FCC Updates Privacy for Deaf Phone Services Database
Published Date: 2/25/2026
Notice
Summary
The FCC is updating its database that helps people who are deaf or have speech disabilities use special phone services. They’re making some changes to how they handle personal info and adding a new way they might share it. These updates kick in on February 25, 2026, with a chance to comment by March 27, 2026—no extra costs involved, just smoother service and better privacy rules!
Analyzed Economic Effects
5 provisions identified: 2 benefits, 1 costs, 2 mixed.
Records Checked Against Treasury's 'Do Not Pay'
Your ITRS-URD registration records may be shared with the U.S. Department of the Treasury to review payment and award eligibility through the Do Not Pay Working System. This sharing can be used to identify, prevent, or recoup improper payments and is effective March 27, 2026 unless comments change that date.
Expanded Fraud, Waste, and Abuse Disclosures
The FCC is expanding routine uses that allow ITRS-URD records to be disclosed to federal and non-federal agencies, contractors, and agents for managing and eliminating fraud, waste, and abuse. These disclosures may be used for audits, oversight, and investigations and become effective March 27, 2026 unless comments change that date.
Automated Identity Checks for Registration
The ITRS-URD will use automated validation of registration information so that authorized VRS and IP CTS providers cannot register individuals who do not pass the identification verification check. This verification supports eligibility checks and is part of the modified system effective February 25, 2026.
Third-Party Contractors Host and Access Your PII
The ITRS-URD administrator and third-party contractors and subcontractors will host and store electronic records (names, addresses, last four SSN or Tribal ID, dates of birth, phone numbers, emergency location info, eligibility documents). The system notes safeguards under FISMA and NIST and includes breach notification procedures; the modification is effective February 25, 2026.
Emergency Location Info Collected for Calls
The system will collect users' registered location information for emergency calling purposes, including location data that providers must request to validate users. This collection supports emergency response and is part of the modified system effective February 25, 2026.
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Key Dates
Department and Agencies
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Previous / Next Documents
Previous: 2026-03741, Privacy Act of 1974; System of Records
The FCC is updating its Lifeline Program records to better protect your info and fight fraud. This program helps low-income folks get discounts on phone and internet services. Changes take effect February 25, 2026, with a chance to comment by March 27, 2026—no extra costs involved, just smarter data handling!
Next: 2026-03743, Privacy Act of 1974; Matching Program
The FCC and USAC are teaming up with the Department of Health and Human Services to double-check who qualifies for Lifeline and the Affordable Connectivity Program (ACP), which help low-income families get affordable internet and phone service. This new computer matching program starts March 27, 2026, runs for 18 months, and aims to keep the programs fair and on track. If you’re involved, watch for updates and get ready to share info to keep your benefits.