Library: English | Lifeline and the Emergency Broadband Benefit: Discounted phone and internet for low-income households
Broadband (high-speed) internet service is essential for conducting the necessary tasks of daily life, including learning and doing homework, telecommuting, looking for a job, banking, and accessing remote health services. This guide introduces the two federal programs that offer discounts on home broadband and wireless data service for qualifying low- and moderate-income households. Category: Internet Telecom Wireless on Jul 01, 2021

Library: English | Resources for consumers impacted by the COVID-19 outbreak

Our staff is keeping this resource guide up to date with information about COVID-19 resources, including the federal CARES Act relief package. Bookmark this page and check back regularly.

In light of the recent coronavirus outbreak, public and private resources are becoming available to help deal with lost wages, illness and school closures.

We will continue to update this list as we learn more.

Library: English | Getting Up to Speed: Broadband internet for low-income households

Today, high-speed home internet service (broadband) is virtually a necessity for everything from finding a job to doing homework. However, many low-income households are at a disadvantage because broadband has been unaffordable for them. This fact sheet explains more about broadband, including its importance, benefits, availability and pricing. It also presents special programs that offer low-income households fast home internet service at a discount.

Library: English | IP Transition: Making the Switch: The next communication evolution

This fact sheet explains what Internet-based (IP) telephone service is, why the transition away from traditional (copper-based landline) phone service is happening and what advantages this type of connection offers for consumers. The brochure also explains consumers’ service options and how they can make a smooth transition.

Library: English | Questions & Answers about the IP Transition: Connecting you with new changes to the phone system

This backgrounder answers many of the questions that consumers may have about the transition from traditional (copper-based landline) phone service to Internet-based service. Written in Q&A format, the guide introduces terms consumers should understand, explains how the transition will take place and why it’s important to them, and addresses nuts-and-bolts concerns they may have about switching to a new type of service.

Library: English | Lifeline Eligibility and Application Worksheets

These worksheets will help consumers determine if they are eligible for Lifeline discounts and track their progress through the application and renewal process. A short “quiz” can be used in class to help participants understand key points about the Lifeline program.

Library: English | California LifeLine Case Studies

These five case studies will give Lifeline workshop participants an opportunity to apply what they have learned about California LifeLine discounts, service options and eligibility.

Library: English | California LifeLine Public Assistance Programs

Detailed description of various federal and state assistance programs.

Library: English | List of Toll-Free Numbers for California LifeLine Service

Useful list of toll-free numbers to give out to consumers while teaching the California LifeLine module.

Library: English | Connect to California LifeLine and Save! (2021): Discounted telephone service can help your family stay in touch

California LifeLine provides discounts on basic residential wireline (home phone) or wireless telephone service to eligible low-income households. Consumers who qualify for California LifeLine pay a fraction of the regular cost for telephone connection or activation and monthly service. This brochure explains the features and benefits of Lifeline phone service, how to apply for the program and what you must do to continue participation.

COVID-19 Note: To prevent any loss of Lifeline discounts for program participants and applicants during the pandemic, the California Public Utilities Commission (CPUC) has temporarily suspended renewal requirements until June 30, 2021.