What Is the Lifeline Support Program?
The New York State Lifeline Discounted Telephone Service is an assistance program offered by many telephone providers, including some wireless and cable companies, to help income eligible consumers save money on their phone bills. Lifeline helps you stay connected and save money on your monthly telephone bill. The Lifeline discount can be applied to either home telephone service (landline or cable) or wireless service. The discount is available for only one line per household. It is only available for NY ILEC [Incumbent Local Exchange Carriers] customers.
WHO IS ELIGIBLE
Qualifying consumers can apply for Lifeline to receive a monthly discount on either their landline telephone service or their wireless service. Lifeline benefits include a bill credit and a waiver of the federal subscriber line charge for landline customers.
Households with an income that is at or below 135% of the Federal Poverty Guidelines are eligible to receive assistance – OR – Households with a family member who participates in at least one of these federal assistance programs:
Supplemental Security Income (SSI)
Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP)
Medicaid
Veteran’s Pension or Survivor’s Pension Benefit
Federal Public Housing Assistance
Steps To Participate In Lifeline Program
Step 1: Find Out If You Are Eligible
Click here to view eligibility guidelines and program details.
Step 2: Apply For The Program
Apply for Lifeline through the Lifeline program’s National Verifier online portal or by mailing a paper application form (available at the National Verifier online portal after entering your state) with your proof of eligibility document(s) to:
Lifeline Support Center P.O. Box 1000 Horseheads, NY 14845
Step 3: Receive The Discount
Receive the discount automatically on your bill each month.
