Sticker shock doesn’t begin to describe the emotions that come with finding out the accessible van you need may cost a small fortune. We can save the bigger discussion about how broken the system is for another time, because when you get out of rehab or are ready to be out and about, the only question that matters is “How do I pay for this?”

Fortunately, there are a number of resources and options that may spare you mortgaging your home for a new set of wheels. Before you commit $60-$100k to a new vehicle, though, see if there are any used options locally. Your local mobility dealer likely resells trade-ins, and many people list used vans on Craigslist and Facebook Marketplace at significant discounts.

“The first thing you need to do is research your options,” says Vicky Aubry, a T10 para who has worked for adapted vehicle dealers for over 30 years. To protect your investment, she urges everyone to consult with an expert at an adapted dealership, even if you aren’t buying from it. “Knowledge is power and adapted dealers often know of financing options and other information, like whether parts are still available for older models,” she says.

After 23 years as a C5-6 quad, Casey Moore knew what van and controls he needed to return to work and maximize his independence, but he also knew the price tag was likely out of his range. That’s where vocational rehab came in.

“I told my voc rehab counselor I had a job opportunity but I needed to be able to drive independently as a C5-6 quad,” he says. “It took a couple of years, but voc rehab ended up paying 100% of the cost of my new van and … adaptive controls — that’s around $130,000 I would never have been able to afford.”

Member Tip:

If you’re buying a used adapted van, make sure to get the conversion checked as rigorously as the vehicle. For the cost of one to two hours of labor, a knowledgeable inspector can save you from buying a lemon or a vehicle that you won’t be able to get parts for.
— Vicky Aubry, Portland

Whether you opt for voc rehab, the Department of Veterans Affairs, or community support, there are more ways than ever to meet what may seem like an unpayable bill (see below). With a coordinated effort and a little luck, you should be able to lighten that sticker shock and eventually drive home your ticket to more independence.

Resources

Best New Mobility Articles

Basics of Buying an Adaptive Van: Tim Gilmer covers various funding sources, including VR, VA, nonprofits, and local resources, that can help you pay for an accessible van.

Tips for Buying a Used Wheelchair Van: NM’s longtime Motorvation columnist, Mike Collins, guides you through the process of purchasing a used wheelchair-accessible van as an alternative to expensive new options.

Affordable Vans and Cars: More help on ways to reduce the financial barriers associated with purchasing accessible vehicles, especially wheelchair vans.

Best of the Web Resources

Help Hope Live
This national nonprofit goes beyond simply hosting a crowdfunding campaign, with personalized support, the ability to make tax-free donations and more.

United Spinal Resource Center: Available Grants For People With A Disability
A thorough listing of SCI and disability-related grants that may help with fundraising for a new vehicle.

Videos via SpinalPedia.com
How to Fundraise for a Wheelchair Van by The Chronic Health Advocate
How to Get a Free Wheelchair Van by Low Income Relief

Member Tip:

We started with our local community board and got awarded $17,000 through their unmet-needs fund. We found $2,500 in rebates, including one that was tied to using Help Hope Live. We’d already tried GoFundMe and had almost raised enough, but went ahead to secure the rebate. Help Hope Live proved to be really helpful and we had a short but successful campaign. We ended up raising almost $42,000.
— Katie Muench, Aurora, Colorado