What is the Lifeline Program?
The Lifeline Program is a federal government initiative that has helped low-income consumers afford telecommunications services since 1985. Administered by the Federal Communications Commission (FCC), Lifeline provides a discount of up to $9.25 per month on phone or internet services to eligible households.
In recent years, the program has expanded to include free or discounted connected devices, making it a key pathway for low-income households to access smartphones, tablets, and other connected devices.
Lifeline Benefits and Coverage
Monthly Service Discount
- Up to $9.25/month discount on phone or broadband service
- Up to $34.25/month for households on Tribal lands
- Discount applies to the lowest-cost eligible service plan
- Available for voice, broadband, or bundled services
Device Benefits
- Free or discounted devices through participating providers
- Smartphones, tablets, and connected devices
- One device benefit per household every 3 years
- Devices must be new or certified refurbished
Coverage Area
- All 50 states, District of Columbia, and US territories
- Over 1,200 participating providers
- Available in rural and urban areas
- Enhanced benefits on Tribal lands
Lifeline Eligibility Requirements
You may qualify for Lifeline if your household meets income guidelines or participates in certain public assistance programs:
Income-Based Eligibility
- Household income at or below 135% of the Federal Poverty Guidelines
- For a household of 1: $20,646 or less annually
- For a household of 2: $27,926 or less annually
- For a household of 3: $35,206 or less annually
- For a household of 4: $42,486 or less annually
- Income limits increase for larger households
Program Participation Eligibility
- Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP)
- Medicaid
- Supplemental Security Income (SSI)
- Federal Public Housing Assistance (Section 8)
- Low Income Home Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP)
- National School Lunch Program (NSLP)
- Tribal programs for nutrition assistance
- Veterans Pension and Survivors Benefit
Special Eligibility Categories
- Households with a disability
- Households experiencing homelessness
- Veterans and their families
- Senior citizens (65+ years old)
How Lifeline Works
Application Process
- Choose a Provider: Select a Lifeline-certified provider in your area
- Gather Documents: Prepare proof of identity, address, and eligibility
- Apply: Complete the Lifeline application with your provider
- Verification: Provider verifies your eligibility with program administrators
- Receive Benefits: Discount applied to your monthly service bill
Required Documentation
Most providers require the following documentation:
- Proof of Identity: Valid government-issued ID, birth certificate, or Social Security card
- Proof of Address: Recent utility bill, lease agreement, or official government mail
- Proof of Eligibility: Program participation documents, income verification, or self-certification
- Household Declaration: Statement of household size and composition
Lifeline Device Options
Many Lifeline providers offer free or discounted devices as part of their Lifeline service plans:
Device Types Available
- Basic cell phones and smartphones
- Tablet computers
- Connected devices and hotspots
- Smart home devices
Popular Lifeline Device Brands
Smartphones
Samsung, Motorola, LG, Alcatel, and other budget-friendly options
Tablets
Samsung Galaxy Tab, Amazon Fire, Lenovo, and other tablet options
Connected Devices
Wi-Fi hotspots, smart speakers, and other connected devices
Finding Lifeline Providers
Official Lifeline Provider Search
Use the FCC's Lifeline provider search tool:
- Visit lifelinesupport.org
- Enter your ZIP code to find providers
- Compare available plans and devices
- Contact providers directly for application
Major Lifeline Providers
- AT&T
- Verizon
- T-Mobile
- Straight Talk
- Visible
- Access Wireless
- Altice
- CenturyLink
- And hundreds of other providers
Lifeline Program History and Funding
Program Timeline
- 1985: Lifeline program established
- 1996: Program reformed and expanded
- 2012: Program modernized with LINK UP and Lifeline reforms
- 2021: Program expanded to include broadband and devices
- 2024: Continued funding and expansion
Current Funding
- $2.8 billion annual federal funding
- State and local matching funds
- Industry contributions
- Over 12 million households enrolled
Lifeline vs Other Programs
Lifeline vs ACP
- Lifeline: Up to $9.25/month + free devices
- ACP: Up to $30/month + $100 device reimbursement
- Lifeline: Lower income requirements
- ACP: Broader eligibility, higher discounts
Lifeline Benefits
- Free or very low-cost devices
- Long-standing, stable program
- Strong provider network
- Available to lowest-income households
Common Lifeline Application Issues
Avoid These Common Mistakes
Blurry Documentation
Ensure all uploaded documents are clear, well-lit, and show all required information. Use good lighting and avoid cropping important details.
Address Mismatches
Make sure your address is consistent across all documents. Minor variations can cause verification delays.
Missing Eligibility Proof
Provide clear proof of your eligibility pathway. Program letters, award notices, or income documentation are essential.
Unverified Providers
Always verify provider legitimacy and Lifeline certification before sharing personal information.
Getting Started with Lifeline
Check Eligibility
Use our eligibility checker to confirm you qualify for Lifeline benefits.
Find Providers
Search for Lifeline-certified providers in your area.
Prepare Documents
Gather proof of identity, address, and eligibility.
Apply and Receive
Complete your application and start receiving benefits.