Vermont

Lifeline Telephone Service Credit

The Lifeline Telephone Service Credit offers eligible Vermonters a discount of at least $9

Agency
Vermont Department of Taxes
Type
State Resource
Phone
1-800-622-4496
Application Period
Income Limit
Visit Website

The Lifeline Telephone Service Credit offers eligible Vermonters a discount of at least $9.25 off their monthly phone bills. Note: not all phone companies participate.

The Lifeline Telephone Service Credit offers eligible Vermonters a discount of at least $9.25 off their monthly phone bills. Note: not all phone companies participate.

Eligibility Requirements

Eligible Vermonters for the Lifeline program.

Images & PDFs

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Impact Reports

Connecting Communities: The Importance of Lifeline Programs

1/10/2023 | Coverage: national

This national study emphasizes the role of Lifeline programs in bridging communication gaps for low-income families, highlighting economic pressures and social isolation.

Source: National Service Agency

Coverage Area: national

Economic Benefits of Lifeline: A Study of Telecommunications Assistance

8/25/2021 | Coverage: national

This research explores the economic benefits of Lifeline services, demonstrating how these programs support low-income households in coping with rising living expenses.

Source: American Psychological Association

Coverage Area: national

Lifeline Telephone Service: A Vital Resource for Vermont Residents

5/15/2022 | Coverage: state

This report outlines how the Lifeline Telephone Service helps low-income Vermonters maintain essential communication during financial hardships, particularly during the COVID-19 pandemic.

Source: Vermont Department of Public Service

Coverage Area: state

Program Timeline

Eligibility Expansion

6/29/2012

The Lifeline program expanded eligibility criteria to include additional low-income programs.

Party: Democratic

Lifeline Program Modernization

12/20/2005

The FCC updated Lifeline rules to include wireless providers, allowing broader access to communication services.

Party: Bipartisan

Telecommunications Act of 1996

2/8/1996

This landmark legislation expanded Lifeline benefits and set guidelines for telecommunication services for low-income individuals.

Bill: Telecommunications Act of 1996
Party: Bipartisan

Lifeline Telephone Service Program Established

8/1/1985

The Lifeline program was created to provide discounts on phone service for low-income individuals and families.

Party: Bipartisan

FAQ

To apply for the Lifeline program in Vermont, you can complete an application online through your telecommunications provider's website or the Lifeline National Verifier website. After submitting your application, you may need to provide additional documentation to prove your eligibility.

Reference: https://www.lifelinesupport.org/

Ensure that you follow the instructions provided by your chosen application method to avoid delays.

The Lifeline Telephone Service Credit is a federal program designed to make telecommunications services more affordable for low-income households. It provides a monthly discount on phone or internet service, helping to ensure that eligible individuals have access to essential communication services.

Reference: https://www.fcc.gov/lifeline

Eligibility for the Lifeline program varies by state and specific circumstances. Please check with local providers for the most accurate information.

In Vermont, individuals may qualify for the Lifeline program if their household income is at or below 135% of the Federal Poverty Guidelines, or if they participate in certain assistance programs such as Medicaid, Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP), or Supplemental Security Income (SSI).

To determine your eligibility for the Lifeline program, consider the following checklist:

  • Check if your household income is at or below 135% of the Federal Poverty Guidelines.
  • Verify if you are enrolled in a qualifying assistance program (e.g., Medicaid, SNAP).
  • Have necessary documentation ready for application (income proof, program participation).

Ensuring you meet these criteria can streamline your application process.

If you are looking to apply for the Lifeline program, consider the following action items:

  1. Visit the official Lifeline website to access application forms.
  2. Contact your current phone or internet service provider to inquire about discounts.
  3. Prepare documentation that verifies your eligibility status.

Taking these steps will help you effectively apply for the Lifeline Telephone Service Credit.

Reference: https://publicservice.vermont.gov/consumer-assistance/lifeline

This information is subject to change, and applicants should verify eligibility requirements directly with the relevant authorities.

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