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Major announcement: FCC introduces Lifeline Broadband
This is the news that millions of low-income Americans have wanted to hear for years: The Federal Communications Commission just expanded the Lifeline Assistance free government cell phone program and it now includes internet service. In fact, the FCC is changing the whole emphasis of the Lifeline program from free government cell phones to Lifeline Broadband.
This exciting news was revealed in a memo from Federal Communications Commission Chairman Thomas Wheeler. (In fact, this is such exciting news that we’re honestly surprised it wasn’t revealed in a public ceremony complete with puffed-up politicians fighting for camera time, champagne toasts and confetti streaming down from the rafters.)
How much Internet will you get?
You’ll be able to get Lifeline Broadband in two flavors: fixed broadband (cable or DSL) or mobile (on your phone). You’ll be able to choose which is more important to you: a fixed high-speed broadband connection in your home, or free smartphone service with unlimited minutes that comes with a modest amount of internet usage.
Fixed Lifeline Broadband: The new ruling has opened up an entirely new category of Lifeline provider called the Lifeline Broadband Provider. Lifeline Service Providers who accept the FCC’s Lifeline subsidy are required to provide 150GB of data usage per month. If you don’t understand data numbers, that’s practically unlimited for the average user. And you will have 10 Mbps download and 1 Mbps upload speeds, which is considered roughly the average low-priced offering available today.
Mobile Lifeline Broadband: As for mobile internet, some Lifeline phone service providers already offer some data with their Lifeline phone plans (often referred to as Obama Phones), but they are primarily voice and texting plans. the FCC will require Lifeline phone providers to begin including a minimum of 500 MB of Internet data allowance per month by December 1 of this year. That minimum standard will gradually increase to 2 GB per month by the end of 2018. After that time, the FCC will decide if it should be again raised. 3G will be the minimum speed at least until 2019. In addition, voice plans will be required to offer unlimited voice.
What will Lifeline Broadband cost?
The Lifeline Assistance program was born in 2008 when Safelink Wireless handed out the first free government cell phone to some lucky customer in Tennessee. The FCC expects similar companies to spring to life and begin competing in its new Lifeline Broadband program.
This is all conjecture on our part, but here’s what what we anticipate that the final Lifeline line-up will look like:
Some of those new Lifeline Broadband Providers will figure out a way to offer high-speed broadband service for free (in other words, the $9.25 subsidy per account per month will be their only source of income)
Others will figure out how to offer that service at greatly reduced monthly rates (in other words, they may resemble current programs such as Comcast’s Internet Essentials that costs low-income consumers a mere $9.95 per month)
Some major Internet service providers (such as Verizon, AT&T, Sprint, etc) will merely discount their standard Internet plans by $9.25 per month. (In other words, they will do what the bare minimum required of them by the new edicts and nothing more.)
Faster and easier to qualify
The FCC created the National Lifeline Accountability Database (NLAD) as a weapon to crack down on fraud, waste and abuse in the Lifeline Assistance free government cell phone program. That same program is now being expanded to include Lifeline Broadband service, making the NLAD has even more important.
When you sign up for a Lifeline Broadband, your name will immediately be checked against the database to make sure you aren’t already enrolled for a subsidized account. Wait time will be substantially decreased because the check will be performed in real-time. (Of course, that also means that you can be denied in real time if you’re trying to sign up for a fraudulent second Lifeline account.)
How does this impact current low-income Internet providers?
As a result of prior legal settlements, the FCC requires companies such as Comcast and CenturyLink to offer low-cost programs such as Internet Essentials and Internet Basics. These programs are restricted to low-income Americans and generally cost the consumer $9.95 per month.
Will the introduction of Lifeline Broadband make these programs obsolete and force them to gradually disappear? Or will companies such as Comcast and CenturyLink make a few simple changes and transform themselves into Lifeline Broadband Providers?
Comcast seems committed to bringing it’s Internet Essentials program to millions of low-income Americans (although skeptics say Comcast is similar to a drug dealer hanging around a junior high campus, selling his drugs cheaply in order to hook a few more kids and assure himself of future customers), so we wouldn’t be surprised to see it transition into a Lifeline Broadband Provider. CenturyLink, on the other hand, seems far less committed to the program and we would be equally surprised if they don’t exit the cheap Internet business as soon as possible.
Our best guess? Some will, some won’t.
If that sounds like we’re not taking a position, blame it on the fact that we blew all our earlier predictions on the timing of Lifeline Broadband and don’t want to embarrass ourselves again.
Lifeline Broadband: The answer to millions of prayers
Several years ago we predicted that Lifeline Broadband would be introduced by the end of 2014. When that forecast turned out we were overly optimistic, we fearlessly amended that prediction and said it would be introduced by mid-2015. Once again we were overly optimistic about the speed at which government would move.
Prior predictions aside, no one is happier to see this FCC action than we are. We know that millions of low-income Americans will see Lifeline Broadband as a godsend — something that can help them land the jobs they so desperately need, something that can help their kids get better grades in school, something that the truly need to survive and thrive in 21st century America.
And for that we wish to thank all the politicians who fought for this program and all the FCC bureaucrats who worked so hard to make it happen.
Unfortunately, the F.C.C. killed the Lifeline Broadband program. However, there are a number of other low-income plans that may be exactly what you need. Check them all out at this link:
So families get this very desirable program. What about us seniors (I am 85) who maybe don’t have all that much longer to use the internet, when do we get a break. For some, like myself, it is the only means of communication as I also have a voice defect and am unable to use the phone for conversation.
Unfortunately, Lifeline died a slow, painful death because of politics. But there are a number of other low-income internet plans in which you can enroll, Pamela. Check them all out at the link below to find the one that fits your needs best:
It appears that Lifeline Broadband is dead in the water due to changes just announced by the Federal Communications Commission. We’re preparing an article that will explain it all very soon.
My question of “do you see some major changes in policy coming to the Lifeline program short or long term now?” – back dated in the article “Cheap internet is here: 22 companies to offer Lifeline Broadband” on December 9, 2016 at 1:22 pm – two or three pages back in it from landing page.
WELL – not even the first 100 days has passed now and we get this – while EU improves the situation with people’s privacy step by step, the US government does the opposite. . .
The U.S. Federal Communications Commission has voted to roll back some net neutrality regulations that require broadband providers to inform customers about their network management practices.
The Republican-controlled FCC on Thursday suspended the net neutrality transparency requirements for broadband providers with fewer than 250,000 subscribers. Critics called the decision anticonsumer.
The transparency rule, waived for five years in a 2-1 party-line vote Thursday, requires broadband providers to explain to customers their pricing models and fees as well as their network management practices and the impact on broadband service.
The commission had previously exempted ISPs with fewer than 100,000 subscribers, but Thursday’s decision expands the number of ISPs not required to inform customers. Only about 20 U.S. ISPs have more than 250,000 subscribers.
The five-year waiver may be moot, however. FCC Chairman Ajit Pai and Republicans in Congress are considering ways to scrap a large chunk of the net neutrality regulations approved by the agency just two years ago.
Small ISPs have argued the transparency rules amount to burdensome and costly regulations, while consumer advocates have argued that broadband customers have the right to know when a provider is throttling traffic. The exemption will allow small ISPs to redirect the money they spend on compliance, Pai said.
“I firmly believe that these ISPs should spend their limited capital building out better broadband to rural America, not hiring lawyers and accountants to fill out unnecessary paperwork demanded by Washington, D.C.,” he said.
However, the White House Office of Management and Budget, under former President Barack Obama, found that compliance with the transparency rules takes each broadband provider less than seven hours a year, noted Commissioner Mignon Clyburn, a Democrat. The new waiver exempts some large companies with smaller broadband subsidiaries from the transparency rules, she said.
“In an ongoing quest to dismantle basic consumer protections for broadband services, the majority has decided to exempt billion-dollar public companies from being transparent with consumers,” Clyburn added. “This represents yet another in a series of steps being taken to jettison pro-consumer initiatives.”
The commission’s two Republicans defended the change. In January, the House of Representatives passed a bill with a similar exemption in a voice vote with no dissenters, Commissioner Michael O’Rielly noted.
The vote represents a “sensible and soundly justifiable exemption for small internet service providers from unnecessary and expensive” regulations, O’Rielly said.
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Note that the full article I’ve sited stated that “The Republican-controlled FCC”, so I can’t help but think they are also sizing up the USAC – Lifeline program as well with it’s fat budget and revenue streams – as the cuts across all boards they’re wanting to make. It’s only time now as they learn of ways to make the cuts and focus in on the whole government support of the poor – trying to bump it back to the States which are boarderline broke anyway.
IS IT – truly a BAD Time to be POOR in the USA and a recipient of Gov. subsidies and programs. The rich has always ran this country, but now they’re in controlling rolls of it as well from all points.
Pray for us.
Steve
PS: Regards to ISP limited capital – heck if they cut executives big multi-Million dollar bonuses and truly used that money to built out rural America broadband. Just you watch any decisions being made by the Republican-controlled FCC is going to be a chain action to a blanket effect, just watch as “the majority has decided to exempt billion-dollar public companies from being transparent with consumers” is a fact this is transpiring already.
On a side note – is that the Border Wall is a double bladed sword – not only to keep some out, but to keep all in as well.
We live in Emanuel County, GA, and we are seniors on a fixed income. I am presently using hughes net, but they keep going up on their costs; I have tried an wifi antenna, but I guess I am too far away, and can’t pick up an air wave. Can you help me find a low cost or free internet service for my area? I won’t be able to keep hughes net, unless they reduce me down to $10.00 a month or less. I have had to have some major surgeries due to a bad fall, and it is getting to expensive to be able to use the internet. Help! I have Verizon wireless for my home phone.
Unfortunately, you are correct that neither HughesNet nor Verizon participate in a low-income internet plan. But you should check out all the low-income programs found at the link below. With a little luck, one or more of them will be available in your area:
The program is moving along at a snail’s pace, Debbie. However, there are other similar programs that may solve your problem. Check out all the low-income internet plans available over at our other website, CheapInternet.com. Here’s a link:
the problem is that you don’t tell people that they can have internet OR cell phone but not both.
