Pioneer Connect is a participating service provider of the Oregon Telephone Assistance Program (OTAP) and the federal Lifeline program. These government assistance programs reduce the monthly cost of phone or broadband service for a qualifying low-income household. OTAP/Lifeline subscribers receive the same residential service as a regular subscriber, but at a reduced monthly recurring rate.
Eligible customers can get one OTAP/Lifeline discount (phone or Internet, but not both) per household, not per person, and a household can get an OTAP/Lifeline discount from only one provider. OTAP/Lifeline discount is non-transferable.
HOW TO QUALIFY: You may qualify if you receive benefits from one of the following:
- Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP)
- Supplemental Security Income (SSI)
- Medicaid
- Veterans Pension and Survivors Benefits
- Federal Public Housing Assistance (Section 8)
- Tribal Specific Programs
- Your total household income is at 135% or less of the federal poverty guidelines.
Customers qualifying for an OTAP/Lifeline discount on their home phone or internet must subscribe to a plan that meets the OTAP/Lifeline programs minimum service standards. OTAP/Lifeline subscribers are free to choose their own toll usage plans through long distance providers that service Pioneer Connect serving are. Toll Blocking and/or toll control is available for free to OTAP/Lifeline subscribers.
Proof of eligibility may be necessary for enrollment. Qualifying customers will need to recertify every year to maintain their Lifeline discount. You’ll need to do this within 60 days of notification, or you’ll lose your Lifeline discount. If you’re enrolled in this program, it’s important to keep OTAP (Oregon Telephone Assistance Program) staff updated about any address or phone number changes, so your benefits aren’t interrupted. All information is treated as confidential by OTAP staff and the local phone companies.
QUESTION OR TO APPLY FOR ASSISTANCE: For questions or to apply for OTAP/Lifeline, please visit the
Oregon PUC at www.puc.state.or.us, call 1-800-848-4442 or email: puc.rspf@state.or.us