Seniors can get help to make their homes more energy efficient.
Several federal agencies provide grants to income-eligible families to fix up their homes. To qualify for a grant, you are required to provide verification that you meet the income limits and other program requirements. Grants help to lower energy costs, make homes more accessible to people with disabilities and make general repairs.
Weatherization Assistance Program
The Department of Housing and Urban Development and the Department of Energy have formed a partnership to provide funding for the Weatherization Assistance Program. Low-income families can lower the cost of their utility bills with weatherization services. Typical weatherization measures include repairing or replacing air and heating systems, installing insulation or upgrading appliances to Energy Star appliances. Families with incomes at or below 200 percent of the federal poverty level qualify for this program. Up to $6,500 per unit can be spent on weatherization measures. Both renters and homeowners are eligible for the program.
USDA Rural Repair Grant
The US Department of Agriculture provides grants to very low-income seniors to make repairs to their homes. Grants of up to $7,500 are provided for the senior to correct health and safety concerns or make upgrades to the home. Eligible repairs include repairing the roof or installing new cabinetry. The homeowner's income cannot exceed 50 percent of the area's median income to qualify for a grant. A repayment is not required as long as the senior remains in the home as her primary place of residence for three years after receiving the grant award.
Home Depot Foundation
The Home Depot Foundation's Community Impact grants are awarded to nonprofit organizations committed to helping low-income housing and veteran transitional housing inhabitants make repairs. Grants of up to $5,000 are provided on a Home Depot gift card that can be used to purchase supplies, equipment and services. The grant can be used to refurbish or modify the home. The grant can also be used to provide weatherization services. Home repair projects must be completed within six months of receiving the grant funds.
Specially Adapted Housing Grant
The U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs' Specially Adapted Housing grant helps veterans with a service-related disability make their home more accessible. Veterans can receive up to $63,780 to make modifications to a home or purchase a modified home. To qualify for the grant, the veteran's disability must include loss of both arms or legs, blindness in both eyes, or a total disability due to a severe burn injury. Eligible modifications include widening doorways, wheelchair ramp installation or a bathroom addition.
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