1 lifeline per household, internet or cellphone. so the internet is pointless to offer to people, perhaps it’s just me thinking this. what’s your thoughts on this people ???
the FCC will decide if it should be again raised. 3G will be the minimum speed at least until 2019. In addition, voice plans will be required to offer unlimited voice.
voice plans will be required to offer unlimited voice << does this start in 2019 or december 1, 2016 ?? you didn't make it clear or not, might need to update this.
This is the first news we’ve found on the Lifeline Broadband program. That’s odd because the plan is set to go into effect on December 2. We’re eagerly awaiting applications from a lot more companies.
my phone got broken in the drive so i need to see if i can replace it with another free goverment phone n to see if i can get internet with it for the house at a cheeper price im in fostoria mich 48435 does any one have any answers
thanks
Check out our other website, Rhonda. It’s called CheapInternet.com and it specializes in all the low-income internet plans. And there are a lot of them. Here’s a link to all those programs:
I desperately need assistance with affordable internet. I am working a part-time job, but can not afford the current market rate internet at $50 per mo. I live in Los Angeles and have very limited income.
What are the services that cover my area. Where can I apply for help? Please reply.
We can’t personally respond to individual commenters because of the volume of comment we receive every day, Sunny. But here’s an online response:
All the low-income plans currently available can be found at the link below. Check them all out carefully to find the ones for which you qualify that are also available in your area:
I have researched everything.These low-cost Internet programs don’t include people who don’t have children or are not on SSI.I meet the age requirement,and need this to work at home.The companies have strict computer requirements.I currently have ATT Internet w/ 3.42 download
and .52 upload. What can I do?I also receive food stamps.Thanks,Maria Teresa
What about people who live in rural areas? There is no cable or DSL service available in many rural areas. The local phone and cable company say they will be out here in 3 – 5 years. This make the only options for this area satellite or a service that is wireless. These both run around $80+ a month.
A Godsend Indeed! I’ve spent months Agonizing over which service or bill to pay, or skip; have gone through 4 different Budgeting Programs unsuccessfully, in spite of being Frugal to a Fault! I’ve been Hung-Up on, placed on Interminable Holds, w/ crappy Music, just so I could get an EXEMPTION from the 90 days w/o their Service (Int Essentials) to be able to get it sooner, as due to several dis-Abilities I depend on the Internet for my very Independent Survival, outside a Nursing Home. What displeases me most is, I’m a Trained Investigative Journalist, and I’ve wasted so much time seeking this out! Imagine what others must go through. Thus–though w/ Internet issue still unresolved–I’m Grateful for having dug long enough til I found this site, with this Info. (I just hope and pray that IF Whoever–other than Jill Stein, gets elected–they will LV THESE PROGRAMS ALONE, and in Place). We, the former Middle Class, have had it, w/ Flat Below Poverty Level Incomes, and Rising Costs…
i have locost internet thru PCS refurbished due to your newsletter info and cut chord w/comcast finally since had to go w/out 90 days of internet. been very pleased w/service other than cost of hotspot but still have landline phone w/comcast since hearing impaired and safe link phone i have is difficult to hear .do you know how and when lifeline phone service for smartphones will be available.i am 65,disabled,live in federal housing plan. pay 55.00 for landline so looking for low-cost phone service w/smartphone features or hearing aids compatibility. live in boston,ma.
thankyou for providing great info. now that i’m past 60 days would be eligible for comcast internet essentials.is there any advantage over pcs refurbished? thanks,
We’re very happy to hear that you’re pleased with your service, Jeannine. We hear so many complaints here that a comment like yours is a breath of fresh air.
According to recent FCC news, every Lifeline phone will need to be a smartphone as of December 1, 2016. But it’s possible to get a smartphone before that date. For example, Q Link now offers smartphones to every NEW customer (the current customers kind of get screwed on this deal). Most other companies also allow you to upgrade to a smartphone for a small fee.
One thing you said confuses us. You referred to PCS refurbished. Are you referring to PCs for People? If so, our readers usually tell us they are very happy with that company’s service.
Is there any opportunities for employment with these new programs in states such as California to sign people up like they do with cell phones? If so, who are they? I would like to get involved.
Good question, Donald. Much to our surprise, not one company has announced its Lifeline Broadband plans, so we can’t give you an accurate answer. But keep visiting CheapInternet.com because we’ll report the news as soon as it’s available.
Any idea if Straight Talk will be offering Lifeline Mobile Broadband?
I know the parent company is America Movil which runs Safelink wireless. But I ‘ve been using Straight Talk for 5-6 years or more and love the Verizon coverage I get with my phone. Would love to have the same service.
The one who monitors and answers this topic = “Major announcement: FCC introduces Lifeline Broadband”, article here.
WOW I’d have to give you 10 points and 5 Gold Stars for your compassion and of the straightforward details you offer in that of your answers. Great Job…
All C I Administrator are not created equal, I really don’t know how many of you there are but, in to many articles I find answers of flip, short, and the referral of some link(s) to elsewhere on your site used to close out and shut down people, without really answering a question as you do. (Your sister site is also guilty of this).
So I find that of your answers are not only sincere but helpful as if your answering to things that you – yourself have an interest in, or are possibly wanting to teach and not just spilling forth something as a game and then saying to yourself – I answered. Which seems to be the case all to often here at this site, as well as on FGCP site.
If it’s a case of burnout then please hire more administrators like yourself and cut loose these others. They evidently don’t realize how to treat people as you do and offer some real help of their self.
Keep up the things you do and hopefully other CIA will catch that of your great attitude and answer differently from now on…
We think the real issue here, Steve, is that it would drive a sane man mad if he had to give full answers to the same questions over and over and over again when the answers can easily be found in other articles on the site. So instead of answering that same question in full over and over again, all sites (this one included) resort to the shorthand method of simply linking to an article that contains the answer to the reader question.
And in regard to our moderators’ temperaments, everyone has good days and bad days and everyone has different frustration thresholds. We like to give our moderators a bit of free rein to express their own personalities and perhaps they sometimes express them a little too colorfully. But that’s what freedom of expression is all about.
National Lifeline Association Appoints New Board Members.
KENNETT SQUARE March 14th, 2016 – The National Lifeline Association announces today the appointment of two new board members for a three-year term beginning June 2016: Life Wireless President William Curry and Kim Lehrman, President of enTouch Wireless. The national organization supports Lifeline recipients, providers, and supporters through education, cooperation, and advocacy.
The National Lifeline Association is the only industry trade group specifically focused on the Lifeline segment of telecommunications. We support the 4 essential pieces of Lifeline: ETCs & Providers, Distributors, Lifeline Supporters & Participants, and Government & Regulatory Bodies. We are passionate about the continuity and advancement of the Lifeline program and we drive this vision by providing education, cooperation, and advocacy.
Hi there, I saw an ad for Comcast’s Internet Essentials program & contacted them. Since I have existing service with Comcast I am unable to transition over without a 90 day lapse in this service. I’m not certain when this all started however I’ve called Comcast numerous times with my concerns with ever rising fees while I’m living on a fixed SSDI income. It seems as if your analogy in the article feels apt. Truth is Comcast has never been about retention of customers but rather bringing in more customers to buy into their programs. So, in western Massachusetts what other options are there?
Thank you
We cannot determine which programs are available in western Massachusetts, but we can help you with a list of plans available somewhere in the state. Here’s a link to that info:
So if I sign up right now for AT&T’s “no commitment / access now” plan for low income, when the “Lifeline” broadband program begins I might not be eligible for it with AT&T because I am an existing customer? But shouldn’t worry because the competition between carriers would mean I could get it with another internet carrier?
Also, if I currently have AT&T Lifeline on my home (landline) phone, I would not be eligible for Lifeline broadband internet on my home internet? (Note: I do not have a Lifeline/ Obama cell phone)
Excellent questions, Mark.
First, your reasoning is absolutely correct. You should be able to sign up for Access from AT&T now and then sign up with another service provider when Lifeline Broadband begins. At least that’s the theory. We’ll have to wait and see if it all works out the way the FCC expects.
Finally, no, you cannot have a Lifeline discount on your home phone and Lifeline broadband. However, the FCC is encouraging companies to offer bundles that would include multiple services.
These laws are discriminatory against individuals with certain kinds of disabilities and single income households. I have been over paying for my phone for years to have internet on it because I am in an electric wheelchair and depend upon it.
My present phone is a few years old and many things no longer work on it. If I replace it through my present carrier, they will force me to change to one of their newer plans that are even more expensive – they have been under handedly trying to force it for years even though they make a great amount of money off of me with unused portions of my plan – they are greedy.
I have not been able to afford nor justify the cost for regular internet at my apartment in part because of having to pay so much to have it on my phone. It costs a great deal to change carriers. I have many times I am bedridden and have neither internet nor cable to help me cope through the frustration.
I recently met someone who had gotten an obama phone and it was pathetically rinky dink. My phone is getting worse. I told myself if I saw an obama phone that did not look too bad I would get it for fear of my phone going out completely. I can not afford both a cell and a landline and with the electric wheelchair and my disabilities, I need the cell phone.
I got the obama phone with a near useless amount of internet on it and no use as a hotspot for my laptop which I need since I do all my bill paying electronically and rely upon the internet for shopping because of my limited mobility.
Then I find out I still can not get regular internet and am out getting it on my laptop to pay bills and do shopping. The phone screen is too small to do that much internet and no phone I have ever had has been that reliable for shopping and banking especially 0 – not even email.
YOu didn’t say where you live, Elizabeth, but it’s possible that one of the low-income Internet plans will work for you. Check them all out, particularly the PCs for People plan:
I live in East Bend, NC and can’t find any company who offers internet service in my area. What are the people in my community’s supposed to do , any suggestions?
We don’t know where East Bend is, Angela, but we assume it’s a pretty rural if no one offers Internet in your area. It’s a matter of economics for the cable TV companies. For example, if they can install a mile of cable in the city and enroll 1000 customers, they can make a profit. But if they install another mile of cable in a rural area and enroll only ten customers,they lose money. It’s unfortunate, but it’s a fact of life.
