Lifeline: How To Get a Discount on Your Phone or Internet Bill

What Is the Lifeline Program?

The Lifeline Program provides discounts on phone and internet services to help low-income households. Eligible households can receive up to $9.25 per month to help pay for phone and internet. If you live on Tribal lands, you can claim up to $34.25 per month.

This federal benefit reduces monthly utility bills and makes it easier for homeowners to stay connected for work, emergencies, and everyday needs.

Who Is Eligible for the Lifeline Program?

Lifeline benefits are available for eligible low-income households. To qualify, your income must be at or below 135% of the Federal Poverty Guidelines, or you must be part of certain federal assistance programs like LIHEAP, Medicaid, SNAP (food stamps), or Supplemental Security Income (SSI). You can also qualify if you're part of specific aid programs run by your state, but these can vary depending on where you live.

You will need to confirm your eligibility every year to keep getting the discount. The government wants to make sure the program funds go to those who truly need it.

How To Apply for the Lifeline Program

To apply for Lifeline benefits, follow these steps:

Check Eligibility: First, you need to determine if you qualify based on your income or participation in federal assistance programs, like Medicaid or SNAP. You can check your eligibility by visiting the Lifeline National Verifier website: https://getinternet.gov/apply

Gather Necessary Documents: Next, you’ll need to provide proof of your income or program participation. This might include tax returns, pay stubs, or official letters from assistance programs.

Choose a Service Provider: Not all phone and internet companies participate in the Lifeline Program. You’ll need to find a provider in your area that offers Lifeline discounts. Use the Lookup Tool or your state's public utility commission for a list of approved providers.

Complete an Application: You can apply for Lifeline through the selected service provider or directly through the Lifeline National Verifier. If applying online, you can upload your documents directly to the verifier’s platform. Some providers also allow applications in person or over the phone.

After You Apply for Lifeline

Wait for Approval: Once you submit your application and documents, your eligibility will be reviewed. If approved, the discount will automatically be applied to your monthly bills.

Annual Recertification: To continue receiving Lifeline benefits, you must certify your eligibility every year. You’ll receive a notice when it’s time to recertify, and you can do so through the same National Verifier system.

6 Benefits of the Lifeline Program

The Lifeline Program ensures everyone – regardless of income – has the tools they need to stay informed, safe, and connected in their communities.

1. Save on Monthly Bills

Homeowners who sign up for the Lifeline Program can save on their monthly phone or internet bills. The program offers a discount of up to $9.25 per month on your service, and up to $34.25 if you live on Tribal lands.

The savings from the Lifeline Program can vary. Once you’re approved for the program, the discount will be applied directly to your monthly bill through your service provider. This way, you can get reduced rates without the hassle of reapplying each month.

2. Emergency Services

The Lifeline benefit helps families keep their lines of communication open if there is an emergency. Homeowners must be able to quickly reach emergency response teams, such as fire, police, and medical services whenever needed. The ability to quickly call for help or receive emergency alerts can be lifesaving, especially in situations where every second counts.

Emergency communication involves keeping people informed about potential threats, like severe weather conditions or other local alerts. The Lifeline Program plays an important role in making sure that low-income homes have reliable access to these vital services.

3. New Job Opportunities

Reliable phone and internet services are essential in today's job market, where many employment opportunities – from job listings to interviews – occur online. People need internet access and a phone to look for a new job, upload resumes, submit applications, schedule appointments, and participate in virtual interviews.

Online courses and training can also improve your prospects if you’re looking for a new job. And in industries that change quickly, the internet can help you maintain your credentials so you stay employed.

4. Consistent Communication

Signing up for the Lifeline Program helps homeowners maintain consistent communication with family, friends, and colleagues without interruption. This is especially important for maintaining social relationships, managing daily activities, and coordinating with others in times of need.

5. Educational Resources

The Lifeline Program helps more families access online educational resources. It allows families to log in to educational websites and apps – from grade school resources to professional development courses. Students can do their homework online, while adults can further their education or learn a new skill.

6. Telehealth Services

The Lifeline Program allows low-income households to take advantage of telehealth services, which are important for accessing healthcare in today's digital world. Internet and phone services allow us to consult with healthcare professionals, schedule appointments, and look up important health information online. Online access is especially helpful for those who live in remote areas or have limited mobility.

Staying Connected with the Lifeline Program

Everyone needs access to phone and internet services. It’s how we live and connect to the world around us. The Lifeline Program helps lower the costs of maintaining phone and internet services. Staying connected these days is no longer a luxury – it’s a necessity. The Lifeline Program improves lives by helping all Americans get online.

Ready to get started? Apply for Lifeline today: https://getinternet.gov/apply