Paying for much needed assistive technology is one of the greater challenges for most individuals with disabilities. This page lists sources for you to explore as possible funding options. This resource guide is not exhaustive but is a good starting point. If you would like to recommend a funding resource, please email your suggestion to democenter@uls-dc.org
**Please note that all information is subject to change without notice
DC FUNDS is a financial loan program offered by the DC Assistive Technology Program. For more information visit the DC FUNDS page on this website.
DC residents, please visit the DC Shares page for information on receiving recycled durable medical equipment.
This is a Federal law which governs how states and public agencies provide early intervention, special education and related services to infants, toddlers, children and youth with disabilities. This includes assistive technology devices and services.
Infants and toddlers with disabilities (birth-2) and their families receive early intervention services under IDEA Part C. Children and youth (ages 3-21) receive special education and related services under IDEA Part B.
In the District of Columbia, under the Division of Specialized Instruction, District of Columbia Public Schools provides devices, tools and services to students when an assistive technology recommendation is added to the IEP. For more information contact the Division of Specialized Instruction
For information on the responsibilities of charter schools, please see the Department of Education website.
These government funded services are provided to help students in transition and adults with disabilities to prepare for, secure or retain employment. Assistive technology is often necessary to create equal access to employment and training services.
DC residents please contact:
District of Columbia Department on Disability Services
Rehabilitation Services Administration (RSA)
1125 15th Street, NW Washington, DC 20005
(202)730-1700
RSA Website
For individuals with disabilities Medicaid is an essential source of funding for health care and long term services and supports, including assistive technology devices and services.
Each state has a plan that determines the administration of the program and identifies the categories of people who are eligible for Medicaid. The state plan also identifies the mandatory and optional categories of services available through Medicaid program. For more information please visit the DC Medicaid website.
If you have Medicare, some assistive technology may be covered if it is medically necessary and your doctor writes a prescription for the device. A “Letter of Medical Necessity” from the doctor may also be required.
Under Medicare Part A, there may be limited coverage. Part B covers some durable medical equipment (DME) such as power wheelchairs and orthotics and prosthetic devices.
Laws and regulations can change. Please contact the Medicare Helpline 1-800-633-4227 to get the latest information and help in understanding coverage.
Some private insurance policies may cover assistive technology and DME for adults and children if it can be deemed medically necessary by a physician. Coverage varies; read your policy carefully and talk with your provider before making a purchase.
The Eric Fund
Provides funding to individuals with a physical or mental disability between 0-65 years of agewho live in DC, MD and VA. Must have an evaluation within the last 12 months for the assistive technology or equipment that the client wants to be funded. Click here to visit the Eric Fund website.
Association of Blind Citizens
Provides funding to blind and legally blind U.S. citizens. If selected, they cover only 50% of the retail cost of adapted devices or software from $200–$6,000. Family income must be less than $50,000 and cash assets less than $20,000. The application submission deadlines are June 30 and December 31 each year. Click here to visit the website
Shared Horizons - Charitable Fund Grant
Provides funding to individuals with disabilities in the DC region who qualify for public benefits and need help funding goods and services not covered by Medicaid and, who’s educational, fitness, and social activities have been negatively affected by the pandemic. Click here to visit the website.