Do you live in Indiana and have a disability? You may be able to get a free computer or assistive device.
Easterseals Crossroads runs a program called the INDATA Device Depot. It gives away donated and refurbished equipment at no charge to eligible Indiana residents with disabilities.
This program is not only for seniors, and it is not only for autistic people. People with different disabilities may qualify, including older adults who need help getting a computer or assistive technology.
Here’s what to know.
What Does the INDATA Depot Provide?
According to Easterseals Crossroads, the INDATA Device Depot collects donated computers, video magnifiers, and other assistive and electronic devices.
These items are cleaned, repaired, or refurbished before being provided to eligible individuals.
Depending on donations, available equipment may include:
- Computers: Donated desktop and laptop computers that have been wiped and refurbished.
- Video magnifiers: Devices that help people with low vision enlarge text and other materials.
- Assistive devices: Other donated technology that may help people with disabilities communicate, access information, or complete everyday tasks.
Easterseals Crossroads is a Certified Microsoft Refurbisher, so its refurbished computers come with genuine Windows and Microsoft Office software.
All equipment distributed through the Depot is provided at no charge.
However, availability depends on donations. The program cannot guarantee that a particular computer or assistive device will be available when you apply.
Who Qualifies?
The INDATA Device Depot serves Indiana residents with disabilities.
According to the program’s official FAQ and application, applicants generally need to meet three requirements:
- Live in Indiana. The program is intended for Indiana residents.
- Have a documented disability. You must provide documentation showing that you have a disability.
- Have no other available source of funding. The program is intended for people who cannot otherwise obtain the equipment they need.
The application asks for documentation of your disability. Depending on your circumstances, this may include a letter from a medical professional, disability benefits documentation, or another accepted record.
The program does not publish a specific income limit or a general age restriction.
However, the application does ask about household income, and applicants must meet the requirement concerning other available funding.
This means the program may be worth exploring for adults, seniors, and families with children who have disabilities.
You do not have to be autistic or belong to a particular age group to be considered.
What Equipment Does the Depot Not Accept?
The INDATA Depot does not accept every type of equipment as a donation.
According to Easterseals Crossroads, items it cannot accept include:
- Power wheelchairs and stairlifts
- Dental equipment
- CPAP machines and other respiratory equipment
- Prosthetics
- Hearing aids
- Hospital beds
- Certain other medical equipment
The Depot also does not accept printers, copiers, or fax machines unless they are donated with a computer.
These restrictions concern equipment the Depot accepts for its reuse program. They do not necessarily mean there are no other ways to obtain those items.
Easterseals Crossroads directs people with equipment to exchange to INDATA’s free online equipment exchange, where individuals can list available items.
If you need a wheelchair, hearing aid, or another medical device, you can also explore our guide on how to get free used medical equipment.
How Do You Apply?
Easterseals Crossroads provides an INDATA Depot application on its official website.
Here’s how to get started:
- Visit the INDATA Device Re-Utilization page. Look for the Depot application and FAQ.
- Complete the application. Provide the requested information about yourself, your disability, and the equipment you need.
- Gather your disability documentation. The application requires supporting documentation. Applications without it may be considered incomplete.
- Submit your application. Follow the submission instructions provided with the official form.
- Wait for the Depot to review your request. The program will determine whether you meet its requirements and explain the next steps.
If you are approved for a refurbished computer, you may be placed on a waiting list until a suitable donated computer becomes available.
The program does not guarantee a specific waiting period.
Because equipment depends on donations, approval does not mean you will receive a computer or device immediately.
If phone calls are difficult for you, starting with the application form may be helpful. You can also ask whether the Depot can provide updates or instructions in writing, although that option is not guaranteed.
What Are the Limits?
There are a few important things to understand before applying.
The program is only for Indiana residents. People living in other states will need to look for similar programs in their area.
Equipment availability varies. The Depot relies on donated items, so it may not have the exact device you need.
Computers may have a waiting list. Even approved applicants may need to wait for a refurbished computer.
Documentation is required. You will need to provide evidence of your disability and meet the program’s other eligibility requirements.
Equipment does not come with a warranty. The Depot’s FAQ also explains that it does not provide ongoing technical support or extensive training.
If the Depot cannot provide the equipment you need, Easterseals Crossroads offers other assistive technology services through INDATA, including device demonstrations and a lending library.
These services are different from receiving a free device permanently. INDATA also offers information about alternative financing, which may involve loans rather than grants.
You can explore those options through the Easterseals Crossroads assistive technology website.
Relief Recap
A working computer can help you stay connected, manage benefits online, look for work, and keep in touch with people. Assistive technology can also make everyday activities more accessible.
The INDATA Device Depot provides refurbished computers and other donated assistive devices at no charge to eligible Indiana residents with disabilities.
To qualify, you must have a documented disability, live in Indiana, and have no other available way to fund the equipment. Availability depends on donations, and computers may have a waiting list.
Start by visiting the official INDATA Device Depot page to find the application and review the requirements.
If you want to explore more ways to get a device, read our guide on how to get a free tablet next.
