subject: How to Finance Wheelchair Accessible Vans [print this page] How to Finance Wheelchair Accessible Vans
Purchasing a vehicle that is equipped with handicap accessible features or that will be converted can be an overwhelming undertaking. Individuals with varying degrees of mobility will have different requirements. Wheelchair accessible vehicles are quite a bit more expensive than non-accessible vehicles, which means that many people need to finance their investment. This financial burden is augmented by the limited employment opportunities for many with financial disabilities. Fortunately, with perseverance and research, there are wheelchair accessible van financing opportunities specifically geared towards helping people living with disabilities.
The first step in attaining a wheelchair accessible vehicle is to determine how much you are willing or able to spend. You can do a considerable amount of research online to assess how much a van, wheelchair lift or ramp, and other necessary accessories will cost. Keep in mind that there will also be modification charges. Once your budget is determined, you can begin searching for leasing options. There are also grant opportunities available. Explore all of your possibilities and you may find the original cost you determined to be reduced quite significantly.
Especially in today's economic climate, many people with limited budgets opt to buy used vehicles. Fortunately, there are many vehicle dealers who now specialize in used wheelchair accessible vans. Buying a used vehicle that is already equipped with handicap features can save you thousands of dollars. With luck, you may find a handicap accessible vehicle that suits your individual requirements.
As mentioned before, seeking grants for vehicles is also possible. This will require an extensive amount of research and patience, but will literally pay off in the end. Search for a nonprofit organization that is geared towards specifically helping individuals with your condition and you might find the help you need.
On that note, you might also consider seeking government help. For instance, the PASS (Plan to Achieve Self Success) program is a government program that helps disabled people on social security. If you have plans to use your vehicle to attend school or work, this program may be able to assist you by taking care of your monthly payments as long as you are working towards your stated goal.
These are just a few of your options. With perseverance through research, you may find that more doors are open to you than you had originally thought allowing you to live the more independent life you've been striving towards.
