15 Best Government Grants for Amputees in 2023

Losing a limb is a life-changing experience, and it can be a challenging transition. Amputees have to go through a lot of physical, emotional, and financial challenges, including finding the right prosthetic, learning how to adapt to new challenges, and adapting to a new way of life.

In recognition of these challenges, several government grants and programs are available to support amputees. In this article, we will explore 15 available government grants for amputees.

Available Government Grants for Amputees

  1. Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI)

The Social Security Administration provides Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) benefits to individuals with disabilities, including amputees.

To qualify for SSDI, an individual must have a disability that meets Social Security’s definition of a disability and must have earned enough work credits to qualify. Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) benefits can help cover living expenses and medical expenses.

Eligibility Criteria for Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) for Amputees:
  • You must have a physical or mental condition that prevents you from engaging in any substantial gainful activity (SGA).
  • Your condition must be expected to last for at least 12 months or result in death.
  • You must have earned enough work credits through Social Security to be eligible for benefits.
  • Your disability must be severe enough that it interferes with your ability to perform basic activities of daily living, such as walking, dressing, or feeding yourself.
  • You must not be engaging in any substantial gainful activity at the time of your application.
  • You must be a citizen of the United States or a legal resident with a valid work visa.
How to Apply 
  • Gather your medical records and any other documentation that supports your disability claim. This may include doctor’s notes, test results, and treatment records.
  • Visit the Social Security Administration’s website or visit your local Social Security office to begin the application process. You can also apply by phone by calling 1-800-772-1213.
  • Complete the Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) application form and submit it along with your supporting documentation. You will need to provide personal and employment information, including your Social Security number, work history, and the date you became disabled.
  • Wait for a decision on your application. It can take several months for the Social Security Administration to review your application and make a decision. If your application is approved, you will receive a monthly benefit payment based on your earnings history.
  • If your application is denied, you have the right to appeal the decision. You will need to file an appeal within 60 days of receiving the denial notice. An attorney or disability advocate can help you navigate the appeals process and increase your chances of being approved for benefits.

  1. Supplemental Security Income (SSI)

Supplemental Security Income (SSI) is a needs-based program that provides financial assistance to disabled individuals, including amputees.

To qualify for Supplemental Security Income (SSI, an individual must have limited income and resources and meet Social Security’s definition of a disability. Supplemental Security Income (SSI) benefits can help cover living expenses and medical expenses.

Eligibility Criteria for Supplemental Security Income (SSI) for Amputees:
  • You must have a physical or mental condition that prevents you from engaging in any substantial gainful activity (SGA).
  • Your condition must be expected to last for at least 12 months or result in death.
  • You must have limited income and resources. In 2023, the income limit is $794 per month for an individual and $1,191 per month for a couple. The resource limit is $2,000 for an individual and $3,000 for a couple.
  • Your disability must be severe enough that it interferes with your ability to perform basic activities of daily living, such as walking, dressing, or feeding yourself.
  • You must not be engaging in any substantial gainful activity at the time of your application.
  • You must be a citizen of the United States or a legal resident with a valid work visa.
How to Apply 
  • Gather your medical records and any other documentation that supports your disability claim. This may include doctor’s notes, test results, and treatment records.
  • Visit the Social Security Administration’s website or visit your local Social Security office to begin the application process. You can also apply by phone by calling 1-800-772-1213.
  • Complete the Supplemental Security Income (SSI) application form and submit it along with your supporting documentation. You will need to provide personal and financial information, including your Social Security number, income, and resources.
  • Wait for a decision on your application. It can take several months for the Social Security Administration to review your application and make a decision. If your application is approved, you will receive a monthly benefit payment based on your income and resources.
  • If your application is denied, you have the right to appeal the decision. You will need to file an appeal within 60 days of receiving the denial notice.

  1. Medicaid

Medicaid is a government-funded healthcare program that provides coverage for low-income individuals and families. Medicaid offers a wide range of benefits, including coverage for amputees who require prosthetic devices, rehabilitative therapy, and other medical services.

Eligibility

To be eligible for Medicaid, an individual must meet certain income and asset requirements, which vary by state. Generally, Medicaid is available to low-income individuals and families, pregnant women, children, and people with disabilities.

