RI Livable Home Modification Grants

Administrator: RI Governor's Commission on Disabilities

Purpose: Provides funding to assist homeowners and renters in retrofitting (adapting) homes or apartments to nationally recognized accessibility standards.

Award Details: The grant reimburses 50% of the cost of modifying homes and apartments, up to a total of $5,000.

Geographic Scope: Rhode Island

Focus Areas:

• Accessibility modifications to allow individuals with disabilities to remain safely and independently in their homes
• Prevents displacement to costly long-term care facilities
• Modifications include chair lifts, ramps, accessible bathrooms and kitchens

Eligibility Criteria

Income Requirements:

• Eligibility is determined by the individual resident with disability's income (not household income) from the prior year
• If the resident with disability was not required to file a federal tax return in the prior year, they are automatically eligible
• For residents who filed a federal tax return, countable income must not exceed 120% of the US Department of Housing and Urban Development's Area Median Income for Rhode Island
• Must not be eligible for modifications funded through other local, state/federal programs

Property Requirements:

• Applicant must be a homeowner or renter
• Retrofitting must include at least one accessibility feature or sensory modification

Allowable Accessibility Modifications

• Accessible route to a zero-step entrance
• Zero-step entrance into residence
• Doors with at least 32 inches of clear width
• Hallways and passages with at least 36 inches of clear width
• Accessible light switches, electrical outlets and environmental controls
• Accessible bathroom
• Accessible and useable kitchen facilities

Allowable Sensory Modifications

• Alarms, appliances and controls designed to assist sensory disabled persons that are structurally integrated into the residential unit
• Must be built-in appliances (permanent installations)
• Removable/reinstallable appliances do not qualify

Timeline Requirements

• Applications must be submitted and received prior to the start of modification activities
• Projects must be completed prior to end of State fiscal year (June 30)
• Post-modification documentation must be submitted no later than July 10 of the same calendar year

Application Process

1. Obtain the RI Livable Home Modification Grant application from the RI Governor's Commission on Disabilities
2. Complete application demonstrating eligibility based on income and disability status
3. Describe proposed accessibility modifications (must include at least one feature from allowable modifications list)
4. Submit application prior to starting any modification activities
5. Complete all modifications before end of State fiscal year (June 30)
6. Submit post-modification documentation by July 10

Required Materials:

• Proof of income from prior year
• Description of proposed modifications
• Evidence of ownership or rental agreement
• Post-modification documentation (upon completion)

Contact for Application Details: RI Governor's Commission on Disabilities at 401-462-0100