Equipment Distribution Program

The Division of the Deaf and Hard of Hearing operates the Equipment Distribution Program (EDP) to ensure that New Jersey residents with hearing loss have access to critical telecommunications and visual home safety equipment.

The EDP is designed to ensure that assistive communication devices are equally accessible to residents with low income. These devices are crucial to ensuring the safety and well-being in the home and are an additional expense for deaf and hard of hearing individuals.

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

Individuals who meet program eligibility can receive devices at no cost.

To fill out an application: English/Espanol

Available Devices:

  • Sonic Alert HomeAware Fire and CO Signaler
  • Nighthawk 900-0230 CO Alarm
  • Sonic Alert
  • Clarity XLCR Amplified Cordless Extra Loud Phone
  • Geemarc Amplipower 60 Plus Amplified Telephone
  • Minicom IV
  • VTech DM221 Digital Audio Baby Monitor
  • 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.

**Devices are limited and subject to availability and funding.

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

 

Number of people in family/household

400% for everywhere, except Alaska & Hawaii

1

$60,240

2

$81,760

3

103,280

4

$124,800

5

$146,320

For each additional person, add:

$21,520

Source: U.S. Department of Health and Human Services

For more information, contact DDHH at (609) 588-2648 or ddhh.communications2@dhs.nj.gov