Ways to pay for a safer bathroom

If cost is what stands between you and a safer, easier-to-use bathroom, some public programs may help. Here is a plain-language guide for Southern California homeowners. We can give you a written, itemized estimate and a before photo, which several of these programs ask for.

Please note: New Bath Co does not run any of these programs and cannot promise approval or savings. Each program sets its own rules and decides on its own. Amounts and dates change, so please check with the program before you apply.

Veterans: VA HISA benefit

• The VA's Home Improvements and Structural Alterations (HISA) benefit may help pay for medically needed changes to a Veteran's home, such as bathroom access (for example, roll-in showers).
• Lifetime amounts listed by the VA: up to $6,800 or up to $2,000, depending on the Veteran's situation. The VA decides which applies.
• HISA needs a prescription written or approved by a VA physician.
• HISA does not cover spa, hot tub or Jacuzzi-type tubs. A walk-in tub with jets may not qualify.
• The VA also lists larger housing grants (SAH and SHA) for some Veterans. Amounts change each year, so please check with the VA.

Orange County seniors (62+): Safe Homes for O.C. Seniors

• This program may help low- to moderate-income seniors with safety and accessibility improvements, with grants of up to $20,000 (forgiven over four years).
• Applicants must be 62 or older, meet income guidelines, and live in and hold title to a home in a participating area: Brea, Cypress, Dana Point, La Palma, Laguna Beach, Laguna Hills, Laguna Woods, Los Alamitos, Placentia, San Juan Capistrano, Seal Beach, Stanton, Villa Park, Yorba Linda and unincorporated Orange County.

Garden Grove homeowners: Home Repair Program

• The City of Garden Grove lists grants of up to $5,000 for low-income homeowners to repair major home systems, including plumbing.
• The city lists a 2026 application period of November 30 to December 14, 2026. Please check with the city to confirm dates.

Medi-Cal members: CalAIM home modifications

• Some Medi-Cal managed care plans offer Community Supports home modifications, which may help with changes such as grab bars or a more accessible bathroom. Limits and steps vary by plan, so please check with your plan.

Taxes: IRS medical expense deduction

• IRS Publication 502 lists "installing railings, support bars, or other modifications to bathrooms" among home changes that may count as medical expenses when the main purpose is medical care.
• Generally, only medical expenses above 7.5% of your adjusted gross income can be deducted, and only if you itemize. Ask your tax preparer.

How we can help

• A written, itemized estimate (labor, materials, permits).
• Before photos of your bathroom.
• A licensed contractor: CA Lic. B & C-36 #1139422.

Questions? Call New Bath Co at (657) 650-6111. CA Lic. B & C-36 #1139422.