Telecommunications Access Iowa (TAI) exists to help Iowans who are Deaf, Hard of Hearing, or have speech difficulties get specialized telecommunications equipment at little or no cost. In other words, this program provides free or low-cost specific phones and devices to help Iowans with hearing or speech difficulties stay connected. TAI is a program of the Iowa Utilities Commission and is administered by Deaf Services Unlimited, Inc. This program was established as a result of the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) to work in conjunction with Relay Iowa.

Check out this short video if you’re new to TAI!

You may be thinking to yourself, “this sounds too good to be true!” We get that a lot. So, we’ve put together resources to make things as simple as possible. Because if there’s one thing we believe, it’s that communication should be clear.

We’re here to answer any questions or points of confusion you may have, starting with these commonly asked questions below. Feel free to take a look and if you find you still have an unanswered question, please don’t hesitate to contact us.

1. The Application Process: How do I know what device to choose?

Great question! Our program is here to help get you access to the right solution for your unique needs. This means, that to get your application processed, we don’t need to know the exact device you want, but simply the category of device you need.

For example, depending on whether you may be Deaf, hard-of-hearing, or if you have speech difficulties, may shape whether you need a wireless device or a landline device. From there, our products list will help you find what type of device you need such as captioning, speech amplification, or a Voice Carry Over Phone (VCO).

Once you have identified the type of product you want and we receive your application, we can get you approved to work with a device vendor to pick the exact right device.

Here’s a quick video to outline this process a bit clearer…

2. How much will the voucher cover?

Our entire program is custom fitted to each user, including the product coverage via our vouchers. Our program vouchers are designed to offset costs as much as possible, customized to the type of device you need. In other words, vouchers cover a designated amount based on the type of equipment you need. Due to the range of costs of each product, our voucher amounts also range to cover the needs as proportionately as possible. This means a small cost may not be covered by the voucher depending on the cost of the category of the product and the model selected. Our applicants find that their vouchers generally cover 95-100% of the device cost!

3. Do I automatically qualify for any device?

Just as not every shoe might not fit every foot, every product isn’t right for every need. This is where your application becomes so important. While financial status does not dictate what devices you qualify for, your application will tell us what needs the device will be supporting and allow us to get you a product with the right fit. For example, a hard-of-hearing individual may not need the same device as someone with speech difficulties.

4. Is the Device Mine to Keep?

Yes! Once a device is received through TAI, it belongs to the applicant—no need to return it. Bonus, you also qualify to reapply every 3 years, so be sure to check in when you’re ready to refresh your devices to fit your needs!

5. Is TAI an Internet or Phone Service Provider?

We get this question a lot! While some of our devices do use internet and/or a phone service provider, we do not provide these services. We simply provide you with access to the device solution for your unique needs.

This makes it even easier for you to add your new devices to your current internet and/or phone service carrier plans!

6. How many devices can I get?

While we do have a wide array of products, our goal is to help you find the exact device your specific communication needs. This means we can help each individual find one device with their application.

But the good news is you are eligible to reapply every 3 years! This means your device can grow with your needs and stay up to date with technological advancements.

7. How does reapplying work?

Has it been 3 years already since you last applied? Wow, time flies!

Our program is designed to grow with you, changing needs, and technology developments. This means you are eligible to reapply every 3 years. Just let your team know via our contact page and our team can get you more information on how to reapply.

8. What if my device gets damaged or broken?

Our TAI team gets to play the vital role of supplying you the access to the specialized devices for your needs. While we don’t keep the devices stocked in our office, we work to connect you with qualified vendors to get your product and stay in touch with that vendor for repairs or warranty covered replacements. We suggest all applicants learn about warranty options for their devices through the vendor. Life happens!

9. Does TAI provide tech support?

In the same way we don’t produce or store the devices we offer, our team specializes in getting you access your devices but not technical support. This is due to the wide variety of product types we offer and the complexity of each device. But don’t worry! Our team is here to help you get connected to the vendor who can help you get your device, learn it in and out, and provide answers to those questions that come up. We may not know the answer, but we’ll work to help you find it with the right people!

10. How do I know if my phone carrier will work with my device?

TAI devices are designed to work with Iowa-based telecommunications carriers. This includes many local community providers and many national providers. All devices come to you “unlocked” for connection with your preferred carrier and/or internet provider. If you’re feeling unsure, you can check with your carrier to see if the device will work with their services! Our team is always one message away if you need anything.

11. Can I come pick up a device in your showroom?

Our showroom is conveniently located in central Des Moines for you to see and get a feel for many of the devices we offer! Due to our application and approval process, our showroom does not function as a storefront and therefore we cannot distribute devices from the showroom. We can however help walk you through the showroom devices and their functions to help you find the right fit in-person in this space! The good news is as soon as we receive your application our team will get working to get your approval processed and connect you with our vendors to get your device to you asap. Learn more about our showroom and schedule a visit here!

We hope these answers clear some things up for you! As a friendly reminder, if you have any questions that weren’t covered, our team is here for you. Feel free to read more at our FAQ page or reach out to us via our contact form. When you’re ready, our team is ready to process your application!

Apply now at www.teleaiowa.com!