Apply for MDA's Durable Medical Equipment Grant Program

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Durable Medical Equipment (DME) Grant Program Frequently Asked Questions

MDA is proud to offer the Durable Medical Equipment (DME) Grant to help children and adults living with neuromuscular diseases get the equipment they need to live more independently and comfortably. We know how expensive and hard it can be to access the right equipment. This program helps reduce the cost of items like mobility aids, lift chairs, and more, giving families extra support and peace of mind.

  • What documentation do I need to apply?

    • Unpaid invoice or quote (required at application)
    • W9 from vendor
    • Letter of Medical Necessity from your health care provider

  • Can I save and return to my application?

    If you choose to save and return to your application later, you will be asked to enter an email address and create a password. Please write this down!

  • What are the steps to the MDA DME Grant Application process?

    • Gather documents above to upload to your application. Only a quote or unpaid invoice is required to submit.
    • Complete and submit online application [around ten minutes]
    • MDA Specialists contact applicants in the order applications are received. Submitting all documentation could speed up your review.
    • Complete any additional follow-up requested such as contacting insurance company, applying for additional funding, collecting requested documents, etc.
    • Once everything is complete, an MDA Specialist will notify you of the determination of your application.

  • What happens if I’m awarded an MDA DME Grant?

    • Return the Award Agreement sent to you quickly.
    • Payment request submitted by MDA Specialist to MDA Accounts Payable. *payment can take up to 45 days to process and be received by vendor.
    • Payments are made direct to the vendor
    • Post-award follow-up survey
    • Share photos & impact stories! Tag MDA on social media!

  • Can I make an urgent request?

    No, currently we cannot process urgent requests.

    • All applications are processed in the order received.
    • Submitting all documentation could speed up your application.
    • Once approved, payment can take up to 45 days to process and be received by the vendor.

  • What items does an MDA DME Grant assist with?

    Examples of covered items:

    • Mobility Support: Manual and power wheelchairs, scooters, lift chairs, batteries
    • Home Modifications (non-permanent): Portable ramps, suction grab bars, wand showerheads, portable power stations
    • Medical Equipment: Hospital beds, respiratory or incontinence support devices
    • Orthotics & Devices: AFOs, TLSOs, orthotic shoes, communication device
    • Aids for Daily Living: Shower chairs, transfer boards, Hoyer lifts, raised toilet seats

  • What are some commonly requested items the MDA DME Grant NOT assist with?

    Examples of non-covered items (non-exhaustive list):

    • Already purchased or ordered items 
    • Permanent home modifications: wooden ramps, elevators, stair lifts, ceiling lifts, home & bathroom remodels
    • Repairs for items that would not be covered new within the MDA DME grant program
    • Vehicle modifications that require bolting or permanently altering a vehicle
    • Pools, hot tubs, pool lifts
    • Consumables (tubing, diapers, wipes)
    • Hearing aids
    • Accessible vehicle purchase or repair

  • How much are DME Grant Awards & how often can I apply?

    • Awards of up to $1,000 are available upon review and funding.
    • MDA members can submit one DME Grant application per calendar year.
    • You may apply for higher-cost items, but full funding must be secured before MDA can award the grant. 
    • MDA Specialists can work with you to identify potential community resources for items above the MDA DME Grant awarded amount.

  • Can DME Grant funds be sent directly to me?

    MDA DME Grant Program funds are not allocated directly to MDA members. Funds will be sent to the vendor on file in your application.

  • Will the DME Grant Program reimburse me for items already purchased or on order?

    • No, DME Grant Program applications must be received prior to an order of DME.
    • MDA’s DME Grant Program will not reimburse or pay directly to an applicant under any circumstances.

  • If I am not awarded the MDA DME Grant award for a request, or if I have previously applied, can I apply again?

    • Individuals may receive one approved DME Grant per calendar year.
    • Grant awards are limited to up to $1,000 per calendar year, per individual MDA member.
    • Dependent on funding, priority approval may be given to individuals who have not previously been awarded.

  • Is household information such as income status considered for eligibility?

    • No, income status does not affect eligibility.
    • Annual household income and other demographic questions are requested as part of the demographics section of the application to help MDA better understand the background characteristics of applicants; however, this information will not be considered when assessing applications.
    • Applicants can choose to skip demographic questions on the application.

  • I want to support the MDA DME Grant Program through an individual, corporate or foundation gift. How can I help?

    Your generosity can brighten lives and open doors to greater independence for people living with neuromuscular diseases. Thank you for considering a gift that directly puts essential equipment into the hands of those who need it most! Please contact us at ResourceCenter@mdausa.org — we’re excited to partner with you to make a real difference.

    Need Help?
    Contact the MDA Resource Center:
    ResourceCenter@mdausa.org
    1-800-572-1717 (Option 1)

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