Lifeline is a federal program that provides a monthly discount on phone service for eligible low-income customers. The program is available to eligible customers in every state and territory and provides a discount on monthly phone service or a free basic phone.
What is the Lifeline program?
The Lifeline program is a federal program that provides subsidies to eligible telecommunications carriers in order to provide discounted phone service to low-income consumers.
The program is administered by the Federal Communications Commission (FCC) and is available in all 50 states, the District of Columbia, Puerto Rico, and the U.S. Virgin Islands.
Lifeline is the only program of its kind and has been in operation for over 30 years. It is funded through the Universal Service Fund, which is supported by fees charged to telecommunications companies.
What is Affordable Connectivity Program?
The Affordable Connectivity Program (ACP) is a new initiative from the FCC that will help make broadband Internet service more affordable for low-income households.
The program will provide a subsidy of up to $9.25 per month for eligible households, which will be applied directly to their broadband bill.
How does the Lifeline program work?
To participate in the Lifeline program, eligible households must have an annual income at or below 135% of the federal poverty guidelines or participate in one of the following assistance programs:
- Medicaid
- Food Stamps
- Supplemental Security Income (SSI)
- Federal Public Housing Assistance (FPHA)
Lifeline service is provided through two main types of providers: landline and wireless. Landline providers offer free or discounted home phone service, while wireless providers offer free or discounted cell phone service.
To enroll in the program, eligible households must select a provider and complete an application. Once enrolled, households will receive a Lifeline discount on their monthly phone bill.
The program is overseen by the Federal Communications Commission (FCC) and is administered by the Universal Service Administrative Company (USAC).
USAC is responsible for determining eligibility for the Lifeline program and for verifying that households receiving Lifeline benefits meet program requirements.
If you have any questions about the Lifeline program or how to apply, please contact your state’s Lifeline Administrator or the FCC at 1-888-225-5322.
What are the benefits of the Lifeline program?
- A discount on monthly telephone or broadband service
- Access to free or discounted mobile phone service
- Free or discounted access to broadband internet service
The Lifeline program is an important part of the FCC’s efforts to ensure that all Americans have access to vital communications services. For more information about the Lifeline program, please visit the FCC’s website.
How to Qualify for the Lifeline program?
To qualify for the program, you must participate in one of the following assistance programs:
- Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP)
- Medicaid
- Supplemental Security Income (SSI)
- Federal Public Housing Assistance (FPHA)
- Veterans Pension and Survivors Benefit
- Bureau of Indian Affairs General Assistance
- Tribal Head Start (only those living on federally-recognized reservations)
If you don’t participate in any of the above programs, you can still qualify for Lifeline if your household income is at or below 135% of the Federal Poverty Guidelines.
If you think you might be eligible for the program, contact your local Lifeline provider to see if you qualify.
What Is Needed To Apply for the Lifeline program?
To qualify for the program, customers must meet certain eligibility criteria and provide documentation to prove their eligibility.
- Proof of Identification
- Proof of Address
- Proof of Government Benefit Participation
FAQs
1. What is the Lifeline program?
The Lifeline program is a government-sponsored program that provides eligible low-income households with a discount on their monthly telephone service bill.
2. How do I know if I am eligible for the Lifeline program?
To be eligible for the Lifeline program, you must participate in one of the following programs:
- Medicaid
- Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP)
- Supplemental Security Income (SSI)
- Federal Public Housing Assistance (FPHA)
- Veterans Pension or Survivors Pension
3. How do I apply for the Lifeline program?
To apply for the Lifeline program, you must contact your telephone service provider and request an application. Once you have completed the application, you will need to provide proof of your eligibility.
4. How much will I save with the program?
The Lifeline program provides eligible households with a discount of $9.25 per month on their telephone service bill.
5. How long will I receive the Lifeline discount?
You will continue to receive the Lifeline discount as long as you remain eligible and enrolled in the program.
6. Can I transfer my Lifeline discount to another person?
No, the Lifeline discount cannot be transferred to another person.
7. I am moving, can I take my Lifeline discount with me?
Yes, you can take your Lifeline discount with you if you move. However, you will need to contact your telephone service provider and update your address.
8. Can I get a Lifeline discount on my cell phone service?
Yes, you can receive a Lifeline discount on your cell phone service if you participate in one of the eligible programs.
9. I have questions about the Lifeline program, who can I contact?
If you have questions about the Lifeline program, you can contact the Lifeline National Verifier at 1-800-234-9473.
