The Motability Scheme allows people receiving specific benefits to allocate their allowance towards leasing a new vehicle
Drivers living with a disability or long-term health condition could find it easier to get their hands on a new car, scooter, or wheelchair-accessible vehicle thanks to the Motability Scheme. Managed by Motability Operations, this scheme allows individuals receiving certain benefits to use their allowance towards leasing a new vehicle.
However, only specific benefits qualify for the scheme, and depending on the vehicle you choose, you might still need to fork out a portion of the cost upfront. On the bright side, the scheme can help sort out your insurance, maintenance and breakdown cover, and servicing.
It is important to note that only certain parts of the eligible benefits will make you qualify for the scheme. This means even if you are claiming an eligible benefit as a whole, if you do not receive the qualifying part of it, you may still not be eligible for the scheme.
Scroll down for a full rundown on the benefits that qualify for the Motability Scheme….
Benefits eligible for the Motability Scheme
In order to first be eligible for the Motability Scheme, you must have at least 12 months left on your benefit at the time of applying. You can double-check this by looking at the award length on your benefit award letter or you can contact your provider directly.
Benefits that can use their allowance to apply for the Motability Scheme include:
- Enhanced rate mobility component of Personal Independence Payment (PIP)
- Enhanced rate mobility component of Adult Disability Payment (Scotland-only)
- Higher rate mobility component of Disability Living Allowance (DLA)
- Armed Forced Independence Payment (AFIP)
- War Pensioners’ Mobility Supplement (WPMS)
- Higher rate mobility component of Child Disability Payment (Scotland-only)
Guidance from the Motability Scheme highlights that you will not be eligible if you only receive the lower rate or component of mobility allowance or if you receive the following:
- Carer’s Allowance
- Attendance Allowance
- Employment and Support Allowance (ESA)
However, guidance from the scheme states: “Speak to your allowance provider if you think you could be eligible for one of the qualifying mobility allowances.”
How to apply for the Motability Scheme
If you believe you qualify for the scheme, you can either apply through a car dealership or apply online.
Applying through a dealer
You can visit any dealership of your choice and they will directly assist you with your order – this primarily applies if you are in the market for a car, scooter, or powered wheelchair. If you are seeking a wheelchair accessible vehicle supplier or adaptations installer, you do not need to worry about distance as they can come to you to help complete your order.
To apply with a dealer, you will need the following:
- The applicant’s National Insurance Number or Customer Reference Number
- A grant award letter where applicable
- Driving licences for all drivers and details of any claims history
- Driver declaration if the driver of the vehicle is not present
- The applicant’s UK passport or driver’s licence
Apply online
You can apply online through your own Motability Scheme account. This is particularly useful if you want more time to decide which vehicle is best for you.
To apply online, you will need:
- The applicant’s UK passport or driving licence
- The applicant’s National Insurance Number or Customer Reference Number
