Telecommunications Access for the Deaf and Hard of Hearing
A wide variety of services and devices exist that enable people with hearing loss and speech-impairment to use the telephone and to be alerted when the telephone rings.
To learn which services and devices work best for the specific type of hearing loss and/or communication need you have, contact one our seven Regional Centers. Staff will be happy to provide individualized guidance at no charge and designed to meet your own unique needs.
Eligibility
Those wishing to apply for a telecommunications device must meet certain eligibility requirements:
- Up to 250% of poverty level
- Certificate of disability
- Resident of North Carolina
Adaptive Telephones: These specialized devices enable you to use a standard telephone to call anyone.
Captioned Telephones: Captioned telephones contain a screen attached to the telephone base that displays text, allowing you to understand what the person at the other end of the line is saying.
Hearing Aids: You may qualify for a hearing aid with a telecoil, also known as a "T-coil," switch. This switch enables you to use the telephone, but not everyone can benefit from this type of hearing aid. To find out if you could benefit from such a hearing aid, consult with your hearing healthcare professional.
Telecommunications Relay Service: Telecommunications Relay Service allows you to use special equipment to call to a relay center. A specially trained operator relays messages between the relay user using a text telephone or an assistive device and a hearing person using a standard telephone. To use the telecommunications relay service, dial 7-1-1 almost anywhere in the United States. This service is available 24 hours a day 7 days a week.
Complete the TRS Remittance Form, which is only for companies that provide telephone or wireless services.
Contact
If you have questions regarding the form please contact:
Telecommunications Resources Program Manager
919-874- 2212
2301 Mail Service Center
Raleigh, NC 27699-2301