TOPEKA - Phone and internet services are vital to accessing healthcare and community services, finding employment, and calling for help in an emergency. However, the cost to stay connected is out of reach for many Kansans.

In observance of National Digital Connectivity and Lifeline Awareness Week, September 7-13, the Kansas Corporation Commission joins utility regulators nationwide in creating awareness of the program offerings and encourages those in need of assistance to apply.

Lifeline provides combined federal and state discounts of up to $17.02 per month to help pay for residential or wireless phone service, internet, or a bundled phone and internet plan. Subscribers living on tribal lands qualify for additional discounts. Currently, nearly 8.6 million Americans, including 19,500 Kansans, are enrolled in the program.

Eligibility is based on income (at or below 135% of the Federal Poverty Guidelines) or participation in certain assistance programs such as:

• Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP)
• Medicaid, Supplemental Security Income (SSI)
• Federal Public Housing Assistance (FHPA)
• Veterans Pension & Survivors Pension Benefit
• Bureau of Indian Affairs General Assistance
• Tribally Administered Temporary Assistance for Needy Families
• Head Start Tribal Programs (income based)
• The Food Distribution Program on Tribal Lands

In addition, the Safe Connections Act (SCA) of 2022 helps survivors of domestic violence, human trafficking and related crimes get discounted phone, internet or bundled services through the Lifeline program. Those who qualify under SCA can receive up to six months of emergency Lifeline support and their privacy will be protected. Details are available at https://www.lifelinesupport.org/survivor-benefit/.

More information on income eligibility, participating Lifeline providers, and the enrollment process is available on the KCC’s website or by calling 800-662-0027.