How to Apply

To apply for Medicaid, you can visit your state’s Medicaid agency website or contact your local Medicaid office. You will need to provide proof of income, citizenship, and residency, as well as information about any medical conditions or disabilities.

If you are an amputee and need prosthetic devices, you will need to work with a healthcare provider who accepts Medicaid. Your healthcare provider can help you navigate the Medicaid application process and ensure that you receive the care you need.

In addition to Medicaid, there are other resources available to amputees, including nonprofit organizations and government programs that offer financial assistance for prosthetic devices and other medical expenses. Your healthcare provider or local amputee support group can provide information about these resources and help you access them.

  1. Medicare

Medicare is a government-funded healthcare program that provides coverage for people aged 65 and older, as well as people with certain disabilities or chronic conditions, including amputees.

Eligibility

To be eligible for Medicare, you must be a US citizen or permanent resident and meet one of the following criteria:

  • You are 65 years of age or older
  • You have been receiving Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) for at least 24 months
  • You have an end-stage renal disease (ESRD) or Lou Gehrig’s disease (ALS)

Once you are eligible for Medicare, you can enroll in either Original Medicare (Part A and Part B) or a Medicare Advantage plan (Part C). Original Medicare covers hospital stays, doctor visits, and some medical equipment, including prosthetic devices for amputees.

How to Apply

To apply for Medicare, you can visit the Social Security Administration website or visit your local Social Security office. You will need to provide proof of age, citizenship or legal residency, and disability if applicable. You will also need to choose whether to enroll in Original Medicare or a Medicare Advantage plan.

If you are an amputee and need prosthetic devices, Medicare covers 80% of the cost of most prosthetic devices. You will be responsible for the remaining 20%, which can be covered by supplemental insurance or out-of-pocket. You will need to work with a healthcare provider who accepts Medicare to obtain your prosthetic devices.

  1. Veterans Affairs (VA) Benefits

The Veterans Affairs (VA) offers a range of benefits for veterans, including those who have lost limbs due to injuries sustained during their service. These benefits can include prosthetic devices, rehabilitative therapy, and other medical services.

Eligibility

To be eligible for Veterans Affairs (VA) benefits, you must have served in the military and been discharged under conditions other than dishonorable. Your disability must be service-connected, which means that it was caused or aggravated by your military service.

How to Apply

To apply for Veterans Affairs (VA) benefits, you can visit the Veterans Affairs (VA) website or contact your local Veterans Affairs (VA) office. You will need to provide documentation of your military service and any medical conditions related to your service, including your amputation.

Once you have been approved for Veterans Affairs (VA) benefits, you can work with a Veterans Affairs (VA) healthcare provider to obtain your prosthetic devices and other medical services. The Veterans Affairs (VA) offers a range of prosthetic devices, including artificial limbs, orthotics, and assistive devices.

In addition to healthcare benefits, the Veterans Affairs (VA) offers other benefits and services for veterans, including disability compensation, vocational rehabilitation, and education and training programs.

  1. Temporary Assistance for Needy Families (TANF)

Temporary Assistance for Needy Families (TANF) is a needs-based program that provides financial assistance to families with children.

Temporary Assistance for Needy Families (TANF) benefits can help cover living expenses and medical expenses, including prosthetics and other medical equipment for children with disabilities, including amputees. Temporary Assistance for Needy Families (TANF) is administered at the state level, and eligibility requirements and benefit amounts may vary by state.

Eligibility

To be eligible for Temporary Assistance for Needy Families (TANF), you must meet the following criteria:

  • You must have dependent children under the age of 18 or be pregnant
  • You must be a US citizen or legal resident
  • You must have a low income, as defined by your state

How to Apply

To apply for Temporary Assistance for Needy Families (TANF), you can visit your state’s Temporary Assistance for Needy Families (TANF) agency website or contact your local Temporary Assistance for Needy Families (TANF) office. You will need to provide documentation of your income and household size, as well as any other information required by your state.

  1. Rehabilitation Services Administration (RSA)

The Rehabilitation Services Administration (RSA) is a federal agency that provides funding to states to support vocational rehabilitation services for individuals with disabilities, including amputees.

Eligibility

To be eligible for Rehabilitation Services Administration (RSA) services, you must have a physical or mental impairment that substantially limits one or more major life activities, including work. You must also require vocational rehabilitation services to prepare for, enter, or retain employment.

