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Must be a Texas resident
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Must be a person who finds that using the telephone is difficult or impossible without the use of special equipment
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Must fill out an application and have then communication disability certified by an accepted professional
Complete the application, with selection of appropriate equipment, proof of Texas residency, and certification of need. Mail this to DHHS, and then wait a few weeks for your voucher.
Take or send the voucher to a state-approved vendor on the DHHS list to receive the authorized equipment.
Equipment becomes your property, and you are responsible for maintenance and repairs.
You may receive a new STAP voucher once every five years. However, if your disability changes and you require different equipment within the five-year period, you may qualify for a new voucher.
Usually only one voucher is provided per household. Some exceptions apply.
The program is funded by the Public Utility Commission of Texas through a small charge on every telephone line in the state (the Texas Universal Services fee).
Follow the instructions and fill out the first page and sign it. If you know you want some type of amplified telephone, you can check that item on page 2. Then near the bottom of page 3, check Ring Signaler. If you think you might need other accessories or a different type of device, please call for an appointment so we will be available to assist you.
The last page of the application form must be filled out by a professional to certify that you have a hearing loss (or other communication disability). On the form itself it shows what kind of professional is able to fill it out - audiologist, hearing aid dispenser, doctor, licensed social worker, teacher of deaf students, speech pathologist, DARS VR counselor, and others.
You will also need to send a copy of some kind of identification as proof of Texas residency to Austin with the application form when it is all filled out. You can use your driver's license or other ID listed at the top of page 2 of the application form.