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Customer Support: Consumer Information: Lifeline Programs

What is Lifeline?

Lifeline is designed to assist qualifying Ohio, Indiana and Kentucky consumers with their telephone service needs. These programs provide special discounts when obtaining service and provide a monthly service discount as well. All programs are available for new and existing customers of Cincinnati Bell.

Who do I call regarding Lifeline?

To place an order for telephone service with lifeline or to obtain additional information, contact a representative at 513.565.LIFE (5433) - Monday through Friday, 7:30 AM to 7:00 PM and Saturday 7:30 AM to 1:00 PM EST.

What do I need to do to apply for Lifeline?

You need to fill out and submit a signed Lifeline Application Agreement. Once the signed Lifeline Application Agreement has been received by Cincinnati Bell's Lifeline Department, an order will be placed for you to receive lifeline benefits. Kentucky applicants must also provide proof of participation in a qualifying program.

What is a lifeline application agreement and where can I obtain one?

An application agreement is a form, which lists the Benefits Programs, Eligibility, Monthly Discount Plans and Applicant Information Section. The applicant for Lifeline fills out and returns the form and then the discounts are applied. You can obtain an Application Agreement online, or by calling the Lifeline Office at 513.565.LIFE (5433) or from certain social service agencies/organizations (see below) and a representative will mail out or fax an application to you.

Which social service agencies/organizations have Lifeline applications and information?

Click here for a list of agencies/organizations who provide assistance with Lifeline applications and additional information about Cincinnati Bell's Lifeline program



A copy of the application can be downloaded from this website by using the links below:

Ohio and Indiana Residents English
CBT Lifeline Program Application Agreement


Kentucky Residents English Español
Kentucky Lifeline Program Application Agreement Solicitud de Acuerdo


Ohio and Indiana Residents - CBT Lifeline Program Back to Top
Who is eligible for the CBT Lifeline Program?

You can automatically qualify for the $12.25 monthly discount, installation discounts and special payment arrangements for past due Cincinnati Bell Telephone bills if you are participating in one of the following programs:

  • Section 8 Housing/Public Housing
  • Medicaid
  • Food Stamps
  • Supplemental Security Income (SSI or SSDI)
  • HEAP (Any Home Energy Assistance Program)
  • Social Security Disability Income (SSDI)
  • Ohio Works First (Formerly AFDC) or TANF
  • Free School Lunch Program
  • Income Eligibility (Income in at or below 150% of the poverty level)

    AND

    You have paid or made payment arrangements on any outstanding balance or final bill for regulated local telephone services provided you, and no other member of your household owes money for such services previously provided at your current address. Cincinnati Bell offers favorable payment arrangements. Call 513.565.LIFE (5433) for further details on making payment or payment arrangements.

    What are the benefits provided by the CBT Lifeline Program?

  • Waiver of the federal subscriber line charge (currently $5.25 as of May, 2008)
  • Monthly discount of $7.00 off the flat rate telephone line
  • Waiver of the Cincinnati Bell deposit for local service
  • Free toll blocking service
  • 100% Waiver of charge to activate new service
  • Call Waiting may be ordered

    Are there any restrictions?

    Lifeline customers will not be able to order any other calling features, such as Caller ID, unless the customer certifies a health or safety need for the additional features. There is no discount on calling features certified for a health or safety reason, the usual non-discounted rates will apply.

    The lifeline discount applies to only one telephone line per account.





    • Kentucky Residents - Kentucky Lifeline Program Back to Top
    Who is eligible for the Kentucky Lifeline Program?

    You are qualified if you are participating in one of the following programs:
  • Medicaid
  • Food Stamps
  • National School Lunch Free Lunch Program
  • Section 8 Housing/Federal Public Housing
  • Supplemental Security Income (SSI)
  • Temporary Aid to Needy Families (TANF)
  • LI HEAP (Low Income Home Energy Assistance Program)

    AND

    You have paid or made payment arrangements on any outstanding balance or final bill for regulated local telephone services provided you, and no other member of your household owes money for such services previously provided at your current address. Cincinnati Bell offers favorable payment arrangements. Call 513.565.LIFE (5433) for further details on making payment or payment arrangements.

    What are the benefits provided by the Kentucky Lifeline Program?
  • Waiver of the federal subscriber line charge (currently $5.24 as of March, 2006)
  • Monthly discount of $7.00 off the telephone line
  • Waiver of the Cincinnati Bell deposit for local service
  • Free toll blocking service
  • 50% waiver of charge to activate new service
  • Optional calling features are permitted