In these economically challenging times, it is important that everyone know about the assistance available to help people stay connected and have access to vital telephone service. "Lifeline" and "Link-Up" are two assistance programs that provide discounts to low-income consumers on basic residential telephone service. While these programs have been active for years, half of the consumers eligible fail to take advantage of these discounts.
The basic concept of the discounts is simple: Lifeline involves discounts on the monthly charges for telephone services, and Link-Up involves a discount on the cost of initiating the service. The discount is available for a primary residential telephone, even a wireless phone.
For more information about this service, visit the NYS Public Service Commission at www.AskPSC.com or call the HELPLINE at 1-800-342-3377.