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Home Modifications Guide

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Ramps, Bathroom Upgrades & Whole‑Home Accessibility

This guide explains the VA programs that fund home modifications (ramps, roll‑in showers, widened doors, smart‑home safety, and more), who qualifies, and how to apply—plus checklists and official forms.

Ramps & Entries Bathrooms Kitchens Widened Doors Lighting & Floors Smart Safety

Updated: November 2, 2025. Verify requirements and form versions on VA.gov before applying.

How to Apply
At a glance
  • HISA – medically necessary changes prescribed by a VA clinician.
  • SAH/SHA – grants to adapt/buy/build a home for qualifying service‑connected disabilities.
  • TRA – temporary changes to a family member’s home while you stay there.

Common Modifications Covered

Entry & Mobility

  • Exterior or threshold ramps; handrails
  • Widened doors/hallways; offset hinges
  • Stairlifts or platform lifts (program‑dependent)
  • Low‑pile, non‑slip flooring; smooth transitions

Bathrooms

  • Roll‑in showers; benches and grab bars
  • Raised toilets; bidet/cleansing seats
  • Lever handles; anti‑scald valves
  • Clear transfer space around fixtures

Kitchens & Living Areas

  • Lowered/adjustable counters; knee‑space sinks
  • Reachable storage; accessible appliances
  • Task lighting and contrasting edges
  • Circulation space for mobility devices

Safety & Smart‑Home

  • Improved lighting; night‑lights
  • Smart doorbells/cameras; remote locks
  • Smoke/CO detectors with visual/vibration alerts
  • Backup power for essential medical equipment

Coverage varies by program and medical necessity. Your VA clinician and PSAS can confirm what’s covered.

VA Programs That Pay for Home Modifications

1) HISA – Home Improvements & Structural Alterations

What it is: A VA medical benefit that funds medically necessary changes to your primary residence when prescribed by a VA provider.

Who qualifies: Veterans enrolled in VA health care with a VA prescription for specific alterations. Some non‑service‑connected conditions qualify when clinically necessary.

Official info & form: HISA factsheet and application package; VA Form 10‑0103 (HISA Application) – PDF. Overview: prosthetics.va.gov/psas/HISA2.asp.

  • Prescriber: VA physician/OT/PT writes a prescription with diagnosis and the exact work needed.
  • Quotes: Obtain itemized contractor estimates as your VA medical center’s PSAS instructs.
  • Submit: VA Form 10‑0103 + prescription + estimates/drawings to your VA medical center’s PSAS.
2) SAH / SHA – Disability Housing Grants

What they are: Grants to adapt, buy, or build a home to meet disability needs. SAH is for certain severe service‑connected disabilities; SHA covers other qualifying disabilities. Grant caps update annually—check VA.gov for current amounts.

How to apply: Use VA Form 26‑4555 or apply online: adapted housing grant application. Overview: VA disability housing grants.

  • Use cases: Build/purchase an adapted home; major structural modifications; accessibility across rooms.
  • Standards: Must meet VA property requirements and obtain approvals before work.
3) TRA – Temporary Residence Adaptation

What it is: A one‑time grant to adapt a family member’s home if you temporarily live there. You must first be eligible for SAH or SHA.

Ask your assigned SAH agent about TRA limits and steps after submitting the SAH/SHA application.

How to Apply (Step‑by‑Step)

Path A — HISA (medical route)

  1. Discuss needs with your VA clinician (PCP, OT/PT).
  2. Get a prescription listing diagnosis and specific alterations.
  3. Collect estimates and any drawings/photos requested by PSAS.
  4. Complete VA Form 10‑0103 and submit the package to Prosthetics & Sensory Aids Service (PSAS).
  5. Wait for written approval before starting work. Keep receipts and complete any inspection.

Path B — SAH/SHA (grant route)

  1. Review current eligibility and max caps on VA.gov.
  2. Apply with VA Form 26‑4555 or apply online here.
  3. Work with your SAH agent to scope, design, and approve plans that meet VA standards.
  4. Use TRA for temporary adaptations at a family member’s home if needed.

Documents & Checklist

  • VA prescription (for HISA) describing the medical need and exact modifications.
  • Completed VA forms: 10‑0103 (HISA); 26‑4555 (SAH/SHA).
  • Contractor itemized estimates and drawings/specs if required.
  • Proof of ownership/occupancy (or family member’s ownership for TRA).
  • Photos of current barriers (optional but helpful).

Official Resources & Forms

HISA (Medical Benefit)

SAH / SHA / TRA (Housing Grants)

Grant caps and eligibility change periodically; always check VA.gov for the latest amounts and rules.

Quick FAQ

Can I combine HISA with SAH/SHA?

Yes—many Veterans use HISA for medically prescribed items and SAH/SHA for broader structural work. Your VA team can help sequence approvals.

Are renters eligible?

HISA can apply to a primary residence you rent (with landlord permission). SAH/SHA typically involve homes you own; TRA can help adapt a family member’s home temporarily.

Do I need permits?

Usually yes. Your contractor should pull permits and ensure work meets local code and any VA standards/inspections.