(Photo: Mingao Welfarecar)
Per Military.com, Veterans with certain service-connected disabilities can now receive a VA automobile grant more than once following a new VA policy change that now recognizes that reliable transportation is an ongoing need.
Originally signed into law in Jan. 2023, the Advancing Uniform Transportation Opportunities for Veterans Act, or AUTO Act, allowed eligible Veterans to apply for a VA automobile grant covering all or a large portion of accessible vehicle costs. Under the previous system, Veterans could only use the benefit once in their lifetime, regardless of how long the vehicle lasted or whether their needs changed. Now, eligible Veterans can apply for a new loan once every 10 years.
As of Oct. 2025, the grant amount is $27,074.99. Veterans were able to receive additional support for adaptive equipment like wheelchair lifts or hand controls, but assistance toward the vehicle itself was limited to one initial grant. For Veterans who depend on modified vehicles to stay mobile and independent, that restriction often created major financial strain.
The cost of modified vehicles can be high. New vehicles typically range from $20,000 to $80,000, while used options can cost between $21,000 and $35,000. Many of these vehicles last just over a decade. Veterans who received their grant years ago often had no choice but to keep driving vehicles well past their normal lifespan or pay out of pocket for a replacement.
Under the new law, Veterans who have not received an automobile grant in 30 years can apply right away. After that, they may apply every 10 years. Veterans who have never used the benefit are immediately eligible and will follow the same 10-year cycle. Those who received a grant less than 30 years ago must wait until that threshold is reached before the recurring eligibility begins.
Eligibility requirements have not changed. Veterans and active duty Service Members may qualify if they have a service-connected disability involving the loss or permanent loss of use of one or both feet or hands, severe vision impairment in both eyes, certain severe burn injuries, amyotrophic lateral sclerosis, or specific joint conditions that qualify for adaptive equipment assistance. Disabilities caused by VA medical care may also qualify under federal law.
The law also includes an exception for vehicles destroyed in natural disasters. In those cases, Veterans may qualify for another grant if the loss was not their fault and insurance did not cover the damage.
Another part of the update allows VA to pay for certain vehicle modifications as medical services. This includes items like van lifts, raised roofs, raised doors, air conditioning, and wheelchair tie downs. The change gives Veterans another way to access needed modifications through VA health care.
Veterans must apply and receive VA approval before purchasing a vehicle or adaptive equipment. Applications require VA Form 21 4502. Once approved, VA pays the seller directly.
Lawmakers estimate the change will cost $43 million over 10 years. For Veterans who rely on accessible transportation, the impact goes far beyond the price tag. For those who used their one-time grant decades ago, the update provides long-overdue relief and acknowledges that mobility needs continue throughout a veteran’s life.
Author: Rikki Almanza
Rikki is a Web Content Coordinator for the American Legion, Department of California. With a deep-rooted family connection to the military, Rikki is committed to using her skills and knowledge to provide valuable assistance and resources to servicemembers and veterans.