If you had a laptop or tablet computer, would you be able to find wifi signals in the area? For example, every McDonalds, every Starbucks, every library and thousands of other outlets offer free wifi signals. It’s not nearly as convenient as having a signal at home, but it may be your only option.
Any ideas if companies will offer a break to those already in contracts/bundles when LL Broadband starts? I’m disabled living alone w/ SSDI my only source of income and currently have the Safelink cell phone along with Comcast/Xfinity TV/Internet (my only “luxury” in life) on a 2 yr. contract through 10/7/17. I hate the unreliabiity of X1 TV so bad if Comcast won’t give me a break to drop from “Blast” Internet to Lifeline broadband w/o penalty I may pay the $10/mo. exit fee and go back to Uverse, depending on how the bundling issue is addressed.
We have no way of knowing, Tired, but we’ll be shocked if some enterprising company doesn’t begin offering Lifeline Internet for free or really, really cheap.
Here’s an idea: Sign up for our email newsletter so that you get all the news on this exciting new program as soon as it’s available. You can sign up for it in the upper right hand corner of this page.
I heard on the news that Time Warner Cable has been bought out and wonder if that will affect them?
Right now I’m paying $52.95 plus a monthly $4.95 late fee (because my previous plan expired and I was double billed) for Internet Extreme with Free home WIFI & Starter TV for one year which expires in October 2016 which is a bit shy of the Dec. 1st launch.
I never could get caught up on the extra month of billing so there is a monthly $4.95 late fee. They don’t say how much my bill will go up this time, they never do until it expires then I get the bad news.
Yes, Time Warner has been purchased by Charter. The merger was just completed within the last couple weeks, but it is not yet known how that will impact Internet plans from either company.
Have you checked out the other low-income Internet plans available? It’s quite possible that one or more of them will work for you. Here’s where you can check them all out:
So, if I understand you clearly, by Dec 1., I will get no chance of an addt’l LifeLine cost reduction for my DSL internet service because I already get a Lifeline discount on my Landline telephone ? $55.00 monthly now is a strain. 🙁
I thought Verizon & Frontier Communications WERE 2 major/large companies…..
You are correct, Lotus. There will only be one lifeline discount per household. You will probably get a better price for bundled phone and Internet service, but just one discount.
Verizon and Frontier are major companies, but they are not merging nor is one buying the other. Therefore, the FCC’s power to make demands is limited.
Frontier , a few months ago, bought out our Verizon landline & internet service here in So. Calif. Verizon offered no low-cost internet for low-income seniors. I now called Frontier & they say the same thing. I thought it was a new gov’t requirement to offer this service when these communication companies get the gov’t approval for their sales to one another ?
I have a Lifeline Acct. on my ‘landline’ phone service. Do I have to give that up to get Lifeline DSL Broadband service for my internet service ? I already know I can’t also have a Lifeline cell phone service…….
Cable companies buy, sell and trade small service areas all the time, Lotus. But government approval is required only when two very large companies join together in a merger or buy-out situation. The situation you’re describing falls into the first category, not the second one.
In answer to your second question, you will be able to get your home landline and Lifeline Broadband service “bundled” (offered together), but you will still get just one subsidized $9.25 discount per month.
Low income intertnet. WITH ATT>COM is a farce!!!!!!! I try 3 times to get their $10.00 program. THE last time they said we will send 4th apps. AND NEVER DID!!!! It seems i sended too much proof or not the right one. I sended the right one and PLUS.It was the excat plus was too much. I AM 85 years old, HAVE section 8 housing, food stamps, medicaid. THERE ANOTHER PERSON TRYED WITH SOCIAL WORKER AND NEVER GOT A APPS. HE DROPPED I AM NEXT .
I am a disabled woman with a teenage daughter and we desperately need low cost internet. I live in Winston-Salem NC. We receive food stamp benefits. At this time, we are receiving phone service from assurance wireless. I would be happy to switch to another provider or if needs be, to choose internet service over phone service, if that is what needs to happen. So far I am unable to see what would be possible. Please help us.
The new program will not be available until December 1 unless some unknown company decides to start early. That being said, there are other low-income Internet plans that you should look into. Check them out. We sincerely hope one or more of them are available in your area:
Says – We are happy to answer any questions, comments or concerns.
They offer snail mail, email, and phone contacts as well as a site contact form there.
Have a PCs for People Tech person try to walk you through the process of connecting through Wi-Fi and any troubleshooting steps you can check.
*Could be something simple as a driver didn’t get loaded on your PC when needed.
-Also is this same thing happening when you use the USB/charger cord from the Sprint Modem to a USB port on your PC?
{This is how I use mine, stays charged up and network connected}
The Sprint Modem should handle up to 10 devices at a time with one being hardwired to a PC USB port via USB/charger cord.
Hope this is some help to you in finding answers/solutions.
Steve
Hello,
1st * * * THANK YOU & HUGS & GOD BLESS EV1 WHO WORKED ON THIS!! * * *
– – excuse the emotion — [brief rant then on to my Q] I just suffered thru another hour long phone war w/ATT re more repeat hiking rates, both Internet & phone, sneakily bilking me out of My Lifeline for the past year, more lies, Bait n Switch, etc and all with a VERY Smug Take it or Leave it attitude –so much for 42 years of loyalty.
Just once in my life I wish for one of those high-powered attorneys to bring a class action suit on behalf of all the citizens like me, and make ATT pay thru the nose for all their years of dirty sales tactics, but most all, for the torture and suffering they cause -ATT KNOWS THERE’s NO WHERE ELSE TO GO –and very aggressive in taking UTMOST ADVANTAGE of people.
I remember tweeting a reply to FCC director’s tweet few months ago that if push-comes-to-shove, I’d have to choose Internet over phone b/c Internet truly is more of my “Lifeline”. [60, disabled but always miss that wacky food stamp requirement by a few dollars –which has no relation to communication services like Lifeline phone, which is a DIRECTLY-related criteria}
I appreciate your input since I need to figure out what to do now, –even though looks like won’t be effective til Dec or Jan — HOWEVER, * * * please warn your readers to plan ahead * * *– b/c most of these co’s “fine print” have exclusions if you’re already a customer!! [along with all the xtra fees]. For me, I’ll select a cheap month to month phone co, to not get locked into a year long commitment
Thank you again for your wonderful work! […going to lie down -ATT literally gave me sick stomach].
You made our day, Dorothy. What a great, positive comment.
You are correct that Lifeline Broadband is not supposed to kick off until December 1, but we suspect that some companies will begin early to get a jump on the competition. It might be a good idea if you subscribe to our email newsletter in the upper right hand corner of this page.
Now to answer your “either/or” question: You are correct that only one Lifeline discount will be permitted per person. As we say in the article, you can choose broadband only, bundled broadband and cell phone, or cell phone only. We suspect that new companies will jump into the competition, so you may not need to worry about being ineligible because you’re currently a customer of a service provider. You’ll have options.
Dates have not yet been determined, Carol. The new rules go into effect on December 1, so we imagine that companies will all make announcements about availability before then.
If you want to keep up with the news on the new Lifeline Broadband program, you should sign up for our email newsletter in the upper right hand corner of this page.
I HAVE A LIFELINE PHONE. HOW DO I SIGN-UP FOR THE LIFELINE BROADBAND SERVICE? Another question; Why do all of these companies who offer these programs SEEM to omit Virginia out of the mix?
You cannot yet sign up for the Lifeline Broadband program. Sign-ups will be coming very soon, though, because the new guidelines begin on December 1. If you want to keep up with the news, please sign up for our email newsletter in the upper right hand corner of this page.
As far as Virginia begin omitted by some service providers, each company covers certain geographic areas. They can only offer service where they have cable or wireless networks. Virginia is covered by several companies.
BTW, I’m in a Charter service area. They haven’t offered any low income programs yet. I wonder to what extent they will participate in this new program?
We assume virtually all the companies will “participate”, but the real question is whether they will offer Internet for free, for $9.25 per month, or will merely discount their regular bills by $9.25 per month. Some companies may even jump the gun and begin before December 1.
There are only two ways to find out: (1) keep coming back here to CheapInternet.com frequently, or (2) Sign up for our email newsletter in the box at the upper right corner of this page so that you get all the news as it happens.
Thank you for your posts. If anything your research saves me precious time and frustration. However, our family bought a Sprint modem from PC’s for People and three months service. The modem will not power our computers but has given our granddaughter unlimited 3G service on her phone. Believe me, this has been wonderful because our granddaughter will not be using up our 10 gigs from Hughesnet before the end of the month! We pay a whopping $65 per month for that 10 gigs. So again instead of saving for the over 60 crowd we have a little extra peace of mind with PC’s for People. Also it is my opinion that majority of teenagers will not be using their access to the internet for homework. How do I know this. I have been working in education for 20+ years.
You get the award for Comment of the Day, Irene. You seem to have a complete understanding of teenagers. To quote our official legal expert, Judy Judy, “Do you know how to tell when a teenager is lying? Their lips move.”
Thank you so much guys, you guys are great. I really appreciate receiving the updates. I am a single working mom caring for her 93 year old grandmother, so any kind of discount helps. I reside in New York so I will definitely be on the lookout for registration. I am a lifeline customer with Verizon for my landline.
We know people love our email newsletter, but we’ve set a record today for the most people thanking us for it in Comments. Very nice to hear and we appreciate it.
If you’d like to receive all the latest news about low-income Internet, you can sign up for that newsletter in the upper right hand corner of this page.
The program is not yet available, Joselyn. Not until December 1 of this year. We’ll keep our readers aware of all the latest developments via this website and via our email newsletter. You can sign up for it in the upper right hand corner of this page.
There’s no specific date yet, Joselyn. But we’re confident that New York will be among the first to get access to the program when it begins on December 2.
I am not sure if 150 gb is enough for an average Deaf person on low-who uses Video Relay Service and Video Provider to make calls which requires high speed internet. What about the Deaf families? Will FCC and Lifeline recognize this unique need of the Deaf community for the equal access to communication via high speed service?
