Lifeline — Free Phone Service for Qualifying Households
Lifeline provides a discount on monthly phone or broadband service. For most eligible households, the discount covers the full cost of a basic cell phone plan with talk, text, and data. Available to households with income at or below 135% FPL or those receiving certain federal benefits.
Only one Lifeline discount is available per household. You must re-certify annually. If you've had Lifeline in the past and let it lapse, you can re-enroll at any time.
Free Free Phone & Internet Tools
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Lifeline Eligibility Checker
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LIHEAP Energy Estimator
Up to $1,400/yr
Energy bill assistance
Households that qualify for Lifeline often qualify for LIHEAP energy assistance too.
Free Service
Check your eligibility
Enter your state and program participation to check if you qualify for Lifeline free phone service.
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LIHEAP Energy Estimator
Up to $1,400/yr
Also check energy bills
See if you qualify for LIHEAP energy bill assistance alongside your Lifeline phone benefit.
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Benefits Match Quiz
15+ programs
checked at once
Answer 5 questions and see every program your household may qualify for — SNAP, Medicaid, Section 8, and more.
2026 Lifeline Eligibility — Qualifying Programs
2026 Lifeline Eligibility — Qualifying Programs
You qualify if enrolled in any of these OR meet the income limit
| Qualifying Program | Notes |
|---|---|
| SNAP / Food Stamps | Automatic qualification |
| Medicaid | Automatic qualification |
| SSI (Supplemental Security Income) | Automatic qualification |
| Federal Public Housing Assistance | Automatic qualification |
| Veterans Pension or Survivor Benefits | Automatic qualification |
| Income at or below 135% FPL | ~$1,736/mo for 1 person |
One Lifeline discount per household. Re-certify annually through the National Verifier.
How to Get a Free Government Phone in 2026
1
Check Your Eligibility
Visit LifelineSupport.org or apply through a participating provider.
Check Eligibility →
2
Choose a Provider
Many providers offer Lifeline — compare plans in your state for the best data and coverage.
Compare Providers by State →
3
Submit Your Application
Apply online at LifelineSupport.org or directly through your chosen provider. Approval is typically instant.
4
Recertify Annually
Re-certify your eligibility each year when prompted to keep your benefit.
Not Sure What You Qualify For?
Take the free Benefits Match Quiz — see Lifeline, SNAP, Medicaid, and every program you may qualify for.
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