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1. About Lifeline Program
What is the Lifeline Program?
The Federal Communications Commission initiated the Lifeline Program to help make communication services more affordable for low-income individuals. Lifeline offers subscribers a discount on qualifying monthly telephone service from participating wireline or wireless providers. These discounts make it easier for low-income consumers to access jobs, healthcare, and educational resources.
Lifeline makes communication services more affordable for low-income individuals.
- A 4G/5G smartphone from a high-quality brand
- Unlimited Talk
- Unlimited Text
- Free Wifi-Calling
- Free International Calling to 200+ Countries
- Free Call to 911, etc.
Who is qualified for Lifeline?
Individuals can qualify for the Lifeline program if at least one of the following criteria is met:
- Income is at 135% or less than the Federal Poverty Guidelines.
- Participation in one of the following programs:
- Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP), formerly known as Food Stamps
- Medicaid/Medi-Cal
- Supplemental Security Income (SSI)
- Federal Public Housing Assistance (FPHA)
- Veterans Pension and Survivors Benefit
- Individuals that reside on Tribal lands can receive Lifeline if their household income is at or below 135% of the Federal Poverty Guidelines or they participate in:
- Any of the federal assistance programs listed above
- Bureau of Indian Affairs General Assistance
- Head Start (only households meeting the income qualifying standard)
- Tribal Temporary Assistance for Needy Families (Tribal TANF)
- Food Distribution Program on Indian Reservations
- Consumers can also receive the Lifeline benefit if their dependent participates in any of the programs listed above.
ACP (Affordable Connectivity Program) used to also run as a government initiative to assist low-income individuals. However, ACP winded down in 2024 following a lack of funding from the Congress.
Or you can simply click here to be directed to the application form.
Step 4: You will need to provide your personal information and upload documentation to confirm your income or participation in a qualifying government benefit program.