Lifeline Program
Federal program providing discounted phone and internet services.
Helps eligible low-income households stay connected nationwide easily.
Lifeline Assistance for Low-Income Households
Federal initiative offering affordable phone and internet access.
Supports eligible families and individuals to stay connected nationwide.
Lifeline Support Program
Overview
Launched in 1985, Lifeline was designed to ensure affordable phone and internet access for low-income households across all U.S. states, territories, and Tribal areas.
Managed by the Universal Service Administrative Company (USAC) under the FCC and funded by the U.S. government, the program has helped millions of Americans maintain essential communication.
Lifeline provides discounted phone services, enabling connections to work, family, healthcare, education, emergency services, and daily life opportunities.
Programs That Qualify for Lifeline
Eligible Programs
Consumers may qualify for Lifeline if their household income is 135% or below federal poverty guidelines, or if they have no income.
Eligibility also applies to those enrolled in government assistance programs, including SNAP/Food Stamps, Medicaid, SSI, Federal Public Housing Assistance, Veterans & Survivors Pension Benefits, Bureau of Indian Affairs General Assistance, Tribal TANF, Tribal Head Start, or FDPIR.
Lifeline Program Guidelines
Application Requirements
Lifeline provides discounted phone and internet services for eligible low-income consumers, but certain rules and documents are required to maintain benefits and complete enrollment successfully. To keep your Lifeline service active, it must be used at least once every 30 days. The program is strictly for eligible low-income households, is non-transferable, and only one Lifeline benefit is allowed per household.
Proof of Identification: Valid government-issued ID is required, such as a driver’s license, passport, birth certificate, certificate of naturalization, permanent resident card, or unexpired foreign passport.
Proof of Address: Provide a document showing your current residence, including a government-issued ID, utility bill, lease or mortgage statement, current paycheck stub, W2, or benefit statement with your name and address.
Proof of Program Participation: Verify your enrollment in a qualifying state, federal, or Tribal assistance program using current or prior year benefit statements, official participation letters, or program documents confirming eligibility.
Check If You Are Eligible
See if you qualify online in just a few minutes.
No credit checks, deposits, or activation fees required.