Veterans with certain service-connected disabilities often need to make changes to their homes to live safely and independently. To support these needs, the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) offers three primary housing adaptation grants: Specially Adapted Housing (SAH), Special Home Adaptation (SHA), and Temporary Residence Adaptation (TRA). Each grant serves different eligibility needs, offers specific amounts, and helps in unique living situations.
This guide will walk you through the essentials of each grant—SAH, SHA, and TRA—including who qualifies, how much may be awarded, and key usage guidelines.
Special Home Adaptation (SHA) Grant
What Is the SHA Grant?
The SHA grant helps veterans buy, build, or adapt a permanent home, but it covers a different set of disabilities compared to the SAH grant. It’s intended for those with service-connected disabilities that don’t meet the SAH threshold but still require significant home adaptations.
SHA Eligibility Criteria
To qualify, both of these must be true:
You or a family member own or will own the home; and
You have a qualifying service-connected disability, such as:
- Loss, or loss of use, of both hands
- Certain severe burns
- Certain respiratory or breathing injuries
SHA Grant Amount
- Up to $25,350 for FY 2026 (maximum total lifetime benefit)
Using the SHA Grant
- The same usage rules apply as SAH: Use up to 6 different times over your life, without needing to use the full amount at once.
- The total maximum may be adjusted yearly.
Temporary Residence Adaptation (TRA) Grant
What Is the TRA Grant?
The TRA grant is designed for veterans who are temporarily living in a family member’s home and need modifications to make the residence accessible. You must already qualify for an SAH or SHA grant to access a TRA grant.
TRA Eligibility Criteria
You must meet both of these requirements:
- You’re living temporarily in a family member’s home (ownership not required), and
- You qualify for an SAH or SHA grant
TRA Grant Amounts for FY 2026
- Up to $50,961 if you qualify for an SAH grant
- Up to $9,100 if you qualify for an SHA grant
Using the TRA Grant
- These funds are for modifying a family member’s home where you’re living temporarily.
- You do not have to own the home.
- TRA funds are part of your overall SAH or SHA total grant usage.
Additional Information and How to Apply
For all three grants, you can use the awarded amount over multiple projects and years, up to six times in your lifetime, up to the current maximum amounts. The remaining balance can go towards future adaptations as your needs evolve.
How to Apply
- Apply online: Use VA Form 26-4555 on the VA’s housing assistance website.
- Apply by mail or in person: Download the form, then submit it to your nearest VA regional loan center or visit a VA regional office for assistance.
A VA Specially Adapted Housing agent will help guide you through eligibility and every step of the process, including finding contractors and inspecting completed work.
A More Accessible Future
Understanding the differences between the SAH, SHA, and TRA grants ensures you seek the right support for your housing needs. Each program offers targeted help so that eligible veterans and service members can live safely and comfortably—whether in their own home or while temporarily living with family.
If you think you may be eligible, don’t hesitate to begin the application process. This support exists to help you live as independently and securely as possible.