Did you know that low-income consumers may be eligible for help with the cost of phone and internet service?
The Lifeline program provides eligible low-income consumers a discount on qualifying monthly telephone service, broadband internet service, or bundled voice-broadband packages.
The consumer has to purchase services from participating wireline or wireless providers. Consumers must have household income at or below 135% of the federal poverty guidelines, or receive certain government benefits like Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP), Medicaid, Federal Public Housing Assistance, Supplemental Security Income, the Veterans and Survivors Pension Benefit, or certain Tribal Programs.
The Affordable Connectivity Program helps low-income households pay for internet service. It also offers a one-time discount for a laptop, tablet, or desktop computer. Consumers must have household income below 200% of the federal poverty guidelines, or receive benefits like SNAP, Medicaid, SSI, WIC, Pell Grant, or Free and Reduced-Price Lunch.
Other rules do apply for these programs. They are administered by the Federal Communications Commission, and they’re available in every state.
To learn more and see if you might qualify, visit:
https://www.lifelinesupport.org/
https://www.affordableconnectivity.gov/
To apply for the programs, visit:
Editor’s Note: This is general information and not legal advice. Please consult with a lawyer licensed in your state for legal advice.
By Susan Schoppa, J.D.
