Low Interest Financial Loans

IATP Alternative Financing Program

The Idaho Assistive Technology Financing Program provides low-interest financial loans to Idahoans with disabilities to purchase assistive technology.

The program started in 1994 thanks to a collaboration between the Idaho Assistive Technology Project, KeyBank, Zions Bank and the Idaho Community Foundation. In 2023, a partnership with Northwest Access Fund further expanded the program's financial assistance options.

Since it started, the program has loaned over $4 million to more than 1000 applicants. Over 30% of those loans were to people who would not otherwise qualify for a standard bank loan.

Eligibility

You can apply for a loan if you are an Idaho resident and:

  • have a disability, or
  • are a family member/legal guardian of a person with a disability. 

The loan funds must be used to purchase assistive technology for the person with the disability. The funds can be used for equipment such as (but not limited to):

  • wheelchairs
  • motorized scooters
  • braille equipment
  • voice simulation systems
  • scanners
  • hearing aids and other assistive listening devices
  • telecommunications devices
  • augmentative communication systems
  • environmental control systems
  • durable medical equipment
  • computers and adaptive peripherals
  • building modifications for accessibility
  • recreation equipment
  • accessible vehicles or vehicle modifications.

Loan Parameters

Income eligibility: There is no income eligibility threshold. The applicant must demonstrate an ability to repay the loan and must be creditworthy. Disability-related credit issues are taken into consideration.

Amount: Applicants can receive up to $60,000.

Interest rate: Call for current Prime rate

Fees: There are no loan origination fees.

Repayment terms vary depending on who carries the loan. As an example, Zions Bank offers up to three-year repayment terms, while Northwest Access Fund offers up to 10-year terms.

When considering a loan and the repayment terms, it’s important to consider the anticipated lifespan of the item you’d like to purchase. We don’t recommend taking out a loan for longer than the item can be warrantied or is expected to last.

How to Apply

If you meet the eligibility requirements, you can begin the application process by contacting us:

Wendy Bonner
wbonner@uidaho.edu
208-885-6112

We will work with you to find the best way to secure the AT you need. This includes researching alternative solutions as well as low or no-cost options. If seeking financial assistance is determined to be the best way forward, we will work with you to find loan options that work for you.

If you have any questions about the IATP Alternative Financing Program, please contact Wendy.