1. The Lifeline program was designed to preserve and promote telephone services to qualified low-income households. The program provides a monthly credit for local service.

2.   The Link-Up program offers eligible individuals a reduction in the local telephone company’s charges for starting telephone service. The program pays for half of the installation charge up to $30.

3.   Eligibility for the Lifeline program or the Link-Up program is determined by participation in one of the following:

* Medicaid
* Food Stamps
* Federal Public Housing
* Supplemental Security Income
* Low-Income Home Energy Assistance Program
* Temporary Assistance to Needy Families
* National School Free Lunch Program

       AND

* Payment of or valid payment arrangements for any outstanding balance for telephone services provided to anyone residing at the current address

4.  Enrollment in Lifeline provides the following benefits:

* Waiver of the federal subscriber line charge.
* Reduction in monthly residence line charge.
* Waiver of deposit for local service.
* Waiver of charge to activate new service.
* Free toll blocking service.

5.  Local telephone companies should be contacted for enrollment details. Proof of participation in a qualifying program is required.

6.  The Kentucky Public Service Commission has approved a small charge to be placed on all telephone customers’ bills to help eligible low-income consumers maintain basic phone service.