How to Apply for the Lifeline Program?
If you’re wondering how to apply for the Lifeline Program, you’ve come to the right place.
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.