Washington, DC — October 11, 2024 — The Federal Communications Commission today took quick action to assist people impacted by Hurricane Milton by providing discounted phone and broadband service through its Lifeline program and adjusted its requirements so any qualifying survivors of similar natural disasters can also access this support to stay connected. The agency voted to temporarily waive certain Lifeline program eligibility rules to ensure that consumers receiving federal disaster assistance can easily apply for and enroll in the Lifeline program. Households are also eligible for the Lifeline program if they receive emergency food assistance from the Disaster Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (D-SNAP) in the areas affected by Hurricane Milton. The agency previously voted to temporarily waive these Lifeline eligibility rules to assist survivors of Hurricane Helene.
The Lifeline program currently offers qualifying low-income consumers discounts on fixed or mobile voice or broadband internet access service, as well as on bundled service. Qualifying low-income consumers can receive an up to $9.25 monthly discount on Lifeline-supported broadband internet access service or an up to $5.25 monthly discount on Lifeline-supported voice service. Lifeline consumers residing on qualifying Tribal lands can receive up to a $34.25 monthly discount on Lifeline-supported service.
Today’s waiver allows households to enter the Lifeline program if they are receiving individual assistance from the Federal Emergency Management Agency’s (FEMA) Individuals and Households Program (IHP) as a result of the impacts of Hurricane Milton. This builds on the relief granted by the agency earlier this week to prevent existing Lifeline subscribers from being disconnected in the areas affected by Hurricane Milton while they recover from the storm’s effects.
The Universal Service Administrative Company (USAC), the Lifeline program administrator, has put into effect a procedure to allow consumers to apply through this new eligibility category. To obtain information about Lifeline, or apply under the waiver, visit https://www.lifelinesupport.org/.
