If you are low income or receive any kind of public benefits, you may qualify for a discount on either cell phone or home internet service through the federal Lifeline program. Find out more below.
Frequently Asked Questions About the Lifeline Program
What is the Lifeline program?
Lifeline is a federal program that lowers the cost of your monthly phone or internet bill.
How much is the Lifeline discount?
Up to $9.25 towards phone or internet for eligible subscribers (up to $34.25 for those living on Tribal/Native lands).
Do I qualify for Lifeline?
There are two ways you can qualify for the Lifeline discount:
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- If your household income is at or below 135% of the federal poverty level (FPL). Use this FPL Calculator.
OR
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- If someone in your household participates in a qualifying Federal Assistance Program such as:
- SNAP (food stamps)
- Medicaid
- SSI
- Federal Public Housing Assistance (FPHA)
- Veterans Pension and Survivors Benefit
- Tribal Programs (and live on federally-recognized Tribal lands)
- If someone in your household participates in a qualifying Federal Assistance Program such as:
How do I apply for Lifeline?
Step 1: Confirm that your phone/internet company offers a Lifeline plan. If they do, they can help you get signed up. If not, use this online tool to find a participating phone/internet provider near you.
Step 2: Apply online with the Lifeline National Verifier or by mail using the Lifeline paper application. Include your proof of eligibility along with the paper application. Note: the paper application typically takes 1-2 weeks for a decision.
Step 3: Once you qualify for Lifeline, contact your desired phone or internet provider. You can visit their website or call. The service provider will ask for your Lifeline application information and confirm eligibility. If eligibility is confirmed, the Service Provider will enroll you in one of their discounted service plans.
What do I need to include in my Lifeline application?
You may need to show proof that you qualify, such as:
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- Proof of income: 3 consecutive months of pay stubs or a tax return.
- Proof that someone in your household participates in a Federal Assistance Program: a letter or official document.
Covid-19 Update: Some of these requirements may be suspended during the Covid Emergency. Contact your phone/ internet provider or call the Lifeline Support Center 1-800-234-9473 for details. Information is also available on the Lifeline website.
Can I receive a Lifeline discount for both my phone and internet bills?
You can only receive one Lifeline discount. You cannot receive a discount for both a phone plan and a separate internet plan
But, if your phone and internet bill are bundled, then you can receive a discount for the cost of that service.
If someone else in my household has a Lifeline discount, can I also receive a Lifeline discount?
You are only allowed one Lifeline discount per household.
A “household” is a group of people who live together and share income and expenses.
If you live with someone who you do not share income or expenses with, you may both be eligible for the benefit. You can submit a household worksheet to show that more than one “economic household” lives at your address. Submit this worksheet to your phone/ internet company, or mail it to the Lifeline Support Center.
What if I have speech, hearing, or visual challenges when applying?
Contact the Lifeline Support Center at 1-800-234-9473 or call the Pennsylvania PUC at 1-800-692-7380.
Who do I contact with questions or if I have issues with Lifeline?
Your phone or internet provider is responsible for helping resolve any issues with your Lifeline service. To call them, look up your company’s contact information here.
If your provider can’t help (or doesn’t answer), contact the Lifeline Support Center:
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- By Phone: 1-800-234-9473
- By E-Mail: lifelinesupport@usac.org