Independent publisher · Source: FCC (Federal Communications Commission)
Here are the steps, one at a time. Take your time. A family member can help.
👉 START WITH STEP 1On this page👀 Step 1: see if you can qualify
There are two ways. One is income. The limit is 135% of the Federal Poverty Guidelines.
The other is a program. If you get SNAP, Medicaid, Federal Public Housing Assistance, SSI or the Veterans and Survivors Pension Benefit, you may qualify.
🏠 Step 2: one per home
Only one Lifeline discount per household. Not on a home phone and a cell phone at the same time.
A household means the people at your address who share money and bills.
📝 Step 3: apply
You can apply online, through the National Verifier. You can also apply by mail, with a paper form.
Or you can ask a phone company that takes part in Lifeline. In California, Texas and Oregon, you usually use the state’s process.
lifelinesupport.org · USAC, the program administrator
📄 Step 4: papers, if asked
Sometimes they need proof. Then you send papers from the last 12 months.
Keep your benefit letters in one folder. It makes this step easy.
🔁 Step 5: renew every year
Every year, they check again. This is called recertification. If you skip it, the discount stops.
Write it on your calendar. Ask a family member to remind you.
📱 Step 6: use your phone
If your service has no monthly charge, use it at least once every 30 days. Otherwise you can lose the benefit.
A short call or a text is enough.
📞 Step 7: if you have questions
Call the USAC Lifeline Support Center at 1-800-234-9473. Do not send private details by email.
⚠️ Be careful
The FCC does not pay for phones. If someone promises a new phone for a fee, say no.
To report fraud, call the FCC tip line: 1-855-455-8477.
👪 Doing it with family
A son, daughter or grandchild can sit with you and fill in the online form. You can also use the paper form, if you prefer.
Keep a copy of what you send. Write down the date. It helps if you need to call later.
❓ Questions you may have
Can I keep my phone number?
Ask your phone company. Lifeline is a discount on service from companies that take part.
Does it cover internet too?
Yes. It can apply to phone, internet or both together.
Who runs it?
The FCC makes the rules. USAC runs the program.
What if I move?
Tell your phone company. Only one discount is allowed per household.
fcc.gov · Lifeline for consumers
50 Pleno is an independent publisher, not affiliated with the FCC, USAC, any phone or internet company or any government agency or any government agency. We don’t sign anyone up and we never ask for personal details. Independent guide. Not affiliated with any government agency.