The Residential Access Modification Program, also referred to as the RAMP program, provides funding to low-income Albertans who need to make modifications to their home to support their mobility challenges.
Whether the funding is used for ramps, stair lifts, handrails, bathroom amendments, or any other modification that improves accessibility, eligible applicants can get full or partial coverage toward the cost of indoor or outdoor modifications within the means of the program.
If you’re interested in learning more about the RAMP program, including whether you’re eligible and how to apply, keep on reading.
Key Takeaways
- The RAMP program helps finance home modifications for eligible individuals.
- Funding is for low-income Albertans with mobility challenges.
- Apply by mailing your application and documents to the Edmonton RAMP office.
How much is the RAMP program grant?
Eligible Albertans who apply for the RAMP program can get up to:
- $7,500 per benefit year (identified as April 1 to March 31)
- $15,000 max. per 10-year period
Under the program criteria, some funding flexibility may be possible in certain conditions, such as if the applicant suffers a health deterioration, is forced to move homes, or a mechanical modification undergoes considerable damage.
Who is eligible for a RAMP grant?
Eligibility for the RAMP program is dependent on the applicant’s residency status, health condition, living situation, and income level. Let’s dive into the details.
To be considered for the RAMP program, an applicant must:
- have Canadian citizenship or permanent residency,
- be an Alberta resident,
- report an expectation to reside at their present address for 10 continuous years after RAMP approval,
- meet the identified income thresholds, and
- require a modification in their home.
Applicants must also fit one identified mobility criterion:
- require the permanent use of a wheelchair,
- be 65+ and require the permanent use of a 4-wheeled walker, or
- be diagnosed with a neurodegenerative disease in the progressive stage, such as amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS), Alzheimer’s, multiple sclerosis (MS), or Parkinson’s.
The income thresholds for the RAMP program differ for single individuals, couples, and families with various numbers of children.
For more information, see: Residential Access Modification Program (RAMP).
RAMP modifications
If you fit the criteria above, you’ll likely get approved for funding through the RAMP program. However, not just any modification is eligible for funding. To receive funding, the proposed home accessibility modifications must:
- enable the applicant to enter and move easier within their own home,
- be applied to a property in the province of Alberta,
- be a permanent change (RAMP may consider requests for temporary modifications case-by-case),
- be executed within 90 days of approval (unless otherwise authorized by the RAMP program).
In addition to the criteria above, there are some modifications that are outright considered to be ineligible for RAMP funding, such as:
- air conditioning,
- beds,
- cabinets,
- driveways,
- humidifiers,
- sidewalk upgrades,
- etc.
For the full list of eligible and ineligible modifications, see the RAMP Guidelines and Criteria.
RAMP application process
In order to complete an application for the RAMP program, you must mail your completed documents to the RAMP office in Edmonton. All applicants will be required to send in a minimum of 2 documents to be considered for funding:
- the RAMP application form, and
- the RAMP Modification Recommendation Form.
Some applicants may also be required to send in additional documents, specifically:
- Applicants who do not own the home they live in are required to send in a Landlord Property Modification Agreement Form.
- Applicants who live in a First Nations Reserve are required to send in a Band Council Resolution Form.
- Applicants who have a sponsorship agreement to live in Canada are required to send in a Sponsor Income Verification Form.
After you send in your application, you should hear back by mail within 30 days regarding the outcome of your application. While you cannot appeal the decision if you get denied, you may resubmit an application or ask for a reassessment.
Are you familiar with the Alberta RAMP program?
The RAMP program is a valuable option for those who may not have the means to make the necessary modifications to their home.
What do you think about the eligibility criteria of this program? Do you think they’re just right, or should they perhaps be extended to more Albertans with mid-level incomes?
FAQ
What is the RAMP program?
The RAMP program is an aid plan by the government of Alberta to financially support low-income residents with mobility challenges. Eligible residents are entitled to up to $7,500 per year, with a maximum of $15,000 in 10 years.
What is the criteria for the Residential Access Modification Program?
In order to receive RAMP program funding, the applicant must be a Canadian resident who lives in Alberta, meet the identified income thresholds, require a modification in their home and fit at least one identified mobility criterion per the program guidelines.
Where can I find the RAMP application form in Alberta?
The application forms for the RAMP program can be found on the Government of Alberta’s website. Depending on the type of application, the applicant may be required to send in more than 2 forms, such as if they rent their home or if they live in a First Nations reserve.
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