Finding Funding
There are many possible funding sources that might be able to help you purchase assistive technology devices and services, depending on your specific needs.
For example, as you search for assistive technology funding, you may work with representatives from:
- Insurance companies
- Government agencies
- Private firms
- Nonprofit organizations
Also, you may need help from:
- Doctors
- Therapists
- Assistive technology specialists
Knowing how to work with these organizations and service providers will help you get the information you need to apply for funding assistance. Check out the tabs below to learn how to develop a funding plan.
Step 2: Identify the devices and/or services that will help
Step 3: Document why you need the device or service
Step 4: Identify what it will cost
Step 5: Determine if alternative devices will meet your needs
Step 6: Identify possible funding sources
Step 7: Complete and submit the required paperwork
Hopefully your request is successful. If your request is denied, there are two additional steps to take:
Where to start?
The first step in your quest for securing assistive technology is to prepare a funding strategy. A funding strategy will help:
- Identify what you need
- Identify what sources are most likely to assist you
- Outline the facts that will convince those sources to assist you
Finding Someone to Help
When applying for funding, you are your own best advocate. However, if you are new to the funding process, you may benefit from having someone help you find and apply for funding assistance.
For help finding an advocate, reach out to:
- Family members
- Teachers
- Disability groups
- Technology manufacturers and vendors
- Durable Medical Equipment (DME) dealers
- County case workers
- Social workers
- Your health care professionals
- Other people with disabilities who have successfully found funding for their assistive technology needs
Involve as many support people as possible to help you get through the funding process!