Lifeline can lower an eligible household's monthly phone or broadband bill. In 2026, USAC lists support of up to $9.25 for qualifying broadband or bundled service and up to $34.25 on qualifying Tribal lands; voice-only support is $5.25 under the current service standards. Eligibility can be based on household income at or below 135% of the federal poverty guidelines or participation in specified assistance programs.
Information checked: September 10, 2026.
Two main ways to qualify
A household can qualify through income or an eligible program. USAC's qualifying programs include SNAP, Medicaid, Supplemental Security Income, Federal Public Housing Assistance, and the Veterans and Survivors Pension Benefit. Additional Tribal programs may qualify households on Tribal lands. The 2026 income table is based on 135% of the federal poverty guidelines and differs for Alaska and Hawaii.
2026 income examples
For the 48 contiguous states, District of Columbia and territories, USAC lists annual limits of $21,546 for one person, $29,214 for two, $36,882 for three and $44,550 for four. Add $7,668 for each additional person. Alaska and Hawaii use higher tables. Use gross household income and the current official chart rather than an older screenshot.
One benefit per economic household
People at the same address can be separate households only when they do not share income and expenses. A roommate, nursing-home resident or person in transitional housing may need the Lifeline Household Worksheet when another subscriber already uses the address. Giving a second household benefit without meeting the rule can lead to de-enrollment.
Application sequence
Apply through the National Verifier or the process specified for your state, provide identity and eligibility documents if electronic checks do not confirm them, then select a participating phone or internet company. Oregon and Texas use state-specific eligibility processes rather than the standard National Verifier flow. Keep copies of the approval and provider enrollment confirmation.
Keep the benefit active
Lifeline subscribers generally must recertify when USAC cannot automatically confirm continued eligibility. Respond by the stated deadline, report an address or household change, and use the supported service enough to satisfy provider rules. Ignore anyone demanding a fee merely to submit a Lifeline application; use USAC and a participating provider.
Frequently asked questions
Can two people at one address each receive Lifeline?
Only if they are separate economic households under Lifeline rules and complete any required household worksheet.
Can Lifeline pay for both phone and home internet?
One household receives one benefit. It may be applied to an eligible phone, broadband, or qualifying bundled service.
Is the discount always $9.25?
No. USAC currently lists $5.25 for voice-only service, up to $9.25 for qualifying broadband service, and up to $34.25 on qualifying Tribal lands.
Summary
Check eligibility through the official Lifeline process before choosing a provider. The benefit is limited to one per household, not one per person, and approval does not guarantee that every carrier or plan is available at your address. Rules, funding and deadlines can change, so use the official links below before acting.