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What is the Lifeline Assistance Program?
Recognizing the importance of phone access and concerned about affordability for low-income households, the federal government created the Lifeline Assistance program in 1985. This program provides eligible consumers with discounted or free phone service to ensure all Americans have access to essential communication services.
How the Lifeline Program Works
Lifeline offers government-assisted wireless services to qualifying low-income families and individuals. Benefits include:
- Free cell phone service with plans varying by state
- Free monthly data allowance
- Unlimited texting in most plans
- Free monthly minutes for calls
- Potential eligibility for a free smartphone
- Access to reliable 5G/4G LTE coverage nationwide
The Lifeline benefit is limited to one discount per household and cannot be combined with other Lifeline offers. Service is provided by various carriers including Life Wireless and others.
Eligibility Requirements for Lifeline Assistance
Program-Based Eligibility
You may qualify if you or a member of your household participates in one of these federal assistance programs:
- Medicaid/Medi-Cal
- Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP/Food Stamps)
- Supplemental Security Income (SSI)
- Federal Public Housing Assistance (FPHA)
- Veterans Pension and Survivors Benefit
- Bureau of Indian Affairs General Assistance
- Tribally-Administered Temporary Assistance for Needy Families
- Food Distribution Program on Indian Reservations
- Tribal Head Start (income-eligible)
Income-Based Eligibility
You can also qualify based on household income at or below 135% of the Federal Poverty Guidelines (varies by state and household size).
One Household Rule Explained
Lifeline is available for only one wireless or wireline account per household. A household is defined as a group of people who live together and share income and expenses (even if not related).
Examples of separate households at the same address:
- Roommates who live together but do not share money (each can have their own Lifeline benefit)
- Residents of group living facilities like homeless shelters or nursing homes (each can have their own benefit)
- Residents with temporary addresses
Examples of single households:
- Married couples living together (must share one Lifeline benefit)
- Parent/guardian and child living together (must share one benefit)
- Adult living with financially supporting family members (must share one benefit)
How to Apply for Lifeline Benefits
Eligibility is determined by the National Verifier, and documentation may be required to prove your eligibility. You’ll need to:
- Check your eligibility through the National Verifier
- Provide proof of program participation or income
- Complete the application process
- Recertify your eligibility annually
For state-specific eligibility criteria and to start your application, visit the official Lifeline program website or contact a participating provider in your area.