What is Telecommunications Access Iowa (TAI)?

Telecommunications Access Iowa is a program of the Iowa Utilities Board. It is a voucher program that pays for 95% of the cost of specialized telecommunications equipment for individuals who are Deaf, hard of hearing, or who have speech difficulty. Equipment includes products like amplified telephones, captioned telephones, phone accessories like loud/flashing ringers, and even iPads.

How to apply:

You can apply by printing an application from www.teleiowa.com. If it is your first time applying to the program, you will need to get a professional signature from a person who has a state license in Iowa and who specializes in hearing or speech. This could be your doctor, nurse, audiologist, or voc. rehab counselor.

You must meet all requirements below to qualify for a Voucher:

  • Be an Iowa resident
  • Be at least 5 years of age or able to use the telecommunications equipment
    • Have phone service now or plan on getting it (not needed for the iPad requirements)
  • Confirm that the equipment you are asking for would make telecommunications use easier for you
  • Confirm your income is less than what is listed on the application. It is not a low income program, so many are surprised to find that they qualify.

 Once finished, mail the application to TAI. If you qualify, they will mail you a voucher that you can use to help pay for your specialized equipment.

How to redeem:

We partner with TAI as a Dealer! When you receive your voucher in the mail, you can bring it to us for fulfillment. We will help you select and order the best equipment for you.

Go ahead and get started today! https://teleiowa.com/how-it-works/application-steps/