Grants for Disabled Adults

Access federal and state grants supporting disabled adults with independent living, employment opportunities, housing modifications, assistive technology, and vocational rehabilitation. Find funding to enhance quality of life and achieve greater independence.

Types of Support Available

Independent Living

Centers for Independent Living (CILs), personal assistance services, peer counseling, skills training, transition services

Employment Support

Vocational rehabilitation, job training, workplace accommodations, supported employment, ticket to work programs

Housing Modifications

Home accessibility upgrades, ramps, widened doorways, bathroom modifications, assistive technology installations

Assistive Technology

Communication devices, mobility aids, computer access equipment, environmental control systems, adaptive equipment

Eligibility Requirements

Age Requirements

Age 18+ (adult programs). Some programs serve transition-age youth 16-24. Independent Living services typically serve adults 18-59, with specialized programs for seniors 60+.

Disability Documentation

Medical documentation, Social Security Disability determination (SSDI/SSI), functional limitations assessment, or state vocational rehabilitation eligibility determination

Disability Types Covered

Physical disabilities, mobility impairments, visual/hearing impairments, cognitive disabilities, developmental disabilities, mental health conditions, chronic illnesses affecting function

Income Considerations

Many programs serve all income levels. Some means-tested programs have income limits (typically 200-400% of federal poverty level). Vocational Rehabilitation prioritizes those receiving SSI/SSDI.

Residency & Citizenship

U.S. citizen or qualified immigrant for federal programs. State residency required for state programs. Independent Living Centers serve their designated service area.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I need to be on Social Security Disability to get grants?

Not always. While SSDI/SSI eligibility helps with some programs (especially vocational rehabilitation priority), many disability grants and services use their own eligibility criteria based on functional limitations, medical documentation, or income level. Centers for Independent Living, for example, serve people with disabilities regardless of SSI/SSDI status.

What can assistive technology grants cover?

Assistive technology grants can cover communication devices (speech-generating devices), mobility aids (power wheelchairs, scooters), computer access (screen readers, alternative keyboards), environmental controls (voice-activated home systems), vehicle modifications, hearing aids, vision aids, and daily living equipment. Most states have Assistive Technology Act programs offering device loans, demonstrations, and funding assistance.

Can I get help with home modifications as a renter?

Yes, but options are more limited. Fair Housing Act requires landlords to allow modifications at tenant expense. Some state programs fund portable modifications (grab bars, portable ramps) for renters. Centers for Independent Living can provide advocacy for reasonable accommodations. Veterans may qualify for VA home modification grants regardless of homeownership. Consider focusing on portable/temporary modifications if renting.

How does vocational rehabilitation work for adults?

State Vocational Rehabilitation (VR) agencies provide employment services to adults with disabilities. Process: (1) Apply through state VR agency, (2) Eligibility determination (disability + employment impediment), (3) Develop Individualized Plan for Employment (IPE), (4) Receive services (job training, education, assistive technology, job placement), (5) Employment outcome. VR can fund college/training, workplace accommodations, job coaching, and more. Services are free; no repayment required.

Will getting a grant affect my SSDI or SSI benefits?

Generally no for services and equipment. Grants that provide services, assistive technology, or housing modifications don't count as income for SSI/SSDI. However, cash assistance grants could affect SSI (but not SSDI). Always report income changes to Social Security. Work incentives like Ticket to Work, PASS plans, and Impairment-Related Work Expenses help protect benefits when earning income. Consult a benefits counselor (free via Work Incentives Planning and Assistance - WIPA) before accepting cash grants.

How do I find services in my area?

Start with your nearest Center for Independent Living (CIL) - they provide free information and referral services. Contact your state Vocational Rehabilitation agency (every state has one). Call 211 for comprehensive disability service referrals. Use the Disability.gov resource locator. Contact your state's Assistive Technology Act program. Many local nonprofits serve specific disability communities (spinal cord injury, blindness, autism, etc.).

How to Access Disability Services

Contact Your Local Center for Independent Living (CIL)

CILs are consumer-controlled, community-based organizations (majority staff/board have disabilities) providing free information, referral, advocacy, and independent living skills training. Find your nearest CIL at ilru.org/projects/cil-net/cil-center-and-association-directory or call 713-520-0232.

Apply for Vocational Rehabilitation Services

If employment is your goal, contact your state VR agency (search "vocational rehabilitation" + your state). VR can fund job training, education, assistive technology, transportation, and job placement at no cost. Application process takes 60 days for eligibility determination.

Explore Assistive Technology Programs

Every state has an Assistive Technology Act program offering device demonstrations, short-term loans, reutilization programs (refurbished equipment), and financial loan programs. Find your state AT program at at3center.net/state-program.

Gather Required Documentation

Prepare medical records documenting disability, functional limitations assessment, Social Security disability determination (if applicable), income documentation (for means-tested programs), and ID/residency proof. Having documentation ready speeds up the application process.

Submit Applications and Follow Up

Apply to multiple programs simultaneously (eligibility varies, and you can receive services from multiple sources). Keep copies of all applications. Follow up if you don't hear back within stated timeframe. Don't give up if initially denied - many programs have appeal processes. CILs can provide advocacy support if needed.

Essential Resources for Disabled Adults

Independent Living Centers

Find your local CIL for free information, referral, advocacy, peer counseling, independent living skills training, and transition services.

ILRU CIL Directory →

State Vocational Rehabilitation

Employment services, job training, education funding, assistive technology, and job placement for adults with disabilities seeking employment.

Find Your State VR Agency →

Assistive Technology Programs

State AT Act programs offer device demonstrations, short-term loans, reutilization programs, and financial assistance for assistive technology.

State AT Programs →

Disability Information Hotline

Dial 211 for free, confidential referrals to disability services, benefits counseling, and community resources in your area.

211 Service Finder →

Available Grants (785)

BRAIN Initiative: Promoting Health for All Through BRAIN Technology Partnerships (R34 - Clinical Trials Not Allowed)

Open

National Institutes of Health