Telephone Discount Program

Lifeline is a federal program that helps limited income consumers pay for their telephone and internet services by providing a monthly discount. The cost of the program is shared by all telephone customers. In Maryland the program is called Tel-Life.

Do I qualify for Lifeline services?

How do I sign up for new Lifeline services?

What services are covered by Lifeline?

What do the terms “fixed”, “mobile”, and “broadband” mean?

Do Lifeline service providers have to offer devices (landline, wireless, or smart phones) at no cost?

What is the difference between a cell phone and a smart phone?

Will I automatically get internet as a part of my Lifeline package?

Are there minimum service standards?

What are the Lifeline program rules?

Once I enroll, can I transfer my Lifeline benefit from one Lifeline provider to another?

What if I have problems with a Lifeline provider? Where do I make a complaint?