Home / Resource Articles /
WA TED Program: Free Communication Devices and Training
The Washington State Telecommunications Equipment Distribution (TED) Program helps people with limited or no speech, hearing loss, or qualifying speech impairments access communication technology and training.
Through this program, eligible Washington residents ages 4 and up may receive free or low-cost equipment such as iPhones, iPads, and specialized speech or relay apps. Devices are provided specifically for telecommunication purposes, including phone calls, video calls, texting, email, and social connection.
TED also provides individualized training at no cost. Training can take place in the home, school, hospital, assisted living or skilled nursing facilities, or remotely. This support helps participants and caregivers learn how to use the equipment effectively.
Who qualifies
- Individuals may qualify if they:
- Are deaf, hard of hearing, late-deafened, deaf-blind, or have a qualifying speech impairment
- Are a Washington State resident
- Are age 4 or older
- Need equipment for telecommunication purposes
Income does not disqualify someone from the program. A sliding scale is used to determine whether equipment is provided free of charge or at a reduced cost. Waivers may be available for individuals with high medical or therapy-related expenses.
Available equipment may include:
- iPhones and iPads
- Speech and relay apps for iOS
- Amplified phones
- Captioned phones and TTY devices
- Hands-free or scanning phones
- Electrolarynx devices
- Light, sound, or vibrating signalers
- Assistive technology accessories such as switches, styluses, and mounts
The TED Program is operated by the Washington State Office of the Deaf and Hard of Hearing (ODHH) and is supported statewide through a partnership with PROVAIL.
To learn more or apply, click here for the flyer from PROVAIL and visit DSHS.WA.gov
