In small towns like Tishomingo, Oklahoma, life can be both rewarding and challenging at times. While there’s a strong sense of community among its residents, they are not immune from the impact of the rising costs of living like the rest of the country. That is why, for many of them, the availability of options for affordable basic necessities is essential.
This is where programs like Lifeline Assistance Program can make a real difference. Lifeline is a government assistance program that provide eligible individuals and families with discounted communications services, including home phone. By taking advantage of this benefit, families struggling to make ends meet can free up crucial funds to put towards other essential expenses.
So, how does it work and what kind of benefits can residents of Tishomingo expect? In this blog, we will offer all the information you need to make the most out of the program and the additional benefits that are waiting for you!
Introducing Lifeline
The Lifeline is a federal government assistance program administered by the Universal Service Administrative Company (USAC) under the direction of the Federal Communications Commission (FCC). It is designed to lower the cost of phone and internet services for low-income families and individuals. Since 1985, the Lifeline program has been a significant initiative to ensure all Americans have access to the opportunities and security that associated with communication services.
Recognizing the vital role that phone service plays in connecting individuals to employment, healthcare, and emergency resources, Lifeline provides discounted rates on landline, mobile phone plans and internet service plans for qualifying low-income households. In Tishomingo, the Lifeline discount can be applied to either a stand-alone broadband/phone service plan, or a bundled phone-broadband package.
A Closer Look at The Lifeline Discount
Eligible customers in the area can receive a discount on Lifeline plans of $9.25 per month. If you’re living on qualifying tribal lands, the monthly discount can go up to $34.25.
However, the design of the Lifeline comes with certain restrictions. Eligible low-income households and individuals can only receive one Lifeline discount, either on a wireline (landline) or wireless (mobile) service. This one-per-household rule is enforced by the FCC in order to ensure the program’s limited funding is distributed equitably.
The rationale behind these requirements is that each household, regardless of size, only requires a single subsidized communications service to meet their basic connectivity needs. This also allows the Lifeline to serve the maximum number of low-income Americans in need of affordable phone or internet access.
Another restriction or requirement is that all participants should rectify their eligibility each year. This rule aims to prevent any potential abuse of the benefit. Participants have the obligation to respond to a Lifeline Provider’s requests to recertify eligibility. Those who fail to do so will be de-enrolled from the Lifeline program.
Lifeline Qualification Criteria
Eligibility requirements for Lifeline include income requirements and qualifying program participation. In Tishomingo, qualifying consumers must have an income at or below 135% of the federal poverty guideline, regardless of residing on Tribal or non-Tribal lands.
Alternatively, individuals and households can also demonstrate eligibility by proving enrollment in the following government programs:
Public Housing Assistance (FPHA) Section 8
Supplemental Security Income (SSI)
Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP)
Medicaid (SoonerCare)
Veterans Pension and Survivor Benefit
Residents live on Tribal lands may qualify for Lifeline by participating in Bureau of Indian Affairs General Assistance, Tribally-administered Temporary Assistance for Needy Families (TANF), Head Start, or Food Distribution Program Indian Reservations.
If you are still not sure, you can use the Lifeline Eligibility Pre-Screening Tool or the National Verifier application system, which is accessible through USAC or a phone or internet company participating in Lifeline, to verify your eligibility. These online tools walk you through a series of questions about your household size, income, and participation in assistance programs. Based on your responses, the tools will indicate whether you are likely eligible for the Lifeline discount.
Applying for the Lifeline benefit
The application process for the Lifeline program is straightforward and offers multiple convenient options to suit your needs. You have the flexibility to apply online, by mail, or in person, depending on your preference.
Applying online is often the quickest and most efficient method. This paperless process allows your information to be processed immediately, speeding up the approval timeline. The online application also walks you through all the required details, reducing the risk of errors or omissions. If the Lifeline National Verifier is not able to prove your qualification with only the information you submitted, you may be required to provide official documents as proof. Typically, you have 45 days to finish your application.
You may also apply for the benefit through a participating service provider, like EASY Wireless. They are able to help you assess your eligibility, guide you through the application process, and provide additional support you may need during the application process. You can use the “Companies Near Me” tool to locate a participating service provider near you.
As soon as your application is approved, you have 90 days to choose a service provider and select a eligible service plan to start enjoying the benefit. You can also apply your Lifeline benefit to an existing plan offered by your current company (if it participates in the program). At EASY Wireless, qualifying for Lifeline means you could get access to FREE unlimited talk, text, and even unlimited data, on one of the largest National networks, and even a free smartphone.
Getting a FREE smartphone through Lifeline
When you apply for the Lifeline program through EASY Wireless, you may be entitled to additional discounts that can make your cell phone plan effectively free.
Under the current arrangement, qualifying consumers for Lifeline are eligible for the EASY Wireless Unlimited Plan, which includes FREE unlimited data, talk and text. If you meet specific conditions, you may also get a FREE phone!
Drop by one of the EASY Wireless’s retail stores today! Our customer service agents will help you apply for the benefits. Alternatively, you can simply get started with EASY Wireless by clicking the below:
Start Saving Today!
Refer-a-Friend for Extra Benefits
If you have friends who are also looking for free phones and service plans, don’t hesitate to refer our services to them. Our refer-a-friend program gives you a $25 account credit for every person you bring into the EASY family, credits that can go towards additional data or phone upgrades.
Need More Than Just One Line of Service or an Additional Phone?
EASY Wireless is a leading provider and a full-service cellular store that cares about all of your communication needs. We have a wide range of pre-paid plans for every budget and usage requirement. Also, we offer a selection of brand-name phones that combine quality, reliability, and the latest technology.
That’s not all – we also provide an array of amazing accessories to enhance your mobile experience. At EASY Wireless, we’re dedicated to providing exceptional service and ensuring you find the perfect plan, phone, and accessories to suit your lifestyle and preferences.
Visit us for all your cell phone and wireless service needs today!
