The Lifeline Program is a federal assistance program that helps eligible low-income households reduce the cost of phone or internet service. It is administered by the Universal Service Administrative Company (USAC) under the oversight of the Federal Communications Commission (FCC).

If you receive SNAP, Medicaid, SSI, or another qualifying benefit—or meet the income requirements—you may be eligible for a monthly Lifeline discount.

This guide explains how the program works, what benefits are available, and how to apply, choose a provider, and maintain your service.

What Is the Lifeline Program?

Lifeline helps make essential communication services more affordable by applying a monthly discount to eligible phone, broadband internet, or qualifying bundled service.

It is not a direct cash payment. The benefit is applied through a participating service provider.

How Much Is the Lifeline Discount?

Lifeline benefit	Monthly discount
Standard internet or qualifying bundled service	Up to $9.25
Standard voice-only service	Up to $5.25
Enhanced benefit on qualifying Tribal lands	Up to $34.25

The actual amount you pay depends on the provider’s plan, service type, and applicable benefit.

Important: Lifeline does not provide a standard federal free-tablet benefit. Any device promotion is separate from the service discount.

For device-specific information, explore our Lifeline Free Tablet guide.

Who Qualifies for the Lifeline Program?

There are two main eligibility routes: participation in a qualifying government assistance program or meeting the household income requirement.

Lifeline Eligibility Through Government Benefits

You may qualify through:

• SNAP / EBT: Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program participation.
• Medicaid: Enrollment in the qualifying health coverage program.
• SSI: Supplemental Security Income.
• Federal Public Housing Assistance: Qualifying housing assistance programs.
• Veterans Pension or Survivors Benefit: Eligible pension benefits.
• Qualifying Tribal Programs: Certain assistance programs available to eligible residents of Tribal lands.

Participation by a qualifying child or dependent may also establish eligibility under applicable Lifeline rules.

Lifeline Income-Based Eligibility

Households with gross income at or below 135% of the Federal Poverty Guidelines may qualify.

The limits depend on household size and location. Alaska and Hawaii have different thresholds, and the guidelines are updated annually.

For a detailed breakdown, visit our Free Tablet Eligibility Requirements page or check the official USAC eligibility guidelines.

How Does the Lifeline Program Work?

The process involves three main stages.

1. Verify Eligibility

Applicants complete the applicable Lifeline verification process. Most states use the National Verifier, while Oregon and Texas have state-specific procedures.

2. Select a Participating Provider

Once eligible, you choose a phone or internet company that offers Lifeline service in your area.

3. Receive Your Monthly Discount

The participating provider applies the eligible Lifeline discount to your qualifying service.

Your available plans and out-of-pocket costs depend on the company you select.

How to Apply for the Lifeline Program

Eligible consumers generally have three application options.

Apply Online

Use the official Lifeline application website to submit your eligibility information.

Apply Through a Phone or Internet Provider

A participating company may help you complete the application and enroll in an eligible service plan.

Apply by Mail

Download the official Lifeline paper application and send it to the designated Lifeline Support Center.

Applicants in Oregon and Texas should follow their respective state application procedures.

Official application instructions: Lifeline — How to Apply.

Documents You May Need

If your eligibility cannot be verified automatically, you may need supporting documents such as:

• An official SNAP, Medicaid, SSI, or other qualifying benefit letter
• Accepted income documentation
• Proof of identity
• Proof of residential address

Only submit the documents requested by the official verification process.

How to Find Lifeline Providers Near You

Not every wireless or internet company participates in Lifeline, and available plans differ by location.

To find a suitable provider:

1. Search participating companies using your ZIP code or city and state.
2. Compare phone, internet, and bundled service options.
3. Review coverage, monthly charges, and included features.
4. Confirm the final cost after the Lifeline discount.
5. Enroll through the participating company’s official process.

Use the official Lifeline Companies Near Me directory to start your search.

Important Lifeline Rules You Should Know

One Lifeline Benefit Per Household

Lifeline generally permits one benefit per eligible household.

A household consists of people living together who share income and expenses. Individuals at the same address may qualify as separate households when they do not share those finances, subject to verification.

Annual Recertification

Lifeline eligibility is reviewed annually. If additional information is needed, you may receive a recertification request.

When required to respond, you generally have 60 days to complete recertification.

Service Usage Requirements

If your Lifeline service does not require a monthly out-of-pocket payment, you generally must use it at least once every 30 days.

Failure to use the service may result in a warning and eventual loss of the benefit.

Reporting Changes

Notify your provider within 30 days if you move, no longer qualify, or discover that more than one member of your household receives Lifeline.

Changing Providers

You can transfer your Lifeline benefit to another participating company, subject to program procedures. Contact the new company for instructions.

Lifeline vs. ACP: Are They the Same Program?

No. Lifeline and the Affordable Connectivity Program (ACP) were separate federal assistance programs.

The ACP ended on June 1, 2024. Lifeline remains active.

ACP previously provided broadband discounts and a one-time connected-device discount through participating providers. Lifeline continues to provide eligible phone or internet service discounts but does not replace ACP’s former tablet benefit.

Read our ACP Free Tablet Program and Alternatives guide for details.

Frequently Asked Questions About Lifeline

Is the Lifeline Program still active?

Yes. Lifeline remains active and offers monthly discounts on qualifying phone or internet services.

Can I qualify for Lifeline with EBT?

SNAP participation may establish Lifeline eligibility. The application may require verification of your qualifying benefits.

Does Medicaid qualify for Lifeline?

Yes. Medicaid participation is one of the recognized eligibility routes.

Can I get free internet through Lifeline?

Lifeline provides a discount on qualifying internet service. Whether the final plan costs nothing depends on the participating provider and its offer.

Does Lifeline provide free government phones?

Some participating companies may offer phone promotions, but a free device is not guaranteed by the federal Lifeline benefit.

Can I receive Lifeline without SNAP or Medicaid?

Yes. You may qualify through household income or another approved assistance program.

How do I check my Lifeline application status?

Use your official Lifeline application account or contact the Lifeline Support Center. For service activation and device questions, contact your chosen provider.

Final Thoughts

The Lifeline Program can help eligible households reduce monthly phone or internet expenses, but it is important to understand what the federal benefit actually covers.

Check your eligibility, compare participating providers, review service conditions, and follow official application procedures to make the most of the available assistance.