How It Works

Lifeline is a federal program that offers a monthly benefit of up to $9.25 towards phone or internet services for eligible subscribers (up to $34.25 for those living on Tribal lands).

man iconEligible Consumers

A consumer can qualify for the Lifeline benefit if their income is 135% or less than the federal poverty guidelines, or if they participate in SNAP, Medicaid, or other federal programs. See the full list of qualifying factors.

antenna iconEligible Services

Lifeline subscribers can apply their benefit to home or mobile phone service or to high-speed broadband.

The Process

These steps will help service providers navigate the process to join Lifeline as an eligible telecommunications carrier (ETC).

1

Become an ETC

2

Create a Compliance Plan

3

Obtain a Study Area Code

4

Obtain a 498 ID

Announcements

June Lifeline Newsletter

  • USAC Webinars Page Enhancements
  • New RAD Acceptable Documentation Guide
  • Reminder: FCC Form 481 Deadline Approaching
  • Lifeline Program Compliance Reminder: Consumer Qualification for Lifeline
  • July Maintenance Schedule
...

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June System Notice

Ad-Hoc System Maintenance, June 26

USAC will perform an ad-hoc system...

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June Monthly Maintenance Reminder

Monthly System Maintenance, June 20

USAC will perform scheduled monthly maintenance starting Friday, June 20 from 10 p.m....

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Reminder: Accurate and Complete Consumer Email Addresses Required on Lifeline Applications

USAC reminds users of the National Verifier that per the National Verifier Terms and Conditions, users must...

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May Lifeline Newsletter

  • New Lifeline Benefit Flyers in Spanish
  • FCC...

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