Thank you so much for this wonderful informative website!
Thanks for your kind words, Rob. We have to admit that we are not experts on the workings of hearing impaired equipment. Does it really eat up that much bandwidth? 150 GM is a huge amount of data. So huge, in fact, that our tech guru referred to it as “virtually unlimited” compared to most people’s usage. We’ll check into it.
can some body help me? i am paying time warner around 40 dollars a month. can some one call me and tell me how to get cheap internet please? randy downey cell phone 213703****
@Leanani Franks, Thanks to information on this web site, I’ve been using PCs for People’s LTE hotspot from Sprint with good results. I get around 10mbs+ speed from my location. If you live in Las Vegas you should get decent speed. And there’s a return period if it doesn’t work.
If you qualify it’s $10 per month if you pay for the year up front + $75 for the modem. Total cost $195 for the year.
These new lifeline plans are interesting, but meanwhile I have something.
Thanks for providing that info for Leanani and our other readers, LB. PCs for People is a great program and we tell people that all the time. The new Lifeline Broadband plans won’t be here until December which makes PCs for People a great alternative.
Wow, really good news the FCC & Lifeline is leaving the dark age’s. To bad it’s mostly years later than your initial call out. But you still predicted it, Government wheels move oh so slow any way…
Can’t wait for your updates and further info. on the Lifeline Broadband offerings. 3G is not so good when 5G is in the works with some networks as I have read lately. Hard-wired versa Mobile is always good to have choices – but the usage offerings are to low for todays age and time we all live in, don’t you think?
Sure some hurdles but, if your in their Sprint coverage and on any Government assistance program or meet it’s low-income ranks – makes it a worth while program for many (like me), and it’s available NOW – NOT waiting till DEC. 1st, 2016.
Pro’s are you can also get a refurb PC [desk-lap top as available]as well as the Mobile Broadband device ( last I checked 3 months subscription service and all hardware for less than $200.- ) in costs. Or Unlimited Mobile Broadband annually for
12 Months of Internet Service ($120.00) + Modem = $194.95
Remembering the as available and it doesn’t hurt to use the their “Contact Us” link- https://pcsrefurbished.com/about/contact.aspx
to maybe work out other than seen offers on the page or to be notified as bundled PC + mobile broadband units become available. Find out your options and know by a contact to them.
Bundled Link- https://pcsrefurbished.com/sales/productPage.aspx?productID=831
I’d advise your readers to understand and know their options in this area and do check out the above links, as this “PCs for People” programs offerings at least – is for unlimited mobile broadband service, or as well as al la carte PC’s Desktops or Laptops and Sprint LTE Modems and Unlimited Sprint monthly service via your needs and spending range.
Thanks to you CheapInternet and God Bless all here.
Steve
I myself have followed this for a few years, knowing it was coming. I know the program just started in Sacramento, Ca. I applied within two weeks had them at my home fixing outside wires so I couseling have this service that i couldn’t afford. I’M VERY GREATFUL…I THANK OBAMA FOR GIVING ME SO MUCH.
I PAY 10.33 MONTHLY FOR A PLAN THAT WOULD BE $60.00
THANK YOU FOR THE UPDATES CHEAP INTERNET♡
L.HARVEY FROM SAC,CA.
At this point it’s not clear which companies will be offering the program. We suggest that you sign up for our newsletter up in the upper right hand corner of this page. We’ll send you more updates as they become available. The program does not begin until December 1.
Signing up for your newsletter was one of the few smart things I’ve ever done. You guys are great. Thanks for the TERRIFIC free internet news! Normally don’t want time to go by fast, but now looking forward to December 1. Nice X-mas present for us!
Wow. Thanks for the compliments, Larry. It’s pretty unusual for people to thank us so profusely for our newsletter, but we’ve had several nice comments today alone. We’ll take ’em where we can get ’em.
Awesome.
Thats great news
My Boyftiend
Is a permantly disabled person
Who is on the lifeline plan
But DOESNT use the internet( isnt sign up for internet) on his phone because it deducts ALOT of his monthly minutes.
How does he sugn up for this program ?
We are in LAS VEGAS ,NEVADA
89156
Thank you for the information
Also
I haveva work at home position and required to have a HARDWIRED connection
Mt problem is
There are only
2 companys. That have the monopoly on this service
COX COMMUNICSTIONS
And
Century Link
They both
Raise the price
At any given moment
Charge extra things that i dont want ( tell them i dont want it)
And theu still charge
Me
Then say well this is what rhe charges are
No helo
Just PAY
Century link
Turned off my service
Because i was
.45 cents. Short
I made the payment online and it went thru
Recieved confirmation #
They took my
$180.00
On Friday
Then
Monday morning when i went to. Go to work and turned on computer my service was shut off.
called them and they said
It was .45 cents not paid
(What $180.00 wasnt enough?)
Oops i forgot the .45 cents
They would not turn it back on till paid that .45 cent and $50 reconnection fee.
Excuse my french but
What a bunch of butt heads
Didnt matter who i talked to
Supervising Manager
His boss and more
So i had to pay
60.00 more to get ervice back on
Since i only make
$200 a week
I had just paid
$180 Friday
So lost a whole week of work till i got my next paycheck.
The monthly cost is 165 for only
Home phone
20 mbs internet home
Thats it no TV no nothing
They rip people off and nothing you can do about it
Thats how i came acrosd your website
On your site it said
Centurylink has a reduced price program for low income people or something like that.
Please send me i formation on that program and
AnY
.low cost
No Cost
Internet providers
In my area please
Thank Yoy
Leanani Franks
leananifranks@*****.com
702-472-**** cell
702-631-**** home
Your comment
Was like free form poetry, Leanani.
You brought up so many issues that we
hardly know where to begin.
The new Lifeline Broadband program will not be available
Until December first of this year.
So you need
To figure out
How to get along
With CenturyLink
Until then.
CenturyLink is our least favorite
Low-income Internet company
Because they do not seem
To take
The program
Seriously.
Sorry to hear
About your problems.
We recommend
That you sign up for
Our email newsletter
By putting
Your email address
In the box
At the top right hand side
Of this page.
That way you
Will get all the news on this exciting
Program as it happens.
We wish you
The best of luck.
I am already on the Lifeline assurance wireless program that offers free 250 talk minutes and unlimited texts per month. I qualified and am also on the Federal low-income CenturyLink High-speed Internet service with a contract for 60 months that I thought was 9.95 for 60 months plus the Internet Recovery Fee that was recently raised from 1.99 to 3.99. I purchased my own used modem before the free modem rental part of the contract expired so I thought the remainder of the contract for the High-Speed Internet was 9.95 plus the 3.99 Internet Recovery Fee. I called Century Link asking them why I was charged 14.95 this month and last month for my High-Speed Internet Service and was told that the contract stated that the 9.95 rate per month was only for 1 year and that the rate would increase to 14.95 per month after 1 year and remain at 14.95 for the remainder of my 60 month contract. I will have to find my contract as I certainly remember before I signed up for this program with Century Link that the 9.95 rate would not change for the entire 60 months. I remember that the contract stated that the only thing that would change is the free rental charge. So, I am looking forward to this new program for High-speed Internet for low-income that could give me options to other carriers for a 9.95 rate.
CenturyLink is one of our least favorite “low income Internet” service providers. They just don’t seem to be as committed to the program as Comcast’s Internet Essentials and some other new programs. Sorry to hear about your bad experience, KT.
right now i get lifeline phone (landline) subsidy. can i still get broadband. do i have to cancel lifeline phone subsidy then ask for lifeline broadband. i can get phone service for $9.99 a month elsewhere. but i am paying $49.99 a month for broadband. my provider for both is cox now that i changed my landline phone service from vonage.. i would save more if i can get broadband lifeline because it would be much more of a savings due to the price i pay for broadband and what i have to pay for landline phone without the lifeline subsidy.
Excellent question, Rose. We will put this information here on CheapInternet as soon as possible, but here’s a chart that explains it all from our sister website, FreeGovernmentCellPhones.net:
The program doesn’t begin until December 1. Maybe you should sign up for our newsletter in the box on the upper right hand corner of this page so we can send you all the latest info when it happens.
It will be available December 1 this year. We will provide all the info you need. May we suggest that you sign up for our newsletter by putting your email address in the upper right hand corner box on this page.
Shalane dodge says
I need free internet with lifeline internet
CheapInternet.com Administrator says
That’s what this website is all about, Shalane. Just click around on the navigation bar at the top of the page to learn everything you need to know.
Gene says
When will lifeline broadband be available in Louisville Ky
CheapInternet.com Administrator says
Unfortunately, it won’t, Gene. The FCC announced that it was killing the program.
Gene Stokes says
When will be available in Louisville Ky
CheapInternet.com Administrator says
Unfortunately, the F.C.C. killed the Lifeline Broadband program. However, there are a number of other low-income plans that may be exactly what you need. Check them all out at this link:
https://www.cheapinternet.com/low-income-internet
Lesley Johnson says
So families get this very desirable program. What about us seniors (I am 85) who maybe don’t have all that much longer to use the internet, when do we get a break. For some, like myself, it is the only means of communication as I also have a voice defect and am unable to use the phone for conversation.
CheapInternet.com Administrator says
Check out PCs for People at this link:
https://www.cheapinternet.com/low-income-internet
Pamela Simms says
How do I get the service
CheapInternet.com Administrator says
Unfortunately, Lifeline died a slow, painful death because of politics. But there are a number of other low-income internet plans in which you can enroll, Pamela. Check them all out at the link below to find the one that fits your needs best:
https://www.cheapinternet.com/low-income-internet
Amy Phillips says
I have a 14 year old & we have assistance through job and family services,do we qualify for this?
tim says
how to qualify and how to sign up?
CheapInternet.com Administrator says
It appears that Lifeline Broadband is dead in the water due to changes just announced by the Federal Communications Commission. We’re preparing an article that will explain it all very soon.
ron lawiski says
Whens the article coming
CheapInternet.com Administrator says
Soon, Ron, very soon.
