About Lifeline
Lifeline is the FCC’s program to help make communications services more affordable for low-income consumers. Currently, Lifeline provides subscribers a discount on monthly telephone service purchased from participating providers in the marketplace. On March 31, 2016, the FCC approved rules to modernize Lifeline so that subscribers can also purchase discounted broadband from participating providers.
How to Get Lifeline
Eligibility
There are two ways to qualify:
- Income based eligibility
- Program based eligibility
How to Apply for Lifeline benefits
If you qualify for Lifeline, there are three steps to receive a discount on your phone service
- Select a phone company
- Fill out an application you can get from the phone company
- The phone company will verify your identity and enroll you in the program
Learn whom to contact if you have a problem with the Lifeline program, or if you think someone is fraudulently getting Lifeline service.
To continue with your Lifeline service, you must recertify every year.
Mobile Phones For Emergencies
If you can’t afford any telephone service, you can still use a cell phone to contact 911 in case of an emergency. If you need a cell phone for this purpose, contact your state social service agency. It can help you find an emergency cell phone donation program near you.