Lifeline and Link Up Programs
Lifeline
Provides up to a $14.10 discount on the monthly bill for primary home phone service.
Link Up
Provides a 50% discount (up to $30) off initial hook up for primary home phone service.
Enhanced Lifeline
Provides up to a $24.10 discount on the monthly bill for primary home service for residents of tribal lands.
Expanded Link Up
Provides a 50% discount (up to $70) off initial hook up for primary home phone service for residents of tribal lands.
Who is eligible for Link Up or Lifeline?
- Those with an income at or below 135% of the federal poverty guidelines.
- Those participating in at least one of the following: Temporary Assistance for Needy Families (TANF), Food Stamps, Low Income Home Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP), Medicaid, Supplemental Security Income (SSI), Federal Public Housing Assistance or Section 8, National School Lunch Program’s free lunch program.
NOTE: You are only eligible for Lifeline services from one telecommunications provider.
Who is eligible for Expanded Link Up and Enhanced Lifeline?
One of the following must apply to you:
- Residents of tribal lands whose income is equal to or less than 135% of the federal poverty guidelines.
- Residents of tribal lands participating in at least one of the following programs: Medicaid, Food Stamps, Supplemental Security Income (SSI), Federal Public Housing Assistance or Section 8, Low Income Home Energy Assistance (LIHEAP), BIA General Assistance, Tribal Temporary Assistance for Needy Families (TANF), National School Lunch Program’s free lunch program, or Head Start (meeting its income qualifying standards).
NOTE: If you have been disconnected for non-payment of telephone bills, these programs are available to you if you bring your local bill current. You may be required to pay a reconnect fee. You are only eligible for Lifeline services from one telecommunications provider.
How do I sign up for Link Up and/or Lifeline?
Do one of the following:
- Provide RTC with the qualifying certificate or other verification from one of the above mentioned programs.
- Complete RTC’s self certification form.
How long will these benefits continue?
If you no longer meet the eligibility guidelines above, you no longer qualify for Link Up or Lifeline and you must inform RTC of your ineligibility.
How do I get additional information?
For more information on Link Up and Lifeline or Expanded Link Up and Enhanced Lifeline, please contact RTC at 0811 or 1.888.862.3115.
