FCC makes changes to Lifeline and Link-up programs for low income customers
TDS Telecommunications Corp. (TDS Telecom and TDS Metrocom) are participants in the Federal Communications Commission (FCC) Lifeline and (now Tribal-only) Link-Up programs in each of the states we serve. The FCC has recently announced changes to this program that TDS and the Universal Service Administrative Company, which manages the program, need to implement over the course of this year. Lifeline provides a discount on basic phone service for eligible low-income customers, through funding supported by the Universal Service program.
While these changes are being implemented several adjustments are being made to the FCC websites and to our own website to bring you updated information, forms and contacts. The following link will show you how to maintain your support services. http://www.lifelinesupport.org/ls/maintaining-my-lifeline-service.aspx
The biggest impact to existing Lifeline customers is that the FCC has determined eligible consumers can only receive one Lifeline-subsidized phone service per household. This means participants will need to select either a landline or wireless service to be discounted, not both. In addition, all new subscribers must demonstrate their eligibility at sign up and must re-certify their eligibility on an annual basis. So, you will need to re-certify more often and reduce accounts, if more than one per household is in use.
The FCC has created an overview document to explain the changes: http://www.lifelinesupport.org/_res/documents/li/pdf/fcc/FCC-Consumer-Advisory-06212011.pdf
If you are a TDS customer who wants to start using the Lifeline program, it’s always best to call us at 1-888-CALL TDS (225-5837) to talk with a customer service representative. They will mail you the correct forms, have you fill out and mail back to us. Each state has different forms and rules to follow, so it’s easier if you get it from us right now as the websites are in transition. TDS Customers: Call 1-888-CALL TDS (225-5837)
You might be asking: Do I qualify for Lifeline discounts?
A pre-screening tool is available at http://www.lifelinesupport.org/ls/eligibility/default.aspx
The Lifeline program is available to qualifying consumers in every state, territory, and commonwealth.
To qualify for Lifeline, subscribers must either have an income that is at or below 150%-135% of the federal Poverty Guidelines, or participate in one of the following assistance programs:
Medicaid; Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (Food Stamps or SNAP); Supplemental Security Income (SSI); Federal Public Housing Assistance (Section 8); Low-Income Home Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP); Temporary Assistance to Needy Families (TANF); The National School Lunch Program's Free Lunch Program; Bureau of Indian Affairs General Assistance; Tribally-Administered Temporary Assistance for Needy Families (TTANF); Food Distribution Program on Indian Reservations (FDPIR); Head Start (if income eligibility criteria are met); or State assistance programs (if applicable).
How do I prove that I am eligible? All new subscribers must demonstrate that they are eligible. In some states, a subscriber’s eligibility may be able to be confirmed through a database. Where a database is not available, subscribers must show proof of eligibility by demonstrating that they meet the income qualifications or participate in a qualifying program listed above.
