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In today’s landscape, securing low-cost internet access is becoming increasingly challenging due to escalating prices and diminished support for low-income households. The Affordable Connectivity Program (ACP) concluded in June 2024, impacting 23 million Americans who relied on it for affordable internet options, including a significant number of veterans. The ACP, which provided a substantial credit ranging from $30 to $75 towards home internet expenses, effectively narrowed the digital divide during its two-and-a-half years of operation.
While Congress has yet to enact a similar initiative or mandate affordable internet options for Internet Service Providers (ISPs), apart from specific measures in New York, families seeking to economize may still discover several alternatives to alleviate the burden of monthly internet expenses. One such feasible solution is Lifeline, a federal program originally designed to ensure telephone service affordability.
Understanding the Lifeline Program for Affordable Internet
The Lifeline program was initiated in 1985 with the goal of making phone service more accessible for low-income families. It offers a monthly subsidy of $9.25 to help offset costs, with eligible individuals and families residing on tribal lands potentially receiving up to $34.25. While Lifeline continues to support traditional landline and wireless plans, its scope expanded in 2016 to encompass home broadband service.
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A discount on home internet can provide access to job opportunities, educational resources, family services, and emergency care. Although the Lifeline program is accessible nationwide, eligibility is restricted to low-income individuals and families.
This guide covers essential information to determine your eligibility. Qualifying for Lifeline can unlock additional discounts from internet providers or your state, which we will explore further. Let’s examine the specific eligibility criteria for Lifeline and the steps to apply.
Lifeline Eligibility: Do You Qualify for Affordable Internet?
Lifeline is available throughout the United States, but not all individuals can benefit. The program’s intent is to help low-income households stay connected for vital access to education, employment, utilities, healthcare, and other essential social services. Eligibility requires that at least one member of the household meets the program’s criteria.
You may qualify if a member of your household currently participates in any of the following government assistance programs:
- Federal Public Housing Assistance
- Medicaid
- Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP)
- Supplemental Security Income (SSI)
- Tribal-specific programs (Bureau of Indian Affairs General Assistance, Tribal Temporary Assistance for Needy Families, Food Distribution Program on Indian Reservations and Head Start)
- Veterans Pension and Survivors Benefit Programs
Even without participation in these programs, you might still qualify for Lifeline based on your household income.
Your household will qualify if your annual income is at or below 135% of the 2025 Federal Poverty Guidelines, as detailed below.
Lifeline Program Qualification: Income Thresholds
| No. of people in the household | (48 states and Washington DC) | (Alaska) | (Hawaii) |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | $21,128 | $26,393 | $24,287 |
| 2 | $28,553 | $35,681 | $32,832 |
| 3 | $35,978 | $44,969 | $41,378 |
| 4 | $43,403 | $54,257 | $49,923 |
| 5 | $50,828 | $63,545 | $58,469 |
| 6 | $58,253 | $72,833 | $67,014 |
| 7 | $65,678 | $82,121 | $75,560 |
| 8 | $73,103 | $91,409 | $84,105 |
For households with more than eight individuals, add $7,425 to the income limit for each additional person in the 48 contiguous states and D.C.. For Alaska, add $9,288 per extra person. For Hawaii, add $8,363 per extra person.
Required Documentation for Lifeline Application
Whether you apply online or by mail, you’ll need documents to verify your eligibility, primarily statements dated within the last 12 months. Acceptable documentation includes:
- Proof of income (e.g., current pay stub, Social Security statement of benefits, or tax return). If the documentation doesn’t cover a full year, it must reflect three consecutive months.
- Proof of program participation (e.g., notice letter of participation or statement of benefits).
You may need to provide additional documentation for proof of identity (e.g., Social Security number, driver’s license, W-2).
Keep copies of these documents and send only duplicates. A comprehensive list of acceptable documents is available on the Lifeline Support Center website.
Applying for Lifeline Benefits
You can typically apply for Lifeline broadband benefits online via the Lifeline National Verifier, a system managed by the Federal Communications Commission (FCC) and operated by the Universal Service Administrative Company (USAC). Visit the site, input your details, and initiate the qualification process. Exceptions apply to Oregon and Texas, where applicants must follow their respective state processes.
Alternatively, you can apply by mail. Print the application (available as a PDF on the USAC site), complete it, and mail copies (retain originals) of all necessary documents to USAC, Lifeline Support Center, PO Box 7081, London, KY 40742.. You can also request an application by mail by emailing [email protected] or calling Lifeline at 800-234-9473.
Once your Lifeline application begins, you have 45 days to complete it. Once qualified, you have 90 days to enroll in service with an internet provider or apply the benefit to your existing broadband service.
Exploring Alternative Affordable Internet Programs
After Lifeline approval, you’ll receive a $9.25 monthly benefit, but many providers offer additional low-cost internet plans to eligible customers. Verify your eligibility by providing your details to these providers.
Several ISPs offer discounted internet service, including:
- Access from AT&T
- Cox Connect2Compete
- Spectrum Internet Assist
- Xfinity Internet Essentials
This is not an exhaustive list. Consult a state-by-state low-income internet guide to discover affordable internet programs in your area.
Consider exploring internet deals for seniors and student internet discounts for further savings.
Important Considerations for Lifeline Subscribers
Each household is limited to one Lifeline benefit. You must choose either a discount on home internet or phone service.
Recertification of eligibility is required annually to continue receiving the Lifeline discount. Failure to recertify will lead to disqualification until eligibility is re-established. You can switch internet providers at any time, but you’ll need to reapply for the benefit.
For Lifeline program inquiries, contact [email protected] or call the Lifeline Support Center at 800-234-9473.
Lifeline FAQs
What is the Lifeline program?
The Lifeline program, established in 1985, supports low-income households by providing monthly discounts for phone and home internet services. Eligible individuals may receive a monthly credit of $9.25 for their internet, while those residing on tribal lands may receive up to $34.25.
Apply for Lifeline’s broadband benefits via the online Lifeline National Verifier application form. Alternatively, print and mail the application with required documents to USAC, Lifeline Support Center, PO Box 7081, London, KY 40742.
Is the Lifeline program ending?
Despite the Affordable Connectivity Program concluding in May 2024, the Lifeline program remains active since 1985. Despite recent federal government cuts, there are no current indications that Lifeline is at risk of ending.
Did Lifeline start during the COVID-19 pandemic?
No, Lifeline’s origins date back to 1985, initially focused on providing affordable phone service to low-income families. Home internet service inclusion began with program expansion in 2016. The coronavirus pandemic highlighted the program, but it existed long before that time.
Can anyone participate in Lifeline?
Lifeline, while available in all 50 states, targets low-income families and individuals. Eligibility requirements for Lifeline range from participation in specific government assistance programs to a household income at or below 135% of the Federal Poverty Guidelines.
Is Lifeline the same as the Affordable Connectivity Program?
No, Lifeline and the ACP are distinct federal programs aiming to broaden access to affordable internet. Lifeline’s existence predates the ACP, with its establishment in 1985. Unfortunately, the ACP’s funding has been exhausted.