Do most telephone companies offer Link-Up Florida and Lifeline Assistance Programs?
Yes. Companies serving the vast majority of Floridians do offer the programs, and this even includes some cellular companies. Can my Lifeline local service be cut off if I have unpaid long distance bills? No, but your long distance service can be blocked. I don’t have service now because I haven’t paid an old phone bill. I also have a low credit rating. Can I still get Lifeline? Yes. The phone company can require you to make payments on the local part of the old bill. If you haven’t paid for your long-distance charges, you may need to have your long distance calling blocked. Do I have to pay a deposit for Lifeline? If you have your long distance service blocked, the phone company cannot make you pay a deposit. What happens to my Lifeline service when I no longer qualify? You should call your phone company and ask for Transitional Lifeline Assistance. This state program gives 30% off the monthly flat rate for residential basic service. You can get this discount for one year after you no
