Link-Up and Lifeline are two government programs that offers up to $84 a year in discounts on your monthly bill and a 50% reduction for your hook-up service, or $30 which ever is less. These programs have income requirements that vary from state to state. Ask your phone company about them, contact your state Utility Commissioner or contact the Federal Communications Commission, 445 12th St., SW, Washington, DC 20554; 888-CALL-FCC; 202-418-0190; {www.fcc.gov}.