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Mainers living on a limited income have two different federal programs to choose from to reduce the cost of their monthly basic land line or their cell phone — and many don’t even know about it!

The Federal Lifeline Program assists lowincome Mainers on either their land line phone or cell phone charges. To qualify, the applicant has to be receiving assistance through Food Stamps (SNAP), MaineCare, heating assistance (LIHEAP), or Supplemental Security Income (SSI).

The FairPoint Lifeline Program will help reduce the monthly cost of basic local landline service. The application and mailing information for the reduction is available online at www.fairpoint.com/lifeline/Lifeline_App_NNE_ME.pdf or by calling 1-866- 984-2001.

The SafeLink Lifeline Program may provide a free cell phone and free monthly service, or 250 fee minutes added to an existing plan.

Those who already have a cell phone, and would like to participate in the SafeLink Program, should contact their wireless provider (not all providers participate).

Spectrum Generations, our local Area Agency on Aging, can provide assistance with understanding the Federal Lifeline Assistance Programs and benefits by calling 1-800-639-1553.


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