How to Get Free or Discounted Phone Service Through the Lifeline Program

The Lifeline program provides up to $9.25/month toward phone or internet service for qualifying low-income households — here's how to apply.

In this guide (4 steps):

1.Check if you qualify for Lifeline
2.Apply through the National Verifier
3.Choose a Lifeline provider in your area
4.Renew your Lifeline benefit annually

Check if you qualify for Lifeline

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You qualify for Lifeline if your household income is at or below 135% of the Federal Poverty Level, or if you (or someone in your household) participate in one of these programs: Medicaid, SNAP (food stamps), Supplemental Security Income (SSI), Federal Public Housing Assistance, or Veterans Pension and Survivors Benefits. You qualify automatically through any of these programs — you do not need to submit income documentation.

Quick Tip

Only one Lifeline discount is allowed per household — not per person. If someone in your home already receives Lifeline, you cannot apply for a second discount at the same address.

Apply through the National Verifier

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Go to lifelineapply.gov — this is the official government application website managed by the Universal Service Administrative Company (USAC). You will need: your name, date of birth, last 4 digits of your Social Security number or Tribal ID, current address, and documentation of your qualifying program (like a Medicaid card or SNAP letter). The National Verifier instantly approves most applicants. After approval, you choose a participating provider.

Choose a Lifeline provider in your area

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After applying, search for participating carriers in your area on lifelineapply.gov or at usac.org/lifeline. Major carriers including Assurance Wireless (a T-Mobile program), SafeLink Wireless (TracFone), and some regional carriers offer Lifeline plans. Some plans provide a free smartphone and free monthly minutes and data. Others apply the discount to an existing account you already have. Prices and plans vary by state and carrier.

Renew your Lifeline benefit annually

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Lifeline requires annual recertification — each year, you confirm you still meet the eligibility requirements. USAC sends a reminder letter or email when renewal is due. Recertify online at lifelineapply.gov, by calling your carrier, or by completing a mailed form. If you do not recertify within the deadline, your discount will be removed. Set a calendar reminder for your renewal date when you first enroll.

Warning

Lifeline benefits cannot be combined with the Affordable Connectivity Program (ACP), which ended in June 2024. Lifeline remains active and accepting new enrollees as of 2026.

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Lifeline is a federal program managed by the FCC that provides eligible low-income households with a discount of up to $9.25 per month on phone or internet service. The discount applies to your monthly bill from a participating carrier. In some states, the discount is larger due to additional state contributions. The program is designed to keep phone and internet access affordable for households with limited incomes.

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