Wheelchair Accessible Vehicle Finance: Your Questions Answered

The motability wheelchair accessible vehicle program lets you exchange qualifying disability benefits for a lease on an adapted vehicle. You choose from approved wheelchair accessible vehicle options, and the motability scheme finance covers insurance, servicing, repairs, and breakdown assistance. The motability contract hire scheme typically runs for three years, after which you can choose a new vehicle. Some vehicles require a motability advance payment, which is a one-time upfront cost that varies by model.

A motability advance payment is an upfront cost for vehicles that exceed the standard allowance covered by your disability living allowance vehicle benefit. This payment bridges the gap between your benefit amount and the vehicle's lease cost. Not all wheelchair accessible vehicle options require advance payments—many are available with zero upfront cost. Motability grants may help cover advance payments if you qualify for financial assistance.

Access to work mobility is a separate government program that helps with employment-related transport costs. While it operates independently from the motability scheme finance, you may be able to combine funding sources depending on your situation. Access to work can cover vehicle adaptations, parking, or taxi costs for work travel. It's worth exploring both programs as part of your comprehensive personal mobility financing strategy, as they serve complementary purposes.

Yes, motability grants exist to help with costs beyond the standard scheme. These grants may cover motability advance payment amounts, specialized adaptations, or driving lessons for new drivers with disabilities. Eligibility typically depends on your financial circumstances and specific needs. The charity operates several grant programs with different criteria, so it's worth contacting them directly to discuss which motability grants might apply to your wheelchair accessible vehicle finance situation.