General Information

The Specialized Telecommunications Assistance Program (STAP) is a state-wide 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. Individuals interested in requesting assistance must complete and submit an application to the Department of Assistive and Rehabilitative Services /Office of Deaf and Hard of Hearing Services (DARS/DHHS) where it will be reviewed to determine if the applicant meets the criteria as defined by law. Qualifying applicants are sent a voucher that may be used to purchase beneficial telecommunication equipment or services. The face value of the voucher is determined by the approved equipment, which is named on the issued voucher. Only registered vendors can redeem vouchers. However, if a non- registered vendor wants to accept the voucher, they may apply to become a vendor in the program.

Eligibility

To qualify, you must be a Texas resident with a disability that interferes with your ability to use the telephone and be requesting financial assistance for a device that will enable you to access the telephone network.

STAP Equipment

For a list of the telecommunications equipment available and the corresponding voucher values visit http://www.dars.state.tx.us/dhhs/vouval.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. These contractors can be found at http://www.dars.state.tx.us/dhhs/list.shtml

Please note: The voucher value for each device is 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

There are two different types of STAP applications available; the general application, referred to as DARS 3906, and the speech generating device application, referred to as 3907. These applications and application instructions may be viewed and downloaded at http://www.dars.state.tx.us/dhhs/dhhsforms.shtml

Download a copy of the instructions and application. Make sure to:

• Provide an original signature (copies and faxed signatures are not acceptable)
• Include a current proof of residency (POR) (refer to the application for a list of acceptable documents)
• Have an appropriate certifier complete and sign step 4.
• Mail your completed application and POR to DARS/DHHS at the address specified on the application.

List of Vendors

The most current STAP vendor list identifying locations where STAP vouchers may be exchanged can be located at:

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

Last Updated: 04/17/09