FCC Releases Order on Reconsideration for Lifeline Broadband Providers (LBPs)
New FCC Chairman Pai released an Order on Reconsideration for LBP designations on Friday, allowing the FCC to reconsider the Lifeline Broadband Provider (LBP) designations for nine new Lifeline broadband providers. Recently effective changes per the 2016 Lifeline Modernization Order included the extension of the Lifeline Program to include broadband services. Inclusion of Lifeline-supported broadband allows…
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Free Cell Phones for Veterans: Benefits & Lifeline Eligibility
Revisions to the 2016 Lifeline Modernization Order Changes from the 2016 Lifeline Modernization Order included revisions to accepted eligibility documentation for recipients of the Lifeline Program. As part of the changes which went into effect December 2, 2016, the program has added two new benefits as acceptable proof of eligibility for Lifeline: the Veterans Pension…
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Benefit Port Freeze, Lifeline Modernization Order
The pending changes within Lifeline per the Modernization order will go effect in on December 2. Yesterday, NLAD released a new version (2.8.11) into the pre-production environment that includes the 12 month or 60 day Port Freeze Restriction, which will go live when the order takes effect next month. USAC confirms the intentions of the upcoming changes…
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Lifeline Broadband Provider (LBP) Designation, Minimum Service Standards
On September 30, 2016, the FCC released a Public Notice (DA 16-118) that offers additional guidance from the Wireline Competition Bureau to entities seeking Lifeline Broadband Provider (LBP) designations for the Lifeline program. Included in the notice are minimum service standards for Lifeline-supported Broadband Internet Access Service (BIAS), and guidelines that will be applicable to LBPs and eligible telecommunications... READ MORE
Business Misconceptions and the NPRM
Every American should have access to essential communication services, and in today’s world, that includes Broadband service. The Lifeline framework can, and should, be a critical tool to help make that idea a reality. In its recently released Second Further Notice of Proposed Rulemaking, Order of Reconsideration, Second Report and Order and Memorandum Opinion and... READ MORE
NEW FCC RULE for ETCs Who Assess a Monthly Fee Go Into Effect July 22nd, 2015
New FCC rule for ETCs who assess a monthly fee goes into effect July 22nd, 2015. Lifeline ETCs who assess a monthly fee for service must now also collect the monthly fee or de-enroll any subscribers who have 60 consecutive days of non-use. The FCC published in the Federal Register on June 22, 2015, the Order... READ MORE
FCC Orders Lifeline ETCs That Assess Monthly Fees to Collect Them or De-Enroll
On March 31, 2015, the FCC’s Wireline Competition Bureau released two documents important to Lifeline providers. The first is an Order and rule amendments to clarify that if an ETC assesses a monthly fee to subscribers in order to avoid the Lifeline usage requirements, then that ETC must also collect the monthly fee. ETCs that…
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Lifeline Eligibility Tool
If you aren’t sure if you are eligible for lifeline and you would like to discreetly check your eligibility status, use this great tool provided by USAC: http://www.lifelinesupport.org/ls/eligibility/default.aspx Lifeline provides a monthly discount for home or wireless telephone service to eligible consumers. This Lifeline screening tool will help you determine if you may be eligible…
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USAC Releases 2015 Federal Poverty Guidelines
USAC has released the 2015 Federal Poverty Guidelines. These guidelines are typically released annually at the end of January. 2015 Federal Poverty Guidelines – 135% The Federal Poverty Guidelines are an important part of determining eligibility for potential Lifeline recipients. It is also important to ensure that any additional state guidelines and other eligibility requirements are... READ MORE