Frequently Asked Questions

The Affordable Connectivity Program (ACP) ended in May 2024 due to lack of congressional funding. The program had provided over 23 million households with internet service discounts of up to $30 per month (up to $75 on Tribal lands) and a one-time device discount of up to $100. While the ACP has ended, the Lifeline program continues to operate, and many providers still offer free or discounted tablets through Lifeline and other assistance programs.

Yes, you may still qualify for a free or discounted tablet through the Lifeline program, provider-specific offers, state and local programs, and nonprofit organizations. Many wireless providers continue to offer free devices to qualifying low-income customers through their Lifeline programs. Check with providers in your state for current availability.

You may qualify if you or someone in your household participates in certain government assistance programs including Medicaid, SNAP (Food Stamps), SSI, Federal Public Housing Assistance, Veterans Pension, or certain Tribal programs. You can also qualify based on household income at or below 135% of Federal Poverty Guidelines.

Participation in any of these programs automatically qualifies you for Lifeline: Medicaid, Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP/Food Stamps), Supplemental Security Income (SSI), Federal Public Housing Assistance (Section 8), Veterans Pension and Survivors Benefit, Bureau of Indian Affairs General Assistance, Tribal TANF, Food Distribution Program on Indian Reservations, or Tribal Head Start (income-based).

For 2024, your household income must be at or below 135% of the Federal Poverty Guidelines. For a single-person household in the 48 contiguous states, this is $20,331 per year. For a family of four, it's $42,120. Income limits are higher in Alaska and Hawaii. You can qualify based on income even if you don't participate in other assistance programs.

Yes, you can have Lifeline service even if you already have a phone. Lifeline provides a discount on service, which can be applied to a new line or, in some cases, to reduce the cost of your existing service. However, you can only receive one Lifeline benefit per household, regardless of how many phones or lines you have.

A Lifeline household is defined as any individual or group of individuals who live together at the same address and share income and expenses. Adults who live together but don't share finances may be considered separate households. Only one Lifeline benefit is allowed per household.

You can apply in three ways: (1) Online through the National Verifier at lifelinesupport.org, (2) Directly through a participating wireless provider's website, or (3) By mail using a paper application. Online applications are fastest, typically processed within 7-10 business days. You'll need to provide proof of identity, address, and eligibility.

You'll need: (1) Proof of identity (driver's license, passport, or government-issued ID), (2) Proof of address (utility bill, lease agreement, or official mail), and (3) Proof of eligibility (benefits card, award letter, or income documentation). Make sure copies are clear and legible.

Online applications are typically processed within 7-10 business days. Mail-in applications can take 4-6 weeks. Once approved, your device is usually shipped within 5-7 business days. You can check your application status through your provider's website or by contacting their customer service.

Yes, you can apply for Lifeline if you're experiencing homelessness. You can use a temporary address, shelter address, or the address of a trusted friend or family member who can receive mail for you. Contact the Lifeline Support Center at 1-800-234-9473 for assistance with your specific situation.

The specific tablet model varies by provider and availability. Most providers offer Android tablets from brands like Samsung, Lenovo, Alcatel, or similar manufacturers. Typical specifications include 8-10 inch screens, 32GB storage, front and rear cameras, Wi-Fi capability, and basic apps pre-installed. Some providers may offer smartphones instead of tablets.

No, Lifeline has no contracts, no credit checks, and no activation fees. It's a federal benefit program designed to help low-income households. However, you must recertify your eligibility annually to continue receiving service.

Yes, in most cases you can port (transfer) your existing phone number to your new Lifeline service. When applying, indicate that you want to keep your current number and provide your account information from your current provider. The porting process typically takes 1-3 business days.

You must use your Lifeline service at least once every 30 days to maintain your benefit. This can include making a call, sending a text, using data, or purchasing additional service. If you don't use your service for 30 days, you may be de-enrolled from the program.

Yes, you must recertify your eligibility every year to continue receiving Lifeline benefits. Your provider will contact you when it's time to recertify. You'll need to confirm that you still qualify based on program participation or income. Failure to recertify will result in loss of your benefit.

Yes, you can switch Lifeline providers at any time. However, you can only receive one Lifeline benefit at a time. To switch, simply apply with a new provider and they will help transfer your benefit. You don't need to cancel with your old provider first - the transfer happens automatically.

You must update your address with your Lifeline provider within 30 days of moving. Some providers may not offer service in all areas, so you may need to switch providers if your current provider doesn't serve your new location. Contact your provider to update your information.

Yes, seniors can qualify for free tablets through Lifeline if they receive SSI, Medicaid, Veterans Pension, or other qualifying benefits, or if their household income is at or below 135% of Federal Poverty Guidelines. Many providers offer senior-friendly devices with large screens and simplified interfaces.

Yes, students can qualify for free tablets. Pell Grant recipients automatically qualify. Students receiving free or reduced-price school lunches also qualify. Additionally, students from low-income households (at or below 135% of Federal Poverty Guidelines) are eligible for Lifeline benefits.

If your tablet malfunctions, contact your provider's customer service. Most providers offer a warranty period (typically 90 days to 1 year) during which defective devices can be replaced. After the warranty period, you may need to purchase a replacement device or use another compatible device with your service.