What is the MAT program?
Who should apply?
What kind of equipment does the program provide?
I don’t see well. Can the MAT program assist me?
My loved one forgets phone numbers and/or dials a lot of wrong numbers. Can the MAT program assist us?
I am unable to get to the phone in time, or pick up the receiver. Can the MAT program assist me?
People do not understand me over the phone. Can the MAT program assist me?
How do I apply?
I am concerned about a loved one’s ability to use the phone. Can I apply on his or her behalf?
How will I know if I am approved?
How do I get my equipment?
Will someone teach me how to use my new equipment?
Can I get different or additional equipment if my needs change?
Can I get equipment for my job/office?
What should I do if my equipment stops working properly?
Can I keep my equipment if I move out of state?
I need assistive equipment, but I plan to buy it myself. Where can I go?
What is the MAT program?
The MAT program—formally known as the Maryland Accessible Telecommunications program—provides assistive telecommunications equipment to qualified applicants who have difficulty using a standard telephone. The program is a service of Maryland Relay, and is administered by Telecommunications Access of Maryland.
Who should apply?
Any Maryland resident (age three or older) who has difficulty using a standard telephone is invited to apply. Even if you do not qualify for equipment provided from the State, you may still receive a free evaluation to find an assistive telecommunications solution that meets your needs. Learn more about the application criteria and process.
What kind of equipment does the program provide?
The MAT program provides a wide variety of assistive telecommunications equipment to meet the diverse needs of its applicants. We can even custom-create solutions based entirely around your unique needs. All program participants receive a free, one-on-one evaluation with a MAT program specialist to determine the solution that meets their needs. Learn more about evaluations or see a sampling of solutions.
I don’t see well. Can the MAT program assist me?
Yes. The MAT program offers a variety of easy-to-use phone solutions for people with low vision, including phones with large and/or high contrast buttons. Every qualified applicant receives a free one-on-one evaluation to determine the right solution for him/her.
My loved one forgets phone numbers and/or dials a lot of wrong numbers. Can the MAT program assist us?
Yes. The MAT program offers a variety of easy-to-use phone solutions for those who are experiencing memory loss or have limited cognitive ability. For example, some MAT program applicants qualify for picture phones (also known as photo dial phones), which store frequently called phone numbers along with corresponding photos of the people being called. Every qualified applicant receives a free one-on-one evaluation to determine the right solution for him/her.
I am unable to get to the phone in time, or pick up the receiver. Can the MAT program assist me?
Yes. The MAT program offers equipment solutions for those who are unable to get to the phone in time, or pick up the receiver. For example, some MAT program applicants qualify for hands-free phones and/or wheelchair pad phone switches. Every qualified applicant receives a free one-on-one evaluation to determine the right solution for him/her.
People do not understand me over the phone. Can the MAT program assist me?
Yes. The MAT program offers equipment solutions for those who have difficulty speaking, including TTYs (text telephones) and HCO (Hearing Carry-Over) phones. Every qualified applicant receives a free personalized evaluation to determine the right solution for him/her.
Speech-to-Speech might be an alternative option that does not required specialized equipment.
How do I apply?
Visit our Application Process page to download an application or apply online and get step-by-step application instructions.
I am concerned about a loved one’s ability to use a standard telephone. Can I apply on his or her behalf?
Yes. Please complete the application in your loved one’s name and provide your contact information so that we can follow up with you after we have reviewed the application. Each applicant, or their power of attorney, will need to sign page three of the application.
How will I know if I am approved?
A notification letter stating whether or not you are approved will be mailed approximately two weeks after your completed application is received. If you are approved, your notification letter will include information on scheduling your evaluation.
How do I get my equipment?
After you are approved and have completed your free evaluation, your equipment will be ordered and shipped to your home via UPS. It should arrive 4-6 weeks after your evaluation. If you have not received your package after six weeks, please contact the MAT program at 800-552-7724 or 410-767-6960 (Voice/TTY) or 443-453-5970 (Video Phone).
Will someone teach me how to use my new equipment?
Initial training will be provided during your free evaluation, and detailed, personalized instructions for setup and usage will be included in your equipment shipment. You may also contact your MAT evaluator for additional free training.
Can I get different or additional equipment if my needs change?
Yes. We all have changing needs, and the MAT program is here to serve its participants through every stage of life. Contact your MAT evaluator or call 800-552-7724 or 410-767-6960 (Voice/TTY) or 443-453-5970 (Video Phone) to schedule an evaluation for different or additional equipment.
Can I get equipment for my job/office?
Yes. Your MAT program evaluator can also work with you and your employer to evaluate your telecommunications needs at work. However, the MAT program does not provide work place equipment; your employer will be responsible for purchasing any equipment that you may require.
What should I do if my equipment stops working properly?
Call the MAT program at 800-552-7724 or 410-767-6960 (Voice/TTY) or 443-453-5970 (Video Phone) for assistance. Most of the equipment provided through the MAT program has a warranty (you can find this information in your equipment shipment).
Can I keep my equipment if I move out of state?
All program-issued equipment is the property of the State of Maryland and is on "long-term loan" to you. If you are moving outside the State of Maryland, the equipment must be returned to the MAT office prior to your move, or you will have to pay the full price of the equipment. Many states have similar equipment distribution programs—check with your new state’s Relay service or visit the Telecommunications Equipment Distribution Program Association (TEDPA) website to learn more.
Please note that if you are traveling or setting up temporary residence in another state, you may take your equipment with you, provided that your official address remains in Maryland.
I need assistive equipment, but plan to buy it myself. Where can I go?
Visit any of the links below to learn more about the following assistive equipment retailers:
