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Washington Telephone Assistance Program (WTAP)
 

July 2006
T-170-1

Washington Telephone Assistance Program
The Washington Telephone Assistance Program (WTAP) provides assistance to low-income households, including many senior citizens, who are without telephones. WTAP is designed to make sure families with low incomes throughout the state have affordable telephone service.

Cheaper installation - WTAP pays for some or all of the cost to start your phone service if there is already a phone line going into your home.

No deposit – You will not have to pay a deposit when you sign up for the WTAP program.

Low monthly charge – Basic local phone service is $8 a month plus taxes and fees. WTAP pays for only one local phone line per household. The assistance program does not pay for long-distance calls or optional services such as Call Waiting and Caller ID, and Voicemail.

Stand-alone Voicemail - For people who cannot get local phone service, WTAP also provides a voice mailbox service.

How do I know if I qualify?
You qualify if you receive any financial assistance from the Department of Social and Health Services (DSHS), such as:

Temporary Assistance to Needy Families Food Stamps
Supplemental Security Income Medical Assistance
Refugee Assistance DSHS Chore Services
Community Options Program General Assistance

Am I eligible for Tribal Lifeline and Link-Up Programs?
If you live on a federally recognized reservation, you may be able to save even more money on your phone bill through the federal Tribal Lifeline and Link-Up programs. Call your local phone company to find out if you qualify for this program.
How do I sign up?
To apply for WTAP, the adult receiving benefits should call their local telephone company. You will need your DSHS client identification number. If you have any problems, call the toll-free number below.

If you have questions about your DSHS benefits or client
identification number call 1-888-700-8880
If you need help signing up for the WTAP program call
Washington Utilities and Transportation Commission 1-800-562-6150