EQUIPMENT

Telecommunications Access Iowa (TAI) provides vouchers for up to 95 percent of the average cost of specialized telephone category. Various models of specialized telephone equipment are available. Some items you can choose from are a small volume-control box added to a telephone (In-Line/Portable Amplifier), an Enhanced Amplified Phone which can be a corded/cordless phone that has 35dB or higher amplification, a Captioned Telephone that displays the text of the conversation so callers can read along, or a text telephone (TTYs) as well as many other unique devices. Remember, you may request for a separate loud or flashing ringer that will alert you to the ringing of the telephone. It can be placed in a separate room plugged to a telephone jack.

If you are unsure of which equipment will make telephone communication easy for you, click here to see a list of equipment categories that are offered through the TAI program and the equipment descriptions.

Click here to see a list of approved types of telephone equipment that are available through the program. The approved types of equipment correspond with the Equipment Category found on the application form. If you see a telephone that is not on the list but you feel it can help you to make communication easier over the phone, give us a call!

If the equipment you are requesting is a Captioned Telephone (CapTelTM), click here to learn about the unique voucher process.

Unsure if the cost of your phone will be covered by the voucher? Click here for the Maximum State Payment Plan which indicates the voucher values. It can give you an idea of how much of the cost of your telephone will be covered. You may pay little or none of the cost of the telephone equipment, depending on the brand and the features of the phone.

A list of dealers* which sell telephone equipment is available. Be sure to ask your dealer for assistance in choosing the best device to meet your communication needs. They will be very happy to assist you.

*Any organization or business affiliation with the Telecommunications Access Iowa (TAI) Dealer Program does not imply any type of endorsement by the TAI program, Deaf Services Unlimited, or the Iowa Utilities Board.