How to Apply

To apply for Rehabilitation Services Administration (RSA) services, you can contact your state’s vocational rehabilitation agency. The agency will conduct an assessment to determine your eligibility and the services you may need.

In addition to vocational rehabilitation services, the Rehabilitation Services Administration (RSA) also provides funding for research and training related to disability employment issues.

If you are an amputee who needs assistance with vocational rehabilitation services, you may be eligible for Rehabilitation Services Administration (RSA) funding to help you prepare for and succeed in the workforce.

  1. Workforce Innovation and Opportunity Act (WIOA)

The Workforce Innovation and Opportunity Act (WIOA) is a federal program that provides funding for workforce development programs and services to help individuals, including amputees, find and keep good jobs.

Eligibility

To be eligible for Workforce Innovation and Opportunity Act (WIOA) services, you must be an adult or youth with a disability, including an amputation, that presents a substantial barrier to employment. You must also have the ability to benefit from the services provided by the program.

How to Apply

To apply for Workforce Innovation and Opportunity Act (WIOA) services, you can contact your local American Job Center or One-Stop Career Center.

The center will conduct an assessment to determine your eligibility and the services you may need. These services may include vocational counseling, job training, job search assistance, and assistive technology, including prosthetic devices for amputees.

In addition to workforce development services, the Workforce Innovation and Opportunity Act (WIOA) also provides funding for adult education and literacy programs, and services for dislocated workers and other targeted populations.

If you are an amputee who needs assistance with job training and employment services, you may be eligible for Workforce Innovation and Opportunity Act (WIOA) funding to help you achieve your career goals. Contact your local American Job Center or One-Stop Career Center for more information on eligibility and how to apply for services.

  1. Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP)

The Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) is a federal program that provides food assistance to low-income individuals and families.

Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) benefits are provided on an Electronic Benefits Transfer (EBT) card and can be used to purchase food at participating retailers. To be eligible for Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP), you must meet the following criteria:

  • You must have a low income, as defined by the program guidelines
  • You must be a US citizen or legal resident
  • You must meet certain work requirements unless you are exempt due to a disability or other factors

To apply for Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP), you can visit your state’s Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) agency website or contact your local SNAP office. You will need to provide documentation of your income, household size, and other information required by the program.

  1. Low-Income Home Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP)

The Low-Income Home Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP) provides financial assistance to low-income households to help cover heating and cooling expenses. LIHEAP benefits can help free up money to cover other living expenses and medical expenses, including prosthetics and other medical equipment.

Eligibility
  • You must have a low income, as defined by the program guidelines
  • You must be responsible for paying home energy costs
  • You must be a US citizen or legal resident, or have a non-citizen status that qualifies for Low-Income Home Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP)
How to Apply

To apply for Low-Income Home Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP), you can visit your state’s Low-Income Home Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP) agency website or contact your local Low-Income Home Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP) office.

You will need to provide documentation of your income, household size, and other information required by the program. If you are an amputee and have a low income, you may be eligible for Low-Income Home Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP) benefits to help you pay for home energy costs and maintain a safe and comfortable living environment.

Low-Income Home Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP) benefits are intended to supplement a household’s ability to pay for home energy costs and are based on household size, income, and other factors.

  1. Housing and Urban Development (HUD) Programs

The Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) provides several programs that provide housing assistance to individuals with disabilities, including amputees. Housing and Urban Development (HUD) programs can include rental assistance, homeownership programs, and home modification programs to make homes more accessible.

Eligibility

To be eligible for Housing and Urban Development (HUD) programs, you must meet certain income and other eligibility requirements. Eligibility varies by program and may depend on factors such as household size, income, and disability status.

How to Apply

To apply for Housing and Urban Development (HUD) programs, you can contact your local Housing and Urban Development (HUD) office or visit the Housing and Urban Development (HUD) website to find a list of Housing and Urban Development (HUD)-approved housing counseling agencies in your area.

These agencies can provide information on the programs available in your area and help you determine your eligibility and how to apply.

If you are an amputee and are in need of safe and affordable housing, Housing and Urban Development (HUD) programs may be able to help. Contact your local Housing and Urban Development (HUD) office or a Housing and Urban Development (HUD)-approved housing counseling agency to learn more about the programs available to you.

