In this guide

  1. What Lifeline is
  2. Who runs the program
  3. Who qualifies
  4. What Lifeline covers
  5. How to apply
  6. Frequently asked questions

What Lifeline is

Lifeline is a federal assistance program that lowers the monthly cost of phone or internet service for qualifying low-income households. It was created in 1985 and later expanded to cover wireless service and broadband.

Who runs the program

The Federal Communications Commission (FCC) oversees Lifeline, while the Universal Service Administrative Company (USAC) administers it day to day — including running the National Verifier, which confirms applicant eligibility.

Who qualifies

Households can qualify either through income (at or below 135% of the Federal Poverty Guidelines) or by participating in a qualifying program such as SNAP, Medicaid, SSI, or Federal Public Housing Assistance. Only one Lifeline benefit is allowed per household.

What Lifeline covers

Depending on the provider, Lifeline can cover a monthly service credit, and in many cases a free or discounted device. Exact device and data offerings vary by provider, state, and available inventory.

How to apply

Applicants typically apply directly with a participating provider, who verifies eligibility through the National Verifier before activating service.

Frequently asked questions

No. The Affordable Connectivity Program (ACP) was a separate, larger broadband benefit that has ended. Lifeline is a longer-running, smaller benefit that is still active. See our ACP guide for details.
No — Lifeline is limited to one benefit per household, not per person.

Sources & references

  1. Federal Communications Commission — Lifeline Program for Low-Income Consumers
  2. Universal Service Administrative Company (USAC) — Lifeline Program overview
  3. USAC — National Verifier