Millions of low-income households across the U.S. qualify for a federal program that lowers the cost of phone and internet service every month — and many people who qualify have never applied simply because they didn’t know it existed.
Does this cost anything?
No. Checking your eligibility and applying is completely free.
Who qualifies?
Households enrolled in SNAP, Medicaid, SSI, Federal Public Housing Assistance, Veterans and Survivors Pension, or those with income at or below 135% of the Federal Poverty Guidelines.
Do I need to switch my current provider?
You choose a participating carrier — many offer a free basic smartphone plus your monthly discount.
Is this a loan or a subscription?
No. It’s a monthly discount, not a loan, and there’s no cost to apply.
📌 What you’ll find on this page
📋 Which programs qualify you
💰 How much you could save
🔍 How to check your eligibility
What is the Lifeline Program?
Lifeline is a federal program that provides a discount on monthly phone or internet service for qualifying low-income households. It’s overseen by the FCC and administered by USAC (Universal Service Administrative Company) through a network of participating carriers nationwide.
What does it cover?
- ✓ Up to $9.25 off your monthly phone or internet bill
- ✓ Up to $34.25 off on qualifying Tribal lands
- ✓ Many participating carriers include a free basic smartphone
- ✓ One discount per household
Who can qualify?
- ✓ Households enrolled in SNAP, Medicaid, or SSI
- ✓ Federal Public Housing Assistance recipients
- ✓ Veterans and Survivors Pension recipients
- ✓ Households with income at or below 135% of the Federal Poverty Guidelines
| Summary | Detail |
|---|---|
| Cost | Free to check and apply |
| Who | SNAP, Medicaid, SSI, income-based |
| Discount | Up to $9.25/mo ($34.25 on Tribal lands) |
| Administered by | USAC, with FCC oversight |
In the next step we’ll show you exactly how to check your eligibility and apply.
SEE HOW TO CHECKYou'll stay on this site.