This page is an exploration of different ways to fund AAC systems for Washington State residents. It is informational to help you begin your search. This is not an exhaustive list. Do you know of a resource that we missed? Leave a comment to share!
Paths to Access Funding
There are several paths to access funding for AAC systems, depending on which you have:
- Medicaid / Medicare
- private insurance
- public school system
- Telecommunication Equipment Distribution (TED) program of Washington distributes specialized telecommunication equipment that enables Washington residents to have independent use of the telephone, including iPads for those who are unable to speak for themselves
- Washington State Division of Vocational Rehabilitation services includes Assistive Technology services
- Washington State DDA waiver funds are an option for some
Each has its own requirements and processes. For more information on accessing private and public insurance funds for AAC devices, watch the April 2022 Evening Seminar recording on AAC Funding.
Unfortunately, not all pathways will be successful. When these funding sources are not available or do not cover the requested AAC system, grants and scholarships may be an option.
Grants and Scholarships
Here are some grant and scholarship options to explore. You will need to read the specific requirements for each to see if you/the AAC user qualifies to apply. This is not an exhaustive list. Inclusion on this list does not signify endorsement or recommendation.
- Alyssa V Phillips Foundation provides grants to maximize independence for individuals with cerebral palsy.
- Apraxia Kids awards “speech tablets” to qualified children with a diagnosis of childhood apraxia of speech for use as AAC, to help with speech practice, and/or for educational support.
- ASF Family Fund provides financial assistance to families to improve the quality of life for an individual with Angelman syndrome, including communication devices.
- Autism Care Today provides grants for autistic individuals for treatment products and services including assistive technology.
- Ben’s Fund provides financial support to autistic children and young adults in Washington State.
- Chive Charities provides grants for veterans, military families, first responders, and rare medical diagnoses.
- Connect is a free platform that allows you to search for grant opportunities to fund financial needs.
- HealthWell Foundation provides financial assistance to help with copayments/coinsurance, deductibles, travel costs, pediatric treatment costs, and more.
- Jordan Fund helps families with respite, therapy, and equipment costs that are not covered by their insurance.
- Lilly’s Voice assists people that have been rejected by other programs/funding sources and cannot afford an AAC device without help.
- Multiple Sclerosis Foundation Assistive Technology Program may help locate and partially/fully fund devices (including communication devices) for people with MS.
- Oracle Health Foundation provides individual grants that cover a wide variety of costs related to children’s healthcare needs, including assistive technology.
- Orange Effect Foundation provides grants for children and young adults up to age 21 for speech therapy and technology.
- PAN Foundation provides grants to help cover out-of-pocket copayments, deductibles, and transportation expenses.
- Small Steps in Speech grants do not cover iPads, however can be used toward an assistive technology device (including a communication device) and/or iPad apps.
- The Jiselle Lauren Foundation provides financial assistance grants for families with a child with a disability or special needs.
- United Healthcare Children’s Foundation provides health care grants for children 16 years old or younger.
- Varghese Summersett Autism Scholarship is intended to provide financial aid for educational or recreational opportunities for autistic children 15 years or younger.
- Varghese Summersett Down Syndrome Scholarship is intended to provide financial aid for educational or recreational opportunities for children with Down syndrome.
- Wheel to Walk Foundation helps children with disabilities (20 years old and younger) obtain medical and adaptive equipment or therapy services not covered by their insurance. (Washington, Oregon, Idaho, or California) Note: currently not funding iPads, iPhones, computers
The iTaalk Autism Foundation in Ohio maintains a list of grants and funding sources for families of children with special needs. Some resources on this list are specific to certain states or diagnoses. They vary regarding what the funds can be used for (e.g., home modification, wish granting, respite, dental, mobility equipment, assistive technology, etc.).
Other Considerations
Also consider ways to support your ability to self-pay for a device, such as asking friends and family to contribute to a fund in place of other birthday/holiday gifts, research other local charities (Boy/Girl Scouts, church groups, etc.), a “go fund me” type fundraiser, garage sale, and more.
Northwest Access Fund offers low interest assistive technology loans for residents of Washington, Oregon and Idaho.
Share your comments or questions.