Funding for Home Modifications: Grants, Insurance & VA Benefits

Every funding source available to DMV homeowners — state programs, VA grants, Medicare, and nonprofits

Home accessibility modifications can range from a few hundred dollars to tens of thousands. Fortunately, a patchwork of grants, benefits, and tax programs can dramatically reduce out-of-pocket costs — if you know where to look. This guide covers every major funding source available to DMV homeowners.

Maryland Programs

Maryland Accessible Homes for Seniors

Deferred loans for accessibility modifications including ramps, grab bars, stair glides, and bathroom remodels. Grants up to $15,000 for those under 50% AMI who don't qualify for a loan. Eligibility: Maryland homeowners 55+ with disability or functional limitation; income limits apply.

Contact: MD DHCD, 1-800-756-0119

Maryland Senior Home Repair Program

Deferred loans (forgiven after residency period) for low-income seniors age 60+ to address health and safety issues including accessibility. Contact your local Area Agency on Aging for county-specific programs.

Washington DC Programs

DC Senior Home Repair & Modification Program

Provides free home repairs and accessibility modifications for DC residents age 60+. Services include grab bars, ramps, stair railings, and bathroom safety. No income limit for seniors 60+.

dhcd.dc.gov | 202-442-7200

Virginia Programs

Virginia DHCD Home Accessibility Program

Grants and low-interest loans for accessibility modifications for Virginians with disabilities or functional limitations. dhcd.virginia.gov.

Fairfax County Rehabilitation Loan Program

Zero-interest deferred loans for low/moderate income homeowners for accessibility modifications and critical repairs.

Federal & Veterans Programs

VA HISA Grant

Veterans with service-connected disabilities can receive up to $6,800 for home modifications related to the disability. Covers ramps, grab bars, walk-in showers, widened doorways. Apply through VA healthcare system.

VA Specially Adapted Housing (SAH) Grant

For veterans with certain qualifying service-connected disabilities. Up to $126,526(FY 2026 amount) for buying, building or modifying a home to accommodate the disability.

Medicare Advantage Supplemental Benefits

Since 2019, Medicare Advantage plans may offer home modification benefits. Some plans cover up to $500–$1,500/year for grab bars, non-slip flooring, and stair railings. Call your plan's member services to confirm.

Medicaid Home and Community-Based Services (HCBS)

Medicaid waiver programs in MD, DC, and VA can pay for home modifications as part of a home and community-based services plan for eligible individuals.

Tax Benefits

  • Medical expense deduction (IRS Schedule A): Costs for medically necessary accessibility modifications may be deductible. Consult a tax advisor.
  • FSA / HSA: Grab bars, ramps, and stairlifts qualify as medical expenses when medically necessary.

Nonprofit Resources

  • Rebuilding Together Metro DC — Free repairs and modifications for low-income seniors and people with disabilities in DMV.
  • Area Agency on Aging — Each county has an AAA that coordinates local modification programs. Find yours at eldercare.acl.gov.

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