The Florida Public Service Commission (PSC) is offering eligible consumers a special opportunity to receive a discount on their monthly phone service during National Lifeline Awareness Week, September 11-17, 2017. Lifeline Assistance (Lifeline) program information will be available at PSC outreach events in several Florida communities this month and is also be available online.
Making communications services more affordable for low-income consumers, the federal Lifeline program provides a $9.25 monthly discount. Consumers can receive a Lifeline discount on either a wireline or a wireless service, but can not receive a discount on both services simultaneously. Lifeline also supports broadband and broadband-voice bundles through participating companies.
“Lifeline helps ensure that low-income consumers can afford 21st century communication and the access it provides to jobs, health care, education, and opportunities,” said PSC Chairman Julie Brown. “Lifeline Awareness Week is a great opportunity to let consumers know that recent program changes now allow Lifeline broadband offerings, expanding ways to stay connected.”
To participate in Lifeline, consumers must have an income at or below 135 percent of the federal Poverty Guidelines, or you (or someone in your household) must participate in one of these federal assistance programs:
- Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program, formerly known as Food Stamps
- Medicaid
- Supplemental Security Income
- Federal Public Housing Assistance (Section 8)
- Veterans Pension and Survivors Benefit
- Tribal Programs (and live on federally-recognized Tribal lands)
You will need to show a card, letter, or official document, as proof that you participate in one of these programs when you apply for Lifeline. Federal Communication Commission rules prohibit more than one Lifeline service per household, so consumers must choose to apply the discount to either voice or broadband service.
Joining other states in celebrating National Lifeline Awareness Week, Florida’s outreach events will help raise awareness and increase participation in the Lifeline program. PSC representatives will be available to help qualified residents who want to apply for Lifeline.
More information on Lifeline Awareness Week can be found here.
For additional information, visit www.floridapsc.com.
