New York Relay

People who are deaf, hard-of-hearing, deaf-blind, or have a speech disability enrich their independent lives by utilizing relay services. Traditional phones are not for everybody. Teletypewriters (TTY) and telecommunications devices for the deaf (TDD) have proven themselves to be useful and easy to use. The relay services take advantage of TTY/TDD devices that allow the user to communicate with friends, loved ones, business associates, and service providers so they may participate in daily community life.

New York Relay Service uses state-of-the-art technology to bring relay services to customers. Enrich your communications. With New York Relay, you can:

* Store and refer back to information such as frequently dialed numbers, preferred call type, and long distance carrier
* Utilize a wide array of technologies, such as teletypewriters (TTY), Voice Carry-Over (VCO) and Hearing Carry-Over (HCO)
* Retrieve voicemail and answering machine messages
* Redial last number called
* Work with sensitive and well-trained Relay Operators who handle each call with complete confidentiality

The Relay Service routinely monitors performance to ensure continuously high quality services.


For Deaf, Hard-of-Hearing, or Speech Disabled:
The most common device used to make a relay call is a TTY (text telephone device) that can be used together with a phone handset. However, the equipment you need may vary depending upon the type of relay service you use. For more information on how to obtain a device in your area for your specific needs, call New York Relay Service Customer Service at 1-800-676-3777.

For Hearing (or Voice Caller):
You don't need any special devices for calling the Relay Service. When you plan to call a deaf, hard-of-hearing or speech-disabled individual, all you do is to simply dial 7-1-1 or 1-800-421-1220. You will hear a voice recording telling you to press "1" to make a relay call. Then you will give the Relay Operator the area code and telephone number you wish to call and any further instructions. The Relay Operator will process your call, relaying exactly what the TTY user is typing back to you. The Relay Operator will relay what you say back to the TTY user.