The Lifeline Program: Your Discount on Monthly Phone and Internet Service

What is the Lifeline Program?

The federal Lifeline program is a long-standing commitment from the Federal Communications Commission (FCC) to ensure that all Americans have access to essential communication services. Since 1985, it has provided a crucial financial discount on monthly phone and internet service for qualifying low-income households across every state, territory, and on Tribal lands.

This support is designed to make modern connectivity more affordable. It enables individuals and families to connect to jobs, healthcare, educational resources, and emergency services.

The benefit can be applied to either a wireline (landline) or wireless (cell phone) service, including broadband internet. However, a household may only receive one Lifeline discount at a time.

Who Administers the Lifeline Program?

The program is not administered directly by the FCC. Instead, it is managed by the Universal Service Administrative Company (USAC), an independent, not-for-profit corporation.

USAC is responsible for the day-to-day operations of Lifeline. This includes managing the application and eligibility verification process through the National Verifier system and overseeing the required annual recertification for all subscribers. This structure ensures a standardized and accountable process for a program funded by contributions from telecommunications carriers to the Universal Service Fund (USF).

Lifeline's Role After the Affordable Connectivity Program (ACP)

It is important to distinguish Lifeline from other government programs. The Affordable Connectivity Program (ACP) concluded in 2024 due to a lack of additional funding from Congress.

With the end of the ACP, Lifeline now stands as the primary, enduring federal program dedicated to making telecommunications services more affordable for low-income consumers. This elevates its importance as the main source of federal support for households struggling to pay for essential phone and internet access.

What Benefits Does the Lifeline Program Provide

The Lifeline program offers a direct monthly discount on communication services. The benefit amount is structured to encourage the adoption of broadband internet, which the FCC recognizes as essential for modern life. The program also provides significantly enhanced support for residents of Tribal lands and special assistance for survivors of domestic violence.

2.1 The Standard Monthly Discount

The core of the Lifeline program is a monthly subsidy applied directly to a subscriber's bill from a participating phone or internet company. The value of this discount is tiered based on the type of service selected, a policy choice designed to steer both consumers and providers toward more robust, modern services.

Broadband or Bundled Service Discount

• Eligible subscribers can receive a discount of up to $9.25 per month on qualifying broadband internet service or a bundled package that includes both voice and broadband.
• To qualify for this higher discount, the service must meet the FCC's minimum standards. These currently include broadband speeds of at least 25 Megabits per second (Mbps) for downloads and 3 Mbps for uploads, along with a monthly data allowance of at least 1280 GB for fixed broadband.

Voice-Only Service Discount

• For subscribers who choose a voice-only telephone plan (either landline or mobile), the discount is lower, at up to $5.25 per month.
• Mobile voice plans supported by Lifeline must include at least 1000 minutes per month.

Promoting Digital Equity

This tiered structure is not arbitrary; it is an intentional mechanism to promote digital equity. By offering a larger financial incentive for broadband, the program actively supports the FCC's goal of closing the digital divide and ensuring that low-income households have access to the high-speed internet necessary for work, school, and healthcare in the 21st century.

2.2 Enhanced Tribal Benefit: A Commitment to Bridging the Divide

Recognizing the historically higher costs and lower subscription rates for communication services on Tribal lands, the FCC provides a significantly enhanced Lifeline benefit to eligible residents of these areas.

Enhanced Monthly Support

• Consumers living on qualifying Tribal lands can receive a discount of up to $34.25 per month on their phone or internet service.
• This benefit is a combination of the standard discount (up to $9.25 for broadband) plus up to an additional $25 in enhanced Tribal support.

Link Up Support for Installation

• In addition to the monthly discount, the Link Up program provides a one-time benefit to reduce the initial cost of starting service on Tribal lands. It offers a discount of up to $100 on the installation or activation fee for telephone service.
• For activation charges between $100 and $200, Link Up also provides a deferred, no-interest payment plan for up to one year.
• It is important to note that this benefit is only available from carriers that are actively building out infrastructure on Tribal lands, so not all providers in the area may offer it.