  1. State Vocational Rehabilitation Programs

State vocational rehabilitation programs provide assistance to individuals with disabilities, including amputees, to help them find and maintain employment. These programs are designed to provide a range of services, such as vocational training, job placement, and assistive technology, to help individuals with disabilities achieve their employment goals.

Eligibility
  • You must have a physical or mental impairment that results in a significant impediment to employment
  • You must require vocational rehabilitation services to overcome your employment barriers
  • You must be able to benefit from vocational rehabilitation services in terms of employment
How to Apply

To apply for state vocational rehabilitation programs, you can contact your local vocational rehabilitation agency or visit your state’s vocational rehabilitation website. You will need to provide documentation of your disability and other information required by the program.

Once you are enrolled in a state vocational rehabilitation program, you will work with a vocational rehabilitation counselor who will help you develop an Individualized Plan for Employment (IPE) tailored to your needs and employment goals.

Your IPE may include vocational training, job placement services, assistive technology, and other services to help you achieve your employment goals.

  1. State Disability Insurance (SDI)

State Disability Insurance (SDI) provides short-term financial assistance to individuals with disabilities, including amputees, who are unable to work due to their disability. State Disability Insurance (SDI) benefits can help cover living expenses and medical expenses while an individual is unable to work.

Eligibility
  • You must have a non-work-related disability that prevents you from working
  • You must have a minimum amount of earnings in the base period (the period of time used to determine your eligibility and benefit amount)
  • You must meet any additional eligibility requirements specified by your state.
How to Apply

To apply for state disability insurance, you can visit your state’s disability insurance website or contact your state’s disability insurance office. You will need to provide documentation of your disability, such as medical records and a physician’s statement, and information about your earnings during the base period.

If you are approved for state disability insurance, you will receive a weekly benefit amount for a set period of time. Benefit amounts and duration vary by state and are based on factors such as your earnings history and the severity of your disability.

If you are an amputee and are unable to work due to a non-work-related disability, state disability insurance may be able to provide you with short-term wage replacement benefits. Contact your state’s disability insurance office or visit their website to learn more about eligibility requirements and how to apply.

  1. Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) Grants

The Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) does not provide grants directly to individuals with disabilities, including amputees.

However, the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) does require that public entities and private businesses make reasonable accommodations for individuals with disabilities, such as making physical modifications to buildings or providing assistive technology.

There are some government and non-profit organizations that offer grants to help businesses and organizations comply with the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) requirements. These grants may be used to fund modifications to buildings, purchase assistive technology, or provide training on disability-related issues.

Eligibility

To be eligible for Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) grants, businesses, and organizations must demonstrate a need for the grant funding and must be able to provide documentation of how the grant funds will be used to comply with Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) requirements.

Individuals with disabilities who need accommodations at work or in other settings may be able to receive support through their employer or through government-funded programs, such as state vocational rehabilitation programs. These programs may provide funding for assistive technology or other accommodations needed to help individuals with disabilities succeed in the workplace or in other settings.

  1. Vocational Rehabilitation and Employment (VR&E) Program

The Vocational Rehabilitation and Employment (VR&E) program, also known as Chapter 31, is a program administered by the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) that provides employment and training services to eligible veterans and service members, including those with amputations.

Services provided by Vocational Rehabilitation and Employment (VR&E) may include vocational counseling, job placement assistance, on-the-job training, apprenticeships, and education and training programs. Vocational Rehabilitation and Employment (VR&E) may also provide funding for assistive technology, modifications to the work environment, and other supports needed to help you succeed in your chosen career.

Eligibility
  • You must be a veteran or service member with a service-connected disability rating of at least 10%
  • You must have an employment handicap, meaning that your service-connected disability creates a barrier to employment
  • You must apply for Vocational Rehabilitation and Employment (VR&E) services and be found eligible by a VA Vocational Rehabilitation Counselor
How to Apply

To apply for Vocational Rehabilitation and Employment (VR&E), you can contact your local VA office or apply online through the VA’s eBenefits portal. You will need to provide documentation of your military service and your service-connected disability rating.

Once your eligibility is established, you will work with a Vocational Rehabilitation Counselor to develop an Individualized Rehabilitation Plan (IRP) that outlines your employment goals and the services and supports needed to achieve those goals.

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