Frequently Asked Questions

Do I qualify for Northwest Access Fund’s services?

Washington, Oregon, and Idaho residents of all ages with disabilities of all types are eligible for our services. This includes seniors with age-related hearing, vision, mobility, and/or cognitive limitations. We take a broad view of disability and are happy to answer any particular questions you might have. We also consider applications from family members, employers, and other representatives – as long as the item purchased is for the benefits of a person with a disability.

What can Northwest Access Fund’s assistive technology loans be used for?

Assistive Technology loans can be used to purchase any device that helps to improve the functioning of a person with a disability. Loans can also be used for assistive technology services such as evaluations, training, extended warranties, insurance, maintenance, and repair.

Examples of assistive technology include:

• • Hearing Aids
  • Lift chairs
  • Electric beds
  • Scooters, wheelchairs (including co-pays)
  • Computers/tablets/smartphones/software
  • Braille devices
  • Closed Circuit TV Magnifiers
  • Adaptive recreational equipment
  • Dentures
  • Smart home technology

What can Northwest Access Fund’s home modification loans be used for?

Home modification loans can be used to finance: home accessibility modifications, home repairs, weatherization, smart home technologies, or other modifications or additions that improve the living quality of a person with a disability.

Examples of home accessibility modifications include:

• • Ramps
  • Shower modifications
  • Stair Lifts
  • Grab bars and railings
  • Push-button door openers
  • Widening of doors and hallways
  • Counter height adjustments
  • Flooring
  • Light fixtures

What can Northwest Access Fund’s adaptive vehicle loans be used for?

Adaptive vehicle loans can be used to finance:

• • Vehicles with existing accessibility adaptations
  • Chasse of a vehicle that will be adapted
  • Adaptations to be installed into an existing vehicle, like ramps, hand controls, and chair lifts

What can northwest access fund’s opportunity loans be used for?

Opportunity Loans can be used to finance purposes that promote independence, financial resilience, and life opportunities. This includes: building credit; funding for a business or self-employment; funding one-time expenses such as moving costs, security rental deposits, or car repairs; and refinancing high-interest debt.

How much can I borrow and what are the terms?

Our loans have no fees and our interest rate varies according to the type of assistive technology you wish to purchase. Our general Assistive Technology, Small Business, and Opportunity Loans have a 5% interest rate. Our Adapted Vehicle and Home Modification Loans have an interest rate set by the Board and can vary monthly.  Term length varies depending on the type of loan, the useful life of the technology/adaptation, and the income available to repay the loan.

• • Assistive Technology Loans: Up to $25,000, with up to a 60-month term;
  • Home Modification Loans: Up to $60,000, with up to a 120-month term;
  • Adapted Vehicle Loans: Up to $60,000, with up to a 120-month term. A 10% down payment is required;
  • Opportunity Loans: Up to $10,000 with up to a 60-month term.

Requests for higher amounts can be considered by the Board of Directors.

How do I apply?

To apply with our simple online application or to download the application, visit our Apply for a Loan page.

What happens after I submit my application?

Your application will be reviewed by staff for completeness. We also will obtain a credit report and may call you for additional information. Once the application is complete, it will be submitted to our Loan Review Committee, which meets twice a month. If the Committee approves your application, we will send you a Promissory Note and other loan documents. Once these closing documents are signed and returned, we will pay the vendor directly. If your application is not approved, we will tell you why and try to help you identify other resources.

What criteria will be used to decide if I get a loan?

Both eligibility and ability to repay must be shown. Eligibility is established when you show that (a) you have a disability and (b) the item you want to buy qualifies as “assistive technology.” Ability to repay is evaluated on the basis of income, expenses, current debt levels, availability of other resources and your credit history. For business equipment, we also look at your employment or business plan and work history.

My credit is not great. Will that disqualify me?

Having poor credit or a history of bankruptcy will not necessarily disqualify you. Your circumstances will be evaluated on a case-by-case basis. Northwest Access Fund staff will help you identify steps you can take to improve your chances of qualifying (e.g., participating in financial coaching, or taking care of past due accounts or items in collections).

My income is very limited and I’ve never taken out a loan before. Can I still apply?

Absolutely. Northwest Access Fund looks at each application individually. In some cases, we may ask for a co-signer or collateral. In other cases, we may offer extended payments and/or a smaller loan.

What is Northwest Access Fund’s discrimination complaint Process?

Northwest Access Fund makes every effort to ensure nondiscrimination in all its programs and activities, whether those programs and activities are federally funded or not. If you feel like you have been discriminated against by Northwest Access Fund, please refer to the following guidance to submit a complaint.