You need to apply and provide evidence that you need to make home improvements based on your disability to get approved for a HISA (Home Improvements and Structural Alterations) grant from the United States Department of Veterans Affairs (VA).
A Houston Veterans Disability claims lawyer can help you better understand the process of applying for a HISA grant. You can get help navigating the application process and securing disability benefits by contacting a lawyer for help today.
Learn How to Get Approved for a HISA Grant
To get your approval for a HISA grant from the VA, you need to fill out the correct paperwork. You’ll have to complete VA Form 10-0103, which requires information about:
- The medical justification for the modifications you want to make
- Details about said modifications
- A written itemized cost estimate for the modifications
Note that you’ll also have to provide a prescription, either approved or written by a VA physician, that details the project you want to undertake.
Your physician will need to provide information about:
- The home area you want to improve or alter
- The type of modification you wish to complete
- Possible alternative to the modification
- Items that will need to be installed
- A medical justification or diagnosis for the changes
If you rent the property that you want to alter or improve, you’ll need a statement from the property owner authorizing the changes. You also need to provide a list of the costs for inspections, permits, materials, and labor to complete the improvements.
Finally, the VA will expect a photo of the area you want to improve. Providing all of the information the VA expects, along with supporting documentation from your physician, can help you get approved for a HISA grant.
For a free legal consultation, call (800) 562-9830
Are You Eligible for a HISA Grant?
You may qualify for a HISA grant if you have a service–connected disability and require modifications to your home to accommodate your disability. You may also qualify if you have a disability that is treated “as if” it’s service-connected.
Additionally, you may qualify if you have a non-service-connected disability, as long as you also have a service-connected disability that rates above 50%. An attorney can review your situation and help you determine if you qualify for this grant.
How Much Can You Get Through a HISA Grant?
The funds available to you through a HISA grant will vary. You may receive up to $6,800 under current laws, though the VA could adjust this amount based on changes to the cost of living and the expenses associated with handling home modifications.
How Can You Use Your HISA Grant?
You can use your HISA grant money to pay for specific medically necessary improvements to your primary residence.
For example, you can use the money to pay for modifications that:
- Enable your usage of the bathroom facilities
- Allow you to use your bathroom or kitchen sinks and counters
- Add permanent ramps to driveways or entrance paths
- Upgrade electrical or plumbing systems to work with medical equipment
HISA grants will not cover the costs of new construction, exterior decking, removable equipment like porch lifts, or the installation of a Jacuzzi, hot tub, or spa. Your attorney can tell you more about the potential uses of this grant.
How Long Does It Take to Get Approved for a HISA Grant?
The time it takes for the VA to approve your HISA grant will vary. In many cases, the application process can take a considerable amount of time.
An attorney can focus on expediting the process and helping you get the funds you need to make adjustments to your residence in a timely fashion.
An Attorney Can Help You Get the Benefits You Earned
You can also rely on a lawyer to help you secure other VA benefits. For example, an attorney could help you apply for and secure Veterans Disability benefits that can help with your day-to-day expenses.
In some cases, you may qualify for additional benefits through Medicaid or Medicare. A lawyer can review your situation, explain the benefits you’re eligible to receive, and guide you through the application process.
You can also turn to a lawyer for help if you need to appeal a VA benefits denial.
Talk to Us About Getting Approved for a HISA Grant
Are you wondering how to get approved for a HISA grant? Our team at Marc Whitehead & Associates can give you more information about the application process and what you need to do to get this funding.
We have over 120 years of combined legal experience, and we only handle legal issues associated with disability claims. We’re ready to provide the help and support you deserve as you adjust to your disability.
We believe you deserve the benefits you earned throughout your service. Find out more about how we can help by contacting us today.
Call or text (800) 562-9830 or complete a Free Case Evaluation form