You have a need: funding an accessible vehicle. And you have questions: how do you even get started with such a large task? Even more so: how do I get chosen out of a list of applicants?
How to Get Funding for a Handicap Vehicle
Research Handicap Vehicle Funding Options
Tamara Simmons, author of "The Funding Guide for Children with Disabilities," says the first step should always be research.
"You need to get a cost from the service or equipment provider...It is common for a funding source to require a discount, so when you call for the quote, let the store know you may be purchasing the product through a funder and ask if they will offer a discount."
Calling a dealer or our Customer Experience Group (800-488-0359) will allow you to find pricing for exactly the vehicle or lift you are looking for. You'll also want to be sure your nearby dealer has technicians trained in the repair or maintenance of the product in question.
Gather Important Medical and Insurance Documents
Keeping yourself organized and making sure certain documents are at the ready will boost your efficiency in filling out applications for wheelchair van grants. Simmons lists four documents as being the most important:
- Previous year's W-2s
- Most recent pay stubs (both yours and your spouse's, if applicable)
- Copies of insurance information
- Medical History Sheet including diagnostic codes, list of surgeries, etc.
Not all grants or funds will need this information, but some will.
