Telecommunications Access Iowa (TAI) is a program of the Iowa Utilities Board. It exists to provide access to specialized telecommunications devices to Iowans who are Deaf, hard of hearing, or have speech difficulty. Our program make these devices accessible by offering vouchers that cover up to 99% of the cost of the equipment. With a wide range of device offerings, we’re able to custom fit these devices to the needs of each qualified applicant. This article will explore the critical role professionals like you play in making TAI accessible to those who need it most. 

Who You Might Be Helping 

Professionals like you are often the first line of support and advocacy. Your involvement can help bridge the gap between need and access. You may find yourself working with qualified individuals on a regular basis who just need to be referred to our program. The key is, in our current digital age, access to telecommunications devices like phones are no longer optional, but necessary for safety and connection. 

 

Do you find yourself working with any of the following people who may benefit from TAI? 

• Deaf or hard-of-hearing individuals 

• People with speech difficulties 

• Clients who have vision and hearing loss (DeafBlind) 

• Individuals with multiple disabilities affecting communication access 

These groups of individuals may find communication challenges with typical telecommunications devices as they are not designed with their specific needs in mind. Our devices offer specific solutions such as: 

• Live captioning 

• ASL relay display (Video Relay Service)

• Text-to-voice display 

• Increased volume capacity 

 

As a state-funded program, we utilize several qualifications to ensure the program is serving those who need it most. Individuals who meet the following requirements are eligible to apply: 

• Resident of Iowa 

• In Need of the Specialized Telecommunications Equipment 

• At Least 5 Years Old or Able to Use the Equipment 

• Meet the Following Family Income Requirements 

• • 1 Person – $66,000 

• • 2 Persons – $76,000 

• • 3 Persons – $86,000 

• • 4+ Persons – $96,000 

Once qualified via these requirements, the individual is guided through an application process to verify their need and qualifications. 

How You Can Help: The Application Process 

Step-by-Step Ways to Support: 

Identifying Eligible Clients 

1. 1. Know the signs someone could benefit from a device
   2. Be aware of basic eligibility listed above
   3. Refer them to TAI via our website

Helping Fill Out the Application 

1. 1. Serve as their verifying professional signature for their application
   2. Assist with printing, scanning, or uploading documents

Spread the Word 

1. 1. Follow up with successful applicants on the use of their new device 
   2. Encourage those individuals to share TAI with their circles 

The following professional roles are just a few examples of those we work with: 

• Healthcare and Rehabilitation Professionals 
• Audiologists and Speech Pathologists

• Human Services and Disability Support 

• Educational Professionals 

• Nonprofit and Community Service 

• Senior & Long-Term Care Staff 

• Veteran’s Services 

The Benefits of Partnering with TAI 

For You as a Professional: 

As a professional, partnering with TAI means you have access to streamlined support for your clients’ communication needs. Our knowledgeable staff is available to help you navigate the application process, answer questions, and find the right devices for each individual. We also provide educational materials and resources you can share with colleagues and other professionals in your network, making it easier to extend this support across your organization or community.  

For Your Clients: 

For your clients, TAI offers life-changing benefits. Access to specialized telecommunications equipment increases independence and personal safety—especially for those who rely on relay services to make phone calls or stay connected in emergencies. These tools also reduce isolation by enabling clearer, more reliable communication with family members, healthcare providers, and support networks. And because our program covers much of the cost, clients often receive technology they would otherwise not be able to afford. 

For Your Organization: 

Your organization can also benefit by expanding the range of services you offer. Partnering with TAI allows you to provide more holistic, client-centered support while reinforcing your commitment to accessibility and inclusion. Collaborative outreach opportunities, training, and resources from TAI can enhance staff knowledge and community engagement. Plus, helping clients access essential communication tools can contribute to stronger satisfaction outcomes and accessibility benchmarks. 

TAI Resources for Professionals 

Our team is more than happy to share more about potential partnership opportunities. Ultimately, we want to help you serve all the needs of the individuals you work with. Our team has a variety of resources to offer such as live presentations, recorded presentations, brochures to display, and more. Feel free to reach out to our team to explore any option that would serve you best.  

When you support a client in accessing TAI, you’re doing more than helping them get a phone—you’re opening the door to safer, more connected, and more independent living. As a trusted professional, your guidance can make all the difference in helping someone navigate a process that may otherwise feel overwhelming. By understanding the eligibility requirements, assisting with the application, and staying engaged after device delivery, you become an essential link in bridging communication barriers for Iowans in need. 

At TAI, we’re here to support you as you support others. Whether you’re making your first referral or looking to bring this resource into your organization on a larger scale, our team is ready to partner with you every step of the way. Together, we can ensure that every Iowan who needs accessible telecommunications equipment has the opportunity to receive it—regardless of income, ability, or location. 

Visit our website, connect with our team, or request materials to share with your network. Your involvement matters—and with your help, we can continue to make communication accessible to all.