Massachusetts Tax Incentives
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Massachusetts Tax Incentives
Page Contents
- Assistant.Technology Loan Program
- Assistive Technology Program
- Disability Law Center
- Economic Development Incentive Program
- Housing and Economic Development
- New England Assistive Technology Marketplace
- On-The-Job Training Funds
- Rehabilitation Technology
- Vocational Rehabilitation
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.
Obtain the Massachusetts Assistive Technology Loan Program brochure - PDF
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.
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.
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.
Map of the Economic Development Regions for Massachusetts PDF
Housing and Economic Development
The Housing and Economic Development site has news, information and links pertaining to operating a business in Massachusetts.
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.
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.
Download The On-The-Job Training Application Handbook PDF
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.
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.
Vocational Rehabilitation Area Offices
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