Lifeline Program

Phone and Internet Assistance

 

People across the United States rely on phone and internet to stay connected to family, work, education, and essential services. 

 

Lifeline offers a monthly benefit to eligible subscribers on either landline telephone  ($5.25) or home internet ($9.25) service.

 

 

Program Rules

• Lifeline is only available to subscribers who can prove their eligibility. When you apply for Lifeline, you must show proof of participation in a qualifying program or proof of income. 

• Every year, USAC will check to confirm you still qualify. If we cannot confirm you qualify, you will receive an email or letter in the mail and may also receive reminders by email, mail, or pre-recorded messages on your phone. If you are asked to recertify, you must do so within 60 days, or you will lose your Lifeline benefit.

• Only one discount is allowed per household. A “household” is a group of people who live together and share income and expenses.

• If your Lifeline service is free, you must use it at least once every 30 days to maintain your service. If you don’t, you will get a 15-day notice to use it or it will get turned off.

• It is against the law to lie on any Lifeline-related forms or questionnaires.

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Eligibility

• Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) or Food Stamps

• Medicaid

• Supplemental Security Income (SSI)

• Federal Public Housing Assistance

• Veterans Pension and Survivors Benefit

• Tribal Specific Programs

• Income-based eligibility (at or below 135% of the federal poverty guidelines)

 

You must show a card, letter, or official document, as proof that you participate in one
of these programs when you apply for Lifeline. For proof of income please provide
three consecutive pay stubs or a tax return.

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Lifeline Not Available in the Following Towns ​​

Currently Not Available to CLEC subscribers in Lohrville, Manson, Rockwell City,
Lake City, and Rural Fort Dodge.