NEWS
Federal Communications Commission
445 12th Street, S.W.
Washington, D. C.  20554
This is an unofficial announcement of Commission action.  Release of the full text of a Commission order constitutes official action.
See MCI v. FCC. 515 F 2d 385 (D.C. Circ 1974).
News Media Information 202 / 418-0500
Internet: http://www.fcc.gov
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For Immediate Release:                                                       News Media Contact:
September 13, 2010                                                             Rosemary Kimball at 202) 418-0511
 e-mail: rosemary.kimball@fcc.gov
FCC OBSERVES “NATIONAL LIFELINE AND LINK UP TELEPHONE DISCOUNT 
AWARENESS WEEK” - SEPTEMBER 13 – 19, 2010
WASHINGTON, DC - The Federal Communications Commission (FCC) has joined the 
National Association of Regulatory Commissioners (NARUC) and the National Association of 
State Utility Consumer Advocates (NASUCA) to call attention to the second annual “National 
Lifeline and Link Up Telephone Discount Awareness Week,” which takes place this year 
September 13 – 19. 
The observation will begin with a Congressional Briefing on Monday, September 13, 
which will outline for Members of Congress and their staffs the efforts being made to promote 
awareness of these two telephone assistance programs.  
Various state and local agencies throughout the country will be participating with 
outreach activities and events.  The “Lifeline” and “Link Up” programs help ensure that all 
Americans can get basic telephone service by providing discounts to consumers who might not 
otherwise be able to afford service.  Recent statistics demonstrate that of the 25.7 million 
eligible, 8.2 million households participate, or roughly a 32 percent national participation rate for 
2009.
“Lifeline” involves discounts on monthly charges for a primary residential telephone line, 
which might be wireless service.  “Link Up” involves a discount on the cost of initiating the 
primary telephone service for a residence, including the activation of a wireless phone that serves 
as the primary residential telephone.  The discounts are available throughout the country, 
including an enhanced discount on Tribal lands.  In general, consumers at or below 135% of the 
federal poverty guidelines, or who participate in one or more of a number of other assistance 
programs, are eligible for Lifeline and Link Up.
To help call attention to the availability of these programs, the FCC, NARUC and 
NASUCA urge government agencies and non-profit organizations to help disseminate 
information on Lifeline and Link Up to their constituents.  More information about the programs 
and how to apply is available at www.lifeline.gov or http://www.usac.org/li/low-income/apply-
for-support.aspx.
-- FCC --