Assistive Technology

Assistive Technology is any item that gives people with disabilities more freedom to live, work, and enjoy life on their own terms.

a young, blind asian woman uses a specialized keyboard at a computer.

Tools and Technology to Support Your Independence

Assistive Technology (AT) is any item, device, or piece of equipment used to maintain or improve the functionality of people with disabilities, allowing them to be more independent in education, employment, recreation, and daily living activities. AT includes the services necessary to get and use the devices, including assessment, customization, repair, and training (Wisconsin DHS).

Call today and ask to speak with an Independent Living Consultant to see how AT can help you achieve your independent living goals.

AT Loan and Demonstration Program

Our loan and demonstration program gives you the opportunity to try out different AT and decide what might be right for you, before making a purchase.

It also provides you with short-term accommodations if you need AT for a short period of time such as recovering from surgery, or you are waiting for your own device to come in. All loans are short-term with a maximum limit of 45 days.

Ready to try it out? Call today and ask to speak with an IL Consultant.

Explore Available Equipment

Visit WisconsinAT4all.com for a library of equipment available in our program, and throughout the state.

View Equipment

Donate

Equipment Reuse

We accept donations of gently used equipment that you are no longer in need of or using.

The equipment is cleaned, sanitized, and added to our loan program for individuals to borrow for zero cost. When we find someone in need of that item, we then donate it to that individual. Below is a list of items that are commonly accepted and items we do not accept. This is not an all-encompassing list of items that are accepted. If you have an item that is not on the list below, please feel free to contact us.

Commonly Accepted:

  • Manual wheelchairs
  • Walkers
  • Commodes
  • Toilet seat risers
  • Bed rails
  • Portable ramps

Items Not Accepted:

  • Powered wheelchairs
  • Hospital beds
  • Personal medical equipment/medications such as diapers, bed liners, etc.
  • Specialized medical equipment (leg pumps, etc.)

Interested in Donating Equipment?

If you have equipment that you are looking to donate, please reach out to Alex Lena, IL Department Manager at ext. 232.

*Please note: Acceptance of equipment is not guaranteed and is at the discretion of MILC staff. MILC staff will request pictures or request to set up a time to view the equipment before determining if they will accept it. We request that the equipment be clean, and all parts be present and in good working condition. For items not accepted such as powered wheelchairs and hospital beds, we can take your information and if we find someone in need, we can share your information (with consent) to get connected.

Funding for Assistive Technology

Explore options that work for you through our loan and demonstration program, and when you find the right AT for you, we can help you apply for and obtain funding through various sources. We are also here to assess your current technology to help you be successful. 

We are a partner of WisTech, Wisconsin’s Assistive Technology Program. Learn more about WisLoan/Telework.

WisTech Assistive Technology Program logo
A stair lift chair at home at the bottom of a carpeted staircase.
Telecommunications Equipment Purchase Program logo

Telecommunications Equipment Purchase Program (TEPP)

TEPP helps people with disabilities buy the equipment they need in order to use basic telephone services in the form of vouchers. TEPP is paid for by the Wisconsin Universal Service Fund (USF). For more information or to start an application, go to psc.wi.gov/TEPP.

Download Our TEPP Guide

A step-by-step guide on how to apply for TEPP with assistance from MILC.

Download TEPP Guide

TEPP FAQs

What is TEPP?

TEPP helps people with disabilities buy the equipment they need in order to use basic telephone services. Telecommunication is the exchange of information over a long distance through an electronic source. Everyone engages in telecommunication when they use a cellphone or landline phone to call or video chat!

How long has TEPP been around?

In 1993, TEPP was established by Wisconsin Act 496 to help Wisconsin residents get the telecommunication services they need. It was implemented in May of 1996.

How is TEPP funded?

TEPP is funded by the Universal Service Fund (USF) and was created by the Public Service Commission.

Who is TEPP for?

TEPP is to meet the needs of people with disabilities, low-income consumers, residents in areas with high service charges, non-profit groups, medical clinics, and public health agencies. There are 6 disability categories that can qualify someone for TEPP: (1) hard of hearing, (2) severely hard of hearing or Deaf, (3) speech disability, (4) mobility or motion disability, (5) severely hard of hearing or Deaf and low vision, and (6) severely hard of hearing or Deaf and blind.

Am I eligible?

To be eligible for TEPP, you must meet 3 criteria: (1) be a Wisconsin resident, (2) be a person who self-identifies as having a qualifying disability (see Who is TEPP for?), and (3) have a need for specialized equipment in order to communicate at a distance (not face-to-face).

What are the restrictions?

Only 1 TEPP voucher is allowed per person every 3 years, and only 1 TEPP voucher is allowed per address. Other restrictions may apply.

What if I am denied?

There are some instances where you may be denied due to no fault of your own. If you or someone you know meets the requirements for the TEPP program, but have had trouble accessible it based on your address or other reasons, contact us and ask to speak with an IL Consultant about advocacy for addressing the barriers you are facing.