Many low-income customers use Lifeline phone service to remain in touch with friends, family, and emergency services. Those eligible for this program receive a landline or wireless phone service discount. Eligibility is based on income and participation in federal assistance programs like SNAP or Medicaid. One Lifeline benefit is allowed per household.
What is Lifeline?
Lifeline is a federal program that helps eligible low-income households pay for phone or internet service. Depending on your state, a few different ways to apply for the program exist. You can visit your local phone company’s website, call your provider directly, or use an online application provided by your state. To qualify for Lifeline, you must meet certain criteria, such as income and participation in government assistance programs. Once you’re approved, you’ll receive a monthly discount that can be used to pay for either phone or internet services. The amount varies by state, but it’s usually around $9.25 monthly. The discount can be used for a landline or a wireless phone, but it cannot be combined with other discounts or promotions. In addition, only one Lifeline service is allowed per household.
In 1984, the Federal Communications Commission (FCC) created Lifeline under the Reagan Administration to help low-income households afford residential phone service. The FCC partnered with states and phone companies to develop the program, which gives qualifying families a discount on their monthly phone bill. The Universal Service Fund funds the program, which is collected from all telecommunications providers. The FCC also established the National Eligibility Verifier, a centralized system determining whether subscribers are eligible for Lifeline. Generally, subscribers must recertify their eligibility for the program every year.
How do I get a Lifeline phone?
If you participate in a government assistance program like Medicaid, NJ SNAP, or SSI, you may be eligible for free cell phone service from a federal Lifeline provider. You can also receive discounted home Internet service from AT&T. The process of getting the best lifeline cell phone service is easy. Just head to a carrier’s website that offers Lifeline service and click the “Apply Now” button. From there, you’ll need to provide proof of your household income by uploading documents such as pay stubs or a W-2 form. Some carriers will automatically verify your eligibility by checking the National Verifier database during the application process.
Hundreds of Lifeline providers are nationwide, including major national carriers and smaller discount and regional carriers. You can find a list of providers by state on the USAC website, which operates the National Verifier database for Lifeline. It’s crucial to remember that if you receive a Lifeline phone from a service provider, you must use the phone at least once every 30 days to make a call, send a text, or browse online (without utilizing Wi-Fi). Otherwise, your service will be canceled.
Who is eligible for Lifeline?
To qualify for Lifeline, you must be an American citizen or permanent resident. You must also meet income and program-based eligibility requirements to receive a free smartphone and monthly wireless service. You can find the most up-to-date eligibility guidelines by visiting the official website of Universal Service Administrative Company (USAC). The federal government pays cellphone carriers to offer phone services at a reduced rate to low-income Americans. This subsidy allows millions of Americans to stay connected to friends, family, and employers. The program has undergone significant reform in recent years to combat allegations of fraud and bring subsidized phones in line with emerging technologies. Your family income must be at or below 135% of the federal poverty level to be eligible for Lifeline. The guidelines are adjusted each year and vary by household size. You must provide your Lifeline provider with documentation that shows your household meets the eligibility requirements.
In most cases, this will include a completed Household Worksheet. Most Lifeline providers offer a variety of cheap and free smartphones. These devices are typically older models that have reached “maturity” and are no longer popular, meaning they are more affordable for manufacturers to produce. However, some providers may offer newer devices from time to time. You can check the availability of more current devices on each carrier’s website.
Where can I get a Lifeline phone?
If you’re eligible for Lifeline, you can choose from the following phone carriers that offer free phones and plans through the program. These providers are required to contribute to the Universal Service Fund, which helps to pay for Lifeline cell phone service. Note that while these providers may offer a variety of free phones, most will not provide the iPhone (though you might be able to find some deals on Android devices).
One Lifeline Phone Per Household
You can receive only one Lifeline discount per household. If you have multiple lines, you must cancel your other account before signing up for another. You’ll also need to recertify your eligibility for the program each year. It can be done online or over the phone. Residents can apply for a free phone and service with this federal Lifeline provider. Applicants must meet certain eligibility requirements, including participation in government assistance programs and a household income below 135% of the poverty guideline. Some carriers offer Lifeline smartphones and discounted internet services to eligible households. Eligible customers can enroll through programs like Medicaid, SNAP, and public housing. The company provides free talk, text, and data on most GSM smartphones. New customers can also sign up for the Affordable Connectivity Program, a discount on internet service and connected devices.
