By Commissioner Monica Martinez, Michigan Public Service Commission

It's been 132 years since Alexander Graham Bell made the first phone call.  During that time telephones have proven to be a lifeline.  From calling 9-1-1, to finding a job, to keeping in touch with loved ones, reliable telephone service is an indispensable part of our lives.

Telephone service can, however, be a significant expense for low-income customers.  But, due to changes in the 2005 Michigan Telecommunications Act, more low-income people than ever before are eligible for discounts on basic local telephone service through the Lifeline program.

To qualify for Lifeline, the customer's household income must be at or below 150 percent of the federal poverty guidelines, or the customer must participate in one of the following assistance programs:  Medicaid; food stamps, supplemental security income (SSI); federal public housing assistance (Section 8); the Low-Income Home Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP); the national free school lunch program; or Temporary Assistance for Needy Families.

Eligible customers should contact their local telephone provider to apply.

The MPSC has issued a Consumer Alert that includes income guidelines and other details about the Lifeline program, as well as the federal Link-Up program that reduces phone service installation charges.  It is available on the MPSC's Web site -- michigan.gov/mpsc -- or by calling 1-800-292-9555.

No one should have to do without telephone service.  The Lifeline program is designed to help make sure that low-income customers are better able to afford this vital service.