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If you have a service-connected disability that makes it difficult or impossible to drive, the VA has a program that may help you get a specially equipped vehicle (or modify one) to meet your needs.
Through this program, eligible veterans can receive financial assistance to improve their mobility and regain greater independence.
Do you qualify?
Let’s take a closer look at how the VA Auto Allowance and Adaptive Equipment Program works and how to qualify!
Table of Contents
Summary of Key Points
- If you have a qualifying service-connected disability, you can apply for the VA adaptive vehicle grant to get financial help for a specially equipped vehicle.
- Adaptive equipment helps modify your vehicle to meet your specific needs, making it easier and safer to drive with your service-connected disability.
- The VA must approve your claim before you buy a vehicle through the VA auto allowance and adaptive equipment program.
What is the VA Automobile Allowance and Adaptive Equipment Program?
The VA automobile allowance and adaptive equipment program helps eligible veterans with service-connected disabilities buy a specially equipped vehicle.
It also covers the cost of adaptive equipment, such as power steering, brakes, lifts, and hand controls, allowing you to operate or access your vehicle safely. It’s designed to help you regain mobility and independence in your daily life.
In addition, if you’re receiving benefits under 38 U.S.C. 1151 for specific disabilities, you may also qualify.
Did you know?
If it’s been more than 30 years since you last received a vehicle through this benefit, you may be eligible for another one. (The amount you receive is limited by law.)
How Much is the VA Car Allowance?
As of October 1, 2024, the VA may pay up to $26,417.20 toward the purchase of a specially equipped vehicle.
You can buy a new or used automobile or other type of vehicle if the VA approves it.
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Pro Tip: It’s a good idea to talk with a VA healthcare provider before choosing a vehicle. They can help make sure the adaptive equipment you need will work with the specific make and model you’re considering.
Eligibility Requirements for VA Car Allowance
You may qualify for VA automobile allowance or adaptive equipment benefits if you have a service-connected disability that includes at least one of the following conditions:
- You have loss, or permanent loss of use, of one or both feet, or
- You have loss, or permanent loss of use, of one or both hands, or
- You have permanent decreased vision in both eyes: 20/200 vision or less in your better eye with glasses, or greater than 20/200 vision but with a visual field defect that has reduced your peripheral vision to 20 degrees or less in your better eye, or
- You have a severe burn injury, or
- You have amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS), or
- You have ankylosis in one or both knees or hips (this qualifies you only for an adaptive-equipment grant)
Note: The VA must pay the benefit directly to the vehicle’s seller. By law, money can’t be given to veterans or service members. Don’t buy a vehicle until the VA has approved your claim.
Eligibility for a Second Automobile Allowance
You may be eligible for a second automobile allowance if either of these is true:
- You bought a vehicle with a VA automobile allowance 30 years ago or more, or
- A natural disaster destroyed a vehicle you bought with the VA automobile allowance
If a natural disaster destroyed a vehicle you bought with a VA automobile allowance, both of these must be true:
- It’s not your fault your vehicle was destroyed, and
- Your property insurance didn’t already compensate you for the loss of your vehicle
If you meet these requirements, you can submit another Application for Automobile or Other Conveyance and Adaptive Equipment (VA Form 21-4502).
Do You Qualify for Adaptive Equipment?
If you qualify for the VA automobile allowance, you also qualify for adaptive equipment. The VA must approve all adaptive equipment, and it must be prescribed by a VA health care provider.
Important notes about adaptive equipment eligibility:
- The VA will only cover adaptive equipment that has been approved.
- The VA won’t pay for extra add-on equipment from third parties (not from the car’s manufacturer) unless it’s approved.
- You may receive adaptive equipment for no more than two vehicles within a four-year period.
- The VA can pay either the seller or you directly for the approved adaptive equipment.
It’s best to contact your nearest VA healthcare facility if you have any questions about add-on equipment.
List of VA Adaptive Equipment
The list below outlines the equipment approved for individuals with eligible disabilities.
If you need equipment that isn’t on the list or if you need it for driver training or testing, ask your nearest VA health care facility for approval.
Note: Adaptive equipment for vehicle operation isn’t provided if you’re blind, require a driver due to disability, or lack a valid state driver’s license or learner’s permit.
