If your family and friends are getting tired of hearing “What?!” every time they speak with you on the phone, the government may be your newest ally. In 1990, Congress passed the Americans with Disabilities Act, and under Title IV, individuals who are D/deaf or hard of hearing are to be given Telecommunications Relay Services. Such services include telephones with amplified sound, closed- captioned answering machines, and signalers that light up when receiving a call. While texting and other forms of written telecommunication have become increasingly popular, the designation of these services originated in an attempt to bring direct communication to the masses, regardless of hearing- related disabilities.
While this law acts at the national level, state governments are also doing their part in providing telephone services to those who wear hearing aids or are D/deaf.
Illinois Telecommunications Access Corporation (ITAC)
Since 1988, ITAC has been providing equipment either for loan or at a discounted rate. All you need is a working landline or cable service, proof of residency in Illinois, and an application signed by your doctor or audiologist. ITAC operates as a non-profit and acts as the intermediary between the residents and the phone companies, so if you live in Illinois and wish to experience a better connection over the phone, they are there for you.Kentucky Commission on the Deaf and Hard of Hearing (KCDHH)
Kentucky legislation, passed in 1980, expects all telephone companies to provide their customers not only with a Text Telephone (TTY), but also requires them to provide their services to these customers at a discounted price. Residents of this state can turn to KCDHH. Their application also requires doctor verification, proof of residence, and a valid telephone or internet service. However, their equipment is free and only offered on a first-come, first-serve basis, so be sure to sign up!
