The Minnesota Public Utilities Commission (PUC) is highlighting the federal Lifeline program during Digital Connectivity and Lifeline Awareness Week (Sept. 7–13, 2025). Lifeline helps qualifying low-income households reduce the cost of essential communication services, offering monthly discounts of up to $9.25 for broadband or bundled service, $5.25 for voice-only service, and up to $34.25 for residents on Tribal lands.

More than 81,000 Minnesotans are already enrolled. An estimated 420,000 remain eligible. This presents an opportunity for low income Minnesotans to expand access to affordable connectivity. As the PUC notes, Lifeline supports more than phone or internet. It is a vital link to employment, healthcare, emergency services, and community connections.

Minnesotans can apply online at the FCC. For assistance with the Lifeline program, residents can contact the PUC’s Consumer Affairs Office at 800-657-3782 or email consumer.puc@state.mn.us. The PUC staff have resources available to help non-English speaking consumers.

Bradley Werner, LLC

Michael Bradley and Nancy Werner are nationally recognized and respected local government attorneys. Our firm is dedicated to representing local governments on broadband, cable, telecommunications, utilities, and right-of-way management issues. We have decades of experience representing municipalities on communications and utilities matters.