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Telecom Relay Service Surcharge (DEAF)

The TACIP is the result of programs administered in accordance with state rules that provide for the distribution of communication devices to eligible communications-impaired persons. It is also used to create and maintain a message relay service. Local exchange carriers operating in most states apply this charge to all business and residential customers’ lines. This charge may also include or be referred to as the Telecommunications Relay Service (TRS) or the State Disabled Telephone Users Fund (DEAF).

This is a surcharge imposed by the state on telecommunication providers and that may be passed on to customers to provide telecommunication service to hearing and speech impaired individuals.

The State Legislature created this fund in 1980’s to help hearing-impaired and speech-impaired customers obtain the assistance they need to use the telephone. Money generated from this charge is used to pay for the costs of providing operator relay system services. Total costs of administering and delivering the relay services are divided by the total number of telephone access lines in your state to arrive at your monthly charge. The PUC reviews this fund on an annual basis and may adjust the monthly charge as needed.