Most residential lifts are paid out-of-pocket. However, there are programs that make loans or provide services free of charge (or at reduced rates) for eligible individuals. Examples include:
Area Agency on Aging
Some Area Agencies on Aging use funds from the Older Americans Act Title III to modify homes. To locate the Area Agency on Aging in your community, call the Eldercare Locator at (800) 677-1116 or visit www.n4a.org.Banks and Lenders
Some banks offer loans to finance home modification projects such as building ramps, installing lifts, widening doors, or lowering cabinets. Banks and lending agencies also offer reverse mortgages that allow homeowners to turn the value of their home into cash. Contact the local banking and lending organizations for more information. Free counseling on reverse mortgages is available from a HUD*-approved housing counseling agency. Call (888)466-3487 for a referral. (*HUD - U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development.)Department of Housing and Community Development
Many cities and towns use Community Development Block Grants (CDBG) to help maintain and upgrade homes. Contact the local Department for more information. A listing of Housing and Community Development Agencies can be found by visiting www.nahro.org/reference/internethousing.cfm or calling the National Association of Housing and Redevelopment Officials at toll free (877) 866-2476.Federal Housing Administration (FHA)
The FHA, which is part of the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD), administers mortgage insurance programs (e.g., Title 1 and Section 203(k)) that can help homebuyers and homeowners secure loans to make home modifications. For more information, contact the regional HUD field office listed in the telephone directory, visit www.dtinational.org/training/hudinfo/hudoffices.asp or call (202) 708-1112. The local FHA-lender can be found by visiting www.hud.gov/ll/code/llplcrit.html.Health Insurance
Some private health insurance and long term care insurance plans also pay for limited home modifications. Check with your insurance provider.