Steve says
Hello Cheap Internet,
My question of “do you see some major changes in policy coming to the Lifeline program short or long term now?” – back dated in the article “Cheap internet is here: 22 companies to offer Lifeline Broadband” on December 9, 2016 at 1:22 pm – two or three pages back in it from landing page.
Then your statement in the same article of “The new FCC Commissioner has put the whole program on hold. It’s a very messy situation. But we’ll update this story as soon as more information is available.” dated February 14, 2017 and same articles landing page.
https://www.cheapinternet.com/lifeline-broadband-is-here-22-companies-to-offer-services/comment-page-2#comment-88139
WELL – not even the first 100 days has passed now and we get this – while EU improves the situation with people’s privacy step by step, the US government does the opposite. . .
The U.S. Federal Communications Commission has voted to roll back some net neutrality regulations that require broadband providers to inform customers about their network management practices.
The Republican-controlled FCC on Thursday suspended the net neutrality transparency requirements for broadband providers with fewer than 250,000 subscribers. Critics called the decision anticonsumer.
The transparency rule, waived for five years in a 2-1 party-line vote Thursday, requires broadband providers to explain to customers their pricing models and fees as well as their network management practices and the impact on broadband service.
The commission had previously exempted ISPs with fewer than 100,000 subscribers, but Thursday’s decision expands the number of ISPs not required to inform customers. Only about 20 U.S. ISPs have more than 250,000 subscribers.
The five-year waiver may be moot, however. FCC Chairman Ajit Pai and Republicans in Congress are considering ways to scrap a large chunk of the net neutrality regulations approved by the agency just two years ago.
Small ISPs have argued the transparency rules amount to burdensome and costly regulations, while consumer advocates have argued that broadband customers have the right to know when a provider is throttling traffic. The exemption will allow small ISPs to redirect the money they spend on compliance, Pai said.
“I firmly believe that these ISPs should spend their limited capital building out better broadband to rural America, not hiring lawyers and accountants to fill out unnecessary paperwork demanded by Washington, D.C.,” he said.
However, the White House Office of Management and Budget, under former President Barack Obama, found that compliance with the transparency rules takes each broadband provider less than seven hours a year, noted Commissioner Mignon Clyburn, a Democrat. The new waiver exempts some large companies with smaller broadband subsidiaries from the transparency rules, she said.
“In an ongoing quest to dismantle basic consumer protections for broadband services, the majority has decided to exempt billion-dollar public companies from being transparent with consumers,” Clyburn added. “This represents yet another in a series of steps being taken to jettison pro-consumer initiatives.”
The commission’s two Republicans defended the change. In January, the House of Representatives passed a bill with a similar exemption in a voice vote with no dissenters, Commissioner Michael O’Rielly noted.
The vote represents a “sensible and soundly justifiable exemption for small internet service providers from unnecessary and expensive” regulations, O’Rielly said.
– – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – –
Note that the full article I’ve sited stated that “The Republican-controlled FCC”, so I can’t help but think they are also sizing up the USAC – Lifeline program as well with it’s fat budget and revenue streams – as the cuts across all boards they’re wanting to make. It’s only time now as they learn of ways to make the cuts and focus in on the whole government support of the poor – trying to bump it back to the States which are boarderline broke anyway.
IS IT – truly a BAD Time to be POOR in the USA and a recipient of Gov. subsidies and programs. The rich has always ran this country, but now they’re in controlling rolls of it as well from all points.
Pray for us.
Steve
PS: Regards to ISP limited capital – heck if they cut executives big multi-Million dollar bonuses and truly used that money to built out rural America broadband. Just you watch any decisions being made by the Republican-controlled FCC is going to be a chain action to a blanket effect, just watch as “the majority has decided to exempt billion-dollar public companies from being transparent with consumers” is a fact this is transpiring already.
On a side note – is that the Border Wall is a double bladed sword – not only to keep some out, but to keep all in as well.
CheapInternet.com Administrator says
We cannot disagree with a word you say, Steve. Let’s all hope it works out.
Steve says
@Beatrice and Jack – January 27, 2017
Check out the PCs for People program found at the following link.
It may just be what you’re looking for:
https://www.cheapinternet.com/low-income-internet
Beatrice and jack Tullis says
We live in Emanuel County, GA, and we are seniors on a fixed income. I am presently using hughes net, but they keep going up on their costs; I have tried an wifi antenna, but I guess I am too far away, and can’t pick up an air wave. Can you help me find a low cost or free internet service for my area? I won’t be able to keep hughes net, unless they reduce me down to $10.00 a month or less. I have had to have some major surgeries due to a bad fall, and it is getting to expensive to be able to use the internet. Help! I have Verizon wireless for my home phone.
CheapInternet.com Administrator says
Unfortunately, you are correct that neither HughesNet nor Verizon participate in a low-income internet plan. But you should check out all the low-income programs found at the link below. With a little luck, one or more of them will be available in your area:
https://www.cheapinternet.com/low-income-internet
Debbie says
I am on Lifeline for my home phone. I am on SSI. How do I get on this program for the broadband internet service?
CheapInternet.com Administrator says
The program is moving along at a snail’s pace, Debbie. However, there are other similar programs that may solve your problem. Check out all the low-income internet plans available over at our other website, CheapInternet.com. Here’s a link:
https://www.cheapinternet.com/low-income-internet
Tom says
the problem is that you don’t tell people that they can have internet OR cell phone but not both.
1 lifeline per household, internet or cellphone. so the internet is pointless to offer to people, perhaps it’s just me thinking this. what’s your thoughts on this people ???
Tom says
the FCC will decide if it should be again raised. 3G will be the minimum speed at least until 2019. In addition, voice plans will be required to offer unlimited voice.
voice plans will be required to offer unlimited voice << does this start in 2019 or december 1, 2016 ?? you didn't make it clear or not, might need to update this.
Larry B says
Tracfone say they will provide 3G data. I’m wondering if 3G is the maximum speed or minimum? Would I get 4G LTE if I use an LTE smartphone?
There are petitions from several other companies on FCC web site.
https://www.fcc.gov/lifeline-broadband-provider-petitions-public-comment-periods
CheapInternet.com Administrator says
Yes, we’ve been talking to our contact at the USAC today and we’ll be preparing an article on this subject very soon.
If we had to guess, Larry, we’d say that 4G will be the max, but that’s just a wild (but educated) guess.
Larry B says
Looks like Safelink will basically offer a $10 discount off of Tracfone rates. Thus will cost $15/month for unlimited talk text and 500MB of data.
CheapInternet.com Administrator says
This is the first news we’ve found on the Lifeline Broadband program. That’s odd because the plan is set to go into effect on December 2. We’re eagerly awaiting applications from a lot more companies.
rhonda says
my phone got broken in the drive so i need to see if i can replace it with another free goverment phone n to see if i can get internet with it for the house at a cheeper price im in fostoria mich 48435 does any one have any answers
thanks
CheapInternet.com Administrator says
Check out our other website, Rhonda. It’s called CheapInternet.com and it specializes in all the low-income internet plans. And there are a lot of them. Here’s a link to all those programs:
https://www.cheapinternet.com/low-income-internet
Sunny Gibson says
I desperately need assistance with affordable internet. I am working a part-time job, but can not afford the current market rate internet at $50 per mo. I live in Los Angeles and have very limited income.
What are the services that cover my area. Where can I apply for help? Please reply.
CheapInternet.com Administrator says
We can’t personally respond to individual commenters because of the volume of comment we receive every day, Sunny. But here’s an online response:
All the low-income plans currently available can be found at the link below. Check them all out carefully to find the ones for which you qualify that are also available in your area:
https://www.cheapinternet.com/low-income-internet
Maria Teresa says
I have researched everything.These low-cost Internet programs don’t include people who don’t have children or are not on SSI.I meet the age requirement,and need this to work at home.The companies have strict computer requirements.I currently have ATT Internet w/ 3.42 download
and .52 upload. What can I do?I also receive food stamps.Thanks,Maria Teresa
CheapInternet.com Administrator says
Check out the PCs for People program found at the following link, Maria. It may just be what you’re looking for:
https://www.cheapinternet.com/low-income-internet
Victoria Young says
What about people who live in rural areas? There is no cable or DSL service available in many rural areas. The local phone and cable company say they will be out here in 3 – 5 years. This make the only options for this area satellite or a service that is wireless. These both run around $80+ a month.
CheapInternet.com Administrator says
Unfortunately, Victoria, it’s the price you pay to live in that beautiful rural area.
Freddie dejoint says
I’m still waiting to get free internet boardband services, Bitches
CheapInternet.com Administrator says
And with an attitude like that you’ll have to wait a little longer.
C D says
A Godsend Indeed! I’ve spent months Agonizing over which service or bill to pay, or skip; have gone through 4 different Budgeting Programs unsuccessfully, in spite of being Frugal to a Fault! I’ve been Hung-Up on, placed on Interminable Holds, w/ crappy Music, just so I could get an EXEMPTION from the 90 days w/o their Service (Int Essentials) to be able to get it sooner, as due to several dis-Abilities I depend on the Internet for my very Independent Survival, outside a Nursing Home. What displeases me most is, I’m a Trained Investigative Journalist, and I’ve wasted so much time seeking this out! Imagine what others must go through. Thus–though w/ Internet issue still unresolved–I’m Grateful for having dug long enough til I found this site, with this Info. (I just hope and pray that IF Whoever–other than Jill Stein, gets elected–they will LV THESE PROGRAMS ALONE, and in Place). We, the former Middle Class, have had it, w/ Flat Below Poverty Level Incomes, and Rising Costs…
jennine kepnes says
i have locost internet thru PCS refurbished due to your newsletter info and cut chord w/comcast finally since had to go w/out 90 days of internet. been very pleased w/service other than cost of hotspot but still have landline phone w/comcast since hearing impaired and safe link phone i have is difficult to hear .do you know how and when lifeline phone service for smartphones will be available.i am 65,disabled,live in federal housing plan. pay 55.00 for landline so looking for low-cost phone service w/smartphone features or hearing aids compatibility. live in boston,ma.
thankyou for providing great info. now that i’m past 60 days would be eligible for comcast internet essentials.is there any advantage over pcs refurbished? thanks,
CheapInternet.com Administrator says
We’re very happy to hear that you’re pleased with your service, Jeannine. We hear so many complaints here that a comment like yours is a breath of fresh air.
