Who qualifies: Veterans and service members enrolled in VA health care with a doctor's prescription for a home change that's medically needed. You don't need a service-connected rating, but the amount is higher if you have one.
What it is
Sometimes a few changes make the difference between staying in your home and having to leave it. The HISA grant helps pay for medically needed home improvements. It's run by VA's Prosthetic and Sensory Aids Service, not the home loan office.
HISA is a lifetime benefit. You can use it in pieces over time until you reach your limit.
How much
- $6,800 if the change is for a service-connected condition, or if you have a service-connected rating of 50% or higher (even if the change is for a different condition)
- $2,000 for veterans whose need is not service connected and who don't meet the 50% rule
You can't combine ratings or add grants together to get a bigger amount.
What it can pay for
- Getting into and out of your home, like widening doors or adding a permanent ramp
- Bathroom changes, like a roll-in shower, grab bars or a raised toilet
- Lowering kitchen or bathroom counters and sinks
- Permanent paved paths or driveway ramps near your home
- Electrical or plumbing work needed for home medical equipment
What it doesn't cover
Walkways to sheds or garages, spas and hot tubs, decks, new construction, security systems, portable ramps, porch lifts, stair glides, and routine repairs like a new roof or furnace.
Who qualifies
You must be enrolled in VA health care, and a VA doctor must say the change is medically necessary. If you rent, the owner must agree in writing.
How to apply, step by step
- Talk to your VA doctor. Ask for a prescription that describes the project and explains why you need it medically.
- Fill out VA Form 10-0103. You can ask for a partial advance payment on this form.
- Get a written, itemized estimate from a contractor that covers labor, materials, permits and inspections.
- Take a color photo of the area before work starts.
- If you rent, get a notarized letter from your landlord approving the work.
- Turn it all in to the Prosthetic and Sensory Aids Service at your VA medical center.
- Wait for approval. VA may visit your home. Don't start work until you're approved.
- After work is done, send final invoices and an "after" photo so VA can pay.
Tips for a smooth project
Pick a licensed contractor who has done accessible remodels before, and ask them to write the estimate in plain line items. Keep all receipts. If you also qualify for a Specially Adapted Housing grant, talk to VA before using HISA, since the two can sometimes work together on the same home.
Mistakes to avoid
- Starting before approval. VA may not pay for work already done.
- Using it for things it doesn't cover, like a stair lift.
- Not checking the bigger grants. If you have a severe service-connected disability, you may qualify for a Specially Adapted Housing grant worth much more.
- Forgetting the remaining balance. If you've used part of HISA, you may still have money left.
Related benefits
See our guides on Specially Adapted Housing grants, Special Monthly Compensation, hearing aids and prosthetics, and caregiver support.
Want the full VA loan playbook, with payment and funding fee calculators? Visit VALoanBenefit.com.
Last reviewed November 2026. WeSpeakVA is not the VA. Rules and amounts change, so confirm on VA.gov or with an accredited representative.