Deaf, hard-of-hearing, deaf-blind, speech-disabled, or late-deafened people who use text telephones (TTYs) or voice carry-over (VCO) phones can dial 711 to reach a free relay service, where specially trained operators will relay a conversation between a TTY/VCO user and a standard telephone user.

You can get non-emergency information by text 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. If you have an SMS-capable mobile device, you can text a question about City services to 311-692 and get an immediate response. You can also file several types of complaints.

The City does not charge for this service, but your text messaging or data rates may apply.

For assistance, text 311-692. You can text from anywhere in the United States. NYC311 Text supports all cell phone providers.

To cancel service, text STOP to 311-692.

Technical Problem

If you try to send a text message and get an error message, contact your cell phone provider for assistance.

Text-to-911 is a reliable and safe way to reach emergency services in New York City.

It is beneficial to people who are:

• Deaf
• Hard of hearing
• Have a speech disability
• Not able to safely call 911

You should:

• Only text 911, if you can't call 911
• Never text and drive

Restrictions

Text-to-911 is free and works through short message service (SMS) with cellular carriers but requires a text or data plan.

Text-to-911 is also only available in English and Spanish in the five boroughs.

How to Text

To use Text-to-911 as efficiently as possible you should: 

• Enter 911 in the “to” field without spaces or hyphens
• Let the operator know if you are deaf
• Text the reason for your emergency
• Text your full address with borough and cross streets if available
• Use complete words and sentences, not abbreviations
• Not text 911 in a group chat or send photos, videos, GIFs, or emojis
• Answer all of the operator’s questions. The operator will end the chat when appropriate.