Phone and internet service are lifelines in the most literal sense for many older adults. They connect you with family, doctors, pharmacies, banks and emergency help. The federal Lifeline program, created in 1985, helps make that service more affordable for people with limited income.
How much Lifeline saves
Lifeline provides a monthly discount on one service per household:
- Up to $9.25 a month for internet service, or for bundled phone and internet service.
- Up to $5.25 a month for phone-only service.
- Up to $34.25 a month for eligible people living on Tribal lands.
The discount is applied to your bill by a participating phone or internet company. Some companies offer free basic phone service to Lifeline customers.
Who qualifies
You may qualify if your household income is at or below 135% of the federal poverty guidelines, or if you or someone in your household receives:
- SNAP.
- Medicaid.
- Supplemental Security Income (SSI).
- Federal Public Housing Assistance.
- The Veterans and Survivors Pension.
- Certain Tribal benefits, if you live on Tribal lands.
Only one Lifeline benefit is allowed per household, meaning a group of people who live together and share income and expenses.
How to apply
- Apply through the National Verifier at lifelinesupport.org, by mail, or through a phone or internet company that participates in Lifeline. The Verifier checks your eligibility, often instantly, using government databases.
- Provide documents if asked, such as a benefit letter or proof of income.
- Choose a participating company and sign up for a plan.
Residents of California, Texas and Oregon may apply through their state's process. For help, call the Lifeline Support Center at 800-234-9473.
Lifeline and the Affordable Connectivity Program
The Affordable Connectivity Program, which offered a larger internet discount, ended in 2024 when its funding ran out. Lifeline is a separate, ongoing program and was not affected.
Beware of scams
- Lifeline is free to apply for. No one should charge you a fee.
- Never share your Social Security number, Medicare number or bank details with someone who contacts you unexpectedly offering "free phones."
- If you are unsure whether an offer is real, check the list of participating companies at lifelinesupport.org.
Other ways to lower phone and internet costs
- Ask your provider about plans for customers 55 and older or low-income plans.
- Review your bill for services you do not use.
- Compare prepaid plans, which can be less expensive for light users.
- Public libraries offer free internet access, and some lend hotspots.
Read staying close to family with video calls for ways to make the most of your connection.
