To achieve the Universal Service goal, telephone companies have access to a fund that is generated by contributions from the telecommunications providers in the United States. Telephone companies draw from the fund to provide two programs that support telecommunications services nationwide. Lifeline Assistance Program (Lifeline) and Link-Up America (Link-Up) are part of the Fund's Low-Income Program and are described in detail below.

Lifeline and Link-Up support provide discounts to eligible low-income consumers to help them establish and maintain telephone service.

What type of discount is available?

Link-Up reduces the cost of initiating (starting) new telephone services. Eligible consumers can receive a 50% discount off the one-time costs associated with initiating telephone service, up to a maximum of $30.00. Eligible consumers also qualify for a deferred payment schedule for remaining costs of up to $200.00.
Lifeline assistance lowers the cost of basic monthly local telephone service. Eligible consumers will receive a $8.25 discount off their normal monthly local service charge. Lifeline service is limited to one line per household at the customer's primary residence.

How do I know if I am eligible?

Individuals are eligible if he or she participates (or the household) in one of the following programs:

• Low-Income Home Energy
• Federal Public Housing Assistance or Section 8
• Medicaid
• Food Stamps
• Supplemental Security Income (SSI)
• Temporary Assistance for Needy Families (TANF)
• National School Lunch Free Lunch Program (household children)

How do I apply for Lifeline and Link-Up service and receive the discounts?

• Visit or call your local telephone company.
• Contact Lifelink Certification, LLC if you do not know your telephone company or you wish to contact a company that con help you through the application process. Call toll free in Arkansas at 1-866-886-5465 or write to P.O. Box 1714, Malvern, AR 72104. You will receive assistance or an application in the mail.