What is the Telecommunications Equipment Purchase Program?
TEPP helps people with disabilities buy equipment they need in order to use basic telephone services. TEPP is paid for by the Wisconsin Universal Service Fund (USF) established by the Public Service Commission. Money is collected from Wisconsin telephone service providers to fund the USF. There is no age or income limit, but an individual can only get a TEPP voucher once every three years for the same type of disability.
TEPP requires that an applicant:
· Be a Wisconsin resident.
· Be a person who is deaf, hard of hearing, speech impaired, or mobility or motion impaired.
· Needs special equipment to use the telephone in the home or when traveling.
How much do I have to pay?
You pay the first $100 (except for Hard of Hearing vouchers). The voucher pays the rest, up to the maximum voucher amount. If you buy equipment that costs more than the voucher plus your $100, you also pay the extra charges.
What if I can’t afford the $100?
The Telecommunication Assistance Program (TAP) may be able to pay the $100. TAP is a program of the Office for the Deaf and Hard of Hearing. TAP is only for persons who are deaf or severely hard of hearing in a low income household. TAP funds pay the $100 TEPP co-payment, if you qualify.
If you are interested in the TEPP or TAP program, contact ILR today to begin the process and receive a demonstration of eligible equipment for the TEPP Voucher!