Introduction to Motability Schemes
The Motability scheme started back in the 1970s as a means of getting people with mobility issues moving. Since that time, the rules have warped and benefits have changed - so here's our introductory guide to Motability.
Understanding the Concept of Motability Schemes
For people with mobility difficulties, getting around can be hard. Modern vehicles are designed with little thought to those in a wheelchair, or with other disabilities. The Motability scheme set out to fix this by allowing users to use the mobility component of their benefits to finance a new vehicle. At Richmond Motor Group, we have a team of Motability specialists to help you at every point on your Motability journey.
Eligibility Criteria for Motability Schemes
Who Can Benefit from a Motability Scheme?
In England, there are four types of benefit that are potentially eligible for the Motability Scheme.
- Personal Independence Payment (PIP)
- Disability Living Allowance (DLA)
- Armed Forces Independence Payment (AFIP)
- War Pensioners Mobility Supplement (WPMS)
Simply receiving one of these benefits does not automatically make you eligible for the Motability Scheme. For example, you'll need to receive the Higher Rate Mobility Part of Personal Independence Payment, as well as the Higher Rate Mobility Part of Disability Living Allowance. The motability scheme can be extended to carers or family members that are actively assisting the benefit recipient.
To find out whether you're eligible for the Motability scheme - speak to our helpful team
The Application Process for Motability Schemes
Preparing for Your Application: Essential Documents and Information
In order to start out with Motability - you'll need to provide us with some basic information such as your name, address, driving license number; all the information that we would otherwise take for a normal car finance application.
For Motability customers, we also need to know the type of benefit you receive, as well as from whom, whether it's Department for Work and Pensions, or Veterans UK. You must still be in receipt of your benefit for another 12 months.
The Range of Vehicles Available Through Motability
Getting a Motability car allows those who struggle with getting around to regain their independence; here at Richmond Motor Group, we're committed to helping you find the right vehicle for your particular circumstances.
From Wheelchair-accessible cars or vehicles with adapted steering, our team will match you with the right vehicle.
We offer a multitude of vehicles at Richmond Motor Group via the motability scheme, from the practical Hyundai Kona Electric to the nimble Suzuki Swift.
Adaptation: Tailoring Your Vehicle to Your Needs
Not every vehicle is the same, nor is every disability - as such, adapted vehicles need to be tailored to each individual. Some people will need modified steering wheels or other control methods, others require greater access or storage for a wheelchair. For more information on adaptations, visit our Adaptations page or Contact Us today!
Understanding the Costs Involved
Breaking Down the Costs: What’s Included in the Scheme?
The Motability Scheme allows individuals to use part of their benefit to finance a vehicle, often at no additional charge to the user. This includes insurance cover, maintenance costs and the repayments for the vehicle, all of which are made directly from the benefit provider to the dealership. The vehicle can be used by carers provided they are benefiting the person they are responsible for - policies can include up to three drivers including the benefit recipient.
Advance Payments and Additional Costs: What You Need to Know
When financing a motability car, the costs are paid by your benefit provider, whether it's DWP or Veterans UK. Depending on the vehicle, this monthly amount is insufficient, meaning that an advance payment is due at the start of a contract.
As a type of finance arrangement, there are mileage limits, namely 60,000 miles when taking out a three-year agreement, or 100,000 miles over five years.
So in short, the motability scheme helps those with disabilities to get behind the wheel, or mobile through the assistance of others.
Ready to enquire? Speak to us at Richmond Motor Group.