Make Your Wheelchair Van More Affordable
USED VEHICLES
First of all, every BraunAbility dealer has a good selection of quality used vehicles. Many dealers would agree that wheelchair vans -- because they are so critical to their owners -- are some of the most well-maintained vehicles on the road. An important point to make: avoid the temptation to search used accessible vehicles on sites like eBay. Make the trip to your nearest BraunAbility dealership and try out the wheelchair van before you make a purchase. Buy one you haven't tested first-hand (especially a handicap van), and you may end up with a vehicle that you can't rely on, or in some cases, can't even fit into!
FUNDING AGENCIES AND ORGANIZATIONS
Although regulations vary from state to state, you may have luck checking with your Department of Vocational Rehabilitation or Division of Developmental Services. Many state offices will cover the cost of adaptive equipment that allows a person with a disability to remain in the workforce. And, of course, if you're a veteran you should check with the Veterans Administration Agency, which provides assistance to qualified veterans who need to equip a vehicle with adaptive equipment. Also, check here for veteran disability grants and funding information.
Many nonprofit organizations offer support for mobility modifications. Whether the nonprofit is related to a medical condition - National M.S. Society or Easter Seals - or is a charitable organization - Knights of Columbus - you may find financial assistance through any number of nonprofits. Click here for a listing of grants and funds available in your area.
US Map
FUNDRAISERS
Although it takes a good deal of time and effort, fundraising is another alternative that many of our customers have found helpful. While fundraising may not afford the entire cost of a vehicle or its conversion, many customers have come up with the funds for a down payment through local efforts, from charitable motorcycle rides to flower sales to golf outings.
And a few final considerations: Our Help Me Buy pages will get you started on information about BraunAbility Finance and more. And, of course, your insurance or workman's compensation policies may include coverage for your type of disability. Don't overlook other opportunities to further reduce your costs. Your doctor's prescription, for example, may exempt your purchase from sales tax.
A wheelchair van is an investment, but there are ways to make the purchase more affordable. And if you need a human resource to help learn where to turn, contact our Customer Experience Group. They are trained personal shoppers to help you get the most out of your vehicle buying experience.
Other funding and financing articles:
- 3 Safe and Comfortable Wheelchair Vans For Sale
- An Industry First - BraunAbility Finance
- Disability Tax Deduction for Wheelchair Vans
- Does Medicare Cover Stairlifts?
- Does Medicare Pay for Wheelchairs?
- Fundraising Ideas
- Getting Started Funding an Accessible Vehicle
- Government Assistance for Handicapped People: What You Need to Know
- How Credit Score Affects Financing
- How Do Insurance and Disability Grants for Vehicles Work?
Make Your Wheelchair Van More Affordable
It's no secret that finding the funds to purchase a wheelchair van can be a Catch 22 for someone with a disability. For starters, many wheelchair users have enough other accessibility and medical-related expenses that it's difficult to afford a wheelchair van. And obviously it can be hard to find quality employment without reliable transportation to and from your job.
If you're looking for ways to afford a wheelchair accessible vehicle, make sure you've researched all possible options first. The possibilities below may go a long way in getting you on the road to independence.
