How to receive Lifeline Program Benefits

The Minnesota Telephone Assistance Plan (TAP) offers a monthly discount for your landline telephone service. The TAP discount is not available for broadband only (internet) service. However, the federal Lifeline program can be used towards qualifying broadband only (internet) service. If you qualify for the federal Lifeline program, you are eligible for the TAP plan discount on qualifying services. For more information about the MN Telephone Assistance Plan, visit https://mn.gov/puc/consumers/telephone/.

 

If you reside in any of the following cities (or surrounding area), you may apply for the federal Lifeline Program:

  • Backus
  • Baxter
  • Belgrade
  • Breezy Point
  • Brooten
  • Buffalo
  • Danube
  • Elk River
  • Hackensack
  • Monticello
  • Murdock
  • New London
  • Pequot Lakes
  • Sedan
  • Spicer
  • Winsted

What is the National Lifeline National Verifier?

The National Verifier is Lifeline’s centralized application system. It determines whether consumers are eligible for Lifeline. The Universal Service Administrative Company (USAC) manages the National Verifier and provides customer service to consumers through the Lifeline Support Center.

Step 1. Apply

To determine if you qualify for Lifeline benefits, visit https://www.lifelinesupport.org/do-i-qualify/.

You may apply online or print an application at www.lifelinesupport.org.

    TIP: If you apply online, jot down the information provided or if apply via mail, make a copy of the application. The information you provided to the National Verifier is needed in Step 2.

Because the National Verifier determines Lifeline eligibility, TDS cannot receive your Lifeline application.

Step 2. Contact TDS

If the Lifeline National Verifier approves your application and you receive a Lifeline Application ID (ex. Qxxxxx-xxxxx). contact TDS at 1-888-CALL TDS (1-888-225-5837).

You will need to provide TDS the exact information you entered on the Lifeline application. This may include:

  • Your legal name, date of birth, last four digits of your social security number, which may include a child/dependent if qualifying through someone else
  • The National Verifier assigned Lifeline Application ID

If your enrollment is approved, the Lifeline benefit discounts will be applied to your bill within two billing cycles. If enrollment fails, you will receive a letter advising you about your next steps.

For information or questions about the National Verifier process or questions about your application, please visit USAC at www.lifelinesupport.org or contact USAC at 1-800-234-9473.

Contact TDS if you have questions about Lifeline, eligibility or need assistance at 1-888-CALL-TDS.

MN TDS Metrocom – Application Information

If you reside in any of the following cities (or surrounding area) below, there is a different application process. You must use the attached PDF which contains instructions on completing the application and where it should be sent.

Minnesota Telephone Assistance Plan Application (PDF, 1.6 MB)

  • Brainerd
  • Duluth
  • Sauk Rapids
  • St. Cloud

 

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