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What Kind of Assistance Do You Have?

What is the Lifeline Program?

The Lifeline Program is a federal assistance initiative that helps eligible low-income households access affordable phone or internet service. Launched in 1985 by the Federal Communications Commission (FCC), the program ensures that essential communication services are accessible across the U.S.—including all states, territories, and Tribal lands.

Managed by the Universal Service Administrative Company (USAC) and supported through federal funding, Lifeline helps reduce the cost of monthly phone or broadband bills for qualifying individuals. It plays a vital role in connecting people to emergency services, job searches, remote education, healthcare access, and loved ones services that are essential in today’s connected world.

What is the Affordable Connectivity Program (ACP)?

The Affordable Connectivity Program (ACP) is a federal initiative designed to make internet access more affordable for low-income households across the United States. Operated by the FCC, the program helps eligible families stay connected to the services they rely on for everyday life—such as remote work, online education, telehealth, and more.

Eligible households can receive up to $30 per month in discounts on broadband service, while those residing on qualifying Tribal lands may receive up to $75 per month. In addition, the ACP offers a one-time device discount of up to $100 to help cover the cost of a laptop, desktop computer, iPad or tablet. To claim this device benefit, households must contribute between $10 and $50 toward the purchase price and use a participating provider.

The program is limited to one monthly service discount and one device discount per household. It plays a key role in helping families bridge the digital divide and maintain access to essential online tools without the financial strain of high internet costs.

Who is Eligible?

Qualify Through a Government Program:

You may be eligible for Lifeline if you or someone in your household participates in one or more of the following:

  • Medicaid / Medi-Cal
  • SNAP / CalFresh / Food Stamps
  • Supplemental Security Income (SSI)
  • Veterans Pension or Survivors Benefits
  • Federal Public Housing Assistance (FPHA)
  • WIC (Women, Infants, and Children Program)
  • Free or Reduced-Price School Lunch or Breakfast Program
  • Bureau of Indian Affairs General Assistance
  • Food Distribution Program on Indian Reservations (FDPIR)
  • Received a Federal Pell Grant during the current award year

Qualify Through Income:

Households can also qualify based on income. You must meet the federal income eligibility guidelines, which are typically set at or below 135% of the Federal Poverty Level. Proof of income may include:

  • Social Security benefit statements
  • Unemployment or Workers’ Compensation statements
  • Pay stubs or tax documents

Lifeline Program Rules to Know

  • Use the service at least once every 30 days to keep it active. Inactivity may result in cancellation.
  • The benefit is non-transferable and can only be used by the approved individual.
  • Only one Lifeline benefit is allowed per household.
  • You must provide proof of eligibility when applying.