The repair incentive
A LITTLE HELP.
A LOT MORE LIFE.
The idea is simple: make a qualifying repair worth choosing. Here’s the proposed journey from a broken part to a working computer.
Explore repair assistanceThe planned process
FIVE STEPS.
ONE MORE CHAPTER.
- 01
Something breaks.
A screen. A battery. A part. Your computer may still have plenty of life left.
- 02
A repair gets evaluated.
A diagnosis and a fair quote help establish whether repair makes sense.
- 03
You contribute.
We consider what you can justify spending to keep using the device.
- 04
We may close the gap.
An approved incentive can help make an eligible repair the practical choice.
- 05
Good tech stays useful.
The provider gets paid for the approved repair. You keep your device in service.
REPAIR DOESN’T HAVE
TO MEAN “FREE.”
In this example, the provider’s $340 quote is met by a $200 owner contribution and a $140 program incentive. The provider receives the full $340.
The aim is to use the smallest reasonable incentive that makes the repair decision possible. Award amounts will vary. There is no promise of reimbursement.
chapter.
Move the sliders. See the gap. This is an illustration, not an offer, eligibility decision, or program average. Any incentive requires evaluation, approval, and available funds.
WHAT MAKES
A GOOD FIT?
The proposed pilot will look for repairs that are safe, economically sensible, and likely to keep a computer in use. A low resale price alone does not mean a device has no useful life left.
- 01A laptop or desktop that can return to reliable use.
- 02A clear diagnosis and a reasonable, documented quote.
- 03A meaningful chance the incentive changes the replacement decision.
- 04An owner who intends to keep using the repaired device.
- 05A repair approved before the program commits funds.
These are design principles, not final eligibility rules. The approved criteria, coverage area, and provider standards will be published before awards begin.
FAIR QUESTIONS.
Is this a free computer repair program?
No. The proposed program shares the cost of eligible repairs. The goal is the smallest reasonable incentive that changes a replacement decision into a repair decision. There is no guaranteed award.
Do I need to meet an income requirement?
Household income is not the proposed primary criterion. The focus is the device, the repair, the likely useful life afterward, and whether an incentive would prevent premature replacement. Final criteria will be published before awards begin.
What devices will be considered?
The first pilot is planned around laptop and desktop computers. Technical condition, parts availability, safe use, continued software support, and repair economics will all matter. Final eligibility rules are still being developed.
Where will the pilot begin?
The initial pilot is expected to begin in San Diego County, California. Expansion will depend on what we learn, available funding, and provider capacity. You can register interest from elsewhere, but service is not guaranteed.
Should I get a repair before applying?
Please do not assume an existing or completed repair will be reimbursed. Any assistance will require evaluation and written approval before a funding commitment. Keep a copy of your diagnostic information and quote.
What if a repair is unsafe or impractical?
Not every device should be repaired. Safety, parts, software support, cost, and expected continued use must be considered. An unsuitable repair will not become a suitable one simply because funding is available.