Understanding the importance of reliable phone service for low-income families and households, the federal government created the Lifeline Assistance Program in 1985. Households that qualify can obtain discounted or free wireless service through this program. Lifeline is part of the Universal Service Fund and is available to eligible low-income consumers in every state, territory, commonwealth, and on Tribal lands.
You can get Lifeline if your income is 135% or less than the Federal Poverty Guidelines (see the table below). The guideline is based on your household size and state.
The table below reflects 135% of the 2022 Federal Poverty Guidelines.
Household Size | 48 Contiguous States, D.C., and Territories | Alaska | Hawaii |
---|---|---|---|
1 | $18,347 | $22,937 | $21,101 |
2 | $24,719 | $30,902 | $28,431 |
3 | $31,091 | $38,867 | $35,762 |
4 | $37,463 | $46,832 | $43,092 |
5 | $43,835 | $54,797 | $50,423 |
6 | $50,207 | $62,762 | $57,753 |
7 | $56,579 | $70,727 | $65,084 |
8 | $62,951 | $78,692 | $72,414 |
For each additional person add | $6,372 | $7,965 | $7,331 |
You may have to show proof of income, like a tax return or three consecutive pays stubs, when you apply for Lifeline.
The FCC’s Affordable Connectivity Program ensures that people can afford the broadband they need for employment, school, healthcare, and other purposes.
Each family is only eligible for one monthly service discount and one device discount through the Affordable Connectivity Program.
If a household’s income is at or below 200 percent of the Federal Poverty Guidelines, or if a member of the household fits at least one of the following conditions, the household is eligible for the Affordable Connectivity Program:
Persons in family/household | 200% Poverty guideline |
---|---|
1 | $27,180 |
2 | $36,620 |
3 | $46,060 |
4 | $55,500 |
5 | $64,940 |
6 | $74,380 |
7 | $83,820 |
8 | $93,260 |
For families/household with more than 8 persons, add $9,440 for each additional person. |