Since 1985, the Lifeline program has provided a discount on phone service for qualifying low-income consumers, ensuring that all Americans can connect to jobs, family, and emergency services. It is part of the Universal Service Fund and is available in every state, territory, commonwealth, and on Tribal lands.

Lifeline is still active as of 2026. It is a separate program from the Affordable Connectivity Program (ACP), which ended in June 2024.

What Do You Get?

Lifeline provides a monthly discount of up to $9.25 for qualifying broadband or bundled services, or up to $5.25 for phone service, with enhanced support bringing the total discount up to $34.25 for those on Tribal lands.

Many participating carriers go further — some Lifeline providers offer a free phone plus service for eligible customers, sometimes called a “free government phone.” These aren’t separate programs; they’re Lifeline-participating carriers offering their own deals within the program.

Who Qualifies?

You can qualify two ways:

1. By Income: Your household income must be at or below 135% of the Federal Poverty Guidelines.

2. By Program Participation: You must participate in federal programs such as SNAP, Medicaid, SSI, and more. Other qualifying programs include Federal Public Housing Assistance (Section 8), Veterans Pension and Survivors Benefits, and certain Tribal assistance programs.

Special provision: Survivors of domestic violence or human trafficking may be eligible for emergency Lifeline support for up to six months under the Safe Connections Act.

How to Apply

You can apply online, by mail, or through a participating phone or internet provider. For online applications, use the National Verifier system at lifelinesupport.org. For help or a mailed form, call 1-800-234-9473 or email [email protected].

Popular Lifeline Providers

• Assurance Wireless — offers free high-speed data, talk, and text on the T-Mobile 4G/5G network with no credit check, no contracts, and no activation fees.
• AirTalk Wireless — offers premium smartphones including Apple and Samsung models along with free service plans.
• Life Wireless, TAG Mobile, Gen Mobile — additional nationwide providers with varying state availability.

Key Rules to Know

• Only one Lifeline discount is permitted per household, and it is non-transferable. You must use the service at least once every 30 days to keep your account active.
• The FCC does not subsidize phone hardware directly — free phones are offered at the discretion of individual providers.

To find providers near you, visit lifelinesupport.org and use the “Companies Near Me” tool.