ClearCaptions

free

ClearCaptions provides no-cost captioned telephone service for hard-of-hearing U.S. residents, displaying real-time call captions on an easy-to-read touch screen.

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About

ClearCaptions is a telecommunications service designed specifically for seniors and individuals with hearing loss who struggle with phone conversations. Using advanced speech-to-text transcription technology, ClearCaptions converts everything a caller says into readable captions displayed on a dedicated caption phone's large, easy-to-read touch screen — in real time, so users never miss a word. The service is funded through the Federal Communications Commission's (FCC) Telecommunications Relay Services (TRS) fund, making it entirely free for qualified hard-of-hearing U.S. residents under Title IV of the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA). Eligible users receive the caption phone device at no cost, with a professional setup specialist sent directly to their home for personalized installation and step-by-step training. Key features include real-time call captioning, a clear and accessible touchscreen interface, VoIP connectivity with FEMA emergency weather alerts, and lifetime customer support. ClearCaptions also offers an OMS integration for healthcare providers who want to refer patients to the service. This solution is ideal for seniors, individuals with moderate-to-severe hearing loss, and caregivers looking to keep loved ones independently connected. It restores confidence in phone communication — whether calling family, friends, or medical professionals — without requiring hearing aids or other assistive devices.

Key Features

Real-Time Call Captioning: Automatically converts speech to text during live phone calls, displaying captions on a large touchscreen so users can read every word their caller says.
No-Cost Service for Eligible Users: Fully funded through the FCC's TRS fund under Title IV of the ADA, making the device and service available at no charge to qualified hard-of-hearing U.S. residents.
White-Glove Home Setup: A professional setup specialist visits your home to install the caption phone, configure it to your needs, and walk you through how to use it step by step.
VoIP with Emergency Alerts: The VoIP-enabled caption phone receives FEMA emergency weather alerts, keeping users informed of critical situations in real time.
Lifetime Customer Support: ClearCaptions provides ongoing support for all customers, including guided assistance and troubleshooting resources available through their support portal.

Use Cases

Seniors with hearing loss who want to maintain independent phone communication with family and friends without missing words.
Hard-of-hearing individuals who need to reliably communicate with healthcare providers or medical professionals over the phone.
Caregivers looking for an accessible, no-cost phone solution to keep elderly or hearing-impaired loved ones connected.
Healthcare providers who want to refer hard-of-hearing patients to a no-cost, ADA-compliant captioned telephone service.
Users who want an easy-to-set-up phone solution that requires no technical expertise and comes with lifetime support.

Pros

Completely Free for Eligible Users: No hidden fees — both the device and captioning service are provided at no cost to qualifying hard-of-hearing U.S. residents, making it highly accessible.
Easy Setup with Personal Assistance: The in-home professional setup and step-by-step training removes technical barriers for seniors who may not be comfortable with new technology.
Restores Communication Independence: Enables users with hearing loss to hold confident phone conversations with family, friends, and medical professionals without relying on others.
ADA-Backed Legal Right: The service is backed by federal law, ensuring eligible users have a legally protected right to accessible phone communication.

Cons

U.S. Residents Only: The service is limited to eligible U.S. residents, so it is not available internationally.
Requires Eligibility Verification: Not everyone qualifies automatically — users must go through an eligibility process to confirm their hearing loss before receiving the no-cost device.
Physical Device Dependency: The primary product is a physical caption phone, which may be limiting for users who want a fully mobile or app-based captioning solution.

Frequently Asked Questions

Yes. ClearCaptions is available at no cost to eligible hard-of-hearing U.S. residents. It is funded through the FCC's Telecommunications Relay Services (TRS) fund under Title IV of the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA).

Qualified hard-of-hearing U.S. residents are eligible. ClearCaptions will walk you through an eligibility verification process on their website or by phone to determine if you qualify.

During a phone call, ClearCaptions uses speech-to-text technology to transcribe what your caller says in real time. The captions are displayed on the caption phone's touchscreen so you can read along as you listen.

After signing up and confirming eligibility, ClearCaptions sends a professional setup specialist to your home to install the caption phone, configure it, and train you on how to use it — all included at no cost.

Yes. The VoIP-enabled ClearCaptions Phone receives FEMA emergency weather alerts, ensuring users stay informed of critical weather events and can act quickly when it matters most.