Staying connected isn’t just about convenience—it’s about having access to jobs, emergency services, health care, education, and loved ones. That’s where the Lifeline Program comes in. Lifeline is a federal assistance program that helps make phone or internet services more affordable for qualifying low-income households.
If you’re struggling to cover the cost of communication services, here’s everything you need to know about how to qualify, apply, and get the most out of Lifeline.
What Is the Lifeline Program?
Lifeline is a Federal Communications Commission (FCC) program that provides:
-
Up to $9.25/month toward phone or internet service
-
Up to $34.25/month if you live on tribal lands
You can use the benefit for:
-
A mobile phone plan
-
A home phone line
-
A broadband internet plan (home or mobile)
You can only receive one Lifeline benefit per household, either for phone or internet, not both.
Who Is Eligible for Lifeline?
You qualify for Lifeline if your income is at or below 135% of the Federal Poverty Guidelines, or you participate in any of these programs:
-
SNAP (Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program / Food Stamps)
-
Medicaid
-
Supplemental Security Income (SSI)
-
Federal Public Housing Assistance (FPHA)
-
Veterans Pension or Survivors Benefit
-
Tribal Programs (like Tribal TANF or Food Distribution Program on Indian Reservations)
You may need to show documentation like benefit approval letters, pay stubs, or tax returns.
How Long Do Lifeline Benefits Last?
-
You need to recertify every year to keep receiving Lifeline.
-
If you no longer qualify (due to income changes or losing eligibility for a qualifying program), you must notify your provider.
Tips to Make the Most of Lifeline
-
Combine Lifeline with other programs like the Affordable Connectivity Program (ACP) to get even more savings on broadband.
-
Ask providers about device deals, such as free smartphones or discounted routers.
-
Keep your contact info updated to avoid losing your service during annual recertification.
