Lifeline Program

What is the Lifeline Program?

The Lifeline program is a federal program established by the Federal Communications Commission (FCC) to help make communication services more affordable for low-income households. The program provides a monthly discount on phone and internet services, and many approved providers also offer free tablets to eligible participants as part of their service packages.

Since its inception in 1985, the Lifeline program has helped millions of Americans stay connected to essential services, job opportunities, education, healthcare, and their loved ones. The program recognizes that access to communication services is essential in today's digital world.

How Does the Lifeline Program Work?

The Lifeline program works by providing a monthly discount on communication services to eligible households. Approved service providers participate in the program and offer discounted or free services to qualified participants. Some providers go beyond the basic service requirement and offer additional benefits, including free tablets.

Here's how the process typically works:

1. Check Eligibility: Determine if you meet the income or program participation requirements
2. Choose a Provider: Select an approved Lifeline service provider in your state
3. Apply: Complete the application process with your chosen provider
4. Receive Service: Once approved, you'll receive your wireless service and, if offered by your provider, a free tablet
5. Recertify Annually: You must recertify your eligibility each year to continue receiving benefits

Lifeline Program Benefits

Qualified participants in the Lifeline program can receive:

• Free Monthly Wireless Service: Includes data, talk, and text minutes
• Free Tablet Device: Many providers offer free tablets to new Lifeline subscribers
• No Credit Check: Eligibility is based on income or program participation, not credit history
• No Contracts: No long-term contracts or commitments required
• No Hidden Fees: The service is truly free for qualified participants

Who Administers the Lifeline Program?

The Lifeline program is administered by the Federal Communications Commission (FCC), an independent government agency responsible for regulating interstate and international communications. The Universal Service Administrative Company (USAC) manages the program's operations, including eligibility verification and provider oversight.

Service providers must be approved by the FCC to participate in the Lifeline program. These providers must meet specific requirements and standards to ensure they deliver quality services to eligible participants.

Lifeline Program History

The Lifeline program was created in 1985 to ensure that all Americans have access to essential communication services. Over the years, the program has evolved to keep pace with changing technology and communication needs. In 2016, the program was modernized to include broadband internet services, recognizing the importance of internet access in today's society.

Today, the Lifeline program continues to adapt to meet the needs of low-income households, with many providers offering modern devices like tablets and smartphones to help participants fully utilize their wireless service benefits.

Important Program Rules

There are several important rules to understand about the Lifeline program:

• One Benefit Per Household: Only one Lifeline benefit is allowed per household, regardless of how many eligible individuals live there
• Household Definition: A household is defined as any individual or group of individuals who live together at the same address and share income and expenses
• Annual Recertification: You must recertify your eligibility every year to continue receiving benefits
• Provider Changes: You can switch providers, but you can only have one active Lifeline service at a time
• Non-Transferable: Lifeline benefits cannot be transferred to another person

How to Get Started

Getting started with the Lifeline program is straightforward:

1. Review the eligibility requirements to see if you qualify
2. Use our eligibility checker tool to verify your qualification status
3. Gather the necessary documentation (proof of income or program participation)
4. Find an approved Lifeline provider in your state
5. Complete the application process with your chosen provider