Applying For Bathroom Remodeling Grants In Central Virginia? Start Here

June 5, 2026

Need Help Applying For A V.A. Grant For Bathroom Remodeling In Central Virginia?

Breaking Down The Process Of Navigating Grants

For veterans and their family members, improving your bathroom may be something you’ve already been considering. In Central Virginia, bathroom remodeling isn’t just about style and design.

Of course, an updated look can transform the feel of the space. However, functionality and accessibility are just as critical (if not more) to your bathroom’s day-to-day use.

With JDS Bath, you’ll get a bathroom upgrade by local remodeling experts that you can trust with your home. Our team’s experience will transform your bathroom into a space that’s gorgeous, operates the way you need it to, and makes you feel safe.

Veteran Appreciation

At JDS Bath, we appreciate the sacrifices veterans have made, and we’re honored to use our remodeling expertise to help improve their bathrooms. Whether the goal is improved functionality or a more modern feel, every veteran deserves a bathroom that supports their daily needs.

But how do you go about it?

The process of applying for and obtaining a V.A. grant can be a bit complex. But it doesn’t have to be overwhelming or cause too much stress. And with a little help, you can avoid some hassles and have a much smoother bathroom remodeling experience.

The V.A. Grant Process

Your first step in applying for a V.A. Grant, also known as a HISA Grant, is to contact the V.A. and get all the information about applying for one. This would be through something like a physical exam from a doctor. Then you have to apply for eligibility for the grant through the V.A.

Once you receive the application, then it’s time to obtain quotes for your bathroom remodel. The V.A. Grant will only pay for the installation of an ADA compliant shower, sorry no bathtubs.

At this time, the V.A. recommends getting three quotes, to make sure you are not getting taken advantage of. You can get as many or as few quotes you’d like.

When getting your quotes, it is illegal for companies to ask for a deposit and have you sign a contract before giving you a quote. This is not something all companies follow, so be careful and choose a trustworthy contractor, like JDS Bath.

There’s a local organization called Resources for Independent Living that helps people get the assistance and support they need. They can help with the grant application process and often refer veterans to us. There are two separate grants you’ll typically be applying for – the V.A. Grant and the Granting Freedom Grant.

Your Consultation With JDS Bath

Once you contact us, we’ll visit for a consultation. JDS Bath’s owner, Mr. Rickard, will inspect the bathroom, offer suggestions, and show pictures of relevant previous projects.

Then, he’ll take before pictures of your bathroom and in most cases, work up a quote on the spot to see if it’s something you want to move forward with using JDS Bath.

He’ll send four things you’ll need to include with their application to be considered a complete application for review.

He’ll also write the emailed contractor application to be emailed to the homeowner and the V.A. Once the application is submitted, usually 15-45 days, you’ll receive a letter of approval. Also note, you’ll have 30 days from the application letterhead date to get the application back to the V.A. for approval.

After the V.A. Grant approval, Mr. Rickard will email it to Resources for Independent Living (Virginia Housing).

The V.A will then deposit the first half of the HISA (Home Improvements and Structural Alterations) Grant money, upon request, in the veterans account, which is to be used as the down payment to JDS Bath. Once the deposit is received, JDS Bath can then order all necessary materials.

Applying for the V.A. Grant isn’t a short process. Under normal circumstances, it can take around 3-6 months for everything to come together.

The Freedom Grant

If you choose to apply for the Granting Freedom Grant, you may do so after receiving the letter of approval for the V.A. grant. You have 60 days to provide proof of installation for the V.A. Grant from the date of approval on the approval letterhead.

The HISA Grant letter of approval is to be submitted with the Granting Freedom Grant application, along with the same four items provided previously.

The Granting Freedom Grant can take approximately the same amount of time for approval. Be mindful of the dates as the HISA Grant has a 60-day expiration. Don’t worry, you can file for an extension.

Because you’ll be applying for this grant later, you’ll be receiving the deposit from this grant at a later date than the first. You’ll want to keep track of the money deposited from the first grant and ensure it’s either kept separate or used only for its intended purpose.

This can become a potential pitfall, so we want veterans to be aware.

Once you’ve been approved for both grants, JDS Bath can then proceed with the work.

When the project is completed, your bathroom tech will have a Statement Of Satisfaction for you to sign, and take pictures of the completed project. Those two items are what’s needed to release the second half of the HISA money as a direct deposit to your account, which in turn will be transferred to JDS Bath.

Additional Helpful Information

There are other helpful tips and information for veterans and their families to take note of with the V.A. grant process.

If the veteran is also applying for the Granting Freedom Grant, in addition to the V.A. Grant, here’s some info. When the V.A. grant approval letter arrives:

1. Put the V.A. grant approval letterhead date on the calendar, count 30 days, go to the closest weekday date and write “V.A. Grant Extension” on that date.
2. On that V.A. grant extension date, apply for a V.A. grant extension at the prosthetics department.
3. the Granting Freedom Grant (Virginia Housing) application to the Resources for Independent Living caseworker you’re assigned to as soon as you are approved for the V.A. grant. It can take an additional 60-90 days for grant approval.
4. If possible, make sure the V.A. grant deposit money is in a bank account with no automatic withdrawals. If something happens, the veteran is responsible to return every penny to the government.
5. Print out all emails and keep them in the grant documents folder as well.

V.A. Grant states that the veteran has 60 days from the letterhead date on the approval letter to get the shower installed. For proof of installation, send the V.A. color photos of the completed shower. Assuming the vet has been approved for the grants, Mr. Rickard will email a copy of everything JDS Bath submits to both institutions.

You should keep EVERYTHING in a folder and make at least one copy of all applications BEFORE filling anything out so as to have another if mistakes are made. You’ll need to fill out all required documents, and also follow the V.A.’s instructions when submitting all application materials.

The grant process for veterans to upgrade their bathrooms can be challenging if not planned for or if some details aren’t known. So, this should help guide you in the right direction.

It must also be noted that this process is subject to change at any time and the veteran is responsible for verifying the current requirements.

If you or a loved one needs a bathroom remodel in Central Virginia and wants to apply for the V.A. grants, JDS Bath can help. Contact us to schedule a free estimate.

Bathroom Remodeling Questions And Answers For Central Virginia Homeowners

If you have more questions about the V.A. grant process, we may have answered them below in our FAQs.