STAP Consumers Frequently Asked Questions

What is the Specialized Telecommunications Assistance Program?

The Specialized Telecommunications Assistance Program (STAP) is a state-wide program that provides financial assistance to qualifying individuals for the purchase of specialized telecommunications devices and services that allow them to use the telephone network. Interested individuals must fill out an application and send it to the Department of Rehabilitative Services/Office for Deaf and Hard of Hearing Services (DARS/DHHS). DARS/DHHS reviews applications to determine if an applicant meets the criteria as defined by law. Approved individuals are sent a voucher that will allow them to purchase beneficial equipment or services, depending on their need. The face value of the voucher is determined by the equipment approved. Only registered vendors can redeem vouchers; however, non-registered vendors who want to accept the voucher can apply to become a vendor in the program.

How do I apply?

Applications are available through DARS/DHHS, councils for the deaf, vendors, schools or by calling the Office for the Deaf and Hard of Hearing Services at 512-407-3250 or on their website at http://www.dars.state.tx.us/dhhs/stap.shtml. Once you receive an application, make sure you fill it out carefully. Make sure that an approved professional (listed on the application) signs your application stating that you have a disability that requires specialized equipment or services in order to use the telephone. You should only select equipment or services that you believe you need in order to communicate on the phone. If you do not supply all of the required information, the application will be sent back to you delaying the process.

What if I don't know what kind of equipment to request?

DARS/DHHS has a few ways to assist customers who are unsure of what equipment they might need. DARS/DHHS contracts with various agencies across the state to provide outreach to individuals about the types of equipment available to them. Many of these agencies have various types of amplified phones, TTY's and other devices for individuals to test. These STAP outreach sites are assigned by regions and can be found at http://www.dars.state.tx.us/dhhs/list.shtml. In addition, DARS/DHHS has an online questionnaire that may assist you in determining what type of device may be most beneficial for you which can be viewed at http://www.dars.state.tx.us/dhhs/device/devices.shtml

If a vendor or service provider helps me fill out my application, do I have to purchase equipment or services from the same vendor that helped me?

No. You are free to purchase your equipment from any registered vendor or service provider.

When will I get my voucher?

Applications are processed in the order in which they are received so the waiting times vary dependent upon the workload of the staff reviewing the applications. It generally takes approximately one month from the time that an application is received until it is processed.

Where can I go to purchase equipment or services?

When you receive your voucher, you will also get a list of PUC-registered vendors and service providers. You must use one of these vendors however, if a vendor or service provider you want to use is not on the list, you may ask them to register with the PUC. For the most current list of registered vendors visit: http://www.puc.state.tx.us/webapp/public/apps/stap/stapreports/StapVendorReport.aspx

When you receive your equipment or service, you will sign your voucher, keeping the copy that says "Recipient Copy" and giving the remaining two copies to the vendor. Do not sign the voucher until you receive the equipment or service in order to ensure that you receive what is specified on the voucher. One exception to this however involves mail order exchanges. If you exchange your voucher through the mail, necessitating your signing the voucher upon ordering your device, the vendor is required to send your device to you via signature only delivery.

When can I get another voucher?

By law, qualifying individuals may only receive one voucher every five years. However, if your disability changes and you require different equipment to access the telephone network, you may qualify for another voucher. Individuals interested in applying for another voucher due to a change of disability must reapply and complete the entire application including the section designated for change of disability requests.

What if my equipment breaks, is stolen or destroyed before the five years are up?

Once you purchase the equipment you are the owner, not the state, and you are responsible for repairs, damage or loss of equipment. You may not receive another voucher until the five years has passed.

For any repairs or damage, you may want to contact the manufacturer and try to resolve the issue or find another company that specializes in repairs for your type of device. However, the burden is on you, as the customer of their product, to do this.

Are there any age limitations or income guidelines regarding who may qualify?

The rule states that STAP equipment must benefit the person, there are no age limitations and income is not a factor in determining program eligibility.

I have two telephone lines. Can I receive two vouchers?

No, the law permits one voucher per household* regardless of the number of telephone lines. (*refer to the exceptions in the preceding question)

Last Updated: 04/16/09