How to Apply for Lifeline in 2026
This website does not process or approve Lifeline applications. Use the official Lifeline process, then choose a participating provider serving your address.
Lifeline is a service discount, not a guaranteed phone giveaway
USAC currently lists up to $5.25 per month for qualifying phone service, up to $9.25 per month for qualifying internet or bundled service, and up to $34.25 per month for eligible households on qualifying Tribal lands. A provider may separately offer a phone promotion, but that device offer is not guaranteed by the federal program.
Application steps
Check whether you qualify
Review standard Lifeline program pathways or the 135% Federal Poverty Guidelines income route.
Apply through the official Lifeline process
Use CheckLifeline / LifelineSupport.org, apply by mail, or apply with assistance from a participating phone or internet company where available.
Provide documents if requested
USAC may ask for proof of program participation, income, identity or address when automatic verification is not enough.
Choose a participating company
After eligibility is confirmed, compare companies serving your area and review the provider's live service and device terms.
Verify any phone promotion before enrolling
Confirm model, condition, device price, activation fees, shipping, monthly service price and return/replacement terms.
What to have ready
USAC may verify you automatically or ask for supporting documentation. Provide only what the official application requests.
- Full legal name, date of birth and home address
- Last four digits of Social Security Number or Tribal ID number, as applicable
- Program participation proof if requested
- Income proof if using the income pathway
- Identity or address documents if requested
No fixed approval or shipping promise
Verification may be automatic or may require documents. Device fulfillment begins only after provider enrollment, and any shipping estimate comes from that provider. Do not rely on a universal 24-hour approval or delivery claim.