VA Benefits for Home Modifications: A Veteran's Guide

Veterans with service-connected disabilities may qualify for substantial VA grants to fund home accessibility modifications. Here's a complete overview of available programs.

VA Grant Programs

SAH Grant

Specially Adapted Housing

Up to $101,754

Who qualifies: Veterans with severe service-connected disabilities (blindness in both eyes, loss of limbs, certain paralysis, burn injuries)

Use for: Buy/build a specially adapted home or modify an existing home

SHA Grant

Special Housing Adaptation

Up to $20,387

Who qualifies: Veterans with service-connected blindness, certain burns, or bilateral hand/arm disabilities

Use for: Adapt an existing home or a home you intend to purchase

HISA Grant

Home Improvements and Structural Alterations

Up to $6,800 (service-connected) / $2,000 (non-service-connected)

Who qualifies: All veterans receiving VA care — both service-connected and non-service-connected

Use for: Structural modifications necessary for medical treatment or disability access

TRA Grant

Temporary Residence Adaptation

Up to $40,637 (SAH) or $7,256 (SHA) for temporary use

Who qualifies: Veterans temporarily living in a family member's home

Use for: Temporary modifications to a family member's home

What Modifications Are Covered?

Wheelchair ramp construction
Doorway widening for wheelchair access
Roll-in shower installation
Grab bar installation
Elevator or platform lift installation
Kitchen lowering/modification
Non-slip flooring
Automatic door openers
Widened hallways
Lowered light switches/outlets

How to Apply

1

Check your eligibility

Review your disability rating and service records. SAH/SHA require a service-connected disability; HISA is available to all veterans receiving VA care.

2

Contact the VA

For SAH/SHA: Call 1-800-827-1000 or visit a VA Regional Loan Center. For HISA: Contact your local VA Medical Center's prosthetics or medical equipment department.

3

Submit application

Complete VA Form 26-4555 (SAH/SHA) or request a HISA application through your VAMC. Include disability rating documentation.

4

VA assessment

A VA representative will assess your home and verify modification needs align with your disability.

5

Hire a contractor

Find a contractor experienced with VA grants. Some contractors are familiar with VA billing processes and can help navigate the paperwork.

Frequently Asked Questions

What VA grants are available for home modifications?

The VA offers several grants: SAH (Specially Adapted Housing) up to $101,754 for veterans with severe service-connected disabilities; SHA (Special Housing Adaptation) up to $20,387 for slightly less severe disabilities; HISA (Home Improvements and Structural Alterations) up to $6,800 for service-connected or $2,000 for non-service-connected disabilities.

Do I need a service-connected disability for VA home modification grants?

SAH and SHA grants require a service-connected disability rating. HISA grants are available for both service-connected and non-service-connected disabilities, though the maximum amount differs ($6,800 vs. $2,000). The TRA (Temporary Residence Adaptation) grant is also available for veterans temporarily living in a family member's home.

How do I apply for a VA home modification grant?

Apply through VA.gov or contact your local VA Regional Loan Center. For SAH/SHA, call 1-800-827-1000. For HISA, contact your local VA Medical Center's prosthetics department. You'll need your service records and disability rating documentation.

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