According to recent FCC news, every Lifeline phone will need to be a smartphone as of December 1, 2016. But it’s possible to get a smartphone before that date. For example, Q Link now offers smartphones to every NEW customer (the current customers kind of get screwed on this deal). Most other companies also allow you to upgrade to a smartphone for a small fee.
One thing you said confuses us. You referred to PCS refurbished. Are you referring to PCs for People? If so, our readers usually tell us they are very happy with that company’s service.
Donald Moore says
Is there any opportunities for employment with these new programs in states such as California to sign people up like they do with cell phones? If so, who are they? I would like to get involved.
CheapInternet.com Administrator says
Good question, Donald. Much to our surprise, not one company has announced its Lifeline Broadband plans, so we can’t give you an accurate answer. But keep visiting CheapInternet.com because we’ll report the news as soon as it’s available.
LB says
Any idea if Straight Talk will be offering Lifeline Mobile Broadband?
I know the parent company is America Movil which runs Safelink wireless. But I ‘ve been using Straight Talk for 5-6 years or more and love the Verizon coverage I get with my phone. Would love to have the same service.
CheapInternet.com Administrator says
Much to our surprise, LB, no company has yet announced its participation in the new Lifeline Broadband program that’s due to begin on December 1.
Keep visiting CheapInternet.com because we’ll report the news as soon as it comes out.
Steve says
Dear Cheap Internet Administrator,
The one who monitors and answers this topic = “Major announcement: FCC introduces Lifeline Broadband”, article here.
WOW I’d have to give you 10 points and 5 Gold Stars for your compassion and of the straightforward details you offer in that of your answers. Great Job…
All C I Administrator are not created equal, I really don’t know how many of you there are but, in to many articles I find answers of flip, short, and the referral of some link(s) to elsewhere on your site used to close out and shut down people, without really answering a question as you do. (Your sister site is also guilty of this).
So I find that of your answers are not only sincere but helpful as if your answering to things that you – yourself have an interest in, or are possibly wanting to teach and not just spilling forth something as a game and then saying to yourself – I answered. Which seems to be the case all to often here at this site, as well as on FGCP site.
If it’s a case of burnout then please hire more administrators like yourself and cut loose these others. They evidently don’t realize how to treat people as you do and offer some real help of their self.
Keep up the things you do and hopefully other CIA will catch that of your great attitude and answer differently from now on…
Steve
CheapInternet.com Administrator says
We think the real issue here, Steve, is that it would drive a sane man mad if he had to give full answers to the same questions over and over and over again when the answers can easily be found in other articles on the site. So instead of answering that same question in full over and over again, all sites (this one included) resort to the shorthand method of simply linking to an article that contains the answer to the reader question.
And in regard to our moderators’ temperaments, everyone has good days and bad days and everyone has different frustration thresholds. We like to give our moderators a bit of free rein to express their own personalities and perhaps they sometimes express them a little too colorfully. But that’s what freedom of expression is all about.
Steve says
National Lifeline Association Appoints New Board Members.
KENNETT SQUARE March 14th, 2016 – The National Lifeline Association announces today the appointment of two new board members for a three-year term beginning June 2016: Life Wireless President William Curry and Kim Lehrman, President of enTouch Wireless. The national organization supports Lifeline recipients, providers, and supporters through education, cooperation, and advocacy.
The National Lifeline Association is the only industry trade group specifically focused on the Lifeline segment of telecommunications. We support the 4 essential pieces of Lifeline: ETCs & Providers, Distributors, Lifeline Supporters & Participants, and Government & Regulatory Bodies. We are passionate about the continuity and advancement of the Lifeline program and we drive this vision by providing education, cooperation, and advocacy.
SOURCE:
https://www.nalalifeline.org/board/national-lifeline-association-appoints-new-board-members/
Lynn says
Hi there, I saw an ad for Comcast’s Internet Essentials program & contacted them. Since I have existing service with Comcast I am unable to transition over without a 90 day lapse in this service. I’m not certain when this all started however I’ve called Comcast numerous times with my concerns with ever rising fees while I’m living on a fixed SSDI income. It seems as if your analogy in the article feels apt. Truth is Comcast has never been about retention of customers but rather bringing in more customers to buy into their programs. So, in western Massachusetts what other options are there?
Thank you
CheapInternet.com Administrator says
We can answer your question with help in two areas, Lynn. First, check out all the plans available around the country. You can do that here:
https://www.cheapinternet.com/low-income-internet
We cannot determine which programs are available in western Massachusetts, but we can help you with a list of plans available somewhere in the state. Here’s a link to that info:
https://www.cheapinternet.com/states
After you check out all the possibilities, it’s up to you to be a smart consumer and pick the one that’s best for you. Good luck.
Mark says
So if I sign up right now for AT&T’s “no commitment / access now” plan for low income, when the “Lifeline” broadband program begins I might not be eligible for it with AT&T because I am an existing customer? But shouldn’t worry because the competition between carriers would mean I could get it with another internet carrier?
Also, if I currently have AT&T Lifeline on my home (landline) phone, I would not be eligible for Lifeline broadband internet on my home internet? (Note: I do not have a Lifeline/ Obama cell phone)
CheapInternet.com Administrator says
Excellent questions, Mark.
First, your reasoning is absolutely correct. You should be able to sign up for Access from AT&T now and then sign up with another service provider when Lifeline Broadband begins. At least that’s the theory. We’ll have to wait and see if it all works out the way the FCC expects.
Finally, no, you cannot have a Lifeline discount on your home phone and Lifeline broadband. However, the FCC is encouraging companies to offer bundles that would include multiple services.
Elizabeth Hutton says
These laws are discriminatory against individuals with certain kinds of disabilities and single income households. I have been over paying for my phone for years to have internet on it because I am in an electric wheelchair and depend upon it.
My present phone is a few years old and many things no longer work on it. If I replace it through my present carrier, they will force me to change to one of their newer plans that are even more expensive – they have been under handedly trying to force it for years even though they make a great amount of money off of me with unused portions of my plan – they are greedy.
I have not been able to afford nor justify the cost for regular internet at my apartment in part because of having to pay so much to have it on my phone. It costs a great deal to change carriers. I have many times I am bedridden and have neither internet nor cable to help me cope through the frustration.
I recently met someone who had gotten an obama phone and it was pathetically rinky dink. My phone is getting worse. I told myself if I saw an obama phone that did not look too bad I would get it for fear of my phone going out completely. I can not afford both a cell and a landline and with the electric wheelchair and my disabilities, I need the cell phone.
I got the obama phone with a near useless amount of internet on it and no use as a hotspot for my laptop which I need since I do all my bill paying electronically and rely upon the internet for shopping because of my limited mobility.
Then I find out I still can not get regular internet and am out getting it on my laptop to pay bills and do shopping. The phone screen is too small to do that much internet and no phone I have ever had has been that reliable for shopping and banking especially 0 – not even email.
It is b.s. pretend to look good on paper………
CheapInternet.com Administrator says
YOu didn’t say where you live, Elizabeth, but it’s possible that one of the low-income Internet plans will work for you. Check them all out, particularly the PCs for People plan:
https://www.cheapinternet.com/low-income-internet
Most of these plans also allow you to purchase a desktop or laptop computer for $150 or less. Good luck. We hope one of these plans work for you.
Angela says
I live in East Bend, NC and can’t find any company who offers internet service in my area. What are the people in my community’s supposed to do , any suggestions?
CheapInternet.com Administrator says
We don’t know where East Bend is, Angela, but we assume it’s a pretty rural if no one offers Internet in your area. It’s a matter of economics for the cable TV companies. For example, if they can install a mile of cable in the city and enroll 1000 customers, they can make a profit. But if they install another mile of cable in a rural area and enroll only ten customers,they lose money. It’s unfortunate, but it’s a fact of life.
If you had a laptop or tablet computer, would you be able to find wifi signals in the area? For example, every McDonalds, every Starbucks, every library and thousands of other outlets offer free wifi signals. It’s not nearly as convenient as having a signal at home, but it may be your only option.
tiredntrue says
Any ideas if companies will offer a break to those already in contracts/bundles when LL Broadband starts? I’m disabled living alone w/ SSDI my only source of income and currently have the Safelink cell phone along with Comcast/Xfinity TV/Internet (my only “luxury” in life) on a 2 yr. contract through 10/7/17. I hate the unreliabiity of X1 TV so bad if Comcast won’t give me a break to drop from “Blast” Internet to Lifeline broadband w/o penalty I may pay the $10/mo. exit fee and go back to Uverse, depending on how the bundling issue is addressed.
CheapInternet.com Administrator says
We have no way of knowing, Tired, but we’ll be shocked if some enterprising company doesn’t begin offering Lifeline Internet for free or really, really cheap.
Here’s an idea: Sign up for our email newsletter so that you get all the news on this exciting new program as soon as it’s available. You can sign up for it in the upper right hand corner of this page.
Bill says
I heard on the news that Time Warner Cable has been bought out and wonder if that will affect them?
Right now I’m paying $52.95 plus a monthly $4.95 late fee (because my previous plan expired and I was double billed) for Internet Extreme with Free home WIFI & Starter TV for one year which expires in October 2016 which is a bit shy of the Dec. 1st launch.
I never could get caught up on the extra month of billing so there is a monthly $4.95 late fee. They don’t say how much my bill will go up this time, they never do until it expires then I get the bad news.
CheapInternet.com Administrator says
Yes, Time Warner has been purchased by Charter. The merger was just completed within the last couple weeks, but it is not yet known how that will impact Internet plans from either company.
Have you checked out the other low-income Internet plans available? It’s quite possible that one or more of them will work for you. Here’s where you can check them all out:
https://www.cheapinternet.com/low-income-internet
Lotus B says
So, if I understand you clearly, by Dec 1., I will get no chance of an addt’l LifeLine cost reduction for my DSL internet service because I already get a Lifeline discount on my Landline telephone ? $55.00 monthly now is a strain. 🙁
I thought Verizon & Frontier Communications WERE 2 major/large companies…..
