Did you know there is a program in Texas that provides specialized amplified phones – for free – to Texans who have a hearing loss? It’s called the Specialized Telecommunications Assistance Program, or STAP. The program is part of the Public Utility Commission of Texas.
A paragraph from their website explains what it is: “The Specialized Telecommunications Assistance Program (STAP) is a statewide program that provides financial assistance for the purchase of specialized assistive equipment or services for Texans having a disability that interferes with their ability to access the telephone network.”
Here is what it means: If you are a Texas resident and have a hearing loss, the STAP program will provide you with a voucher that you can use to purchase a specialized amplified telephone. It doesn’t cost you anything, and you are eligible whether or not you wear hearing aids.
Hearing Aid Express is a registered vendor with the STAP program, and can help you get your amplified phone. Here are some frequently asked questions to help you better understand the program:
Who is Eligible for a Free Amplified Phone?
The STAP (Special Telecommunications Assistance Program) program is available to Texas residents who have a certain amount of hearing loss. Each household is eligible for one device every five years.
How Do I Find Out if I am Eligible?
We need a copy of a recent hearing test. If you haven’t had your hearing tested recently, Hearing Aid Express can screen your hearing in our offices for free to see if you qualify.
Who Pays for the Amplified Phones?
The STAP program, part of the Texas Department of Assistive and Rehabilitative Services under the Public Utility Commission of Texas, is funded by taxes assessed on people’s telephone service. A portion of these taxes is used to fund the STAP program and pays for the amplified telephones and other equipment.
Do I have a Choice of Phones?
At Hearing Aid Express you do. We have corded and cordless phones and even phones that work with caller ID.
When Do I Get My Phone?
Once the STAP program receives and processes your application, they will mail a voucher to you. When you get your voucher, call us or bring it in to one of our locations. We will exchange your signed voucher for a Free Amplified Phone.
Are There Other Products Besides Phones?
Yes! The STAP program has a wide variety of products available for hearing impaired Texas residents. Hearing Aid Express carries phones, ring signalers and wireless Bluetooth neck loops for people with hearing aids to connect to their cell phones and more.
What Should I Do Next?
Call us toll free at 800-348-2018 or come in to one of our stores. Be sure to bring proof of Texas residency with your current address on it (such as your driver’s license or a utility bill). We will help you fill out the STAP application and mail it in for you.
For more information about the STAP program you can visit their page on the Public Utility Commission’s website at: www.puc.state.tx.us/relaytexas/Overview.aspx
To find out how to get a free amplified phone go to: http://www.hearingaidexpress.com/free-amplified-phone.php.