Tips

Relay is a tool used by deaf, hard-of-hearing, and some individuals with speech impairments to facilitate communication via telephone utilizing a voiced party and a teletypewriter (TTY), teleBraille, or Voice Carry Over.

To make a Relay call, dial 711 from any phone (cell or business) or dial 1.800.735.0533 for TTY use or 1.800.735.0341 for voice callers. An operator will answer and ask which number you are trying to dial.  The operator will dial the number and notify the second party that someone is attempting to contact them via Relay services.  The operator will notify you that the requested party is on the phone and you may begin speaking.  The operator will type everything you say to the second party on the other end.  At any time when you have finished making a statement you need to say the words “Go Ahead” this allows the operator to alert the other person on the other end that it is their time to begin responding.  The typed message will appear on the TTY of the second party.

When receiving a Relay call, upon answering the phone, an operator will state that they are a Relay operator, and someone is attempting to call your department via Relay.  The operator will ask if you are familiar with Relay.  The operator will begin speaking exactly as the individual is keying, using the same protocol with GA (Go Ahead) and SK (Stop Keying).  Be patient as the phone call may take a little longer.

Always speak to the person directly, ignoring the operator.  For example, avoid using statements like “tell her/him.”  The operator will type everything you say.

It is important to note that it is the operator who will set the pace of the conversation, they may ask you to slow down or speed up your speaking pace.

Finally, remember that there will be a printed copy of whatever you said for the other party.

Use this link to learn more about NC Relay: NC Relay Web Page.

Last Revised 03/23/2020