CheapInternet.com Administrator says
You are correct, Lotus. There will only be one lifeline discount per household. You will probably get a better price for bundled phone and Internet service, but just one discount.
Verizon and Frontier are major companies, but they are not merging nor is one buying the other. Therefore, the FCC’s power to make demands is limited.
Lotus B says
Frontier , a few months ago, bought out our Verizon landline & internet service here in So. Calif. Verizon offered no low-cost internet for low-income seniors. I now called Frontier & they say the same thing. I thought it was a new gov’t requirement to offer this service when these communication companies get the gov’t approval for their sales to one another ?
I have a Lifeline Acct. on my ‘landline’ phone service. Do I have to give that up to get Lifeline DSL Broadband service for my internet service ? I already know I can’t also have a Lifeline cell phone service…….
CheapInternet.com Administrator says
Cable companies buy, sell and trade small service areas all the time, Lotus. But government approval is required only when two very large companies join together in a merger or buy-out situation. The situation you’re describing falls into the first category, not the second one.
In answer to your second question, you will be able to get your home landline and Lifeline Broadband service “bundled” (offered together), but you will still get just one subsidized $9.25 discount per month.
JOHN GRILLO says
Low income intertnet. WITH ATT>COM is a farce!!!!!!! I try 3 times to get their $10.00 program. THE last time they said we will send 4th apps. AND NEVER DID!!!! It seems i sended too much proof or not the right one. I sended the right one and PLUS.It was the excat plus was too much. I AM 85 years old, HAVE section 8 housing, food stamps, medicaid. THERE ANOTHER PERSON TRYED WITH SOCIAL WORKER AND NEVER GOT A APPS. HE DROPPED I AM NEXT .
Robin Wyatt says
I am a disabled woman with a teenage daughter and we desperately need low cost internet. I live in Winston-Salem NC. We receive food stamp benefits. At this time, we are receiving phone service from assurance wireless. I would be happy to switch to another provider or if needs be, to choose internet service over phone service, if that is what needs to happen. So far I am unable to see what would be possible. Please help us.
CheapInternet.com Administrator says
The new program will not be available until December 1 unless some unknown company decides to start early. That being said, there are other low-income Internet plans that you should look into. Check them out. We sincerely hope one or more of them are available in your area:
https://www.cheapinternet.com/low-income-internet
Steve says
To Irene Tron – @ post of JUNE 29,2016.
Subject: The modem will not power our computers.
Use PCs for People’s “Contact Us” link- https://pcsrefurbished.com/about/contact.aspx
Says – We are happy to answer any questions, comments or concerns.
They offer snail mail, email, and phone contacts as well as a site contact form there.
Have a PCs for People Tech person try to walk you through the process of connecting through Wi-Fi and any troubleshooting steps you can check.
*Could be something simple as a driver didn’t get loaded on your PC when needed.
-Also is this same thing happening when you use the USB/charger cord from the Sprint Modem to a USB port on your PC?
{This is how I use mine, stays charged up and network connected}
The Sprint Modem should handle up to 10 devices at a time with one being hardwired to a PC USB port via USB/charger cord.
Hope this is some help to you in finding answers/solutions.
Steve
Dorothy says
Hello,
1st * * * THANK YOU & HUGS & GOD BLESS EV1 WHO WORKED ON THIS!! * * *
– – excuse the emotion — [brief rant then on to my Q] I just suffered thru another hour long phone war w/ATT re more repeat hiking rates, both Internet & phone, sneakily bilking me out of My Lifeline for the past year, more lies, Bait n Switch, etc and all with a VERY Smug Take it or Leave it attitude –so much for 42 years of loyalty.
Just once in my life I wish for one of those high-powered attorneys to bring a class action suit on behalf of all the citizens like me, and make ATT pay thru the nose for all their years of dirty sales tactics, but most all, for the torture and suffering they cause -ATT KNOWS THERE’s NO WHERE ELSE TO GO –and very aggressive in taking UTMOST ADVANTAGE of people.
* * * My Q * * * I’m reading the FCC’s chart [at https://www.fcc.gov/general/lifeline-program-low-income-consumers ] . . . . * * * Can you tell me if the new Broadband Lifeline is an either/or with Voice Lifeline? We can only choose one?? * * *
I remember tweeting a reply to FCC director’s tweet few months ago that if push-comes-to-shove, I’d have to choose Internet over phone b/c Internet truly is more of my “Lifeline”. [60, disabled but always miss that wacky food stamp requirement by a few dollars –which has no relation to communication services like Lifeline phone, which is a DIRECTLY-related criteria}
I appreciate your input since I need to figure out what to do now, –even though looks like won’t be effective til Dec or Jan — HOWEVER, * * * please warn your readers to plan ahead * * *– b/c most of these co’s “fine print” have exclusions if you’re already a customer!! [along with all the xtra fees]. For me, I’ll select a cheap month to month phone co, to not get locked into a year long commitment
Thank you again for your wonderful work! […going to lie down -ATT literally gave me sick stomach].
CheapInternet.com Administrator says
You made our day, Dorothy. What a great, positive comment.
You are correct that Lifeline Broadband is not supposed to kick off until December 1, but we suspect that some companies will begin early to get a jump on the competition. It might be a good idea if you subscribe to our email newsletter in the upper right hand corner of this page.
Now to answer your “either/or” question: You are correct that only one Lifeline discount will be permitted per person. As we say in the article, you can choose broadband only, bundled broadband and cell phone, or cell phone only. We suspect that new companies will jump into the competition, so you may not need to worry about being ineligible because you’re currently a customer of a service provider. You’ll have options.
Carol James says
I have Assurance Wireless (which is part of the Lifeline program). When can I sign up for cable broadband in Washington?
This is going to save me a ton of money! Thanks!
CheapInternet.com Administrator says
Dates have not yet been determined, Carol. The new rules go into effect on December 1, so we imagine that companies will all make announcements about availability before then.
If you want to keep up with the news on the new Lifeline Broadband program, you should sign up for our email newsletter in the upper right hand corner of this page.
James Coleman says
I HAVE A LIFELINE PHONE. HOW DO I SIGN-UP FOR THE LIFELINE BROADBAND SERVICE? Another question; Why do all of these companies who offer these programs SEEM to omit Virginia out of the mix?
CheapInternet.com Administrator says
You cannot yet sign up for the Lifeline Broadband program. Sign-ups will be coming very soon, though, because the new guidelines begin on December 1. If you want to keep up with the news, please sign up for our email newsletter in the upper right hand corner of this page.
As far as Virginia begin omitted by some service providers, each company covers certain geographic areas. They can only offer service where they have cable or wireless networks. Virginia is covered by several companies.
LB says
BTW, I’m in a Charter service area. They haven’t offered any low income programs yet. I wonder to what extent they will participate in this new program?
CheapInternet.com Administrator says
We assume virtually all the companies will “participate”, but the real question is whether they will offer Internet for free, for $9.25 per month, or will merely discount their regular bills by $9.25 per month. Some companies may even jump the gun and begin before December 1.
There are only two ways to find out: (1) keep coming back here to CheapInternet.com frequently, or (2) Sign up for our email newsletter in the box at the upper right corner of this page so that you get all the news as it happens.
kim taratuta says
Wish to call someone on your side to discuss how we can help here in canada
CheapInternet.com Administrator says
Well, Kim, you’ve stumped us with this question. We know absolutely nothing about the situation in Canada.
Irene Tron says
Dear Cheap Internet,
Thank you for your posts. If anything your research saves me precious time and frustration. However, our family bought a Sprint modem from PC’s for People and three months service. The modem will not power our computers but has given our granddaughter unlimited 3G service on her phone. Believe me, this has been wonderful because our granddaughter will not be using up our 10 gigs from Hughesnet before the end of the month! We pay a whopping $65 per month for that 10 gigs. So again instead of saving for the over 60 crowd we have a little extra peace of mind with PC’s for People. Also it is my opinion that majority of teenagers will not be using their access to the internet for homework. How do I know this. I have been working in education for 20+ years.
Again, thank you for your time and help.
CheapInternet.com Administrator says
You get the award for Comment of the Day, Irene. You seem to have a complete understanding of teenagers. To quote our official legal expert, Judy Judy, “Do you know how to tell when a teenager is lying? Their lips move.”
Gladys Colon says
Thank you so much guys, you guys are great. I really appreciate receiving the updates. I am a single working mom caring for her 93 year old grandmother, so any kind of discount helps. I reside in New York so I will definitely be on the lookout for registration. I am a lifeline customer with Verizon for my landline.
CheapInternet.com Administrator says
We know people love our email newsletter, but we’ve set a record today for the most people thanking us for it in Comments. Very nice to hear and we appreciate it.
If you’d like to receive all the latest news about low-income Internet, you can sign up for that newsletter in the upper right hand corner of this page.
joselyn ortiz says
who i have to contact
CheapInternet.com Administrator says
The program is not yet available, Joselyn. Not until December 1 of this year. We’ll keep our readers aware of all the latest developments via this website and via our email newsletter. You can sign up for it in the upper right hand corner of this page.
joselyn oetiz says
im interesting when it will be in new york
CheapInternet.com Administrator says
There’s no specific date yet, Joselyn. But we’re confident that New York will be among the first to get access to the program when it begins on December 2.
Rob says
I am not sure if 150 gb is enough for an average Deaf person on low-who uses Video Relay Service and Video Provider to make calls which requires high speed internet. What about the Deaf families? Will FCC and Lifeline recognize this unique need of the Deaf community for the equal access to communication via high speed service?
Thank you so much for this wonderful informative website!
