Lifeline and Link-Up:
Government

The Lifeline and Link-Up Programs . . .

• Are designed to give people with low incomes and those in rural, insular, and high-cost areas access to telecommunications services

For your eligible consumers this means . . .

• One-time help for getting service established for wireless or wireline service

• Monthly discounts on basic monthly service

What should you know about the Lifeline and Link-Up Programs?

• Eligible telecommunications carriers (ETCs) are required to publicize the availability of the Lifeline and Link-Up support in a manner reasonably designed to reach those likely to qualify for the support

• Enhanced Lifeline and Link-Up for Tribal lands provides qualified consumers living on Tribal lands with additional discounts on installation and basic monthly service

• Relevant Statutory Provisions

  • Sections 54.401-54.410 of the FCC's rules describes the relevant provisions of the Lifeline Program

  • Sections 54.411-54.417 of the FCC's rules describes the relevant provisions of the Link-Up Program

What should you know about state Lifeline and Link-Up Programs?

• Some states have taken creative approaches and linked Lifeline and Link-Up programs and outreach to a negotiated settlement, have mandated specific program requirements, or incorporated specific guidelines as a piece of a state Commission order.

• Contact your state commission for state-specific information. Also, contact the NARUC Consumer Affairs Committee members, Beverlee DeMello, FL at bdemello@psc.state.fl.us or Lisa Colosimo, OH at lisa.colsoimo@puc.state.oh.us for more information.