-
Step 1: Do You Qualify?
-
Step 2: 5 Minute Hearing Test
-
Step 3: Choose Device
-
Step 4: Complete Form
-
Thank You
Do you (or someone you know) qualify for a FREE phone?
Let's find out! Please answer the following questions
How to qualify for a FREE phone
FTRI specialized telephone equipment is available at no cost. You must also provide proof of residency with one of the following:
- Florida Driver's License
- Florida Voter Registration Card
- Florida Identification Card
- Florida Vehicle Registration
- Florida Medicaid Card
- Letter from Social Security with your name and Florida address
How to qualify for a FREE phone
Only permanent Florida residents are eligible for FTRI services. Many other states offer specialized Equipment Distribution Programs similar to FTRI's.
To find them online, use search terms such as:
- "Hard of hearing phones Georgia"
- "Deaf and Hard of Hearing Services Maine"
- "Amplified phones Maryland"
The Squareglow signaler does NOT connect to the ZVRS VP, cell phone, tablet, or computer
Devices that will meet your needs require Broadband Internet to operate. Unfortunately, FTRI is not able to offer any internet-based devices due to limitations in the state law that established the program in 1991.
FTRI is currently working with Florida's Public Services Commission to gain legislative support for updating the statute.
Welcome to the FTRI Equipment Program Application
Here's what you will need to complete the process online:
- • Your basic information, including your address (and shipping address), and alternate contact person's name and information.
- • A Photo or a Scan of one of the following (to show proof of residency):
- ◦ Driver's License
- ◦ State ID
- ◦ Voter ID
It's easy to apply, in Four Steps:
- • Answer four qualifying questions about Florida residency, and communication needs.
- • Answer the Five Minute Hearing Test questions, to determine your level of hearing loss.
- • Choose the equipment you would like to receive.
- • Complete the application form.
Once you click on the "Get My Free Phone" button at the bottom of the Step 4 Application Form page, you'll be taken to the Thank You page, where you can upload your documents.

Ready to Apply?
Telitalk

This phone allows an individual with a Laryngectomee to speak on the phone using a built-in electrolarynx.
- Caller ID and speakerphone
- Memory dial
- Bluetooth connectivity
Download an application to be certified by your speech pathologist or
physician to request this device. Send a copy by email to
customercare@ftri.org, fax to 850-656-6099, or mail it to:
1820 E. Park Ave., Suite 101, Tallahassee, FL 32301.
Application (English)
Application (Spanish)
Application (Creole)
Speech Generating Tablet Phone

This Speech Tablet Phone is a telecommunication device specifically designed for the speech disabled community. Using an Augmentative Alternative Communication (AAC) app on the tablet, the user can communicate directly through the telephone (landline required), providing functional equivalency and equal access to telecommunication services. A Speech Language Pathologist (SLP) must be involved in the application process. The SLP must indicate which one of the following apps are needed by the applicant at time of application. Should client needs change over time, the app can be "swapped" for one that is a better match.
Download an application to be certified by your speech pathologist to request this device.
Application (English)
Application (Spanish)
Call FTRI at 800-222-3448 for more information about either of these devices.
Deafblind
FTRI is not able to offer suitable equipment for Deafblind consumers, due to limitations in the state law that governs the program.
Fortunately, the Federal iCanConnect program offers a wide variety of
software, wireless devices, computers, screen readers, etc. that can help. In
Florida, the program contact is:
Anindya Bhattacharyya or Janice Hanvey
HKNC SE office
Helen Keller National Center for DeafBlind Youth and Adults
P.O. Box 380
Concord, Georgia 30206
abhattacharyya@helenkeller.org
jhanvey@helenkeller.org
Phone: (516) 393-7733
Fax: (516) 393-7597