CheapInternet.com Administrator says
Thanks for your kind words, Rob. We have to admit that we are not experts on the workings of hearing impaired equipment. Does it really eat up that much bandwidth? 150 GM is a huge amount of data. So huge, in fact, that our tech guru referred to it as “virtually unlimited” compared to most people’s usage. We’ll check into it.
randy downey says
can some body help me? i am paying time warner around 40 dollars a month. can some one call me and tell me how to get cheap internet please? randy downey cell phone 213703****
CheapInternet.com Administrator says
The new Lifeline Broadband plans won’t be here until December, Randy. In the meantime, take a look at PCs for People on this page:
https://www.cheapinternet.com/low-income-internet
LB says
@Leanani Franks, Thanks to information on this web site, I’ve been using PCs for People’s LTE hotspot from Sprint with good results. I get around 10mbs+ speed from my location. If you live in Las Vegas you should get decent speed. And there’s a return period if it doesn’t work.
If you qualify it’s $10 per month if you pay for the year up front + $75 for the modem. Total cost $195 for the year.
These new lifeline plans are interesting, but meanwhile I have something.
Thanks Cheapinternet.com!.
CheapInternet.com Administrator says
Thanks for providing that info for Leanani and our other readers, LB. PCs for People is a great program and we tell people that all the time. The new Lifeline Broadband plans won’t be here until December which makes PCs for People a great alternative.
Steve says
Wow, really good news the FCC & Lifeline is leaving the dark age’s. To bad it’s mostly years later than your initial call out. But you still predicted it, Government wheels move oh so slow any way…
Can’t wait for your updates and further info. on the Lifeline Broadband offerings. 3G is not so good when 5G is in the works with some networks as I have read lately. Hard-wired versa Mobile is always good to have choices – but the usage offerings are to low for todays age and time we all live in, don’t you think?
As a godsend to some (like me) in the/wherever the Sprint cell network is available, has been PCs for People program-
https://www.cheapinternet.com/low-income-internet/pcs-for-people
Sure some hurdles but, if your in their Sprint coverage and on any Government assistance program or meet it’s low-income ranks – makes it a worth while program for many (like me), and it’s available NOW – NOT waiting till DEC. 1st, 2016.
Pro’s are you can also get a refurb PC [desk-lap top as available]as well as the Mobile Broadband device ( last I checked 3 months subscription service and all hardware for less than $200.- ) in costs. Or Unlimited Mobile Broadband annually for
12 Months of Internet Service ($120.00) + Modem = $194.95
Remembering the as available and it doesn’t hurt to use the their “Contact Us” link- https://pcsrefurbished.com/about/contact.aspx
to maybe work out other than seen offers on the page or to be notified as bundled PC + mobile broadband units become available. Find out your options and know by a contact to them.
Bundled Link-
https://pcsrefurbished.com/sales/productPage.aspx?productID=831
Really a good and thorough write up you guys did on them at-
https://www.cheapinternet.com/low-income-internet/pcs-for-people
I’d advise your readers to understand and know their options in this area and do check out the above links, as this “PCs for People” programs offerings at least – is for unlimited mobile broadband service, or as well as al la carte PC’s Desktops or Laptops and Sprint LTE Modems and Unlimited Sprint monthly service via your needs and spending range.
Thanks to you CheapInternet and God Bless all here.
Steve
Lorraine M. Harvey says
I myself have followed this for a few years, knowing it was coming. I know the program just started in Sacramento, Ca. I applied within two weeks had them at my home fixing outside wires so I couseling have this service that i couldn’t afford. I’M VERY GREATFUL…I THANK OBAMA FOR GIVING ME SO MUCH.
I PAY 10.33 MONTHLY FOR A PLAN THAT WOULD BE $60.00
THANK YOU FOR THE UPDATES CHEAP INTERNET♡
L.HARVEY FROM SAC,CA.
Irma Rivera says
Would like to know how soon could I sign up? Is there a waiting list.
CheapInternet.com Administrator says
At this point it’s not clear which companies will be offering the program. We suggest that you sign up for our newsletter up in the upper right hand corner of this page. We’ll send you more updates as they become available. The program does not begin until December 1.
Larry K. says
Signing up for your newsletter was one of the few smart things I’ve ever done. You guys are great. Thanks for the TERRIFIC free internet news! Normally don’t want time to go by fast, but now looking forward to December 1. Nice X-mas present for us!
CheapInternet.com Administrator says
Wow. Thanks for the compliments, Larry. It’s pretty unusual for people to thank us so profusely for our newsletter, but we’ve had several nice comments today alone. We’ll take ’em where we can get ’em.
Pam says
THANK YOU SO MUCH. YOU ARE GREAT!!!!!!!!!
CheapInternet.com Administrator says
SO ARE YOU, PAM. WE APPRECIATE YOUR KIND COMMENTS!!!!!
Leanani Franks says
Awesome.
Thats great news
My Boyftiend
Is a permantly disabled person
Who is on the lifeline plan
But DOESNT use the internet( isnt sign up for internet) on his phone because it deducts ALOT of his monthly minutes.
How does he sugn up for this program ?
We are in LAS VEGAS ,NEVADA
89156
Thank you for the information
Also
I haveva work at home position and required to have a HARDWIRED connection
Mt problem is
There are only
2 companys. That have the monopoly on this service
COX COMMUNICSTIONS
And
Century Link
They both
Raise the price
At any given moment
Charge extra things that i dont want ( tell them i dont want it)
And theu still charge
Me
Then say well this is what rhe charges are
No helo
Just PAY
Century link
Turned off my service
Because i was
.45 cents. Short
I made the payment online and it went thru
Recieved confirmation #
They took my
$180.00
On Friday
Then
Monday morning when i went to. Go to work and turned on computer my service was shut off.
called them and they said
It was .45 cents not paid
(What $180.00 wasnt enough?)
Oops i forgot the .45 cents
They would not turn it back on till paid that .45 cent and $50 reconnection fee.
Excuse my french but
What a bunch of butt heads
Didnt matter who i talked to
Supervising Manager
His boss and more
So i had to pay
60.00 more to get ervice back on
Since i only make
$200 a week
I had just paid
$180 Friday
So lost a whole week of work till i got my next paycheck.
The monthly cost is 165 for only
Home phone
20 mbs internet home
Thats it no TV no nothing
They rip people off and nothing you can do about it
Thats how i came acrosd your website
On your site it said
Centurylink has a reduced price program for low income people or something like that.
Please send me i formation on that program and
AnY
.low cost
No Cost
Internet providers
In my area please
Thank Yoy
Leanani Franks
leananifranks@*****.com
702-472-**** cell
702-631-**** home
CheapInternet.com Administrator says
Your comment
Was like free form poetry, Leanani.
You brought up so many issues that we
hardly know where to begin.
The new Lifeline Broadband program will not be available
Until December first of this year.
So you need
To figure out
How to get along
With CenturyLink
Until then.
CenturyLink is our least favorite
Low-income Internet company
Because they do not seem
To take
The program
Seriously.
Sorry to hear
About your problems.
We recommend
That you sign up for
Our email newsletter
By putting
Your email address
In the box
At the top right hand side
Of this page.
That way you
Will get all the news on this exciting
Program as it happens.
We wish you
The best of luck.
KT says
I am already on the Lifeline assurance wireless program that offers free 250 talk minutes and unlimited texts per month. I qualified and am also on the Federal low-income CenturyLink High-speed Internet service with a contract for 60 months that I thought was 9.95 for 60 months plus the Internet Recovery Fee that was recently raised from 1.99 to 3.99. I purchased my own used modem before the free modem rental part of the contract expired so I thought the remainder of the contract for the High-Speed Internet was 9.95 plus the 3.99 Internet Recovery Fee. I called Century Link asking them why I was charged 14.95 this month and last month for my High-Speed Internet Service and was told that the contract stated that the 9.95 rate per month was only for 1 year and that the rate would increase to 14.95 per month after 1 year and remain at 14.95 for the remainder of my 60 month contract. I will have to find my contract as I certainly remember before I signed up for this program with Century Link that the 9.95 rate would not change for the entire 60 months. I remember that the contract stated that the only thing that would change is the free rental charge. So, I am looking forward to this new program for High-speed Internet for low-income that could give me options to other carriers for a 9.95 rate.
CheapInternet.com Administrator says
CenturyLink is one of our least favorite “low income Internet” service providers. They just don’t seem to be as committed to the program as Comcast’s Internet Essentials and some other new programs. Sorry to hear about your bad experience, KT.
joseph marshall says
right now i get lifeline phone (landline) subsidy. can i still get broadband. do i have to cancel lifeline phone subsidy then ask for lifeline broadband. i can get phone service for $9.99 a month elsewhere. but i am paying $49.99 a month for broadband. my provider for both is cox now that i changed my landline phone service from vonage.. i would save more if i can get broadband lifeline because it would be much more of a savings due to the price i pay for broadband and what i have to pay for landline phone without the lifeline subsidy.
CheapInternet.com Administrator says
Darn good question, Joseph. Since this is a new program we don’t have all the answers off the tops of our heads, but we will try to find out for you.
rachel says
When will this be available and how do I apply for it? Thank yoou.
CheapInternet.com Administrator says
December 1 of this year. We’ll provide all the information as it becomes available.
Rose says
What is considered as low income?
CheapInternet.com Administrator says
Excellent question, Rose. We will put this information here on CheapInternet as soon as possible, but here’s a chart that explains it all from our sister website, FreeGovernmentCellPhones.net:
http://www.freegovernmentcellphones.net/basics/qualify
George Toth says
How do I sign up for the Lifeline Broadband
CheapInternet.com Administrator says
The program doesn’t begin until December 1. Maybe you should sign up for our newsletter in the box on the upper right hand corner of this page so we can send you all the latest info when it happens.
ALBERT J SCHEPIS says
This is June 2016. Any actual usable news on this yet!
CheapInternet.com Administrator says
Did you read the article, Albert? The program will begin on December 1.
Sherrie Petkus says
I qualified for the $5.00 AT & T Internet starting this month. It’s for real! I learned about it from cheapInternet.com. Thank you so much!
CheapInternet.com Administrator says
Thanks for the kind words, Sherrie. We appreciate it. Please tell your friends about our website because we want to help as many people as we can.
dionne carpenter says
Yes I need this
CheapInternet.com Administrator says
It will be available December 1 this year. We will provide all the info you need. May we suggest that you sign up for our newsletter by putting your email address in the upper right hand corner box on this page.