Lifeline Phone Program
For over three decades, the FCC has facilitated access to free or heavily discounted communication services for low-income consumers. Initially focused on home phone access, the program evolved to include wireless phones to address changing needs. Federal law mandates telecommunication companies to contribute to the Universal Service Fund, funding the cell phone program managed by USAC.
We are Lifeline providers, offering free minutes, texts, and data to eligible individuals. Qualification is based on participation in programs like Medicaid, SNAP, Federal Public Housing, Veterans Pension, or household income.
Qualifying for Lifeline also makes you eligible for the Affordable Connectivity Program. Your Lifeline application online automatically includes applying for both programs to maximize your benefits. To apply for Lifeline or ACP only, fill out the form.
How To Qualify For Free Lifeline Phone Service
Qualifying for Lifeline Phone Service Based on Program Participation
If you currently receive any of the approved government assistance programs listed below, you may qualify for FREE Lifeline cell phone service. Qualifying for Lifeline home phone service doesn’t have to be complex. You may access federal assistance communication programs like Lifeline based on household size, residence on tribal lands, and a few other rules and conditions.
Think you meet the Lifeline program qualifications? Complete the straightforward application process—it only takes a few minutes!
Eligibility for Tribal Households
If your household resides on eligible tribal lands, you may be eligible for the ACP through participation in a Tribal assistance program. Qualifying programs include:
- Head Start households meeting the income criteria
- Bureau of Indian Affairs General Assistance
- Food Distribution Program on Indian Reservations
- Tribal TANF (Temporary Assistance for Needy Families)
Qualifying for Lifeline Phone Service Based on Income
If your total household income falls at or below 135% of the poverty guidelines established by your state and/or the federal government, you may qualify for Lifeline phone service as per Federal Poverty Guidelines. To apply for Lifeline in based on total household income, you must submit copies of proof documents as part of the qualification process for Lifeline service. Below, you can find information on the official steps to take and the documents required to obtain free telephone service from us.
Household Size | 48 States, D.C., and Territories (Household Income per anum) | Alaska (Household Income per anum) | Hawaii (Household Income per anum) |
1 | $19,683 | $24,584 | $22,640 |
2 | $26,622 | $33,264 | $30,618 |
3 | $33,561 | $41,945 | $38,597 |
4 | $40,500 | $50,625 | $46,575 |
5 | $47,439 | $59,306 | $54,554 |
6 | $54,378 | $67,986 | $62,532 |
7 | $61,317 | $76,667 | $70,511 |
8 | $68,256 | $85,347 | $78,489 |
For each additional person, add: | $6,939 | $8,681 | $7,979 |
Note: California and Texas have additional state Lifeline subsidies that offer the benefit to households with 150% of the Federal Poverty Guidelines when using the income-qualification method. | |||