Staying connected should not break your budget. If your phone or internet bill is hard to manage, Lifeline may help. This guide covers the basics and how to get started.

Lifeline in simple terms

Lifeline is a federal program that lowers the monthly cost of phone or internet service for eligible low-income households. The Federal Communications Commission (FCC) runs the program, and the Universal Service Administrative Company (USAC) administers it. If you qualify, the discount appears on your phone or internet service bill through a participating provider.

Who qualifies for Lifeline

You have two main ways to qualify. Your household can qualify by income, or through participation in certain benefit programs.

You may qualify if:

  • Your household income is at or below 135% of the Federal Poverty Guidelines; or
  • Someone in your household gets one of these benefits:
    • SNAP (Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program)
    • Medicaid
    • Federal Public Housing Assistance (including Section 8)
    • SSI (Supplemental Security Income)
    • Veterans Pension or Survivors Benefit
    • Certain Tribal programs

If you are not sure which path fits you, we can talk it through. You can also review our quick overview on our Income-qualified and Lifeline page.

How much help you can get each month

Lifeline gives up to $9.25 a month off phone or internet service. On Tribal lands, the benefit is up to $34.25 a month. The exact discount you see depends on your service and your participating provider.

Some participating providers offer a free phone and free monthly service to eligible households. Offers vary by provider. The FCC does not pay for phones.

One per household, with yearly renewal

Only one Lifeline benefit is allowed per household. This rule helps make sure support reaches as many households as possible. If someone in your home already uses Lifeline, you cannot add a second Lifeline line.

Your eligibility is checked every year. This yearly recertification confirms that you still qualify. If you get a notice to recertify, respond by the deadline so your discount can continue.

How to apply for Lifeline

You can apply in one of three ways. Choose the method that works best for you.

  • Online through the National Verifier
  • By mail
  • Through a participating phone or internet company

Each method asks for your basic information. Follow the instructions for the option you choose. If approved, your discount is applied by a participating provider.

If you have questions while you apply, we are ready to help. You can also read our pinned guide, Income-Qualified? How Your Household Can Save More, to see how Lifeline can fit with other bill-help options.

How CSR can help on the same call as community solar

At Community Solar Representatives (CSR), we can help eligible households apply for Lifeline. We can do this on the same call where we discuss community solar enrollment. That way, you can handle both steps at once.

Many households like this one-call approach. You learn if you likely qualify for Lifeline. You also learn how community solar enrollment works in your area. If Lifeline is a fit, we guide you through an application method you prefer. If community solar is a fit, we review next steps for enrollment. Our goal is to keep the process clear and simple.

If you want a quick refresher first, start on our Income-qualified and Lifeline page. Then check our pinned guide on ways income-qualified households can save more. These two pages explain how programs can work together.

Tips to keep in mind

  • Keep your contact details up to date with your provider. This helps you receive recertification notices on time.
  • Remember, Lifeline is one per household. Talk with family members so only one person applies.
  • If your situation changes, such as income or program participation, be ready to report it during recertification.

A quick recap

Lifeline lowers the monthly cost of phone or internet service for qualifying households. You may qualify by income or by certain benefit programs. The discount is up to $9.25 each month, or up to $34.25 on Tribal lands. Only one benefit is allowed per household, and you recertify every year. You can apply online through the National Verifier, by mail, or through a participating company.

If you think you might qualify, take a moment to review your options and apply. If you would like help, we can discuss Lifeline and community solar in the same simple call, so you can move forward with confidence.