(Des Moines) – During National Lifeline Awareness Week, September 9-15, 2013, the Iowa Utilities Board (IUB) reminds Iowans that they may qualify for federal Lifeline telephone assistance, which provides partial financial support on their monthly telephone bills. Telephone service is essential for staying connected to family, employment, community resources, and vital emergency services.
To become certified for the Lifeline telephone assistance program, consumers must have an annual income at or below 135 percent of the federal poverty guidelines or participate in or be eligible for other federal public assistance. Potential participants are required to provide supporting documentation for family income or assistance program participation when applying for certification in the Lifeline program. Iowa consumers who apply and qualify will receive a $9.25 monthly telephone bill credit.
To ensure the Lifeline program is as efficient and effective as possible for those in need, the Federal Communications Commission (FCC) limits eligible customers to either one wireline or one wireless Lifeline-supported phone service per qualified household. To avoid FCC citations and fines, households currently receiving more than one Lifeline benefit must select a single Lifeline service provider and immediately de-enroll from the program with other provider(s). Once enrolled, it is mandatory that all certified customers complete and return annual eligibility verification forms to continue receiving Lifeline monthly assistance.
To apply, first verify that your local telephone service provider of choice is a Lifeline participant. A list of the verified providers in Iowa is available on the Universal Service Administrative Company Website, www.lifelinesupport.org. Next, complete an application form available from the IUB or an application from participating telecommunications providers and return the form to your chosen service provider.
To learn more about Lifeline certification, eligibility, and requirements, visit www.fcc.gov/lifeline or contact your local telecommunications service provider. You may also contact the IUB toll free at 1-877-565-4450, or link to us online at IUB Lifeline.