The Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) offers a specially adapted housing (SAH) grant to veterans who have a service-connected disability. The SAH grant can be used to modify or build a home that is accessible for the veteran and their family. This could include features such as wider doorways and hallways, lower countertops and appliances, and wheelchair ramps. Eligible veterans can apply for this grant by filling out VA Form 26-4555, Application for Specially Adapted Housing (SAH) Grant.
In this article, we will discuss how to apply for the SAH grant, what are the requirements for eligibility and what kind of modifications are available with the grant.
How to Apply?
You can apply online right now on eBenefits. When you go to the eBenefits website, you may need to sign in with your DS Logon account to access the application. If you don’t have a DS Logon account, you can register for one there.
By mail
Fill out an Application in Acquiring Specially Adapted Housing or Special Home Adaptation Grant (VA Form 26-4555). Get VA Form 26-4555 to download. Mail the completed application to your nearest regional loan center. Find a regional loan center near you
If you have trouble accessing the form, call us toll-free at 800-827-1000, Monday through Friday, 8:00 a.m. to 9:00 p.m. ET. Ask to have a claim form mailed to you.
In person
Fill out an Application in Acquiring Specially Adapted Housing or Special Home Adaptation Grant (VA Form 26-4555).
Get VA Form 26-4555 to download. Bring the completed application to your nearest VA regional office. Find a VA regional office near you. Or call us at 800-827-1000.
Who is eligible for Specially Adapted Housing Grant?
The Special Housing Adaptation Grant is available to Veterans or Servicemembers who have a service-connected disability due to military service, entitling them to compensation for permanent and total disability due to:
- Blindness in both eyes with 20/200 visual acuity or less
- The anatomical loss or loss of use of both hands
- Certain severe respiratory ailments
Modifications That Are Eligible For Grants
Some of the modifications that are covered under these grants include:
- wheelchair or other ramps
- making doorways wider
- making garage or carport wider to allow wheelchair entry into vehicle
- making bathrooms accessible
- making light switches, fuse boxes, and outlets accessible
- replacing or removing carpet to allow wheelchair use
- adding smoke/carbon monoxide detectors that have visual or special audible alarms
- adding a zone controlled HVAC system or generator backup
- adapting a kitchen
Remember, the VA must approve all modifications before they will pay for them!
For any further details or assistance, you can contact us.