Equipment Distribution Program

The cost of assistive communication devices can be very expensive. Since 1993, the Division of the Deaf and Hard of Hearing (DDHH) has operated a program to ensure that New Jersey residents with hearing loss, regardless of their economic status, have access to critical telecommunications and visual alerting home safety equipment needed to live independently. 

The "Equipment Distribution Program" is now offering wireless devices. Offering these devices works to ensure that deaf and hard of hearing residents have access to critical information, services and supports being delivered remotely through online platforms that include telehealth services, emergency information, telecommunications, and other vital communication needs. 

Individuals unable to afford the costs of assistive communication devices may apply to the "Equipment Distribution Program" for assistance. Upon meeting eligibility requirements, individuals may receive communication devices free of cost from the DDHH.

To fill out an application: English/Espanol

Devices currently available

  • Sonic Alert HomeAware Fire and CO Signaler
  • Nighthawk 900-0230 CO Alarm
  • SadoTech Wireless Doorbell
  • Sonic Alert
  • Clarity XLCR Amplified Cordless Extra Loud Phone
  • Geemarc Amplipower 60 Plus Amplified Telephone
  • Cisco Unified SIP Phone 3905
  • CapTel 840 Plus
  • Minicom IV
  • VTech DM221 Digital Audio Baby Monitor
  • Sonic Alert Traditional System BC400 Baby Cry Transmitter
  • Sonic Blink Wireless Receiver
  • Tablet – Apple iPad Wi-Fi Only, 64 GB *Requires access to internet service.
  • Tablet – Samsung Galaxy S6 Lite Wi-Fi Only, 64 GB *Requires access to internet service.
  • Smartphone – Apple iPhone XR Wi-Fi and 4G, 64 GB *Requires cellular service plan.
  • Smartphone – Google Pixel 5A Wi-Fi and 4G, 64 GB *Requires cellular service plan.

Eligibility Requirements

  • Applicant must be a New Jersey resident
  • Applicant must have a documented hearing loss verified and will need: an  audiogram signed by a licensed audiologist; OR have the Certification of Disability attached to the application signed  by a licensed audiologist, physician, or other professional verifying applicant’s hearing loss.
  • Information supplied on the application must be clearly printed. The form must be signed by the applicant.
  • Total combined household income must be less than 400% of the federal poverty level which is based on the number of members in the household, see chart below

The 2023 income guidelines are listed below

2023 Federal Poverty Guidelines

Number of persons in family/household 400% for everyone, except Alaska and Hawaii

 

1

$58,320

2

$78,880

3

$99,440

4

$120,000

5

$140,560

For each additional person, add $18,880

Source U.S. Department of Health and Human Services

Additional Information

Devices are free of charge to eligible applicants.
Supply of devices is limited and subject to availability and funding.
For any questions about eligibility, click "E-mail Us", fill out the information requested and include your question in "Your Comments" box. Or call DDHH at 609-588-2648 or 800-792-8339 toll free in New Jersey