2.3 Support for Survivors of Domestic Violence

Under the Safe Connections Act (SCA), the Lifeline program offers special, temporary support for survivors of domestic violence, human trafficking, and related crimes who are experiencing financial hardship.

Emergency Communication Support

• Qualifying survivors can receive the standard Lifeline discount of up to $9.25 per month on phone or internet service for an emergency period of up to six months.
• This support is designed to ensure survivors can maintain a safe and independent line of communication. After the six-month period, survivors can apply for the standard Lifeline benefit if they meet the regular eligibility criteria.

How to Qualify for the Lifeline Program

Eligibility for the Lifeline program is strictly defined to ensure that the benefit reaches its intended recipients. There are two primary pathways to qualify: one based on your household's income and the other based on your household's participation in a qualifying government assistance program. The system is designed to favor automated verification through government databases, making program-based qualification often the most straightforward path.

3.1 Path 1: Qualifying Based on Your Household Income

A household can qualify for Lifeline if its total gross income is at or below 135% of the Federal Poverty Guidelines. These income limits are updated annually and vary based on household size and location. When applying based on income, you will likely need to provide documentation such as a prior year's tax return or three consecutive pay stubs to prove your income level.

Lifeline Annual Income Limits (Based on 135% of 2025 Federal Poverty Guidelines)

3.2 Path 2: Qualifying Through a Government Assistance Program

If you or another member of your household participates in certain federal or Tribal assistance programs, your household is automatically eligible for Lifeline. This is often the faster way to qualify because the National Verifier system can check your participation directly with other government databases, requiring less paperwork from you.

Federal and Tribal Assistance Programs That Qualify You for Lifeline

3.3 Special Qualification Rules

Some states and specific circumstances have unique eligibility rules that expand upon the federal standards.

• State-Specific Programs: States like California, Oregon, and Texas operate their own Lifeline programs and may have their own lists of qualifying state-level assistance programs and different income thresholds. For example, California includes programs like CalWORKs and GAIN in its eligibility criteria. Residents of these states should consult their state's specific Lifeline website for details.
• Survivors (Safe Connections Act): Survivors of domestic violence have a broader set of qualification criteria for the initial six-month emergency benefit. They can qualify if their household income is at or below 200% of the Federal Poverty Guidelines or through participation in programs like WIC or by having received a Federal Pell Grant in the current award year.

3.4 The Critical "One Per Household" Rule

One of the most important and strictly enforced rules of the Lifeline program is that there can be only one Lifeline benefit per household. Violating this rule can lead to de-enrollment for all parties involved. 

What Defines a Household?

A "household" is not defined by family relationships but as an economic unit. This is any individual or group of people who live together at the same address and share income and expenses.

Examples of Households

• Example 1: Four roommates live in an apartment. Each person pays their own share of the rent and buys their own food. They do not share income or expenses. In this case, they may be considered four separate households, and each could potentially qualify for their own Lifeline benefit.
• Example 2: An adult lives with their elderly parent. The adult provides all financial support for rent, utilities, and food. They are considered one household and are eligible for only one Lifeline discount.

When applying for Lifeline at an address where someone already receives the benefit, you must complete a Household Worksheet to determine if you are a separate economic unit.

The Lifeline Application: A Step-by-Step Process

Applying for the Lifeline program is a two-part journey. First, you must prove you are eligible through the National Verifier system. Second, you must choose a participating phone or internet company to apply your benefit. Understanding this sequence makes the process much more manageable.

4.1 Step 1: Proving Your Eligibility with the National Verifier

The National Verifier is the centralized FCC system, managed by USAC, that determines whether you qualify for the program. There are three ways to submit your application to the National Verifier.

• Online Application (Fastest Method): The quickest way to apply is through the official Lifeline website at lifelinesupport.org (which may also be accessed via getinternet.gov). You will need to provide your full legal name, date of birth, home address, and either the last four digits of your Social Security Number (SSN) or your Tribal Identification Number. If the system cannot confirm your eligibility automatically, you will be prompted to upload documents.
• Mail-in Application: For those who prefer not to apply online, a paper application is available. You can download the form or call the Lifeline Support Center to have one mailed to you. You must mail the completed form and   copies of your proof documents (do not send originals) to the Lifeline Support Center in Horseheads, NY. This method takes longer to process.
• Application Through a Provider: Many participating Lifeline companies can assist with the application process. You can often apply in person at a provider's retail store or at a community enrollment event. The provider will help you submit your information to the National Verifier.

