What Veterans Affairs Benefits Are Available for Walk-In Tubs and Walk-In Showers?

Every Safe Step Walk-In Tub and Walk-In Shower is proudly designed, manufactured and assembled in the USA. As a company deeply committed to American craftsmanship, we hold a special appreciation for the veterans who have served our country. For many of you, safe bathing products represent an investment in your future independence and comfort. That’s why we’re dedicated to assisting veterans in using their Veterans Affairs (VA) benefits for a walk-in tub or shower.

If you’re a veteran, you may qualify for various grants, discounts and financial assistance to enhance your bathroom’s safety. Explore your options today and start enjoying life after active duty with the peace of mind safe bathing brings.

Does the VA Pay for Walk-In Tubs?

Unfortunately, the VA will no longer cover any type of walk-in tub because they are not considered medically necessary durable medical equipment (DME). However, you may be eligible for special discounts, offers, or financing plans from the manufacturer to apply to your tub purchase.

Does the VA Pay for Walk-In Showers?

Yes, the VA offers grants for walk-in showers, also known as roll-in showers. To receive funding, you can apply for the Specially Adapted Housing (SAH) grant, the Special Home Adaptation (SHA) grant and the Home Improvements and Structural Alterations (HISA) grant. Learn about the differences between these grants and the guidelines for each below.

Disability Housing (SAH & SHA) Grants for Walk-In Showers

The VA categorizes the SAH and SHA grants as Disability Housing Grants. These offer assistance to veterans so they can buy, build or change their permanent home to meet their needs and live more independently.

What Is a Specially Adapted Housing (SAH) Grant?

The SAH grant is awarded to qualifying veterans and service members annually. The current maximum amount applicants can receive from this grant in FY 2024 is $117,014. To qualify, applicants must own or soon own the designated home and have a qualifying service-connected disability. According to the VA, qualifying service-connected disabilities include:

• The loss or loss of use of more than one limb
• The loss or loss of use of a lower leg, along with the residuals (lasting effects) of an organic (natural) disease or injury
• Blindness in both eyes (with 20/200 visual acuity or less)
• Certain severe burns 
• The loss, or loss of use, of one lower extremity (foot or leg) after September 11, 2001, which makes it so you can’t balance or walk without the help of braces, crutches, canes, or a wheelchair (Note: Only 120 Veterans and service members each fiscal year can qualify for a grant based on the loss of one extremity after September 11, 2001. If you qualify for this grant but don’t receive it in a given year, you may be eligible to receive it in the future.)

What Is a Special Home Adaptation (SHA) Grant?

The SHA grant offers a smaller benefit with different eligibility requirements than the SAH. To qualify for a SHA grant, the applicant or a family member must own or soon own the designated home, and the applicant must have a qualifying service-connected disability. Qualifying service-connected disabilities include:

• The loss or loss of use of both hands
• Certain severe burns
• Certain respiratory or breathing injuries

The current maximum amount applicants can receive from this grant in FY 2024 is $23,444. If you qualify for a SAH or SHA grant, you do not need to use the full amount within the fiscal year. You can use the remainder of your grant at a later date. 

Home Improvements and Structural Alterations (HISA) Grant

The HISA grant provides financial assistance for medically necessary improvements and structural alterations to veterans’ or service members’ homes. Examples include roll-in showers, lowered sinks and counters and permanent ramps. The maximum amount applicants can receive from this grant is $6,800 for service-connected disabilities and $2,000 for other disabilities. Note that all HISA projects must be medically justified.

Requirements for VA-Approved Walk-In Showers

According to the Veterans Benefits Administration, VA-approved walk-in showers must meet the following requirements:

• A minimum of 5 feet by 5 feet interior finish and a minimum opening of 36 inches
• Non-slip flooring
• A handheld shower head that is detachable from a sliding bar
• Single-lever faucets that you can access from a wheelchair and have thermostatic or pressure-balance control
• Grab bars that support 250 pounds or more

For more information about walk-in shower requirements and veterans benefits, contact your local VA Regional Office.

Other Discounts and Financing Plans for Walk-In Tubs and Showers

Even when VA benefits may not help you purchase your desired walk-in tub or walk-in shower, Safe Step is here to help.

Safe Step’s Military Discount

We are proud to offer special pricing (up to $500 off) for veterans who need additional financial assistance. Ask your Safe Step representative about our military discount to determine your eligibility.

Safe Step’s Financing Plans

We work within your budget with our lowest price guarantee and custom financing options for qualified individuals with approved credit. Explore our pricing guide for more details.

Reclaim Bathing Freedom With Safe Step

You’ve served for us—now it’s our turn to bring you security and peace of mind at home. When you’re ready to bathe on your terms, request a free quote, and we’ll help you secure the lowest price that fits your budget.