What Is the Lifeline Program?
Lifeline is a federal benefit program that has helped make phone and internet service more affordable for low-income households since 1985.
A Federal Communications Commission Benefit
Lifeline is administered by the Federal Communications Commission (FCC) and overseen by the Universal Service Administrative Company (USAC). The program provides a discount on monthly phone or internet service for qualifying low-income consumers, helping ensure that essential communications stay within reach for households that need it most.
Lifeline discounts are provided directly by participating service providers, like Phone Link Wireless, that have been designated as Eligible Telecommunications Carriers (ETCs) in the states where they operate. Phone Link Wireless is authorized to provide Lifeline service in California.
A Brief History
The Lifeline program was created in 1985 to support telephone subscribership among low-income households. It was later expanded to include wireless service and, more recently, broadband internet. The program remains an important safety-net benefit that helps people stay connected to jobs, healthcare, schools, and emergency services.
Key Program Rules
One Per Household
Lifeline provides only one discounted service per household, not per individual. A household is defined as any individual or group of individuals living together at the same address who share income and expenses.
Non-Transferable
The Lifeline benefit belongs to the qualifying individual and cannot be transferred to another person or shared between households.
Annual Recertification
Subscribers must recertify their continued eligibility each year to keep receiving Lifeline benefits, typically through the National Verifier or their state Lifeline administrator.
Lifeline vs. the Affordable Connectivity Program (ACP)
Some consumers may remember the Affordable Connectivity Program (ACP), a separate federal broadband benefit. The ACP officially ended in 2024 due to a lack of continued congressional funding and is no longer active. Lifeline is a distinct, ongoing federal program and is not affected by the end of the ACP.
How Phone Link Wireless Fits In
Phone Link Wireless participates in the Lifeline program to help qualifying households access affordable wireless service. We are designated as an Eligible Telecommunications Carrier (ETC) authorized to provide Lifeline-supported service in California. We handle enrollment, verification support, and ongoing service so you can focus on staying connected.
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It only takes a couple of minutes to check your eligibility and start the enrollment process.
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