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Missouri
Telecommunications Access Program for the Internet
The
Telecommunications Access Program, administered by the Missouri
Assistive Technology Advisory Council, includes the Telecommunications
Access Program for the Telephone (TAP-T) and the Telecommunications
Access Program for the Internet (TAP-I).
The
Telecommunications Access Program for the Internet (TAP-I) provides, at
no cost to a qualified applicant, the adaptive computer equipment and
training necessary for basic access to the internet and electronic mail
in the consumer’s home premise.
Adaptive
Computer Equipment is equipment which changes the way in which a person
with a disability provides input or receives output from a computer so
the computer can be used to independently access the internet and
electronic mail.
The
TAP-I program will not purchase adaptive equipment not needed for basic
internet access such as Braille embossers, electronic note takers,
augmentative communication devices, and printers.
What
are the eligibility requirements?
1. You must be a Missouri resident.
2. You must have a certified disability that prevents you from using
traditional telecommunications equipment
3. Your annual adjusted income cannot exceed $60,000 for an
individual or an individual plus a second exemption, spouse or
dependent. For each additional dependent claimed, $5,000 can be added to
the $60,000 base level.
4. Own or have access in the home to the basic computer equipment
required to use the adaptive equipment provided through the program.
5. Have an Internet Service Provider (ISP) account and provide the
name of the ISP provider and your e-mail address. (If service has not
begun, indicate the date service will begin).
Examples of adaptive computer equipment provided through the TAP-I
program are:
 Output
Adaptations which read the information displayed on a computer
screen. Examples: JAWS, Window-Eyes, outspoken, Home Page Reader,
Kurzweil 3000.
Enlarging
software which enlarges the information on a computer screen while
providing low vision speech. Examples: ZoomText Xtra, MAGic, and
inLARGE.
Refreshable
Braille which provides a braille equivalent of what is displayed on
the computer screen for people who have dual disabilities such as a
visual and hearing loss combines.
Alternative
Keyboards for people with physical disabilities who cannot use a
standard keyboard. Examples: IntelliKeys, BigKeys, WinKing, WinMini,
BAT Keyboard.
Alternative
Pointing Devices for people who cannot use the standard mouse as an
input device. Examples: Trackball Pro, Joystick Pro, Touchpads,
Cordless Wheel Mouse.
Standard
Keyboard Applications for people who cannot efficiently use the
standard keyboard. Examples: Co: Writer, Reach Interface Author.
Voice
Recognition for people who cannot use a standard keyboard. Examples:
Naturally Speaking, Via Voice for Macintosh.
How
do I become certified as having a disability?
A professional
who can certify applicants must complete a certification form.
Professionals who can certify include licensed physicians,
audiologists, speech pathologists, or agencies approved by Missouri
Assistive Technology, such as Independent Living Resource Center, Inc.
How
do I select equipment that will meet my needs?
The
TAP for Internet Equipment Worksheet may assist you in determining which
equipment will meet your needs. A professional who is authorized to
certify applicants may also use the worksheet and help you identify
equipment that will meet your needs.
How
do I apply for equipment?
Complete
an application and certification identifying the equipment you need.
Send the completed application to TAP for Internet. If TAP-I
staff have any questions, you will be contacted.
What
do I do if I get the equipment and need help using it?
Call
TAP for Internet and staff will assist you or will arrange for
assistance from an agency near you (such as ILRC).
For
additional information, please contact:
Missouri
Assistive Technology
4731 S Cochise, Suite 114
Independence, MO 64055-6975
In-State:
(800) 647-8557 (Voice)
(800) 647-5885 (TTY)
Out-of-state:
(816) 373-5193 (Voice)
(816) 373-9315 (TTY)
Fax:
(816) 373-9314
E-mail:
matpmo@swbell.net |
