By The opinion
Nov 10, 2023, 1:40 PM EST
The federal government has several aid programs for lower-income families, including so they can cover the cost of the telephone line and internet.
The Lifeline program helps low-income individuals and families obtain discounts on telephone or Internet services, says the federal government.
“Lifeline can help you pay for your landline, cell phone (wireless) or Internet service. “You may be eligible for Lifeline based on your income and household size or if you receive benefits from a federal assistance program,” it is noted.
People can be evaluated based on their income, but also considering their use of other social assistance programs, such as SNAP food stamps and Medicaid.
Who receives help according to their income
Individuals or families You can get Lifeline if your income is 135% or less than the federal poverty guidelineswhich are basically the same in all 48 states, except in Alaska and Hawaii, where different tables apply.
Each year, the federal government updates the Federal Poverty Guidelines. For example, those of 2023 establish that a household with a person with income of up to $19,698 dollars annually can apply for help.
In the case of an average family of four people, that amount amounts to $40,500 dollars annually, to be considered as a possible beneficiary of financial support for paying for telephone and internet.
A large family of eight members would have to receive a total income of $68,000 annually to be eligible for support.
Those amounts vary in Alaska and Hawaii, due to the cost of living. For example, in Alaska a family of two can apply for aid if they receive up to $33,264 dollars annually, while for an Alaskan unit the amount is $30,618. The national average for two people in a family is $26,622 annually.
“For each additional person add: $6,939,” indicates the federal government on how to calculate per family.
“You may need to show proof of income, such as a tax return or three consecutive pay stubs, when you apply for Lifeline,” it warns.
Families whose members receive at least SNAP or Medicaid could also apply for support.
Where to request help for telephone and internet
The Federal Communications Commission (FCC) made available:
– The getinternet.gov website (in Spanish)
– Details can be found in Lifeline Support
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