South Carolina Assistive Technology Loan Program
This program offers loan guarantees and interest rate subsidies to qualifying South Carolinians with disabilities, their families and authorized representatives to purchase equipment needed to become more independent and to enhance quality of life. The costs of training to use the equipment, insurance, extended warranties and maintenance plans may be included in the loan.
Who can apply?
Anyone who intends to use the loan to buy assistive technology for a South Carolina resident with a disability may apply. That includes people with disabilities, family members, employers or friends on behalf of an individual with a disability.
What type of equipment can I buy with loans?
The program will facilitate loans to purchase a broad range of assistive technology. Assistive technology is defined as any item, piece of equipment or device that enables an individual with a disability to improve individual independence and quality of life.
Allowable equipment shall include, but is not limited to:
- Wheelchairs
- Motorized Scooters
- Braille equipment
- Voice simulation systems
- Scanners
- Assistive listening devices
- Telecommunications devices for the deaf
- Augmentative communication systems
- Environmental control units
- Computers and adaptive peripherals
- Building modifications for accessibility
- Motor vehicles and vehicle modifications
Will everyone be able to get a loan?
No. You must have a good likelihood of repaying the loan. The program will look at your income compared with debt, stability in residence/job, and credit history. Some applicants will be declined. But the program’s criteria (much less stringent than most banks use) often will enable many people to get loans who otherwise would not qualify.
How much can I borrow?
What is the interest rate?
Loans may range from $1,000 to $30,000. Rates will vary, but are generally lower than most loans would be for the same type of purchases.
How do I apply?
Applications are currently available by mail or fax. Contact Leslie Shipp (803-896-4553) for an application.
Leslie ShippS.C. Assistive Technology Loan Program
1410 Boston Ave., P.O. Box 280243
West Columbia, SC 29228
For more information, contact:
Timothy B. Russell
803-896-6349
Leslie Shipp
803-896-4553
Or call toll free
866-247-8354