Voice Options in California: How to Access Free AAC Apps for iPads
Communication is not a luxury—it’s a fundamental human right. For individuals with communication differences, Augmentative and Alternative Communication (AAC) technology has opened the door to connection, independence, and empowerment.
AAC stands for Augmentative and Alternative Communication. It refers to any method used to support or replace speech, including tools ranging from simple picture boards to high-tech speech-generating devices. Access to AAC can benefit a wide range of individuals with communication differences resulting from Autism, cerebral palsy, stroke, traumatic brain injury, ALS (Lou Gehrig’s disease), developmental or speech delays, or other neurological or physical conditions affecting communication.
With the Voice Options Program, California is taking a stand for inclusivity and access—making sure everyone has the opportunity to be heard. Qualifying Californians can now access speech-generating apps for iPads—for free. In this post, we will explain how the program works, who qualifies, and how to access these life-changing tools through trusted providers like Speech Bee Speech Therapy.
What Is the Voice Options Program?
The Voice Options Program is a statewide initiative administered by the California Department of Rehabilitation partnered with the California Public Utilities Commission’s (CPUC) Deaf and Disabled Telecommunications Program (DDTP). Its mission is to promote communication equity by making AAC tools accessible to eligible Californians at no cost.
Participants can trial a selection of six professional-grade AAC apps on an iPad for up to 14-days and, if an app proves helpful, receive a permanent iPad with one speech-generating application license at no cost. The program ensures individuals receive support throughout the trial process from trained professionals such as those at Speech Bee Speech Therapy.
What’s Included?
The program provides access to a variety of well-regarded AAC apps, such as:
Proloquo2Go
LAMP Words for Life
TouchChat HD with WordPower
GoTalk NOW Plus
Proloquo4Text
Predictable
TD Snap
During the trial period, participants also receive support from a Speech-Language Pathologist (SLP) or trained AAC specialist who helps assess which app best meets the user’s communication needs.
Who Qualifies?
To be eligible for the Voice Options Program, individuals must:
Be a California resident
Have a communication disability that negatively impacts speech production
Benefit from using a speech-generating app on a mobile device
Receive an authorization from an approved professional and then complete the program with a Voice Options vendor.
How to Access the Program
Here’s a step-by-step guide to accessing AAC tools through the Voice Options Program:
Locate a participating vendor or agency in your region.
Schedule a demonstration appointment to test various AAC apps with professional guidance.
Use the iPad and app(s) during a designated trial period up to 14-days.
Select the best-fitting app and submit the paperwork.
Receive a permanent iPad and license to use the app—free of charge.
Access the Program with Speech Bee Speech Therapy
Speech Bee Speech Therapy is a proud, authorized Voice Options Program Vendor serving multiple counties throughout California. Our experienced team is committed to helping individuals find their voice and thrive through AAC.
We currently serve clients in the following regions:
Southern California: San Diego, Imperial
North Coast: Del Norte, Humboldt, Lake, Mendocino, Napa, Sonoma, Trinity
San Francisco Bay Area: Alameda, Contra Costa, Marin, San Francisco, San Mateo, Santa Clara, Solano
Northern San Joaquin Valley: Alpine, Amador, Calaveras, Madera, Mariposa, Merced, Mono, San Joaquin, Stanislaus, Tuolumne
Whether you're a caregiver, educator, therapist, or someone seeking support for yourself or a loved one, Speech Bee Speech Therapy is here to guide you through every step of the process—from trial to transformation.