Basic Equipment
| Disability | Adaptive Equipment |
| Loss of a foot (including loss of use) | Basic automatic transmission and power brakes. |
| Loss of both feet (including loss of use) | Basic automatic transmission, power steering and power brakes. |
| Loss of a hand (including loss of use) | Basic automatic transmission and power steering. |
| Loss of a hand and foot (including loss of use) | Basic automatic transmission, power steering and power brakes. |
Additional Equipment – Single Disabilities
| Loss of Left Foot (including loss of use) | Loss of Right Foot (including loss of use) |
| 1. Hand-operated dimmer switch. | 1. Left foot-operated gas pedal. |
| 2. Hand-operated parking brake. | 2. Hand-operated dimmer switch. |
| 3. If standard transmission selected, bar welded to clutch pedal to prevent foot slipping down or off to side. | 3. Hand-operated parking brake. |
| 4. Relocation of control switched, as needed. | 4. Extension on brake pedal from left foot operation if not part of car. |
| 5. If standard transmission selected, bar welded to clutch pedal so both clutch and brake pedals may be operated with the left foot. |
Additional Equipment – Multiple Disabilities
| Loss of Both Feet (including loss of use) | Loss of Both Hands, Triple or Quadruple Extremity Loss (including loss of use) |
| 1. Hand-operated brake and gas pedal in combination. | Any combination of hand/foot control which does not involve steering, and relocation of control switches or levers as required. |
| 2. Hand-operated parking brake. | |
| 3. Hand-operated dimmer switch. | |
| 4. Steering wheel knob or ring. | |
| 5. Two-way power seat. |
How to Apply for the VA Auto Allowance
Below is a simple breakdown of the application process and what to do once you’re approved.
- Fill out Sections I and II of VA Form 21-4502 and send it to your nearest VA regional office.
- Wait for the VA to review your form. If you qualify, the VA will complete Section III and return the form to you.
- Buy your vehicle. Once you get the vehicle and necessary adaptive equipment from the seller, fill out Section IV of the form. If you need adaptive equipment, contact the Prosthetic and Sensory Aids Service for help.
- Give the original VA Form 21-4502 to the seller.
- Send in any extra invoices for adaptive equipment or installation costs not included in the seller’s bill. Send them to the nearest VA healthcare facility. Make sure these invoices include:
- Your full name and VA file number
- A list of each item and its cost
- Any unpaid balance
- The make, year, and model of the vehicle the equipment was added to
Insider Insight: There’s no deadline to file Form 21-4502, but the VA must approve your claim before you purchase the car or vehicle.
Final Takeaway
The VA automobile allowance and adaptive equipment program provides critical support to veterans with disabilities, helping them maintain independence and mobility.
Understanding the eligibility rules, benefit limits, and application process is crucial to maximizing the benefits of this program.
Remember to get approval before making any vehicle purchase or modification and reach out to your VA health care provider for guidance on adaptive equipment and training options.
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(FAQs) Frequently Asked Questions
How does the VA automobile allowance work?
The VA automobile allowance provides a one-time payment to help eligible veterans with service-connected disabilities buy a vehicle. If approved, the VA pays the dealer directly, and you may also qualify for additional support to adapt the vehicle to your needs.
What is the VA car allowance?
As of October 1, 2024, the VA may pay up to $26,417.20 toward the purchase of a specially equipped vehicle.
What benefits can I receive through the VA automobile allowance and adaptive equipment program?
You may be eligible for two types of benefits:
1. VA Automobile Allowance: A one-time payment to help you buy a specially equipped vehicle.
2. Adaptive Equipment Grants: In some cases, you may also receive one or more grants to modify a vehicle with features like power steering, power brakes, power seats, power windows, or lift equipment to assist with getting in and out of the vehicle.
What’s the difference between the VA automobile allowance and adaptive equipment?
The automobile allowance is a one-time payment to help you buy a vehicle, while the adaptive equipment grant helps pay for changes to the vehicle based on your needs.
Is the VA auto allowance taxable?
No, the VA auto allowance and adaptive vehicle grant aren’t taxable. They are benefits provided by the federal government and don’t count as income.
Can I buy a vehicle or adaptive equipment and then file my claim?
No. You must file your claim and receive VA approval before purchasing a vehicle or adaptive equipment. Additionally, before making any purchase, ensure that the seller agrees to provide the VA with a completed claim form and an itemized invoice.
How often can I receive the VA automobile allowance?
You can typically receive the automobile allowance only once. However, if it’s been more than 30 years since you last received it—or your vehicle was destroyed in a natural disaster and not reimbursed—you may be eligible again.
Can I use the VA car allowance for a leased vehicle?
In most cases, the vehicle must be purchased (not leased) for the VA to approve payment. Talk with your VA regional office for current guidance.
Is special driver training available for disabled veterans or service members?
Yes. Special driver training is available if you have a disability. To get started, contact your nearest VA healthcare facility and ask about enrolling in the training program.
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Author
Kelly Olone
Kelly Olone is a military spouse who earned her degree in Psychology from Florida International University. After working in the non-profit sector for several years, she turned to her passion for writing. She aims to contribute to a better understanding of the valuable benefits that veterans deserve. As a mom, Kelly navigates the delicate balance between deadlines and bedtime stories with finesse.
