Frequently Asked Questions
What is Maryland Relay?
Maryland Relay is a free public service that allows people, unable to use a standard telephone, to both make and receive calls.
Who uses Maryland Relay?
People who are Deaf, hard of hearing, late-deafened, DeafBlind or have difficulty speaking can make or receive calls to and from anyone with Maryland Relay’s calling options.
Maryland Relay can also provide equipment to qualified individuals who have difficulty using a standard telephone through the Maryland Accessible Telecommunications (MAT) program. This includes people who have limited mobility or cognitive abilities.
I am not sure what Maryland Relay services are right for me. What should I do?
Please call us at 800-552-7724 or 410-767-6960 (Voice/TTY) or 443-453-5970 (Video Phone) to get started. We will complete a personalized, one-on-one evaluation with you to ensure you find the Maryland Relay solutions that best meet your needs.
I am a standard telephone user. Can I use Maryland Relay to keep in touch with others?
Yes, if you know someone who has difficulty using a standard telephone, you can use Maryland Relay to keep in touch with him/her. Learn how to place and receive Relay calls.
I don’t see well. Can Maryland Relay assist me?
Yes. The Maryland Accessible Telecommunications (MAT) program from Maryland Relay offers easy-to-use phone solutions for people with low vision. Equipment is provided by the State to qualified applicants. Learn more about the MAT program.
My loved one forgets phone numbers and/or dials a lot of wrong numbers. Can Maryland Relay assist us?
Yes. Start by applying to the Maryland Accessible Telecommunications (MAT) program from Maryland Relay. The program offers a variety of easy-to-use phone solutions for anyone who has difficulty using a standard telephone—including for those living with memory loss or limited cognitive ability.
I am unable to get to the phone in time, or pick up the receiver. Can Maryland Relay assist me?
Yes. The Maryland Accessible Telecommunications (MAT) program offers equipment solutions for those who are unable to get to the phone in time, or pick up the receiver. Equipment is provided by the State to qualified applicants. Apply now to get started.
People do not understand me over the phone. Can Maryland Relay assist me?
Yes. Maryland Relay offers several free calling options for those who have difficulty speaking, including Speech-to-Speech (STS), Visually Assisted STS, Hearing Carry-Over (HCO), and text telephone (TTY). Assistive equipment provided by the State is also available through the Maryland Accessible Telecommunications (MAT) program with a qualified application.
I speak Spanish. Can I use Maryland Relay?
All services are available in Spanish, and English-Spanish Operators (OPRs) are available to process Spanish Relay calls. Spanish-speaking Relay users can dial 800-877-1264 or 7-1-1 to call to anywhere in the U.S., including Puerto Rico and the U.S. Virgin Islands.
How can my business communicate with Maryland Relay users?
You can enroll in the FREE Maryland Relay Partner program, which trains businesses and their employees on how to place and receive Maryland Relay calls. Learn more about Maryland Relay Partner.
Can Maryland Relay connect me with other services and organizations?
Yes. Visit our Helpful Links page to find camps, schools, government organizations, interpreting services and other great resources for Maryland Relay users.
How can I learn more about Maryland Relay?
You can call us at 800-552-7724 or 410-767-6960 (Voice/TTY) or 443-453-5970 (Video Phone). You also can request a free presentation at your organization or find us speaking at many community events throughout the state. Visit our Events & Outreach section to learn more.
