What is Lifeline and how do I qualify?   

Lifeline is the FCC’s program to help make communications services more affordable for low-income consumers. To participate in the Lifeline program, consumers must either have an income that is at or below 135% of the Federal Poverty Guidelines or participate in certain federal assistance programs, such as the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP), Medicaid, Federal Public Housing Assistance, Supplemental Security Income, the Veterans and Survivors Pension Benefit, or certain Tribal Programs. 

The Lifeline program is administered in Oregon by the Oregon Public Utilities Commission and is combined with other state government funding that reduces the monthly cost of phone or broadband service for qualifying low-income Oregon households. If you qualify, you could get one of the following benefits of the program with a participating service provider in your area:

• Receive a discount on your phone bill of up to $19.25 per month;

• Receive a discount on your broadband bill of up to $21.25 per month; or

• Receive free cell phone and data service

How do I apply for Lifeline benefits in Oregon? 

Contact Oregon PUC Lifeline Program Staff 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. Monday through Friday.

Call:

800-848-4442 or 503-373-7171

TTY - 800-648-3458 or 503-378-6962

Videophone: 971-239-5845

Email: puc.rspf@state.or.us