Residential Access Modification Program (RAMP): Up to $7,500 Grant For Home Upgrades in Alberta

Aug 22, 2024

Aug 23, 2024

7 min read

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Navigating mobility challenges at home can be tough, but it doesn’t have to be that way. Thanks to Alberta’s Residential Access Modification Program (RAMP), homeowners with mobility issues have financial support from the government to make vital modifications, significantly improving their homes’ comfort and accessibility.

The program offers grants of up to $7,500 each benefit year or up to $15,000 per person within 10 years to help low-income Albertans create safer, more accessible living spaces. With these non-repayable grants, eligible homeowners can make permanent modifications that allow them to stay in the comfort of their own homes.

At Ecoline Windows and Doors, we’re committed to helping homeowners maximize this opportunity.

Read on to learn everything about the RAMP program in 2024, from eligibility requirements and available home modifications to how to apply for the program and claim the maximum grant.

What is the RAMP Program [2024]?

The Residential Access Modification Program (RAMP) is an initiative designed to help low-income Albertans with mobility issues modify their homes to ensure they can live safely and comfortably.

According to the research by Statistics Canada, 27% of people 15 and older, which is about 8 million Canadians, reported having at least one disability in 2022. This is about twice the rise compared to the reported number of people with disability 10 years ago.

The government of Alberta continues its efforts towards helping homeowners through the RAMP program, which offers grants of up to $7,500 per application to assist with accessibility modifications that enable homeowners to navigate and live within their homes more easily.

Unlike loans, RAMP grants are non-repayable and non-taxable, making them an excellent option for homeowners who need financial assistance to make permanent improvements.

Whether it’s installing ramps, widening doorways, or making other essential modifications, the RAMP program ensures that these changes contribute to the safety, accessibility, and overall livability of the home. Applicants must meet specific mobility and income eligibility criteria to qualify, ensuring the program reaches those in need.

Who is Eligible for the RAMP Grant?

Eligibility for the Residential Access Modification Program (RAMP) is focused on ensuring the grants go to those who truly need them. To apply, several criteria must be met, starting with mobility-related requirements:

An applicant uses a wheelchair on a permanent basis
An applicant is 65+ years of age and uses a four-wheeled walker on a permanent basis
An applicant is diagnosed with neuro-degenerative diseases in the progressive stage, including amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS), chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), dementia, multiple sclerosis (MS), muscular dystrophy (MD), Parkinson’s, or a non-recovering stroke, spina bifida or, spinal cord injuries (these individuals may be eligible for RAMP funding as it may be anticipated that they will be using a wheelchair within 12 months)

Income eligibility

Beyond the physical mobility criteria, the program also takes income into account. Only low-income Albertans are eligible, and the government has set specific income thresholds based on family size. Check out the table below to find out the particular income requirements based on your family size.

Additional eligibility requirements

Applicants must also be Canadian citizens or permanent residents living in Alberta at the residence for which they’re applying. Additionally, they must intend to stay in that home for at least 10 years after approval, meaning the modifications are intended to have a lasting impact.

By laying out these eligibility guidelines, the RAMP program ensures it reaches Albertans who would benefit most from making their homes more accessible.

Eligible Home Modifications Under RAMP

When it comes to the modifications covered by the RAMP program, the focus is on making a home more accessible and livable for people with mobility challenges. The grant allows for various permanent modifications, all of which enhance safety, ease of movement, and overall functionality in the home:

Entry door replacement and door enlargement
Curb guards
Landing pads
Porch lifts
Ramps
Sidewalk modifications
Stairlifts with electrical connection
Bathroom enlargements
Interior retrofits
Entrance hallway widening
Handrails
Plumbing modifications
Shower stalls

Check the full list of available home modifications here.

Entry door replacements under the RAMP program

Since doors are a key component of home accessibility, Ecoline in Alberta is committed to helping you maximize the RAMP grant for door replacement modifications.

The program allocates up to $2,000 for this home modification and comes with the following specifications:

up to 36″ (914 mm) wide; minimum 32″ wide
required due to the widening of existing doorways
max $2,000 for materials and installation
standard steel doors
storm door removal to permit easier access to the residence is eligible
reversal of the door swing to permit easier access to the residence is eligible
creation of a doorway to a deck or where a ramp is or will be constructed is eligible

Our team ensures that all modifications meet RAMP’s requirements, helping you get the most out of your grant. From consultation to installation, we make the process smooth and stress-free. Contact us today to find out how we can help you improve your home’s accessibility with expert door replacement services.

How to Apply for the RAMP Grant in 2024?

Applying for the Residential Access Modification Program (RAMP) is a straightforward process, but ensuring all the necessary documents are in order for a smooth application is important. Here’s a simple step-by-step guide to get you started:

Check Eligibility: Review the mobility and income criteria before applying to ensure you qualify. Make sure you’re a resident of Alberta and plan to stay in your home for at least 10 years after approval.
Select Modifications: Identify the home modifications you need, such as door replacements. Make sure the modifications meet RAMP’s guidelines to qualify for funding. Make sure to make the “before” photos of the modification site.
Submit Your Application: Complete the application form and submit it along with all required documents. The application package will be assessed for eligibility under the program guidelines.

For more detailed information and to download the application form, visit the official RAMP website here.

Wrapping Up

The Residential Access Modification Program (RAMP) is an excellent opportunity for low-income Albertans facing mobility challenges to improve their houses by claiming a non-repayable grant of up to $7,500; this program empowers homeowners to make essential modifications that allow them to continue living safely and comfortably in their homes.

At Ecoline, we specialize in Calgary door replacement services that not only meet the RAMP requirements but also transform your home into a more accessible and secure space. Contact us today to discuss your replacement project and ensure you get the most out of the grant.