The LifeLine/Linkup Programs are part of the Federal Communications Commission’s Universal Service Fund Program. The goal of Universal Service is to insure consumers throughout Alabama and the United States have essential telecommunications service. Anyone participating in Alabama Medicaid, Food Stamps, SSI, Section 8 Federal Public Housing Assistance (FPHA), Low Income Home Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP), or Temporary Assistance to Needy Families (TANF) may be eligible for discounts on telephone installation and/or monthly telephone bills. Please contact the local Otelco office serving your area for complete details and to apply.