Deaf Rights
Legal Rights
There are several federal laws that protect the rights of people who are Deaf, Deaf-Blind and Hard of Hearing, prevent discrimination and ensure effective communication. State and local government services and public services are generally required to provide auxiliary aids to Deaf, Deaf-Blind and Hard of Hearing people. A qualified interpreter is considered an auxiliary aid. It is important to understand federal laws about who is responsible for paying for services, and make sure YOU the Deaf person are not being forced to pay for access.
- Civil Rights Act Title VI Regulation
- Rehabilitation Services Act
- Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA)
- Affordable Care Act – Section 1557
A Guide to Disability Rights Laws (https://www.ada.gov/cguide.htm): This guide provides an overview of federal civil rights laws that ensure equal opportunity for people with disabilities.
NAD has created a resource card to help in situations when VRI is not appropriate.
Advocacy Card
To support self-advocacy for communication access. We have created an Advocacy Card for members of the Deaf, DeafBlind, and Hard of Hearing community to share with hearing people, informing them of federal laws requiring communication access and accommodations.
Can you contact a hearing person for me?
Partners Interpreting Resources
PI has created resources. We also provide training.
Tax Info
Businesses and organizations can sometimes qualify for tax credits and other benefits for providing accommodations. PI shares this information with all our clients. However, YOU as a Deaf, Deaf-Blind, or Hard of Hearing person may also qualify for tax deductions. See the links below and check with your tax specialist.
- Social Security Benefits
- Disability Pensions
- Military and Government Disability Pensions
- Itemized Deductions:
- Medical Expenses
- Impairment-Related Work Expenses - ABLE Account