Lifeline Program
The Lifeline program provides a $9.25 monthly discount on phone or internet service to help low-income households afford communications services.
About the Lifeline Program
The Lifeline program is a federal assistance program administered by the Federal Communications Commission (FCC) that helps low-income consumers afford telephone and internet services. Established in 1985, Lifeline has helped millions of Americans stay connected.
The program provides a monthly discount of up to $9.25 toward communications services, and many participating providers offer free or discounted phones to eligible subscribers.
Key Benefits
- $9.25 monthly service discount
- Free or discounted phone devices
- Available for voice, internet, or bundled services
- Nationwide coverage through participating providers
- One discount per household
- No impact on other assistance programs
Lifeline Eligibility
You can qualify for Lifeline in two ways:
Income-Based Eligibility
Household income at or below 135% of the Federal Poverty Guidelines:
- 1 person: $1,643/month ($19,720/year)
- 2 people: $2,220/month ($26,640/year)
- 3 people: $2,797/month ($33,560/year)
- 4 people: $3,375/month ($40,500/year)
Program-Based Eligibility
Participation in any of these programs qualifies you automatically:
- SNAP (Food Stamps)
- Medicaid
- SSI (Supplemental Security Income)
- Federal Public Housing Assistance
- Low Income Home Energy Assistance (LIHEAP)
- National School Lunch Program (for households with children)
How Lifeline Works
Apply
Contact a participating provider to apply for Lifeline benefits.
Verify
Provide documentation to verify your eligibility.
Receive
Get your $9.25 monthly discount and free phone if available.
Recertify
Renew your eligibility annually to continue receiving benefits.
Available Services
Wireless Phone
Voice, text, and data service through cellular networks. Most popular option.
Landline Phone
Traditional wired phone service for home use.
Broadband Internet
High-speed internet service (can be combined with ACP for maximum benefits).
Participating Providers
Lifeline benefits are available through FCC-certified providers nationwide.
Major National Providers
- Verizon: Nationwide 4G LTE and 5G coverage
- AT&T: Extensive network with strong rural coverage
- T-Mobile: Fast-growing 5G network
- Visible: Affordable unlimited plans
Regional & Local Providers
Many regional and local providers also participate in Lifeline, offering additional options in specific areas. Availability varies by location.
Find Providers in Your AreaFree Phones with Lifeline
Many Lifeline providers offer free or discounted phones to eligible subscribers. Device availability varies by provider and location.
iPhone SE
Compact and affordable iPhone option available through select providers.
iPhone 11
Popular mid-range iPhone with excellent camera and performance.
Android Options
Various Android smartphones from Samsung, Google, and others.
Lifeline Program Rules
One Benefit Per Household
Only one Lifeline benefit is allowed per household, regardless of the number of eligible individuals living together. The benefit cannot be split or shared between multiple accounts.
Annual Recertification
Eligibility must be verified annually. You'll receive notifications from your provider when it's time to recertify. Failure to recertify will result in service disconnection.
Permitted Usage
Lifeline benefits are intended for personal use. Commercial use, resale of service, or other prohibited uses may result in benefit termination and potential penalties.
Service Portability
Lifeline benefits are portable nationwide. You can move to any state and continue receiving benefits, or switch to a different participating provider.
Lifeline + ACP Benefits
Stack Your Benefits
Eligible households can receive both Lifeline and Affordable Connectivity Program (ACP) benefits for maximum savings on communications services.
Lifeline Only
- $9.25 monthly phone/internet discount
- Free or discounted phone available
- Available to households up to 135% FPL
Lifeline + ACP Combined
- $39.25 monthly total discount ($9.25 Lifeline + $30 ACP)
- Additional $75 device discount available
- Available to households up to 80% FPL
Apply for Lifeline Today
Contact a participating provider to start your Lifeline application. The process is simple and your information is kept confidential.