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State Representative John Ward
100 Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Blvd.
651-296-4333
For more information contact: Ted Modrich 651-296-5809
Press/News Releases
REP. WARD ENCOURAGES ELIGIBLE RESIDENTS TO APPLY FOR TELEPHONE SERVICE DISCOUNTS
ST. PAUL, MN – State Representative John Ward (DFL – Brainerd) is encouraging low-income residents to apply for Lifeline and Link-Up discounts on basic telephone service. In a world of ever increasing connectivity, life without basic telephone service seems unthinkable. Despite this, many Americans do not have the means for even this basic service and in these hard economic times the need is growing.
Lifeline and Link Up are programs that help provide access to phone service for people who otherwise may not be able to afford it. Link Up provides a discount on the cost of setting up phone service while Lifeline discounts the monthly bill as much as $10 per month. Minnesota's Telephone Assistance Program (TAP) provides an additional $2.50 discount on the monthly bill.
“Having access to a phone is an essential way to stay connected in our daily lives and a service every American should have access to," said Rep. Ward. “Without a telephone people are unable to contact emergency services if an accident happens or check in on loved ones.
“Telephone service can also be absolutely essential for job searching and staying in touch with an employer. I strongly encourage anyone who may be eligible for these discounts to apply.”
To qualify for discounts, telephone service must be in the applicant’s name, and they must participate in at least one of the qualifying public assistance programs: Medicaid/Medical Assistance, Food Support (food stamps), Minnesota Family Investment Program (MFIP), Supplemental Security Income (SSI), Federal Housing Assistance (Section 8), Temporary Assistance to Needy Families (TANF), Low Income Home Energy Assistance (LIHEAP), National School Free Lunch Program; or their income must be at or below 135% of the federal poverty guidelines.
While the discounts are primarily only offered by traditional landline telephone providers, some wireless companies in Minnesota are also participating in the programs. If interested, residents should contact their mobile provider for availability.
For an application or more information contact your local phone company, visit www.puc.state.mn.us or www.lifeline.gov, call the Minnesota Public Utilities Commission at 651-296-0406 or 1-800-657-3782, or email consumer.puc@state.mn.us.
If residents have any additional questions about the application process, they can also contact Rep. Ward at (651) 296- 4333, or 1-800-683-4205, by mail at 221 State Office Building, 100 Martin Luther King Blvd., St. Paul, MN 55155 or via e-mail at rep.john.ward@house.mn.
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