What is Motability?

Motability: we’ve probably all heard of it but few of us – unless we are active participants in the scheme – completely understand it.

Essentially, it’s a scheme to help keep people with disabilities active and independent by providing them with an appropriate vehicle that they might not otherwise be able to afford. 

Common myths about disabled blue badges dispelled.

Here’s everything you need to know.

Who or what is Motability?

Motability is a charity that leases cars, wheelchair accessible vehicles (WAVs) and mobility scooters to people who qualify for the mobility component of the Disability Living Allowance (DLA).

Does that mean I’ll get a car, wheelchair, or scooter then?

Yes, you might well be able to. The scheme covers a range of vehicles, and if your mobility allowance covers the cost in full, then you can use it to pay for a vehicle.

What are Personal independence Payments?

How do I qualify?

If you are in receipt of the Higher Rate Mobility Component of the DLA, the Enhanced Rate Mobility Component of the Personal Independence Payment (PIP), the War Pensioner’s Mobility Supplement (WPMS), or the Armed Forces Independence Payment (AFIP) – and have at least 12 months remaining - you might qualify.

The easiest way to check whether you are eligible is by using the Motability Eligibility Checker.

Are there any drawbacks?

If you currently rely on your mobility allowance and are happy driving your current car then it might not make sense for you to swap it for a new vehicle. Other than that no, there isn’t a catch.

Could you qualify for Attendance Allowance?

I receive a mobility allowance but I don’t drive.

The Motability scheme covers carers too, so even if you don’t drive, you might still qualify if you rely on someone else to keep you mobile.

There are some terms and conditions, but the Motability car can be used for shopping and other domestic activities, as long as the qualifying person will benefit.

What car can I choose?

The Motability scheme covers more than 3,000 cars, so there should be something for everyone!

If you can’t find anything you like the look of, you can also top-up the scheme, opening the scheme to bigger or more luxurious cars.

Read our guide to driving aids for drivers with disabilities.

What about everyday running costs?

The Motability scheme covers all the associated running costs like insurance, vehicle excise duty, breakdown cover and servicing. All you have to do is add fuel and pay a small excess if you make an insurance claim.

How do I get my new car?

You’ll need to visit your local dealer who can take care of all the paperwork for you, and with more than 4,500 garages participating in the scheme, you shouldn’t have to travel too far!

You can find the nearest Motability dealer by visiting the Motability website and entering your town or postcode.

Find out more about claiming carer's allowance.

What about wheelchairs and scooters?

The Motability scheme for wheelchairs and scooters works in a similar way to that of the car scheme. You can choose from over 200 different models, receiving a new vehicle every three years. It also covers the cost of insurance and servicing your wheelchair or scooter.

Are you a Motability user? If so, we’d love to hear your hints and tips in the comments section below!

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