What is Lifeline?
Lifeline is a program that provides qualified low-income Wisconsin residents with affordable access to essential telecommunications services by discounting the cost of phone, cellular, and internet services. Lifeline is a voice-based benefit, however, so while the discount can be applied to bundled internet and voice service, voice service must be included as part of the package for a Lifeline discount to be provided. Discounts range from $5.25 to $18.50 per month, depending on the type of service you have. Your service provider can tell you the exact amount of your discount. Tribal members living on Tribal land are eligible for a further discount of $25 and have additional qualifying programs.
Who is Eligible for Lifeline?
To be eligible for Lifeline, your income must be at or below 135% of the Federal Poverty Guidelines, or you must participate in one of the following programs:
• Medicaid
• FoodShare
• Supplemental Security Income (SSI)
• Federal Public Housing Assistance (Section 8)
• Veterans and Survivors Pension Benefit
In addition, only one person per household may receive a Lifeline discount. If you live with someone who has Lifeline but is not a part of your household, you may still qualify. Complete the Household Worksheet at LifelineSupport.org.
You can check your eligibility for Lifeline online by going to the FCC Lifeline National Verifier website. The National Verifier website is connected to federal databases and can determine if you are enrolled in a qualifying program listed above. If you do not participate in a qualifying program, you must provide proof that you meet the income guidelines in order to be eligible for Lifeline.
How Can You Sign Up for Lifeline?
To get Lifeline, you have two options. You can start by first qualifying for the service through Lifeline. You can receive proof that you qualify either by going online to the FCC Lifeline National Verifier website and receiving a code or by mailing in a paper application to Lifeline. Once you receive proof that you qualify for Lifeline, you can choose a participating phone or internet company in your area and apply the Lifeline discount to new or existing service.
Alternatively, you can start by just reaching out directly to a local participating service provider and asking them to help you find out if you are eligible to sign up for the program.
For Additional Information
For additional information on Lifeline in Wisconsin, call the Wisconsin Internet & Phone Helpline at (608) 267-3595, Monday through Friday, 7:45am - 4:30pm. You can request an interpreter if you need assistance in a different language. For additional information about Lifeline at the federal level, you can visit lifelinesupport@usac.org, or call (800) 234-9473, Monday through Friday, 10am -10pm.
Comments