General Information

The Specialized Telecommunications Assistance Program (STAP) is a state-wide program that provides financial assistance to qualified disabled persons so that they may purchase specialized telecommunications devices and services that allow them to use the telephone network. Individuals must fill out an application and send it to the Department of Assistive and Rehabilitative Services (DARS) Office of Deaf and Hard of Hearing Services (DHHS). The DHHS office will review the application to determine if the applicant meets the criteria as defined by law. Once approved, the person will receive a voucher that will allow them to purchase certain equipment or services, depending on their need. The face value of the voucher is determined by the equipment needed. Only registered vendors can redeem vouchers. However, if a non registered vendor wants to accept the voucher, they can apply to become a vendor in the program.

Who Qualifies?

• You must be a person who finds it difficult to hear or speak while using a telephone.
• You must be a Texas resident.
• The device selected must enable the applicant to access the telephone network.

STAP Equipment

For a list of the telecommunications equipment available under the STAP program, visit http://www.dars.state.tx.us/dhhs/device/devices.shtml

If you are unsure what type of equipment you need, the Department of Assistive and Rehabilitative Services (DARS) Deaf and Hard of Hearing Office can assist you, they can be reached at:

512-407-3250 (voice)

512-407-3251 (tty)

stap@dars.state.tx.us (email)

DARS has contracts with various agencies across the state that can assist people in finding the best equipment to suit their needs. You can go to their website at http://www.dars.state.tx.us for more information.

Please note that the voucher value is only the maximum amount that the state will reimburse the vendor. Vendor prices are not always the same as the voucher value and with some vendors you may have some out of pocket expenses. In addition, not all vendors have all STAP devices in stock at all times, it is best to contact the vendor beforehand to ensure they have the device you are looking for before visiting their store.

STAP Application

• Go to the Texas Commission for the Deaf and Hard of Hearing STAP Web site at http://www.dars.state.tx.us/dhhs/dhhsforms.shtml
  
  
• Download a copy of the instructions and application.
  
  
• Make sure you specify on the application which piece of equipment you would like.
  
  
• Mail in your completed application to the Texas Commission for the Deaf and Hard of Hearing (The address for the TCDHH is located on the application.)
  
  

List of Vendors

Form the most current vendor listimng where you can exchange your STAP voucher please visit:

http://puc.state.tx.us/webapp/public/apps/stap/stapreports/StapVendorReport.aspx

Last Updated: 07/06/07