Funding Your Home Modifications: Grants and Programs in California

If you’re planning to age in place or support a family member with mobility challenges, you know how important the right home modifications can be. But for many homeowners in California, especially older adults or people with disabilities, covering the cost of these upgrades can be tough.

Fortunately, California offers several assistance programs to help fund home improvement projects that support independent living.

This guide will walk you through the top funding sources available and how to access them.

Key Takeaways

• California has programs that help pay for home modifications so people can live safely in their homes.
• Non-profit groups offer free repairs like grab bars and ramps to low-income seniors and people with disabilities.
• Government support includes services through Medi-Cal, veterans’ housing grants, and in-home care for long-term safety.
• Affordable loans and ADU grants are options when other funding is unavailable for needed accessibility improvements.

California Department of Aging’s Home Modification Services

Through its network of Area Agencies on Aging (AAA), the California Department of Aging helps older adults and caregivers access home modification programs to improve daily living. These services often include installing handrails, updating shower heads, or improving lighting for better visibility.

Each county handles its applications, but generally, you’ll need to meet eligibility guidelines, often tied to low-income thresholds and being 60+ years of age or having a disability.

Your local AAA can connect you with a certified aging-in-place specialist or an occupational therapist who understands what types of adaptations support in-home safety and long-term care goals.

Rebuilding Together – Safe at Home Program

Rebuilding Together is a nationwide non-profit with strong local roots across California, including branches in Sacramento, San Diego, and Los Angeles.

Their Safe at Home program focuses on minor home repair and safety modifications for low-income homeowners, particularly people with disabilities and seniors.

The improvements they offer, like installing wheelchair ramps, grab bars, and handrails, are designed to prevent falls and support aging in place.

To apply, check your local chapter’s website for application deadlines or contact them directly. Most programs prioritize households with urgent safety needs and limited resources.

Habitat for Humanity’s Home Preservation and Repair Program

While known for building homes, Habitat for Humanity also offers a repair program that includes home modifications.

In regions like Orange County and San Diego, they’ve helped hundreds of homeowners retrofit bathrooms, install assistive technology, and make homes more accessible with features like no-step entries and widening doorways.

This program is typically aimed at homeowners who own homes, meet low-income standards, and demonstrate a need for modifications to support mobility or health care needs.

Applications usually require documentation like proof of income and ownership, and an in-home inspection from one of their providers.

Multipurpose Senior Services Program (MSSP)

For older adults who qualify for Medi-Cal, MSSP is a long-term care alternative that supports remaining at home rather than entering a nursing facility.

The program covers a range of care services, including home modifications that improve mobility and safety. This might include installing medical equipment, adjusting the height of kitchen counters, or making bathroom upgrades.

Start by contacting your local MSSP site.

A case manager will evaluate your living space, health needs and recommend modifications. Keep in mind that eligibility is based on income, age, and health condition.

VA Housing Grants for Veterans

If you’re a veteran living in California with a service-connected disability, the VA offers two powerful funding options:

1. Specially Adapted Housing (SAH)
2. Special Housing Adaptation (SHA)

These housing assistance programs can cover major modifications, such as stair lifts, widened hallways, or even full home improvement construction projects.

Applications go through the VA’s online gov portal, and you’ll need a medical assessment to show the necessity of the upgrades.

Many family members of veterans help navigate this process alongside VA-certified professionals, who can also ensure the use of certified aging-in-place specialists for complex remodels.

In-Home Supportive Services (IHSS) and Local Home Modification Support

Through IHSS, low-income individuals who qualify for Medi-Cal can access both caregivers and limited funding for home modifications.

While this is not a full-scale grant program, it can help cover basic needs like installing grab bars or changing floor surfaces to reduce fall risk.

To request help, speak with your IHSS social worker about adding home modification services to your care plan. These decisions are often made during regular home visits and reassessments.

While funding is limited, it’s one more tool to support safer in-home environments.

CalHFA Property Improvement Loans

The California Housing Finance Agency (CalHFA) offers affordable loan programs that can help you pay for necessary home modifications. These home improvement loans are designed for homeowners who might not qualify for traditional financing due to income or credit challenges.

Common upgrades covered include wheelchair ramps, walk-in tubs, and homemods for better access. Though not a grant, this can be a realistic option if you need urgent changes and have no other assistance program available.

You’ll need to work with approved contractors and provide documentation such as estimates and a home inspection.

Local ADU Grants with Accessibility Incentives

Many cities across California, including Los Angeles and San Diego, offer financial help to homeowners building Accessory Dwelling Units (ADUs), especially when those ADUs are used for eldercare, family members, or caregivers.

These grants can be applied to build units that incorporate adaptations like non-slip flooring, wider entryways, and assistive technology.

City housing departments manage the application process and often prioritize projects that meet affordability or accessibility standards.

If your plan includes supporting independent living for an aging relative or someone with mobility needs, your local planning office can be a great place to start.

Real Help for Real Homes

California’s home modification resources are wide-ranging, but they all aim to do the same thing: help people live safely and independently in the homes they love.

Whether you need help installing grab bars, stair lifts, or other accessibility features, there’s likely a program that can help.

At California Mobility, we specialize in providing and installing accessibility solutions like stair lifts, home elevators, and ramps, designed with your safety and lifestyle in mind. If you’re overwhelmed by options, we’re happy to help you sort it out.

If you’re unsure which option fits your situation, we’re here to help you navigate it, step by step. Reach out for a personalized consultation.