Whether it’s applying for jobs, accessing telehealth, keeping in touch with loved ones, or helping kids with schoolwork, phone and internet service are essential. For households with limited income, however, these costs can be overwhelming. That’s where the Lifeline program steps in.

What is the Lifeline Program?

The Lifeline program has been around since 1985, created to ensure that low-income households aren’t cut off from essential communication services. Just like ACP, it’s been managed by the Federal Communications Commission (FCC) and supported through the Universal Service Fund, it gives qualifying customers a recurring monthly discount on either phone or internet service. Approved carriers across the country participate, allowing eligible families and individuals to stay connected without the burden of full-price bills.

Here’s what Lifeline offers:

• A discount of up to $9.25 per month for qualifying households.
• A higher discount of up to $34.25 per month for residents living on Tribal lands.
• Households can use the Lifeline discount on one service only either a phone plan or an internet plan since the benefit cannot be applied to both at the same time.

Lifeline is available nationwide including all 50 states, Washington, D.C., Puerto Rico, and the U.S. Virgin Islands.

Who Qualifies for Lifeline?

To enroll, you must either meet the income requirements or be enrolled in a qualifying assistance program.

Income-based qualification:

• Household income at or below 135% of the Federal Poverty Guidelines.

Program-based qualification:

• Medicaid
• SNAP (Food Stamps)
• Supplemental Security Income (SSI)
• Federal Public Housing Assistance (FPHA)
• Veterans Pension or Survivors Benefits
• Certain Tribal assistance programs

Some states offer their own Lifeline initiatives with added benefits, so requirements may vary depending on where you live.

Benefits You Can Expect

The main benefit of Lifeline is the monthly service discount, but many providers go further. Depending on your location and provider, you may get access to:

• Discounted or free smartphones
• Affordable broadband plans
• Bundled voice and data packages
• Free or low-cost SIM cards

Providers such as Free Phones Government often include a free basic smartphone when you sign up.

Lifeline for Students and Families

Without reliable internet, many students from lower-income households face challenges keeping pace with their online classes and assignments. Lifeline helps close that gap by making broadband affordable, giving students access to:

• Virtual classrooms
• Online research and assignments
• Communication tools like email and video calls

For parents, Lifeline provides the ability to stay in touch with teachers, access healthcare portals, and manage work opportunities online.

How to Apply for Lifeline Program?

Applying is easy and simple:

1. Check eligibility through the National Verifier system.
2. Choose a participating provider in your area.
3. Submit proof of eligibility (such as an EBT card, Medicaid card, or income documents).
4. Get approved and start using your discounted service.

If you need help, many local organizations, libraries, and schools can guide you through the process.

The Future of Lifeline

The FCC continues to modernize Lifeline, shifting its focus toward broadband access. Internet is now just as important as phone service for education, healthcare, and work.

During the COVID-19 pandemic, the program proved its importance as more families relied on online access for school and remote work. Moving forward, updates may include broader eligibility, larger discounts, and stronger outreach to underserved communities.

Stay Connected with Lifeline

If high service costs are keeping you offline, the Lifeline program can help. By offering discounts on monthly phone or internet service and even free devices through certain providers, Lifeline ensures low-income households don’t have to miss out on essential communication. You can also visit our blog section to see how you can qualify and apply for lifeline program?

Check your eligibility today, find a provider near you, and take advantage of this long-running program designed to keep every household connected.