If you are a disabled veteran, you might be entitled to financial assistance to purchase or modify a vehicle with the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA). The VA provides an automobile grant to specially eligible veterans who have service-connected disabilities that limit mobility. This provision includes: 

• The VA car allowance pays a one-time lump sum of $26,417.20 (October 2024) to help pay for a vehicle for the eligible veterans.
• This funding is reserved for veterans who have certain service-connected disabilities, such as loss of a limb or severe burns that prevent mobility.
• To be eligible, you need to complete VA Form 21-4502 and submit it to your regional VA office.

What is the automobile adaptive equipment program?

In addition to the car grant, the Automobile Adaptive Equipment (AAE) Program also helps disabled veterans adapt their vehicles for easier entry and driving.

• This package features wheelchair lifts, hand controls, power steering adaptations, and other adaptive devices.
• Applicants for the VA car grant automatically qualify for adaptive equipment assistance.
• Non-service-connected disability veterans are eligible for adaptive equipment benefits under certain circumstances.
• To get this assistance, complete VA Form 10-1394 and work with your local VA medical center.

Read more: Can surviving spouses collect 100% of a disabled veteran’s benefits and what is the maximum amount?

Can non-service-connected disabled veterans get assistance?

If your disability is not service-connected, you may still be able to get help with vehicle modifications. While you will not qualify for the VA’s automobile grant, other programs may help.

• State and local veteran programs may offer financial assistance for vehicle modifications.
• Nonprofits like Disabled American Veterans (DAV) and Paralyzed Veterans of America (PVA) provide resources and grants for veterans in need.
• Some charities and organizations provide free or discounted adapted vehicles for veterans.

What other organizations help disabled veterans get a vehicle?

These are some organizations providing free vehicles or grant aid to disabled veterans who require a vehicle, including: 

• Operation Homefront: Provides vehicles to veterans and families through the Military Vehicles for Veterans program. 
• Cars4heroes: Nonprofit giving away donated vehicles to veterans in need of transport. 
• Veterans car donations: Accepts vehicle donations and returns cash to veterans by helping them with transportation needs. 
• Semper Fi & America’s Fund: Mobility solutions including vehicle grants for very severely injured veterans.

Read more: What benefits do 100% disabled veterans get in US by state?

How to apply for a va vehicle grant or assistance

If you think you are qualified for VA benefits, here’s what you can do:

1. Confirm your eligibility – Check if your disability is service-connected and if it qualifies under VA guidelines.
2. Complete the required VA forms –

• VA Form 21-4502 for automobile grant.
• VA Form 10-1394 for adaptive equipment grant.

3. Submit your application – File the forms with your local VA office.
4. Explore other programs – If you don’t qualify, investigate nonprofits and state veteran programs for help.
5. Follow up with the VA – If you’re approved, work with your VA medical center or car dealer to complete the process.

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