Lifeline Program

The Lifeline Program is a longstanding federal initiative designed to help eligible low-income households afford essential phone and internet services. By providing monthly service discounts, Lifeline ensures that families and individuals can stay connected for work, education, healthcare, and everyday communication.

Eligibility depends on income or participation in qualifying assistance programs such as SNAP, Medicaid, SSI, Federal Public Housing, or Veterans Pension. Approved applicants receive a monthly discount on phone or internet service, and some participating providers also include free smartphones as part of their Lifeline plans.

Lifeline is available nationwide, including all U.S. states, territories, and Tribal lands. Consumers must recertify eligibility annually to maintain benefits. For more information and to check eligibility, visit the official Lifeline website at https://www.lifelinesupport.org.

Lifeline Program FAQs

Lifeline is a federal benefit that lowers the monthly cost of phone and internet service for qualifying low‑income households.

You may qualify if your household income is at or below 135% of the federal poverty guidelines or if you participate in assistance programs like SNAP, Medicaid, SSI, or others.

The program itself offers a monthly service discount. Some participating companies bundle a free smartphone with the service plan, but the subsidy is for service, not the device.

Eligible consumers can get up to $9.25 off phone or internet service monthly. Households on Tribal lands may qualify for higher discounts.

Yes. Lifeline is available across all U.S. states, territories, and on Tribal lands through approved providers.

Visit the Lifeline National Verifier online or contact a participating phone or internet company to submit your application and proof of eligibility.

Once enrolled, you must recertify your eligibility each year to keep your Lifeline benefit active.

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