The Missouri Public Service Commission is joining other state commissions and federal agencies across the country in observing “Lifeline Awareness Week” to promote assistance programs which offer discounts on local telephone service.
State and federal programs can provide needed assistance for eligible low-income and disabled consumers to receive or continue vital telephone services. A consumer’s telephone is essential to staying connected, seeking emergency services, government services, community resources and staying in touch with family and friends.
Federal programs such as “Lifeline” and “Link-Up” have been available to eligible consumers for years and yet statistics indicate few know this type of telephone assistance exists. In Missouri, it is believed that only about 30 perecent of those who may be eligible for state and federal low income or disabled assistance receive the discounts.
“These programs provide low-income, disabled and elderly Missourians the opportunity to stay connected,” said Gov. Jay Nixon. “I appreciate the Public Service Commission’s work in helping Missourians take advantage of these crucial services.”
“We need to reach out and provide information to our neighbors who may need help to let them know assistance may be available,” said Missouri Public Service Commission chairman Robert M. Clayton III.
Customers may be eligible for assistance if they or a member of their household participates in any of these programs: Food Stamps; MOHealthnet (or Medicaid); Low Income Home Energy Assistance Program; Temporary Assistance to Needy Families Program; Supplemental Security Income (SSI); Federal Public Housing Assistance; National School Lunch Program’s free lunch program; and certain disability benefits.
“We encourage customers who think they may qualify for assistance to contact their local telephone company. They can help determine the customer’s eligibility for discounts,” said PSC Commissioner Terry Jarrett, who is chair of the Missouri Universal Service Board.
In Missouri, low-income assistance provides discounts of up to $13.50 a month and disabled assistance provides discounts of up to $3.50 a month depending on local telephone rates. Under the federal “Link-Up” program, qualifying low-income individuals may receive a 50 percent reduction (up to $30) on initial telephone connection charges.
In limited circumstances, some discounts may apply to wireless service. Customers are urged to contact their provider for more information.