There is a federal mandate that local phone service providers offer free directory assistance for the visually impaired. Usually, you simply pick up your land line phone and dial 0 for the operator. Ask to be connected to the Disabilities Department. Tell them you want to apply for free directory assistance because you cannot read the phone book. They will send you the required paperwork to register. It usually requires a signature of a professional who is familiar with your vision condition. Once registered, you are not charged for directory assistance calls. You are similarly not charged if you follow the operator prompts to dial the call for you. You are only charged for long distance minutes.