Lifeline Program 2026 | Free Government Phone & Tablet Program

What is the Lifeline Program?

The Lifeline program is a federal assistance program established in 1985 during the Reagan administration. It provides a monthly discount on phone or internet service for eligible low-income subscribers, ensuring that all Americans have the opportunities and security that phone service brings, including being able to connect to jobs, family, and emergency services.

Lifeline is administered by the Universal Service Administrative Company (USAC) under the direction of the Federal Communications Commission (FCC). The program is funded by the Universal Service Fund, which is supported by contributions from telecommunications carriers.

Program Update: The Lifeline program continues to operate and provide benefits to eligible households. While the ACP program ended in May 2024, Lifeline remains active and available for qualifying low-income consumers.

Lifeline Benefits

The Lifeline program provides the following monthly discounts:

Standard Benefit

Up to $9.25 per month discount on phone or internet service for eligible households in non-Tribal areas.

Tribal Lands Benefit

Up to $34.25 per month discount for eligible households on Tribal lands, providing enhanced support.

Free Device Options

Many providers offer a free smartphone or tablet when you sign up for Lifeline service.

Who Qualifies for Lifeline?

You can qualify for Lifeline through participation in certain government assistance programs or based on your household income. Here are the eligibility criteria:

Program-Based Eligibility

You qualify if you or someone in your household participates in one of these programs:

Medicaid - State healthcare program for low-income individuals
Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) - Formerly known as Food Stamps
Supplemental Security Income (SSI) - Federal income supplement for elderly, blind, and disabled
Federal Public Housing Assistance (FPHA) - Section 8 housing vouchers and public housing
Veterans Pension and Survivors Benefit - Benefits for eligible veterans and survivors
Tribal Programs - Bureau of Indian Affairs General Assistance, Tribal TANF, Food Distribution Program on Indian Reservations, or Tribal Head Start

Income-Based Eligibility

You can also qualify if your household income is at or below 135% of the Federal Poverty Guidelines. The exact income limit varies by household size and state. For example, in 2024:

Household Size	48 Contiguous States	Alaska	Hawaii
1 person	$20,331	$25,394	$23,369
2 people	$27,594	$34,479	$31,725
3 people	$34,857	$43,564	$40,081
4 people	$42,120	$52,649	$48,437
5 people	$49,383	$61,734	$56,793
6 people	$56,646	$70,819	$65,149

How to Apply for Lifeline

The application process for Lifeline is straightforward. Follow these steps to get started:

Step 1

Verify Eligibility

Step 2

Choose a Provider

Step 3

Submit Application

Step 4

Receive Service

Required Documentation

When applying for Lifeline, you'll need to provide documentation to prove your eligibility:

Identity Verification

Government-issued ID, driver's license, passport, or other official identification

Address Verification

Utility bill, lease agreement, or official mail showing your current address

Program Participation

Benefits card, award letter, or official document showing participation in qualifying program

Income Documentation

Tax return, pay stubs, or unemployment documentation (if applying based on income)

Lifeline Program Rules

It's important to understand the rules and limitations of the Lifeline program:

One per Household: Only one Lifeline benefit is allowed per household. 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.
Usage Requirement: You must use your Lifeline service at least once every 30 days to maintain your benefit.
Truthful Application: Providing false information to obtain Lifeline benefits is a violation of federal law and can result in penalties.
Provider Choice: You can switch providers at any time, but you can only receive one benefit at a time.

Important: Violating Lifeline program rules can result in de-enrollment, being barred from the program, or even criminal prosecution. Always provide accurate information and use your benefit responsibly.

Lifeline vs. ACP: What's the Difference?

While the ACP program has ended, it's helpful to understand how these programs differed:

Feature	Lifeline	ACP (Ended May 2024)
Monthly Discount	Up to $9.25 ($34.25 Tribal)	Up to $30 ($75 Tribal)
Device Discount	Varies by provider	Up to $100 one-time
Income Threshold	135% of FPG	200% of FPG
Status	Active	Ended

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Lifeline Assistance Program