The Internet has become an integral part of life in the United States, and the current Administration recognizes this. Unfortunately, not everyone has access to the web as easily as others. That’s why President Obama recently signed into law H.R. 610, which provides free internet service to people living in public housing projects across the country. The United States Government Wants to Give You Free Internet
What is the Lifeline Program?
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Lifeline is a free government service that provides discounts on monthly telephone and/or broadband services. The U.S. Federal Communications Commission (FCC) created Lifeline over 30 years ago in an effort to ensure every American citizen had access to affordable communication services, regardless of their financial situation. So how does it work? Well, there are two major parts: Telephone Discounts: This program allows low-income households—those with an income at or below 135% of poverty guidelines set by the federal government—to pay only $9.25 per month for basic phone service with unlimited calling within the continental U.S., Alaska, Hawaii and Puerto Rico.
Who Can Apply?
Anyone with a low-income. Your income and net worth need to be below certain levels in order for you to qualify for Lifeline, but different states have different qualifications. See if you qualify on your state’s Lifeline page. If you still aren’t sure, call or send an email with your address and phone number. The FCC does not require that service providers give everyone information about eligibility (that would cost a lot of money).
However, all phone companies should respond if you ask politely—their employees can give basic info about whether or not they offer Lifeline, but they shouldn’t provide specifics unless they know someone is eligible.
What Services Are Available?
There are a variety of different broadband internet services available for low-income families. The FCC recently changed their regulations to expand what’s available, so be sure to check out your options before applying! If you qualify for any of these programs, be sure you get connected quickly—the clock is ticking on those three months (or less!) of subsidized service. For more information about eligibility and how to apply, visit www.fcc.gov/qualifying-broadband-programs . Remember that with the new updates, many people who had been previously ineligible may now qualify for discounted broadband. So don’t wait until it’s too late!
How Do I Get Started?
The program is currently in a pilot phase, with select counties and states participating, so if you’re interested in participating (and it is available where you live), your first step is finding out if you qualify. The FCC has an online tool that allows you to enter your address and see whether or not low-cost internet service is available. If it is, then go here for more information about how to get connected. If not, then keep your eyes open because hopefully things will be changing soon! – Kneecap93[1]
Frequently Asked Questions
What Is Lifeline? The Lifeline Program is a federal program operated by independent companies and regulated by both state and federal authorities. The main purpose of it is to provide low-income families with phones, because there are still many people in America who don’t have one. How Do I Qualify for a Lifeline Phone? To qualify for a phone through Lifeline, you must be receiving some form of public assistance from either your state or county government. Check your local listings; you may need to apply at your county courthouse or check out services provided by various non-profit organizations within your community. Why Do I Need It? Having a cell phone can drastically change someone’s life for better. As long as they use it responsibly, they will be able to stay connected with their family and friends and always know what’s going on around them.
I’m looking forward to the day when everyone has a phone! In order to get this free service, people would first need to fill out an application and prove that they’re eligible. After this, they would then be contacted by one of the participating providers and select a plan that suits their needs. Depending on which provider they chose, there might be different offers available such as unlimited texting and minutes or talk time discounts. One of my favorite parts about having a phone is being able to keep in touch with friends back home via text message–especially since we now live so far apart! It’s also useful for asking for help if you’re lost somewhere or being bullied online; this way you can talk to someone even if you’re alone.