Lifeline phone and internet service

Lifeline is a federal program that lowers the monthly bill for phone service, internet service, or a bundle of the two. Read on for how it is run, which programs and income levels it looks at, and how to apply and keep the discount.

How Lifeline is run

The Federal Communications Commission oversees Lifeline, and the Universal Service Administrative Company, known as USAC, runs it day to day. The discount is applied by a participating phone or internet company, so it shows up as a lower bill from that company. The program sets the size of the discount, which can change, and Tribal lands have an enhanced amount.

Each household can have only one Lifeline discount, on either a phone line or an internet plan. People who share an address but keep separate finances may count as separate households, and the application includes a worksheet for that situation.

What the program looks at

Lifeline considers household income, measured against a level tied to the federal poverty guidelines. It also accepts participation in certain programs, including SNAP, Medicaid, Supplemental Security Income, Federal Public Housing Assistance, and the Veterans Pension and Survivors Benefit. Certain Tribal programs count for people living on Tribal lands.

The list centers on public assistance programs, so student aid such as a Pell Grant does not count toward Lifeline by itself. USAC reviews each application and decides, and it posts the current income limits.

Gather before you apply

• A benefit letter or proof of income
• A government ID or other proof of identity
• Your current home address
• The names of participating companies near you

How to apply

Applications go through the Lifeline National Verifier, which USAC runs online, by mail, or with help from a participating company. It checks government databases where it can and asks for documents when it cannot confirm something, such as a benefit letter or a recent tax return. Once approved, you choose a participating company in your area and enroll with it.

Many companies offer Lifeline service, and the plans vary in minutes, data and speed. Compare a few before you pick one, and ask whether the plan requires a particular phone or piece of equipment.

Keeping the discount

Lifeline asks each subscriber to recertify every year, confirming that the household still meets the rules. Watch for a notice by mail, text or email, because missing the deadline can end the discount. Plans with no monthly charge may also need to be used within a set period to stay active.

If you move, including into or out of campus housing, update your address with your Lifeline company. If the household stops meeting the rules, the program expects you to tell your company so the discount can be removed.