Seniors trying to cut costs might find the federal Lifeline telephone service to their liking.

The program offers phone customers a $9.25 credit on either their cell phone or landline phone bill. And those who live on a federally recognized tribal reservation may be able to save more through the federal Tribal Lifeline and Link-Up programs.

Call your local phone company to find out if you qualify and sign up. Information is also available from the Federal Communications Commission at www.fcc.gov.  If you have trouble signing up or don’t think your credit is being applied, call the state Utilities and Transportation Commission’s Consumer Protection Help Line at 1-888-333-WUTC (9882) or send an e-mail to consumer@utc.wa.gov.

Since 1985, the Lifeline program has provided a discount on phone service for qualifying low-income consumers to ensure that all Americans can have phone service. Lifeline is part of the Universal Service Fund and is available to eligible low-income consumers throughout the U.S.

The program is administered by the Universal Service Administrative Company (USAC). USAC’s website provides information regarding administrative aspects of the low-income program, as well as program requirements.

Broadband Internet service is part of Lifeline.