How to Find a Grant for Home Improvement

You read the advertisements on infomercials and see the pop-up ads all the time on the Internet. "Get a home improvement grant!" the advertisements and commercials shout. It may seem like a bunch of snake oil, but there is a kernel of truth in these ads: you can get home improvement grants. Whether you need to have your home's exterior painted or want a new, more efficient wood stove, you can find grant programs for home improvement issues. Not everyone qualifies, and not every part of the country offers home improvement grants, but they do exist. From veterans nationwide to residents of the City of Boston, find out how to get a grant for home improvement and how to find such grants online and offline.

Instructions

Difficulty: Moderately Challenging

Things You’ll Need:

• Internet access
• search engine
• telephone

How to Find a Grant for Home Improvement

1. Start by going to your town hall/city clerk's office or checking your municipal website and asking about home improvement grants and income-based discounts on home-related bills. For instance, the town of Framingham, Massachusetts offers 25% off water and sewer bills to senior citizens who are lower income. The City of Boston offers up to $4,000 for home exterior painting. You can't know about these programs if you don't ask.
2. Search on the Internet for veteran's assistance programs if you, or your parents or children, and veterans. The Veteran's Affairs administration offers home improvement grants for disabled veterans for up to $50,000.
3. Call your state Department of Energy and ask for a list of rebate and incentive programs for home improvements related to reducing energy costs. Buying a new appliance, replacing windows, installing solar or wind power -- many states provide grants for these home improvements.
4. Contact your gas and electric companies to learn about rebate and grant programs for home improvement. You may qualify for a free energy audit, designed to help lower your gas and electric bills. Reducing energy costs and the energy load on the system is important to most electric companies, and rebates and program reflect this goal.
5. Get a free or reduced-cost new wood stove. Go to the Wood Stove Changeout Campaign and learn how your community can participate in this grant program for home improvement.

Tips & Warnings

• Many programs are based on income; be sure you understand income guidelines before applying.
• NEVER pay for a list of grants. All information you can find in subscription programs or eBooks can be found for free on the Internet or at your local library.