How to Get a Free Government Phone Through Lifeline

Lifeline is a federal program that provides free or discounted phone and internet service to people with low incomes. You may qualify if your household income is at or below the federal poverty guidelines, or if you receive certain government benefits. Applying is free, and you can do it online, by phone, by mail, or in person through your state's Lifeline provider.

Who qualifies for Lifeline

You may qualify for Lifeline if your household income is at or below the federal poverty guidelines for your state. The income limits change each year based on federal guidelines.

You can also qualify if you receive one of these government benefits:

• SNAP (the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program)
• Medicaid
• Federal public housing assistance
• SSI (Supplemental Security Income)
• LIHEAP (Low Income Home Energy Assistance Program)
• Veterans Pension or Survivors Benefit
• Bureau of Indian Affairs general assistance

Only one person per household can receive a Lifeline discount. If you're not sure whether you qualify, use our benefits screener to check your options.

Current income limits by household size

These are the 2026 federal poverty guidelines. If your household income is at or below these amounts, you may qualify for Lifeline:

If your household is larger than 8 people, contact your state's Lifeline provider for income limits that apply to you.

How to apply for Lifeline

Step 1: Check your eligibility. Look up your household income against the poverty guidelines above. If you receive any of the qualifying benefits listed earlier, you likely qualify. You can also use our benefits screener to check whether Lifeline and other programs may be right for you.

Step 2: Find your state's Lifeline provider. Visit the official Lifeline website at lifelinesupport.org. Enter your state to see which companies offer Lifeline service in your area.

Step 3: Apply with your chosen provider. You can apply online, by phone, by mail, or in person—it depends on the provider. You'll need to prove your income or that you receive a qualifying benefit. Applying is free, and only the provider decides whether you qualify based on their eligibility rules.

Step 4: Get your phone and service. Once you're approved, your provider will send you a phone and SIM card, or you can use your own phone. Your discount will start right away.

What documents you'll need

When you apply, have these ready:

• Proof of income (pay stub, tax return, or bank statement)
• Or proof of a qualifying benefit (SNAP card, Medicaid card, or benefit letter)
• Your Social Security number
• A valid form of ID

Specific requirements may vary by provider and state. Check with your chosen provider about exactly what documents they need before you apply.

What happens next

After you apply, your provider will review your information and let you know if you're approved. Once approved, you'll get your phone and start using your discount right away.

You must recertify your eligibility once per year to keep your service active. Your provider will contact you when it's time to recertify. Recertification is also free. If your income or benefits change, or if you move, tell your provider right away so your records stay up to date.

Common mistakes to avoid

Don't miss your annual recertification. If you don't recertify when your provider asks, your service may be canceled. The good news is that recertifying is free and usually takes just a few minutes.

Don't wait to report changes. If your household income goes up, your benefits change, or you move to a new address, contact your provider right away. Keeping your information current helps you keep your service active.

Don't forget that only one person per household can have a Lifeline discount at a time. If multiple people in your home need service, only one can use the Lifeline discount.

Related help

If you need more information about Lifeline or have questions about your application, visit lifelinesupport.org or contact the Universal Service Administrative Company directly. For information about other benefits you may qualify for, use our free benefits screener or contact us for help.

Summary

Lifeline offers free or discounted phone and internet service to people with low incomes. If your income is below the poverty guidelines or you receive qualifying benefits, you can apply through your state's Lifeline provider at lifelinesupport.org. Applying is free, and you can recertify your eligibility at no cost once a year.