Discounted Phone Service Through the Lifeline Program
In an effort to keep people connected that have been impacted by the Maui wildfires, those receiving assistance through the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) can now enroll in the Lifeline program. Lifeline offers financial relief through discounts for the cost of communication services for those in need.
An order by the Federal Communications Commission (FCC) temporarily waives eligibility requirements through February 25, 2024, helping those who are experiencing hardships due to the Maui wildfires qualify for the program.
The Lifeline program will provide a $6.50 monthly discount on Hawaiian Telcom phone services. Hawaiian Telcom also offers the Lifeline discounts on Internet for qualifying customers in eligible areas. This discount will be applied for one year. Applicants can enroll online through the Universal Service Administrative Company’s (USAC) website at getinternet.gov/apply .
Hawaiian Telcom will also need to confirm an applicant’s eligibility for the discounted services. Once that is approved, the monthly Lifeline benefit will be applied to the customer’s monthly bill.
How to Receive the FEMA Lifeline benefit:
- Fill out form at getinternet.gov/apply
- Select, FEMA’s Individuals and Households Program (IHP) due to Hawaii Wildfires as the qualifying program
- Call Hawaiian Telcom at (808) 643-3456
