The Pennsylvania Public Utility Commission (PUC) is highlighting Sept. 8 through Sept. 14 as Digital Connectivity and Lifeline Awareness Week, joining a national effort to help income-eligible Pennsylvanians stay connected through the Lifeline Program.

“In today’s connected world, access to voice and broadband services isn’t just convenient – it’s essential for emergency help, government services, community resources, and family, among many other things,” said PUC Chairman Stephen M. DeFrank. “Digital Connectivity and Lifeline Awareness Week is a timely reminder that financial constraints shouldn’t leave anyone without phone or internet service simply because they cannot afford it. With the Affordable Connectivity Program (ACP) funding now ended, we urge consumers to explore other programs to help keep them connected.”

Lifeline Program Benefits

Lifeline is a federal program that provides a $5.25 per household, per month discount on your qualifying landline or wireless standalone voice service or a $9.25 per household, per month discount on your qualifying wireless or landline internet service or qualifying bundled telephone/internet service product from a landline or wireless provider. The discount appears in the form of a reduction to the bill you pay your service provider.

The benefit can be used for voice (telephone), Broadband Internet Access Service (or BIAS, usually called internet service), or a combined telephone/internet service product from a landline or wireless provider.

A consumer qualifies for Lifeline if they are at or below 135% of the federal poverty guidelines or participate in specific federal programs, including: Medicaid, Supplemental Security Income (SSI), Veterans’ Pension and Survivor Benefit, Federal Public Housing Assistance (FPHA), and Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP).

Other Low-Income Broadband Programs Available

Former participants of the Affordable Connectivity Program (ACP) are encouraged to apply for the Lifeline Program if they are not already a participant, and to reach out to their provider to see if there are other lower cost options available. In addition to the Lifeline Program, several broadband providers offer their own low-cost or low-income programs to help PA consumers.