Need Affordable Phone or Broadband Service? The ICC is Encouraging Illinoisans to get Connected with FCC's Lifeline Program

Chicago, IL-The Illinois Commerce Commission (ICC) is partnering with the Federal Communications Commission (FCC), the National Association of State Utility Consumer Advocates (NASUCA), and the National Association of Regulatory Utility Commissioners (NARUC) to promote "Digital Connectivity and Lifeline Awareness Week," from September 8-14, 2024. The FCC's Lifeline program offers discounts to help residents access voice or broadband services.

"Whether it's to call 911, access healthcare services, or connect with loved-ones, access to phone and broadband services is critical for all Illinoisans. The FCC's Lifeline program offers financial help to keep low-income customers connected to these critical services," said ICC Chairman Doug Scott.

Lifeline helps low-income consumers connect to America's communications networks to find jobs, access health care services, connect with family and friends, and call for help in an emergency. Under the federal Lifeline program, low-income consumers who participate in certain public assistance programs, or qualify based on income can receive a discount of up to $9.25 per month off their monthly bill for broadband, or bundled phone and broadband service, up to $5.25 for voice-only service, and up to a total of $34.25 per month for residents of qualifying Tribal lands.

For more information on Lifeline program eligibility and rules, including downloadable materials and fact sheets on how to apply in both English and Spanish, visit https://www.lifelinesupport.org. An American Sign Language video is also available here.

About the Illinois Commerce Commission

The Illinois Commerce Commission (ICC) is a quasi-judicial body made up of five Commissioners. Through its Public Utility Program, the Commission oversees the provision of adequate, reliable, efficient, and safe utility services at the least possible cost to Illinois citizens served by electric, natural gas, telecommunications, water, and sewer public utility companies. Through its Transportation Regulatory Program, the Commission oversees public safety and consumer protection programs with regard to intrastate commercial motor carriers of general freight, household goods movers, relocation towers, safety towers, personal property warehouses, and repossession agencies. The Commission's Rail Safety Program also inspects and regulates the general safety of railroad tracks, facilities, and equipment in the state.

To learn more about the Commission, its offices, and bureaus, click here. If you are a consumer who needs help resolving a utility dispute call 800-524-0795 or file an online complainthere.For a complaint related to transportation, call 217-782-6448.

Follow the Illinois Commerce Commission on social media@ILCommerceComm