More than 26% of Americans over the age of 60 and more live alone, which is a concern. Living alone contributes to psychological issues. A common problem majority of senior citizens experience is difficulty in keeping their balance. More than 24% of senior citizens above the age of 64 and more experience falls, this can account for hip fractures and traumatic brain injuries. Risks cannot be avoided completely but can be reduced. Stay in touch with dear ones and get medical care whenever needed. A reliable communication service can make staying connected with loved ones, community, and emergency healthcare services.
The Federal Lifeline program gives discounts on internet and phone services every month to Americans with low-income. Universal Service Administrative Company administers the Lifeline program. It aims to facilitate financially challenged consumers to gain access to communication services.
In this way they can stay connected to family members, can contact emergency services, and easily connect with their employers. Discounted and free mobile phone service makes it easy to stay connected with emergency contacts, visit online to look for employment opportunities as well as stay updated about other public benefit programs.
Everyone cannot afford a mobile phone. Therefore Lifeline offers discounts on landline phone service. If the client already receives a discount on their mobile phone then they will not be eligible to apply for landline benefits. Before receiving the Lifeline discount the participant has to fulfill certain verification criteria. Assurance Wireless offers a free mobile phone with global coverage; call waiting, voicemail, called ID, as well as 250 free text and voice minutes every month. You can keep your current mobile phone or landline number. Feel free to check Lifeline program eligibility with the national verifier tool available on the Assurance Wireless website.
Criteria for eligibility and stay in the Lifeline program
Income
Your yearly earnings must be less than 135% of FPL. The FPL differs from one state to another. For example, the Federal Poverty Level for a single individual household is $13,590 for people of Alaska. Therefore the Lifeline income limit has to be $18, 346.50 annually. If the household has 2-person then the FPL is $18,310, so the income limit to be eligible for the Lifeline program must not be more than $24,718.50.
Public benefits
If the applicant is enrolled in a federal assistance program then they are automatically qualified for the Lifeline program. You can directly qualify if you participate in SSI, SNAP, Federal public housing assistance, Medicaid, and even some tribal programs.
Annual certification
It is essential to recertify every year. Ignoring to recertification notice can result in de-enrollment from the Lifeline discount program.
Minimum participation
For keeping your Lifeline discount active ensure to use their service once within 30 days.
Be honest
Share accurate information in the Lifeline application forms.
Information updates
In case of migration or change in financial status, you become ineligible for the Lifeline discount. Ensure to inform your service provider and update this data on file.
If you are a senior then check your state’s Lifeline Program laws to find out if you are eligible for a free landline or mobile phone!