4.2 Providing the Right Proof: Acceptable Documents

If the National Verifier cannot automatically confirm your eligibility, you will need to submit documentation. The documents must clearly show your name and either your income level or your participation in a qualifying program.

• Proof of Income:
• The prior year's state, federal, or Tribal tax return
• A Social Security statement of benefits
• A Veterans Administration statement of benefits
• Paycheck stubs for three consecutive months
• A letter from your employer
• Proof of Program Participation:
• An award letter or other official document from a qualifying program (such as SNAP, Medicaid, SSI, or FPHA) that proves your participation.  

4.3 Step 2: Choosing Your Service and Provider

Once the National Verifier approves your application, you have 90 days to select a participating phone or internet company and sign up for service. If you do not enroll with a provider within this 90-day window, your approval will expire, and you will need to reapply.

You can either sign up with a new company that offers Lifeline or contact your current provider. Ask them to apply the Lifeline benefit to your existing service, if they participate in the program.

4.4 Important Note for CA, OR, and TX Residents

As mentioned, California, Oregon, and Texas manage their own application and eligibility systems. If you live in one of these states, you should begin the process by visiting your state's specific Lifeline website or by contacting a local participating provider directly. They will guide you through their unique application process.

Finding Participating Phone and Internet Companies

After you have been approved for the Lifeline benefit, the next step is to find a service provider in your area. The program operates through a competitive marketplace of private telecommunications companies, both large and small, that are authorized to offer Lifeline-supported services.

5.1 Using the Official "Companies Near Me" Tool

The most reliable way to find local providers is to use the official search tool managed by USAC. This tool is available on the Lifeline Support website at lifelinesupport.org or directly at cnm.universalservice.org.  

• You can search by entering your ZIP code or your city and state.
• The tool will generate a list of companies that offer Lifeline service in that area.
• This list may not be completely exhaustive. It is always worth contacting a local company directly to ask if they participate, even if they are not on the list.

5.2 Major National and Regional Providers

The Lifeline program includes many well-known national carriers, which provides a broad network of access for consumers.

• Verizon participates in the program, largely through its subsidiaries acquired from TracFone. This includes prominent Lifeline brands like SafeLink Wireless and Walmart Family Mobile.
• AT&T also offers Lifeline-discounted wireless and home phone service in certain states and areas.
• Other widely available wireless providers that are heavily involved in the Lifeline market include Assurance Wireless, Q Link Wireless, Life Wireless, and Tru Connect. 

5.3 What to Look for in a Provider

While the Lifeline discount is standardized, the service plans and promotional offers can vary significantly between companies. It pays to compare your options.

Promotional "Free Phones"

Many Lifeline providers advertise a "free government phone" or a "free smartphone" upon enrollment. It is crucial to understand that the phone itself is not part of the federal Lifeline benefit; the program only subsidizes the monthly service. The free device is a promotional marketing tool offered by the company to attract customers. These are typically basic, entry-level smartphones.

Comparing Service Plans

Compare the specifics of the plans offered. Look at the amount of high-speed data, the number of voice minutes, and whether texting is unlimited. Some providers, like Air Talk Wireless, may offer value-added features like free international calling to certain countries as part of their Lifeline plans. Choose the plan that best fits your personal usage needs.

Keeping Your Lifeline Benefit: Rules and Responsibilities

Qualifying for and enrolling in the Lifeline program is the first half of the process; the second half is maintaining your benefit. The program has strict rules designed to ensure its integrity and to confirm that subscribers remain eligible. Understanding these responsibilities is essential to avoid losing your discount.

6.1 The Annual Recertification: You Must Prove You Still Qualify

Every year, you must go through a process called recertification to confirm that you still meet the program's eligibility requirements.

