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The Lifeline program, managed by the Universal Service Administrative Company (USAC), is a federal initiative that lowers the cost of monthly phone or internet services for eligible households. With the passing of the Safe Connections Act, survivors now have enhanced support to help them stay connected as they rebuild their lives.

If you or someone you know is a survivor of domestic violence, human trafficking, or a related crime, you may be eligible for the Lifeline survivor benefit. The application process is straightforward and typically takes about 10 minutes to complete.

Important Note: You’ll need to provide documentation that verifies your line separation request and may need to provide proof of your eligibility, identity, or home address. If you have questions during the application process, contact the Lifeline Support Center by email at LifelineSupport@usac.org or call (800) 234-9473 from 9 a.m. to 9 p.m. ET.

Here’s how to apply:

Step 1: Choose application options

Survivors have two options for how to apply to the Lifeline program. Those who pick the second option will move on to Step 2 to continue their application process.

Option 1: Apply by Mail

  • Fill out all the application, instructions are available in 10 languages
  • Mail the application and supporting documentation to the Lifeline Support Center (P.O Box 1000 Horseheads, NY 14845)

Option 2: Apply online

Visit Lifeline Support to apply.

  • Complete all required fields with your personal information and upload the necessary documentation as prompted.
  • Follow the detailed instructions provided for the online application process to ensure all steps are completed correctly.

Important note:

During the application process, you’ll encounter a critical step to confirm your line separation request. This is a vital requirement to help ensure your safety and continued connectivity. Carefully review the statements provided and tap or click Yes to confirm that you have the required documentation to support your line separation request.

Step 2: Get the results and Application ID

After completing all the steps above, your application will be reviewed by USAC. You will receive the approval result and your Application ID from LifelineSupport.org via email.

You need to pay attention to the Application ID.

Important Note:

You should always make sure that your Lifeline Application has been Approved before moving on to the following steps.

  • Eligibility:
  • As you proceed to the Program Selection step, you’ll see a section titled “Lifeline for Qualifying Survivors – Safe Connections Act” under the program list.
  • Select the section and enter the Application ID correctly
  • Press Continue

Click Safe Connections Act (SCA), and enter your Application ID.

What is the Safe Connection Act?

The Safe Connections Act (SCA) is a federal law that aims to protect survivors of domestic violence, dating violence, sexual assault, stalking, human trafficking, and other forms of abuse by providing them with access to safe housing and essential services.

Key terms include survivors, who are individuals 18 years or older who have experienced or are caring for someone who has experienced a covered act, and covered acts, which encompass a wide range of harmful behaviors such as domestic violence, sexual assault, stalking, and child abuse.

How the Safe Connections Act Supports Survivors works?

The Safe Connections Act of 2022 adds special provisions to the Lifeline program, helping survivors access discounted phone, internet, or bundled services. Survivors who qualify can receive emergency Lifeline support for up to six months, ensuring they have the essential communication services needed to remain safe and connected to their loved ones, support networks, and emergency services.

Survivors can participate in the Lifeline program, if they provide proof that they attempted a line separation request and can confirm they are experiencing financial hardship using one of the methods below:

  • Based on the existing Lifeline program qualification requirements.
  • If they suffer from financial hardship and can demonstrate that their household income is at or below 200% of the Federal Poverty Guidelines.
  • If they participate in the following programs:
  • Special Supplemental Nutrition Program for Women, Infants, and Children (WIC), Free and Reduced-Price School Lunch or School Breakfast Program, including enrollment at a Community Eligibility Provision (CEP) school or school district, or
  • Received a Federal Pell Grant in the current award year.

Benefits for Survivors

Eligible survivors can receive:

  • Up to $9.25/month in discounts on phone, internet, or bundled services.
  • Up to $34.25/month in discounts if they live on qualifying Tribal lands.

These discounts make it easier for survivors to afford essential communication services during critical times of transition and healing. After six months, you may apply for the standard Lifeline benefit of up to $9.25/month off internet or bundled services or up to $5.25/month off phone (voice-only) service.

Why Lifeline Matters?

Staying connected is essential, especially for survivors who rely on communication services to access help and maintain safety. The Safe Connections Act ensures that survivors can receive affordable and reliable services through the Lifeline program, offering much-needed peace of mind.

If your household is eligible, the survivor benefit can be life-changing, offering financial relief and access to critical services for up to six months. For those on qualifying Tribal lands, the higher discount helps bridge the digital divide even further.

If you are a survivor or know someone who may benefit from the Lifeline survivor benefit, don’t wait to apply. The process is quick and simple, and the support can make a huge difference. Follow the steps above to apply online or contact the Lifeline Support Center if you need help. To learn more about the Lifeline program and its new benefits for survivors, visit USAC Lifeline Program today.