Assistive Technology Loan Program
Assistive Technology – hearing aids, communication devices, wheelchairs and home or vehicle modifications – can be expensive to purchase. National Disability Institute can help you find and afford assistive technology. Our Assistive Technology (AT) Loan Program provides affordable loans of $500 to $30,000 to residents of New Jersey and New York.
Apply for a Loan.
Take the Loan Orientation.
This Orientation will help you complete your loan application and create a spending plan to decide how much you can afford to borrow. The course is self-paced and can be completed in about 1 hour.
Download the spending plan. You’ll need this when you take the course.
Start your AT Loan application.
Make sure that you read the Loan Application Checklist before you fill out the application.
If you think you are ready for a loan, but would like assistance or guidance before applying, please contact Laurie Schaller at (202) 449-9521 or lschaller@ndi-inc.org.
You can also register for the upcoming live Orientation and Information session on February 7, 2019, at 2:00 p.m. ET, below.
Apply for a Loan.
Start your AT Loan Application.
Make sure that you read the Loan Application Checklist before you fill out the application.
Take the Orientation
This Orientation will help you complete your loan application and create a spending plan to decide how much you can afford to borrow. The course is self-paced and can be completed in about 1 hour.
Download the spending plan. You’ll need this when you take the course.
NDI’s AT Loan Program at a Glance
NDI received funding for the program, which is one of 48 nationally, from the U.S. Department of Education. The loans range from $500 to $30,000 and are available to residents of New Jersey and New York. NDI buys down the interest rate, making it possible for approved loan applicants to obtain loans at four percent interest, a significant cost savings for borrowers. NDI also guarantees the loans, allowing for more favorable lending terms.
National Disability Institute takes calls regarding requests for the assistive technology loans. Referrals for the blending and braiding of funds are also provided which, in many cases, further reduces costs for those who need AT.
Individuals who apply for a loan are required to submit documentation, including recent bills and sources of income, to National Disability Institute. We prequalify applicants and send the information to New Community Federal Credit Union (NCFCU), Bryn Mawr Trust (BMT) or Spring Bank for final approval and loan service.
Learn more about the AT Loan Program…
Through its AT Loan Program, National Disability Institute aims to help residents with disabilities in New York and New Jersey increase or maintain their productivity and quality of life. Learn more or apply for a loan today!
Take some time to learn about the assistive technology resources available in your state before you apply for a loan. A loan is just ONE of many options. You can use the guides below to find available assistive technology and ways to reduce your need for a loan.
- Assistive Technology Guide for New York
- Assistive Technology Guide for New Jersey
- AT Loan Program Fact Sheet
- AT Loan Brochure (coming soon)
Want to find similar loan programs outside of New Jersey and New York?
After you loan application is received, NDI will contact you for your intake. At that time, your loan application and credit report will be reviewed with you.
We will send a summary of your loan application to our NDI AT Loan Committee. The NDI AT Loan Committee will pre-screen you for an AT loan based on the requirements of the participating financial institutions. If you do not meet the requirements for a loan, we will ask that you reapply in the future.
If you pass the pre-screening for a loan, NDI will submit your loan application to the appropriate partnering financial institution. The financial institution will review your application and determine if your loan is approved or denied.
Once your loan is approved, your loan funds will be issued directly to your AT vendor.
If you think you are ready for a loan, but would like assistance or guidance before applying, please contact Laurie Schaller at (202) 449-9521 or lschaller@ndi-inc.org.
NDI encourages you to apply for a loan that meets your needs. If you need support along the way, please contact us.
Other Financial Resources
Financial Capability
Financial capability education is a critical first step on the road to financial stability.
Benefits Planning
National Disability Institute can help individuals understand the relationship between federal and state public benefits and work.
ABLE Accounts
ABLE savings accounts allow people with disabilities to save money without losing eligibility for federally-funded benefits.
Taxes & Tax Preparation
The Internal Revenue Service (IRS) provides free tax preparation services to qualifying taxpayers.
Your Support Matters
Be a catalyst for change by donating today to support National Disability Institute’s innovative projects and research that help build a better financial future for people with disabilities and their families. NDI is a 501(c)3 organization and all donations are tax deductible.
