# Access Technology Affordability Act of 2023

This bill makes assistive technology devices more affordable for people with disabilities by giving them a tax break. Specifically, it allows people to deduct the cost of access technology from their taxes, similar to how some medical expenses work. Access technology includes things like screen readers for people who are blind, hearing aids, mobility devices, and other equipment that helps people with disabilities use computers, phones, and other technology.

Right now, if you buy these devices out of pocket, you generally can't deduct them from your taxes unless they qualify as medical expenses under very specific circumstances. This bill would make it easier for people with disabilities to get tax relief when they purchase this equipment. The goal is to reduce the financial burden of buying the technology that helps people with disabilities work, communicate, and participate in daily life. For someone who needs to buy a $3,000 screen reader or specialized keyboard, this tax deduction could mean significant savings when they file their taxes.

The bill essentially recognizes that access technology is an important investment for people with disabilities and uses the tax code to help make it more affordable. Rather than having the government directly pay for these devices, it lets people reduce their taxable income by the amount they spend on qualifying technology, which lowers their overall tax bill. This approach helps level the playing field for people with disabilities who might otherwise struggle to afford the tools they need to participate fully in work and society.

Access Technology Affordability Act of 2023

Cardin, Benjamin L.

Access Technology Affordability Act of 2023 This bill allows a refundable tax credit equal to the amounts paid for qualified access technology for use by a blind individual who is the taxpayer, the taxpayer's spouse, or a dependent of the taxpayer. Qualified access technology is hardware, software, or other information technology with the primary function of converting or adapting information that is visually represented into forms or formats usable by blind individuals. The credit is limited to (1) costs that are not compensated by insurance or otherwise, and (2) an aggregate amount of $2,000 per blind individual in any period of three consecutive taxable years. The credit must be adjusted for inflation after 2024 and terminates after 2028.