Important Update: Lifeline Services Remain Active for Customers Impacted by Hurricane Helene 

We hope this message finds you safe and in good health after the devastation caused by Hurricane Helene. We understand how crucial it is to stay connected during such difficult times. To assist our Lifeline customers in the impacted areas, the Federal Communications Commission (FCC) has announced temporary waivers for Lifeline service requirements. 

This update explains the recent FCC announcement and outlines what you need to do to maintain your service once the waiver period ends. 

FCC Waiver for Hurricane Helene-Impacted Areas 

If you are a Lifeline customer in Alabama, Florida, Georgia, North Carolina, South Carolina, Tennessee, or Virginia, the FCC has implemented waivers to ensure uninterrupted access to your Lifeline service. 

What This Means for You: 

• No Service Interruption: Your Lifeline service will remain active even if you have not used it or completed your annual recertification. This waiver extends until November 30, 2024. 

• Continued Benefits: You can continue to use your Lifeline service without worrying about disruptions through the waiver period. 

Important Information About Recertification and Non-Usage 

• Recertification Deadline Postponed 

If you live in the areas affected by Hurricane Helene, your annual recertification deadline has been postponed. You do not need to complete your recertification until after November 30, 2024. Rest assured! We will notify you when it’s time to complete the process and provide reminders to help ensure your service continues seamlessly after the waiver period. 

• De-enrollment Due to Non-Usage Postponed 

The standard requirement to use your Lifeline service at least once every 30 days to avoid de-enrollment has also been postponed until November 30, 2024. Starting on December 1, 2024, this 30-day usage requirement will resume. 

If you fail to use your service within 30 days, you will receive an additional 15-day notice starting on December 31, 2024. During this notice period, you’ll have the opportunity to use your service and prevent de-enrollment. 

Next Steps: What You Need to Do 

While no immediate action is required, we encourage you to be prepared for the following after the waiver period ends: 

1. Recertification 

You will need to complete your annual recertification after November 30, 2024 to confirm your eligibility for Lifeline services moving forward. We will send you reminders and instructions when the time comes, but for now, no action is necessary. 

2. Service Usage 

After December 1, 2024, please ensure that you use your service at least once every 30 days to avoid de-enrollment. Actions like making a phone call, sending a text, or using mobile data all count toward this requirement. If you do not use your service within 30 days, we will send you a 15-day notice starting December 31, 2024, giving you time to reactivate your service by using it. 

We Are Here to Help 

We understand the challenges you may be facing, and our goal is to make sure you stay connected during this difficult time. If you have any questions about the FCC waiver, your recertification, or service usage requirements, please contact our support team. We are here for you every step of the way. 

Our thoughts remain with everyone affected by Hurricane Helene, and we are committed to keeping you connected throughout the recovery process. 

Thank you for choosing AirTalk. 

Stay safe, and we look forward to supporting you in the months ahead. 

Opinions expressed in this article are those of the guest author and not necessarily AirTalk Wireless. Staff authors are listed here