The federal Lifeline program aims to help low-income households access affordable telecommunications services. To check your eligibility for the Lifeline Program, which offers free government phones and monthly service, follow these detailed instructions:
- Check if you qualify based on income:
- You may qualify if your household’s total gross income is at or below 135% of the Federal Poverty Guidelines. You can find the latest guidelines on the US Department of Health & Human Services website.
- Check if you participate in a federal assistance program:
- If you or someone in your household participates in one of the following programs, you automatically qualify for Lifeline:
- Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP)
- Medicaid
- Supplemental Security Income (SSI)
- Federal Public Housing Assistance (FPHA)
- Veterans Pension and Survivors Benefit
- Tribal-specific assistance: Bureau of Indian Affairs General Assistance, Head Start (only if income eligibility criteria are met), Food Distribution Program on Indian Reservation
- If you or someone in your household participates in one of the following programs, you automatically qualify for Lifeline:
- Check your state’s Lifeline program:
- Some states have their own Lifeline programs that may have additional qualifying factors or requirements. Check our tool Free Phones Near Me to find Lifeline providers operating in your state.
- Check if you’re already receiving Lifeline benefits:
- If someone in your household is currently receiving Lifeline service, you are not eligible for additional Lifeline services at the same address. However, you may still qualify for Lifeline on another residential address.
- Contact a Lifeline provider or visit the USAC website:
- You can reach out to participating wireless providers in your area to inquire about Lifeline eligibility and enrollment. You can find approved providers on the Providers page.
Eligibility Requirements May Vary:
While the above criteria are based on federal guidelines, some states and providers may have additional requirements. It’s essential to contact your chosen service provider directly to confirm your eligibility before applying.
Remember:
- Only one Lifeline discount is allowed per household.
- You must provide proof of eligibility annually to maintain your Lifeline benefits.
- Eligibility recertification is required every year, even if you don’t change providers.
Use our Lifeline Program Eligibility tool to help identify whether you are eligible: