What is Motability?

Motability is an independent non-profit organisation which helps provide mobility solutions for people who have disabilities.

How does it work? People with disabilities can receive a mobility allowance. What motability does is use that allowance to help the person obtain a vehicle that suits their specific accessibility needs. The options available are. A new car on a three year to five year contract hire lease or a new or used car on hire purchase over a term of two to five years. Once an option is picked there is the option to use all or part of the allotted mobility allowance to the Motability operations scheme.

Who is eligible for the scheme? If you are receiving a higher rate mobility component or an HRMC of the Disability Living Allowance you are eligible. Also if you are receiving a war pension supplement (WPMS) then you are eligible. You need to have at least 21 months award length remaining when you apply. An application for a car can also be made on behalf of a child aged three or older, who is entitled to the mobility allowance. Even if you don't drive but receive the allowance you can apply for a car as a passenger and put two other people forward as drivers. Under 65's with disabilities who are not currently receiving the Higher Rate Mobility Component of the DLA may be entitled to the allowance.

What does hire purchase mean? Hire purchase is a system where you buy a vehicle from a supplier and use your DLA or WPMS to pay direct debits for the period of the agreement. You will be able to take the vehicle straight away but the finance company has a security interest in the goods until all amounts owed are paid. Hire purchase may appeal if you are likely to exceed 45,000 miles in three years. Also, if your chosen vehicle has a relatively high specification and therefore a larger advance payment you may be interested in purchasing the vehicle outright so that you retain an asset at the end of your agreement.