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Lifeline, an FCC program, lowers the cost of communication services for low-income users.
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Subscribers receive discounts on approved monthly phone service, internet, or bundled voice-internet plans from participating providers.
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The program ensures low-income individuals can afford modern connectivity, giving them access to jobs, healthcare, and education.
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Update: Safe Connections Act for Survivors
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The Safe Connections Act (SCA) provides emergency Lifeline support for up to six months to survivors of domestic violence, human trafficking, and related crimes facing financial struggles.
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Eligible survivors receive up to $9.25 off phone, internet, or bundled plans. After six months, they can apply for the regular Lifeline benefit—up to $9.25 for internet or bundled plans or $5.25 for voice-only service.
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Lifeline allows survivors to join if they request a line separation and experience financial difficulties.
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They can prove financial hardship through existing Lifeline eligibility programs or by meeting one of these criteria:
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- Household income at or below 200% of the Federal Poverty Guidelines
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- Participation in the Special Supplemental Nutrition Program for Women, Infants, and Children (WIC)
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- Enrollment in the Free and Reduced-Price School Lunch or Breakfast program, including those in a Community Eligibility Provision (CEP) school or district
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- Receiving a Federal Pell Grant in the current award year
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Lifeline is a program by the FCC that helps low-income people get affordable communication services.
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Subscribers get discounts on monthly phone service, broadband Internet, or bundled voice-broadband plans from approved providers.
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The discount helps low-income users stay connected for jobs, healthcare, and education.
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Eligible subscribers can receive up to $9.25 off their monthly bill. Those on Tribal lands can get up to $34.25 per month.
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The discount applies to either wireline or wireless service, not both. Lifeline also covers broadband and voice-broadband bundles. FCC rules allow only one Lifeline service per household.
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Lifeline is available in all states, territories, commonwealths, and Tribal lands. The Universal Service Administrative Company (USAC) manages the program.
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USAC helps consumers apply, check eligibility, and complete yearly recertification. More details are available on USAC’s website.
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A household can qualify if its income is 135% or less of the Federal Poverty Guidelines or in specific federal aid programs.
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These programs include SNAP, Medicaid, Federal Public Housing Assistance, Supplemental Security Income, Veterans and Survivors Pension Benefit, and Tribal programs. Check eligibility at lifelinesupport.org.
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National Verifier and Lifeline Eligibility
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Consumers must apply for Lifeline through the National Verifier system. They can access it via USAC or a Lifeline-participating phone or internet company.
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The FCC created this system, and USAC manages it. It checks if applicants qualify and reviews eligibility each year.
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Consumers needing help can use the “Companies Near Me” tool to find a Lifeline provider nearby.
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Applicants must apply through the state’s process in California (except broadband-only users), Texas, and Oregon.
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Broadband-only applicants in California must use the National Verifier, which will confirm eligibility.
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To apply in these states, visit the National Verifier, choose the state from the drop-down menu, and click “Get Started.”
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For application questions or to request a mailed application, contact Lifeline at (800) 234-9473 or LifelineSupport@usac.org.
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