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National Federation of the Blind (NFB) Low Interest Loan Program
Committee on Assistive Technology (COAT)
Overview:
The National Federation of the Blind offers low-interest loans to blind or visually impaired persons for the purchase of
computers and related information processing technology. The maximum loan is $3,000 and it must be repaid within four years.
Minimum payments are $50 per month.
Eligibility Requirements:
- Available to U.S. residents who are blind/visually impaired
- Income between $10,000 - $35,000
AT Services Provided/Covered:
- No AT services provided/covered
AT Devices Provided/Covered:
- Vision Equipment
- Computer and related
Application Process:
An application can be obtained from the address listed below. An extensive credit application is involved. A cover letter
clarifying your goals concerning the requested technology and explaining what it will be used for is also required.
Contact Information:
National Federation for the Blind (NFB)
Low-Interest Loan Program
Curtis Chong
Committee on Assistive Technology (COAT)
1800 Johnson Street
Baltimore, MD 21230
Phone: (410) 659-9314
Website: http://www.nfb.org
Bridges & Potholes
Bridges
- At the end of the loan period, the individual will have personal ownership of the device.
- This is a possible solution for the individual who cannot get a public source of funding to pay for the device, but
do not have the money on hand to pay for it them selves.
- The interest rate of 3% is very reasonable and well below any standard interest rate.
Potholes
- This loan program is restricted to individuals with a specific disability, blindness and visual impairment.
- Obtaining a loan entails acquiring a significant financial burden for the next few years.