Massachusetts Tax Incentives

We welcome Attorney Jill Fisher, Esquire, as an expert contributor on compliance issues. Read this article in the July 2009 Counterpoint, the Official Publication of the Pennsylvania Defense Institute "ADA Amendments Act - What you NEED to know!" written by leading experts Janet Fiore, CEO and Jill Fisher, Esquire.

Teleseminars on Disability, Diversity, and the Changing Workforce. One hour of learning that can change the way that you think.

Tech Update: Read an article about the implications of 32-bit and 64-bit processors for Assistive Technology Solutions.

Looking for qualified candidates with disabilities?

Massachusetts Tax Incentives

Page Contents


Assistive Technology Loan Program

The Massachusetts Assistive Technology Loan Program, operated by Easter Seals Massachusetts, gives people with disabilities and their employers access to low-interest cash loans so they can buy Assistive Technology devices. The program offers better interest rates than a traditional bank loan, and repayment lengths are based on the expected useful life of the device.

Since Assistive Technology tends to increase a disabled employee’s productivity, it is wise for an employer to invest in Assistive Technology utilizing these loans.

PDF

Obtain the Massachusetts Assistive Technology Loan Program brochure - PDF

Go to Top

Assistive Technology Program

The Assistive Technology Program enables individuals with severe disabilities the ability to access assistive technology devices and training. Assistive technology (AT) is any device that helps to maximize an individual’s independence, especially in a workplace setting.

The Assistive Technology Program is part of Massachusetts Rehabilitation Commission’s Community Services Program. Three organizations (MA Easter Seals, United Cerebral Palsy of Berkshire County and CLASS, Inc.) are contracted to do the purchasing, equipment set-up, training and follow-up for this program.

It should be noted that individuals seeking Assistive Technology for vocational purposes will be referred to a vocational rehabilitation agency for assistance. However, this program could possibly serve as an alternative, if the individual’s Assistive Technology needs aren’t adequately met by VR.

Go to Top

Disability Law Center (DLC)

The Disability Law Center (DLC) is the Protection and Advocacy agency for Massachusetts.  DLC is a private, non-profit organization responsible for providing protection and advocacy for the rights of Massachusetts residents with disabilities. DLC receives federal, state and private funding but is not part of the state or federal government.  The DLC can provide information, referral, technical assistance and representation regarding legal rights and services for people with disabilities.    

Go to Top

Economic Development Incentive Program (EDIP)

The objective of the Economic Development Incentive Program (EDIP) is to entice private investment, stimulate job creation, attract new businesses and encourage existing businesses to expand. Part of a business’ expansion and job creation endeavor could be to include jobs for people with disabilities.

PDF Economic Development Incentive Program map

Map of the Economic Development Regions for Massachusetts PDF

Go to Top

Housing and Economic Development

The Housing and Economic Development site has news, information and links pertaining to operating a business in Massachusetts.

Go to Top

New England Assistive Technology Marketplace (NEAT)

The New England Assistive Technology Marketplace (NEAT) Center at Oak Hill enriches lives by enhancing independence and quality of life for people with disabilities including visual impairments. It sets the standard in providing innovative solutions, program excellence, services and advocacy for people with disabilities. It is a place to learn about products, equipment and services that assist people with day-to-day activities.

Go to Top

On-The-Job Training Funds

This is a program offered by the Massachusetts Rehabilitation Commission that reimburses the salary of an employee during an on-site training period known as an On-The-Job-Training fee.

The prospective employees who receive this training with these funds can be individuals with disabilitie. Often, job training or a skills upgrade is needed for someone with a disability to find and maintain a job. Job training provided by these funds could update employment skills for many people with disabilities and help them succeed in their careers. These funds can pay an employer for a portion of the salary paid to an eligible person with a disability.

PDF on-the-job training application handbook

Download The On-The-Job Training Application Handbook PDF

Go to Top

Rehabilitation Technology

Rehabilitation technology is the application of technology to meet the needs of people with disabilities, especially in the workplace. Its goal is to eliminate barriers and increase functional capacity for more opportunities in education and employment. Assistive technology and other enhancements are used in the rehabilitation technology field. A person with a disability seeking Rehabilitation Technology for vocational purposes can apply to a Vocational Rehabilitation agency for assistance.

Go to Top

Vocational Rehabilitation (VR)

VR helps adults with various types of disabilities obtain and keep gainful employment. To achieve this goal, different types of support services – including job training - are offered to VR’s clients and their employers. These services are meant to eliminate any barriers that may prevent a person with a disability from working. Additionally, VR has close business relationships with local industries allowing clients to network for possible employment opportunities.

Overview of the VR system

Vocational Rehabilitation Area Offices

Go to Top


We would like to receive your suggestions or comments. Please sign our Guest Book.