire about possible coverage for wheelchair-accessible vans or visit https://www.medicare.gov/

US Department of Veteran's Affairs

Are you or a close member of your family a veteran?  If so, you might qualify for grants, funding, or low interest loans to purchase a wheelchair accessible vehicle or alter a regular vehicle to accommodate wheelchairs.  Visit https://www.va.gov/ for more information or to see if you qualify.

Private Insurance

In some instances, your private health insurance might cover a portion of the costs to purchase a wheelchair accessible vehicle.  You should be able to call the number on the back of your card and explain your circumstances to an agent and ask if your plan has any programs set up to accommodate your situation.

 Purchasing a wheelchair-accessible vehicle can be a significant financial commitment as well as a daunting task, but there are resources available to help reduce the overall cost. By exploring the various options and seeking out support, you can make this important investment more manageable and improve mobility and independence for you or someone you love.  Hudson Bus Sales would like to be your partner in this journey.  We provide new and pre-owned wheelchair accessible vans, buses, and shuttles for individuals and organizations across the United States.  Please call us at 844-890-4983 to start your journey or click HERE to see our inventory.