Lifeline is a free phone service that offers low-income households a monthly or internet service discount. It also provides a one-time discount on an Internet-capable device.
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What is Lifeline?
Lifeline is a free service for eligible low-income consumers that provides a monthly discount on home telephone and wireless phone services and a monthly discount on bundled voice/broadband services. It is provided by telecommunications providers who participate in the program, administered by the Universal Service Administrative Company (USAC).
In addition to free home and mobile phone services, many participating Lifeline phone companies like enTouch Wireless offer discounted rate plans for home internet and cable television. In some states, the Lifeline discount can also be used to purchase a tablet or digital streaming device. The discount varies depending on state regulations, but all recipients receive a bill credit, and the federal subscriber line charge is waived.
Similarly, many Lifeline service providers offer affordable medical alert systems paired with a smartphone app called Lifeline Cares. Upon pressing the medical alert device button, subscribers can be connected with a live agent who can help them find help, contact loved ones, or contact local emergency services.
The Lifeline program is a great way to save money on essential communication services, but applicants must be honest about their household income. Providing false information to receive a benefit is against the law and can result in de-enrollment from the program, fines, or even jail time.
How Do I Apply For Lifeline?
A landline or cellular phone service, or a home phone and internet bundle, can be purchased for less money through the federal Lifeline program. The discount is available to eligible households who qualify based on income and participation in certain government assistance programs, such as Medicaid, NJ SNAP, or SSI. You must generally have a household income at or below 135% of the poverty guideline for your state to qualify.
To apply for Lifeline, you must first choose a service provider that offers the needed service. You can find a list of eligible providers on the Lifeline website here. Once you select your service provider, they will send your application to the National Verifier, who will verify your information and determine if you are eligible for Lifeline.
After you are approved for Lifeline, you can use your eligibility to get discounted home phone and Internet services with the carrier of your choice. You can also receive a free phone with the Q Link Wireless Lifeline and Affordable Connectivity Program (ACP).
The ACP program provides low-income consumers with free smartphones and prepaid wireless services. You can use your ACP benefit with your existing mobile phone or a new one provided by the carrier.
How Long Do I Have to Wait to Receive My Lifeline Benefit?
If your household receives one or more federal assistance programs (SNAP, Medicare Part B, TANF, or WIC), you can enroll in Lifeline. Once you qualify, you can choose a service provider to receive your monthly allotment of free phone minutes or discounted broadband internet. You will also need to keep your eligibility current by completing annual recertification.
Eligible consumers can choose from a wide variety of phone and internet providers. Each participating company offers different packages of phone and internet services. In most states, eligible customers can choose between a landline phone and a mobile phone service. You can even get a bundled phone and internet service package in some states!
The Lifeline program is run by the Universal Service Administrative Company (USAC). USAC is responsible for the application and enrollment, support calculation, and program disbursement. You can learn more about Lifeline and its requirements on the USAC website. The Lifeline program is available to low-income consumers in every state, territory, commonwealth, and Tribal land. In addition, some carriers offer additional discounts to those living on tribal lands. These programs can help you afford a wireline or wireless phone and interest-free service initiation charges on a deferred payment plan. These are excellent choices for folks who prefer not to pay in advance for services.
What Happens If I Don’t Qualify for Lifeline?
The Lifeline program is run by the Universal Service Administrative Company (USAC), which collects and maintains data, supports calculation and disbursement, and ensures that providers comply with program requirements. Lifeline is a free government phone program available to eligible households in every state, territory, commonwealth, and on Tribal lands. A Lifeline discount can be used on one home telephone or wireless mobile service line per household. However, you may qualify for Lifeline and the Affordable Connectivity Program (ACP). The ACP is a new 14 billion-dollar program that includes broadband internet access as part of federal government assistance. You can opt-in for ACP with your current Lifeline provider and choose an ACP and Lifeline-eligible plan.