MAG Disability Grants Checklist

If you or someone in your household has a disability or mobility challenge, figuring out home‑adaptation grants can feel a bit like navigating a maze. The good news? The Mobility Aids Grant (MAG) is here to help make your home safer, more comfortable, and tailored to your needs. Think of this article as your friendly guide and checklist—helping you breeze through the process, understand what’s required, and feel confident about applying.

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What is the Mobility Aids Grant (MAG)?

Who is it for?

MAG is designed for older adults and people with disabilities who experience difficulty moving around their home. It’s all about helping you stay independent and safe in your own space.

What kinds of works are eligible?

Eligible adaptations include installing grab rails, ramps, stair‑lifts, fixed hoists, and modifying bathrooms for level access. Basically, anything that makes daily life easier and safer inside your home.

Maximum grant amounts and financial limits

Under the new rules from December 2024, MAG can cover up to around €8,000 (depending on your local authority), subject to income limits. In some cases, the grant can cover the entire approved cost, excluding VAT.

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Why a checklist matters when applying

Applying for MAG can involve many moving pieces—medical certificates, income statements, contractor quotes, and property tax records. A checklist ensures nothing slips through the cracks, avoids delays, and makes the process far less stressful.

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Confirm your home’s eligibility

Type of property ownership or tenancy

Your home must usually be:

• Privately owned by you or family

• Rented with a registered tenancy and landlord permission

• Provided by an approved housing body

• Communal residential accommodation

Local Property Tax compliance

You’ll need proof that your Local Property Tax (LPT) is paid, deferred, or exempt. Without this, the grant can’t move forward.

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Assessing the person with disability or mobility issue

Medical certificate / doctor’s certificate

A doctor’s certificate confirms the mobility or disability challenge. It’s required for MAG and ensures your application meets official criteria.

Occupational therapist (OT) assessment when required

For bigger adaptations—like stair lifts or major room changes—an OT may need to recommend the correct specification. Some local authorities provide this assessment; others expect you to arrange it.

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Means‑test and income documentation

Household income requirements and thresholds

MAG is means‑tested. Your household’s income (everyone aged 18+ living in the home) must not exceed certain limits.

Income disregards and deductions

Certain allowances—like for dependent children, full-time carers, or child benefits—may reduce your counted income.

Proof of income types

You’ll need documents like:

• P21 End-of-Year Statement (PAYE)

• Form 11 (self-employed)

• Pension slips

• Welfare statements

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Scope of works and planning the adaptation

Grab rails, ramps, stair-lifts, and hoists

Simple installations like grab rails or ramps are usually straightforward. More complex devices, like stairlifts or hoists, may require approval under MAG or a larger grant scheme.

Bathroom or level-access shower works

Converting a bathroom, widening doorways, or installing level-access showers are common adaptations. Sometimes, detailed drawings may be needed.

Structural or room-use changes

If you need an extension or a new ground-floor bedroom or bathroom, it might exceed MAG and fall under a larger grant.

Obtaining contractor quotes and drawings

Always get detailed quotes and drawings, especially for structural work. Some application forms require these documents.

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Grant application before work begins

Important “no works before approval” rule

Never start work before you receive formal written approval. Doing so risks rejection of your grant application.

Completing the correct application form

Use the approved MAG or adaptation grant application form for your local authority. Double-check all sections and tick the correct boxes.

Where and how to submit it

Submit your completed form and supporting documents to your local authority’s housing grants department—by post or online if available.

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Documentation checklist – what to attach

• Proof of ownership/tenancy

• Income documentation (tax returns, welfare statements)

• Doctor’s certificate and OT report (if required)

• LPT compliance proof

• Contractor quotations and drawings

• Building regulation compliance certificates (if extension or structural work)

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Implementation of works

Works must meet the specification

Make sure the works follow the approved specification exactly. Any deviation may affect your grant.

VAT considerations

The grant usually excludes VAT, but you may be eligible to reclaim it separately via the Revenue system.

Role of qualified contractors

Using experienced contractors ensures compliance, reduces stress, and smooths the inspection process.

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After‑works inspection and completion

Final sign-off by local authority

Once completed, your local authority may inspect the work to confirm it meets the approved plan.

Submitting invoices and receipts

Keep all original or certified invoices and receipts for submission.

Receiving payment / grant disbursement

After everything is verified, your grant will usually be paid directly to you via bank transfer.

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Ongoing obligations and using the adapted home

Requirement to live in the home post works

The person for whom the works were carried out must live in the home when works finish and continue living there for a specified period.

Maintenance responsibilities

You are responsible for keeping the adaptations in working order—neglect may affect future grant eligibility.

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Common pitfalls and how to avoid them

Starting work too early

Wait for written approval before beginning anything.

Missing required documents

Incomplete applications slow down approvals. Gather all documents in advance.

Underestimating costs

Plan for contingencies—if your costs exceed the grant, you’ll need to cover the difference.

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Frequently asked questions about MAG

Can rented properties qualify?

Yes, as long as the tenancy is registered and the landlord approves the works.

What happens if my income increases after application?

Income is usually assessed for the previous tax year. Any significant changes should be reported, but local authority rules apply.

Can the grant cover all costs?

In many cases, MAG can cover up to 100% of approved costs (excluding VAT), though caps and exclusions may apply.

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Tips for a smooth application process

• Start early and gather all documents.

• Consult an OT or trusted advisor for guidance.

• Use contractors familiar with MAG grants for smoother approvals.

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How the recent regulations impact grants (December 2024)

From December 2024, maximum grant limits increased, and income thresholds were raised. For MAG specifically, the cap of around €8,000 reflects these updates in many areas.

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Relationship between MAG and other grants (HAG, HOP)

MAG is part of the wider Housing Adaptation Grants for Older People and People with Disabilities. Larger projects may fall under HAG or HOP depending on the scope and eligibility.

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Summary checklist – your quick‑ref table

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Conclusion

Applying for MAG doesn’t have to be daunting. With careful preparation, complete documentation, and a clear understanding of the steps, you can transform your home into a safer, more accessible space. Independence, comfort, and peace of mind are just a few steps away. Whether it’s a stair-lift, grab rails, or other mobility aids, companies like Irish Stairlifts can help ensure your adaptations are professional and reliable. Use this checklist as your guide and approach the process with confidence.