Lifeline Eligibility Changes

The Lifeline program has been a reliable source of help for households struggling to afford phone and internet access. Over the years, it has given millions of families a way to stay connected with work, school, and healthcare. But as with any federal assistance program, the rules evolve. Recent adjustments to Lifeline eligibility mean that some people who once qualified may no longer meet the requirements, while others might now find themselves eligible.

Below, you’ll learn what has changed, what hasn’t, and how you can make sure your household continues to receive support.

Key Updates at a Glance

• Eligibility now leans heavily on income levels and participation in select federal benefit programs.
• Some qualifying programs have been removed from the list.
• Everyone enrolled must now recertify every year to keep benefits.
• Those on Tribal lands continue to receive higher discounts.

Who Qualifies for Lifeline Today?

Lifeline is available to households with an income at or below 135% of the Federal Poverty Guidelines. To give perspective, in 2024 a single person must earn no more than $20,331 per year to qualify.

You can also qualify automatically if someone in your household participates in specific federal programs, such as:

• Medicaid
• Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP)
• Supplemental Security Income (SSI)
• Federal Public Housing Assistance (FPHA)
• Veterans Pension and Survivors Benefits

Having at least one member enrolled in one of these programs is enough for the whole household to be considered eligible.

What’s Different About Eligibility in 2025?

The Federal Communications Commission (FCC) has streamlined the list of qualifying programs. Some that once counted such as the Low-Income Home Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP) and the National School Lunch Program (NSLP) no longer apply.

If you qualified through these programs before, you won’t be removed immediately. You’ll keep your Lifeline benefit until your next recertification, but at that point, you’ll need to qualify through income or one of the remaining federal programs.

Another big change is the annual recertification rule. Each year, you must verify your income or continued participation in a qualifying program. Missing this step results in losing the discount, which could mean a sudden increase in monthly bills.

What Benefits Does Lifeline Provide?

Lifeline reduces the cost of phone or internet service by up to $9.25 per month, and households living on Tribal lands can receive discounts of up to $34.25 per month.

Most phone plans include talk, text, and limited data usually starting at around 4.5 GB per month. While the benefits aren’t unlimited, they help households stay connected without stretching already tight budgets.

Lifeline and the Affordable Connectivity Program (ACP)

For a while, families could combine Lifeline with the Affordable Connectivity Program (ACP), which added up to $30 per month toward internet service (or $75 on Tribal lands). Together, these two programs made broadband access much more affordable.

But with ACP funding uncertain, many families may have to rely on Lifeline alone going forward. Since Lifeline’s discounts are smaller, it’s important to stay informed and look for affordable provider plans in your area.

Why Recertification Matters

Each year, you’ll need to confirm your eligibility through the National Verifier or your Lifeline provider. Documentation usually includes:

• Proof of income (pay stubs, tax returns, or Social Security statements)
• Proof of participation in Medicaid, SNAP, or another qualifying program

Failing to recertify means your discount ends. To avoid this, mark your recertification date on your calendar or sign up for provider reminders.

Service Options and Limitations

Not every provider offers the same Lifeline services. Some focus on mobile plans, while others extend benefits to home internet. Common limitations include capped data and fewer high-speed options compared to standard commercial plans.

That said, Lifeline still covers the essentials: reliable calling, texting, and enough data to access email, telehealth, and job applications. Checking local providers can help you find the best match for your household needs.

Why Staying Connected Through Lifeline Matters

For many families, losing Lifeline isn’t just about higher bills, it can mean losing access to job opportunities, school assignments, healthcare, and even emergency services. Staying informed about the latest eligibility rules and completing recertification on time is the best way to keep this support in place.

FAQ

How have the Lifeline eligibility rules changed?
Some qualifying programs, like LIHEAP and NSLP, were removed. Income thresholds and major federal benefit programs (Medicaid, SNAP, SSI, etc.) remain the main qualifiers.

Can I still combine Lifeline with ACP?
Yes, but only while ACP funding lasts. If ACP ends, you’ll still keep your Lifeline benefit.

What’s required to recertify?
You’ll need proof of income or proof of enrollment in a qualifying program every 12 months.

Do all states follow the same rules?
Federal guidelines apply everywhere, but some states may offer extra benefits. Always check with your local provider.

What happens if I forget to recertify?
Your discount will be removed, and your service provider may charge you the full price until you reapply.

Stay Connected With Lifeline

The Lifeline program remains one of the most effective ways for low-income households to stay connected. While eligibility rules have changed, the support is still there for those who qualify. Don’t wait check your eligibility and apply with Free Government Phones today to keep your household connected.