The Federal Communications Commission Friday announced a six-month waiver to assist people affected by Hurricane Milton stay connected to phone and broadband service.

The Lifeline program offers qualifying low-income consumers discounts on fixed or mobile voice or broadband internet service, as well as on bundled service. Qualifying consumers can receive a $9.25 monthly discount on Lifeline-supported broadband service or a $5.25 monthly discount on Lifeline-supported voice service.

Hurricane Milton is approaching Florida, bringing the threat of strong winds and potential flooding across the state. In preparation for possible power outages and disrupted cell service, having the ability to send a distress signal via satellite could prove critical.

The FCC is waiving certain eligibility requirements to allow Hurricane Milton survivors to enroll in the Lifeline program. This article, FCC expands phone, Internet service discount to Hurricane Milton victims,