Telecommunications Assistance Program (TAP)

TAP income limits are based on 200% of the U.S. federal government poverty guidelines and household size. Income limits are reviewed and updated each year. Household size refers to the number of people who live together and share finances.

When completing the TAP application, report your annual adjusted gross income from your most recent Wisconsin tax return, or the total of all taxable household income. Proof of income may be requested.

All taxable household income is considered as income. Social Security benefits are not counted as income because they are not taxable in Wisconsin. Other income sources (for example, pension or investments) are counted if they raise your taxable income above the tax filing threshold.

Add an additional $11,360 per person to the maximum income amount for households with more than eight people.

No, but it often makes the process smoother, especially if you are applying for TEPP copay assistance.

You can receive TAP funding once every three years.

Yes. Contact your local aging and disability resource center or Tribal aging and disability resource specialist, independent living center, or the TAP coordinator by email at DHSTAP@dhs.wisconsin.gov. Help is often available in person, over the phone, or by videophone.

Most applications are processed withing two weeks after all documents are received. Delays can occur if we are waiting for information from you or your provider.

If applying for TEPP copay assistance: TAP approvals are sent to TEPP every other week. If you are approved, TEPP will let you know.

If applying for TAP-only assistance: You will hear directly from the the TAP coordinator.

You can appeal within 30 days by writing to DHS. Include:

• A copy of your denial letter.
• A statement explaining why you disagree.
• Any supporting documents.

The Telecommunications Assistance Program (TAP) provides financial help for Wisconsin residents who are Deaf, Hard of Hearing, or DeafBlind to buy telecommunications equipment. TAP can either pay the $100 Telecommunications Equipment Purchase Program (TEPP) copay or directly purchase qualifying equipment not covered by TEPP.

TAP is managed by the Wisconsin Department of Health Services (DHS) and follows the rules in Wis. Admin. Code DHS 78, which outlines the program’s purpose, eligibility, application process, and funding rules.

TAP is funded through Wisconsin general purpose revenue (state funds).

TAP

• Is managed by the Department of Health Services (DHS).
• Has income limits for eligibility.
• Is funded by state general purpose revenue.
• Serves people who are severely Hard of Hearing, Deaf, or DeafBlind.

TEPP

• Is managed by the Public Service Commission (PSC).
• Has no income limits for eligibility.
• Is funded by the Universal Service Fund (USF).
• Serves people who are:
  • Hard of Hearing.
  • Severely Hard of Hearing or Deaf.
  • Severely Hard of Hearing or Deaf and low vision.
  • Severely Hard of Hearing or Deaf and blind.
  • Experiencing speech or mobility disabilities.

• TEPP copay assistance—If you qualify for TEPP, TAP can pay the $100 copay
• Direct TAP assistance—If you do not qualify for TEPLP or need equipment not covered by TEPP, TAP may purchase eligible telecommunications equipment for you.

TAP does not pay for:

• Monthly phone or internet service fees.
• General alerting systems not tied to telecommunications.
• Hearing aids.
• Assistive listening devices not tied to telecommunications.

No. The Hearing Aid Assistance pilot program ended on November 30, 2023.

Sometimes. TAP can cover alerting devices only if they work directly with your phone or telecommunications device (for example, phone ringers or signalers). General home alerting systems are not covered.

WisTech, Wisconsin's Assistive Technology Program, offers equipment loans and demonstrations through the state's eight independent living centers (ILCs). Find the ILC that serves your community.

If you are purchasing equipment with TEPP plus TAP copay assistance, you must use a TEPP-approved vendor.

If you are purchasing equipment with TAP-only funding, use a DHS-authorized vendor.

Yes, as long as the total cost is within your voucher amount or you are willing to cover any extra cost yourself.

You must pay the difference yourself.

No. Your equipment should come with at least a one-year warranty. You are responsible for maintenance after the warranty ends, and you cannot reapply for TAP until three years have passed.

You do.

Yes, but the device must be for the child's use.

You may apply for TAP if you have dual-sensory loss. You may also qualify for iCanConnect, a telecommunications program specifically for people who are DeafBlind.

No. Purchases must be made after approval.

Your vendor should provide training or instructions.

Return policies depend on the vendor. Contact your vendor right away if you have concerns.