Lifeline rules relaxed for hurricane survivors

The Federal Communications Commission (FCC) announced that people affected by Hurricane Helene, which devastated areas of the Southeast earlier this week, are eligible for Lifeline discounts on phone and internet services.

Normally a program with strict income eligibility guidelines, Chairwoman Jessica Rosenworcel said the agency temporarily waived some Lifeline requirements to help keep families connected in disaster areas.

“In the aftermath of Hurricane Helene, our thoughts are with the communities that need to rebuild and the residents who have lost loved ones or are enduring the unbearable wait to hear from family members,” said Rosenworcel. “We will continue our work to support recovery efforts, including making phone and broadband service more affordable for families through our Lifeline program.”

Households are eligible for discounted phone or internet if they receive federal disaster assistance or emergency food assistance from the Disaster Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (D-SNAP) in the areas affected by Hurricane Helene.

Lifeline ensures that qualifying low-income customers can receive a monthly discount of up to $9.25 on broadband internet or up to $5.25 on voice service.

A new procedure will soon be in place to help households apply. Once the new procedures are implemented, to apply under the waiver, visit www.lifelinesupport.org.

For other low-cost or free internet options, check out Allconnect’s guide.

Written by:

Robin Layton

Senior Editor, Broadband Content

Robin Layton is a Senior Editor for the broadband marketplace Allconnect. She built her internet industry expertise writing and editing on the site since January 2020, as well as on Allconnect’s sister site MYMO… Read more

Edited by:

Anine Sus

Editor I

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