The Pennsylvania Assistive Technology Foundation (PATF) is a non-profit organization that provides low-interest loans for the purchase of assistive technology devices and services.  Examples of items that may be eligible for funding include:  adapted vehicles, home modifications, hearing and low-vision aids, elevators, stair glides and lifts, computers with specialized software and/or hardware, and seat lift chairs.  Successful participation in this program may also improve your credit rating.

PATF services:
1. Pennsylvania residents who have a disability and older Pennsylvanians who need assistive technology.
2. People of all income levels.  Applicants must have the ability to repay a loan.

Additional PATF facts:
1. The current interest rate (2008) for low-interest loans larger than $1,000 is 4.5%.  The repayment period is based on the useful life of the device.
2. The interest rate for loans that range between $100 and $1,000 is 0%.  The minimum monthly payment is $20.
3. If the borrower (consumer) is low-income – meaning has a household income of less than 200% of the federal poverty guidelines – a partial grant may be available if the applicant is interested in borrowing less than $1,000.  For a family of one, the maximum income to be eligible for a partial grant is $15,600.  For a family of two, the maximum income is $21,000.

For more information about PATF, please call 888-744-1938 or e-mail:  patf@patf.us.  The web address is:  www.patf.us.