Lifeline telephone service is a joint Federal and State of New York program intended to assist in making telephone service affordable for all residential customers.
Customers that meet the below eligibility requirements will receive a credit of $16.67, plus taxes and surcharges, on their telephone bills. This credit is made up of a $6.50 credit of the Subscriber Line Charge (SLC) and an additional $10.17 authorized credit.
Who is eligible for Lifeline Discounts?
In order to be eligible for the discount, the applicant must meet set income criteria. In New York, Individuals must either receive benefits through one of the below entitlement programs or meet the income guidelines established by the Federal Communications Commission of 135% of the Federal Poverty Guidelines (FPG). See chart here https://www.lifelinesupport.org/do-i-qualify/federal-poverty-guidelines/
Yes, restrictions do apply. The Lifeline discount is available for one line of voice service per household; Applicants must be over 18 years of age, and cannot be claimed as a dependent on anyone’s tax return.
How do I apply for the discount?
Complete the application and return it, with proof of eligibility as described in the application, to your local telephone company.
Please call us for the Lifeline Discount Application
Do I need to re-apply each year?
All Lifeline discount recipients must certify each year that they continue to meet all of the requirements, including that they receive only one Lifeline discount for their household. A recertification form will be mailed to you yearly.
