Once you’ve made the decision to buy an accessible vehicle from one of our many NMEDA mobility dealers, you might think your job is done. But in fact, your road to independence has just begun. It starts off with choosing the type of vehicle that will best accommodate your needs. Do you need a minivan, SUV, hybrid or truck? And with your pick, will you use a platform or rotary/swing lift? Along with that, you must select which seating option or steering aid configuration works the best for you. After going over all the possibilities of your personalized vehicle, one thing crosses your mind: how are you going to fund this purchase? Thankfully, there are ways to finance your wheelchair accessible vehicle.
Most Common Type of Funding
Most individuals fund their wheelchair accessible vehicle through obtaining grants. Grant money used for mobility vehicles does not need to be repaid and can be combined with funds from other sources. Getting in contact with organizations that are relevant to you and your needs will be most helpful with your purchase. Before you begin your search, it’s important to be patient and expect things to progress over time, not instantly. As you’re looking for relevant grants to apply for, have all the information you need at the ready. Prepping the necessary documents, like your driver’s license number, financial information and medical records, will make the application process go much more smoothly. Next to submitting all your documents in a timely manner, you should make your best case and describe yourself and your needs in great detail. By telling the organization why you need these specifications and what they will do for you, you will truly set yourself apart from others and put your best foot forward.
Other Ways of Funding for Mobility Vehicles
Aside from grants, of which you can search for organizations related to your interests and those in your state, you can check with NMEDA Quality Assurance Program (QAP) dealers and see which manufacturers offer rebate programs. With the purchase of a mobility vehicle, for example, with Toyota’s Mobility Assistance Program you can qualify for a cash reimbursement of up to $1,000 for aftermarket adaptive equipment or conversion. With Ford, it specifically states on its checklist for you to purchase your vehicle, order your adaptive equipment and then submit your invoice to your Ford dealer. No matter what route you choose, including special financing programs with your bank or finding a state-funded program to assist you, being attentive to changes and never stopping your search will be the best way to power your mission for funding your accessible automotive purchase.
Fundraising May Be the Way to Go
NMEDA has partnered with HelpHOPELive, a non-profit organization that specializes in helping people raise money for medical needs – including purchasing a handicap accessible vehicle. The organization partners with individuals to help fundraise financial support for injury related expenses. HelpHOPELive has helped raised over $36 million for injury related expenses and $2.5 million for modified vans purchased. There are other fundraising sites as well like Indiegogo and GoFundMe.
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Be a Local Hero and Enter to Win a Wheelchair Accessible Vehicle
Every year in mid-April, NMEDA launches National Mobility Awareness Month where you can enter to win an online promotion that gives away wheelchair accessible vehicles. The promotion is sponsored by Chrysler, Toyota Mobility, Chairiot, BraunAbility, VMI and ElDorado Mobility.
The National Mobility Equipment Dealers Association (NMEDA) is an advocate for mobility and accessibility for drivers with disabilities. If you need help with converting or buying a handicap accessible car, truck or van, please consider one of our Quality Assurance Program mobility equipment dealers.