The Recertification Process

USAC will first attempt to confirm your eligibility automatically through its database connections. If it cannot, you will be notified that you need to recertify. You will receive a letter in the mail and may also get reminders via email or automated phone calls.

You must complete your recertification within a 60-day window. This is a strict deadline. If you fail to recertify within this window, you will be automatically de-enrolled from the Lifeline program.

How to Recertify

You can recertify in one of three ways:

1. Online: Visit the National Verifier portal at lifelinesupport.org.
2. By Mail: Complete and return the barcoded recertification form that was mailed to you.
3. By Phone: If you are not required to submit new proof documents, you can call the Interactive Voice Response (IVR) system and follow the prompts.

6.2 The "Use It or Lose It" Rule

To prevent waste, the program requires that you actively use your Lifeline service. If your service plan is free, you must use it at least once every 30 days. Using the service means making a call, sending a text message, or using data.

If you do not use your service for 30 consecutive days, your provider will send you a 15-day warning notice. If you still do not use the service within that 15-day period, it will be turned off.

6.3 Your Obligation to Report Changes

You are required to keep your information up to date with your Lifeline provider. You must notify your company within 30 days if any of the following occur:

• You move to a new address.
• You no longer qualify for Lifeline (for example, your income rises or you leave a qualifying program).
• Someone else in your household gets a Lifeline benefit.

6.4 Other Important Rules

• Honesty: You must be truthful on all Lifeline applications and forms. Providing false information to obtain the benefit is against the law.
• Transferring Your Benefit: You can transfer your Lifeline benefit from one company to another, but generally only once per service month.

The Evolution of Lifeline: A Brief History of Connectivity

The Lifeline program of today is the result of nearly four decades of evolution, adapting to changes in technology and public policy. Its history reflects the changing definition of what constitutes an "essential" communication service in America.

7.1 Origins (1985)

The program was established by the FCC in 1985 during the Reagan administration. Its creation was a direct response to the 1984 breakup of the AT&T monopoly. Policymakers were concerned that competition could cause local phone rates to rise, making basic landline service unaffordable for low-income households.

7.2 Adapting to Technology (2005-2016)

As technology advanced, the program had to adapt to remain relevant. Key reforms were implemented to modernize the program and address new challenges.

• 2005: The FCC under the George W. Bush administration expanded Lifeline to allow the discount to be applied to wireless cell phone service for the first time. This acknowledged the shift away from landlines and toward mobile communication.
• 2012: Facing criticism over fraud and rising costs, the FCC implemented significant reforms. These included creating the National Lifeline Accountability Database (NLAD) to prevent duplicate benefits and strengthening documentation requirements. The FCC also first allowed the subsidy to be used for broadband internet access.
• 2016: The Lifeline Modernization Order marked the program's most significant transformation. It officially shifted Lifeline's primary focus from voice service to broadband and established minimum service standards for internet speed and data. This order also mandated the creation of the National Verifier to centralize and strengthen the eligibility verification process.

7.3 The Goal: Program Integrity and Digital Equity

The history of Lifeline is a dual narrative. On one hand, it is a story of expanding access, evolving from a landline subsidy to a tool for digital equity in the internet age. On the other hand, it is a story of increasing oversight, with stricter rules and verification systems implemented over time to protect the integrity of the Universal Service Fund and ensure the program operates efficiently.

Conclusion: Staying Connected with Lifeline

The Lifeline program remains a vital federal benefit. It serves as a critical connection to the modern world for millions of eligible low-income households.

By providing a monthly discount on phone or internet service, Lifeline helps ensure that financial hardship does not become a barrier to accessing employment opportunities, education, healthcare, and emergency services.

The process to receive this benefit is clear and structured. It begins with confirming your eligibility, either based on your household income or your participation in a qualifying government program. Once qualified through the National Verifier, the final step is to choose a participating company that offers a service plan meeting your needs.

By following the program's rules, including the annual recertification, you can maintain this essential support. To begin the process of lowering your monthly communication bill, the first step is to check your eligibility and apply.

The official starting point for all applications is the Lifeline Support website: https://www.lifelinesupport.org/.

Frequently Asked Questions