Programs To Help Low-Income Families With Phone Services
September 17, 2009
Governor Mark Parkinson, alongside state legislators, members of the Cabinet and representatives from AT&T, Best Phone and the United Way, sought to raise awareness of the Lifeline and Link-Up Programs. The two programs allow low-income customers to receive a discount on their phone services.
"Many Kansas are struggling to get by each month, and these services can make an enormous difference in helping them stay afloat," said Parkinson. "With only half of eligible consumers around the country taking advantage of the Lifeline program, it's important we raise awareness so Kansans can get the help they need."
The Lifeline Program provides a discount up to $17.77 on monthly telephone services while the Link-Up Program provides a fifty percent discount on the cost of a phone line installation, up to $30. To be eligible, consumers must be 150% below the federal poverty level or participates in various public assistance programs, such as food stamps, SSI or general assistance. Kansans should contact their phone company to enroll in either program.
The Kansas Legislature passed a bill during the 2008 Legislative Session to increase the number of low-income customers accessing the program. Through HB 2637, eligible consumers are automatically enrolled by phone companies based on data provided by the Kansas Department of Social and Rehabilitation Services. The Kansas Corporation Commission administers the program and reaches out to low-income Kansans to notify them about the services.
To also help low-income Kansans become aware of the programs, the Governor proclamied next week "Lifeline Awareness Week" in the state. The week is dedicated to reaching out to those in need of telephone service.
For more information on the Lifeline or Link-Up Programs, please visit the Kansas Corporation Commission's website at http://www.kcc.state.ksus/pi/lifeline.htm.
