Bill Assistance
Lifeline Internet Bill Assistance
LIFELINE
LifeLine is funded through the Universal Service Fund, and it also provides discounted internet service for low-income consumers. The Lifeline discount is available only to eligible residential internet customers, and program participants will receive a monthly credit on their Lake Region Fiber bill.
Only one Lifeline benefit is allowed per household. The discount can be applied to either a wireline or wireless service.
Lifeline Discount: Up to $34.25/month for internet service To be eligible for Lifeline, you must meet income-based requirements or participate in one of the following programs
- Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP)
- Medicaid
- Federal Public Housing Assistance
- Supplemental Security Income (SSI)
- Veterans Pension Benefits
- Certain Tribal Assistance Programs
ELIGIBILITY
Your eligibility to participate in LifeLine must be verified by the Universal Service Administrative Co using the LifeLine National Verifier. Lifeline benefits are non-transferable. One household can receive LifeLine benefits, but a household cannot receive Lifeline benefits from multiple providers.
If you are a person with a disability and need assistance with your Lifeline application, contact the Lifeline Support Center at lifelinesupport.org or call 800-234-9473.
LIFELINE RENEWAL PROCESS
Current Lifeline recipients must renew their benefits every year. The Lifeline program is administered by the Universal Service Administrative Co. (USAC). Once each year, you will receive a renewal letter from USAC. You have 60 days from the date of your letter to renew your benefit. If you do not renew by the deadline, you will lose your Lifeline discount.
Safe Connections Act Survivors
Survivors of domestic violence or human trafficking may be eligible to receive emergency Lifeline support for up to six months under the Safe Connections Act. The Safe Connections Act also makes it easier for survivors of domestic abuse to separate their phone line from a service plan shared with their abuser. For details, visit lifelinesupport.org/survivor-benefit.
Internet Bill Assistance FAQ
How do I know if I qualify?
Lake Region cannot determine your eligibility for LifeLine assistance. You must certify your eligibility through the LifeLine National Verifier for either program.
How often do I have to get certified?
LifeLine requires consumers to re-apply annually for certification. If you fail to do so, Lake Region is required to remove the assistance credit from your account. Use the LifeLine National Verifier to recertify.
Do I have to sign a contract?
No.
How do I sign up?
Click here to check your eligibility and get the process started.
Can I use Lifeline credits to pay my past due balance?
No. The Lifeline discounts cannot be applied to past-due balances. They can only be applied to your account moving forward.
What should I do if I have a disability and need help applying for Lifeline?
If you are a person with a disability and need assistance with your Lifeline application, you can contact the Lifeline Support Center by visiting lifelinesupport.org or by calling 800-234-9473 for help.