Lifeline

Lifeline is a federal program that helps people with low incomes pay for phone or internet service. If you qualify, you can get a discount on one service each month. Lifeline does not send money to you. The discount is added directly to your phone or internet bill.

Find out if you may qualify for Lifeline, how the program works, and how to apply for help.

Lifeline Program: Quick Facts

What is it?

A federal program that helps people with low incomes pay for phone, internet, or bundled service; only 1 service is covered per household

How much can you save?

Up to $9.25 each month. People on Tribal lands may save up to $34.25.

Who qualifies?

People who meet the income rules or receive benefits such as Medicaid, SNAP, SSI, or federal housing help

How do I apply?

Apply online, by mail, or through a phone or internet company that offers Lifeline.

Do I have to renew every year?

Your eligibility is checked every year. If you’re asked to renew, respond by the deadline.

Does Lifeline help pay for internet service?

Yes. Lifeline can help you get monthly discounts on your:

• Broadband internet service

• Landline

• Cell phone

• Bundled voice-broadband packages

You get the discounts through your local telephone company or internet service provider.

Please note: You can only get Lifeline assistance for one telephone line in the household. A "household" means one person or a group of people living together at the same address and sharing expenses.

How much is the Lifeline discount?

The Lifeline program provides a discount of up to $9.25 per month on one qualifying service. Eligible people who live on Tribal lands may receive a discount of up to $34.25 per month.

Who qualifies for the Lifeline program?

You can get help from the Lifeline program if you have limited income (at or below 135% of the federal poverty level) or you currently get help from one of the following programs:

• Medicaid

• Supplemental Security Income (SSI)

• Temporary Assistance for Needy Families (TANF)

• Low Income Home Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP)

• Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP)

• HUD Public Housing or Section 8

• Veterans and Survivors Pension Benefit

• Certain Tribal programs

How do I apply for Lifeline?

There are several ways to apply for Lifeline:

• Online: You can apply online through the Lifeline programs National Verifier online portal.

• Mail: You can also print and mail in a paper application. Click here to get the Lifeline application in English. Click here to get the Spanish version.

• Contact a Lifeline provider: You can also apply by calling your local telephone company or internet service provider and asking for the sales department. Tell customer service that you would like to apply for Lifeline. Click here to find participating companies in your state.

What documents do I need to apply?

When you apply, you will need:

• Your full name and date of birth

• Your home address

• The last 4 digits of your Social Security number or Tribal identification number

You may also need to provide additional documentation if the National Verifier cannot confirm your eligibility. These documents may include:

• Benefits statement from a qualifying program

• Participation notice letter from a qualifying program

• Prior year's state, federal, or Tribal tax return

• Current income statement from employer or pay stubs

• Benefits statement from Social Security, the VA, or a pension fund

What happens after I apply for Lifeline?

After you apply, your application will be reviewed. You will receive a decision by mail or email once a decision is made. If you’re approved, you will start getting the discount on your phone or internet bill. If you haven’t already, you will need to pick a phone or internet provider that offers Lifeline.

If your application is denied, you will be told why. You may be able to appeal this decision if you disagree

Also, to keep your discount, you must prove you still qualify for Lifeline once a year.

How can I get help with my application?

There are multiple ways to get help applying for Lifeline. You can:

• Contact the Lifeline Support Center at 1-800-234-9473 or send an email to LifelineSupport@usac.org.

• Visit a Benefits Enrollment Center (BEC), if there’s one near you. See if there’s one in your area.

• NCOA also has a HelpLine you can call to get free support. To get started today, call 1-800-794-6559.

Frequently asked questions (FAQ)

Is Lifeline a government program?

Yes. Lifeline is a federal government program. It helps people with low incomes pay for phone or internet service.

Does Lifeline provide a free phone?

No. Lifeline provides a monthly discount, not a free phone. But some phone companies may offer a free phone or free service with the Lifeline discount. Offers vary by company.

Can I get Lifeline if I have Medicaid?

Yes. You may qualify for Lifeline if you or your child or dependent has Medicaid. But, you still need to apply and show proof you get Medicaid benefits.

Do I have to renew my Lifeline benefit every year?

Yes, your Lifeline eligibility is checked every year. But the good news is that in many cases, Lifeline can confirm that you still qualify, and you do not need to do anything.

If Lifeline cannot confirm your eligibility, you’ll get a letter or email asking you to renew, or “recertify.” You must respond within 60 days, or you could lose your benefit.