Lifeline Eligibility Guide

Two Paths to Qualify

The FCC dictates that you can qualify for the Lifeline program through one of two main pathways: by participating in a government assistance program, or based strictly on your household income.

Path 1: Program Participation

If you or anyone in your household (including dependents) participates in any of the following federal programs, your entire household automatically qualifies:

• Supplemental Security Income (SSI)
• Federal Public Housing Assistance (FPHA / Section 8)
• Veterans Pension and Survivors Benefit
• Specific Tribal Programs (if living on federally recognized Tribal lands)

Path 2: Income Guidelines

If you don't receive assistance but your household income is at or below 135% of the Federal Poverty Guidelines, you qualify.

*Income limits are slightly higher for residents of Alaska and Hawaii.

The One-Per-Household Rule

Lifeline is limited to one benefit per household (not per person). A "household" is defined as any individual or group of individuals who live together at the same address and share income and expenses.

• If you live with roommates but pay your own bills, you are a separate household.
• If you live in a nursing home or homeless shelter, you can apply as an independent household.
• If multiple families live at the same address, you must complete an Independent Economic Household (IEH) Worksheet during signup.

What You Need to Apply

When applying through the National Verifier, you will need to prove your identity and your eligibility.

• To Prove Identity: Valid State ID, Driver's License, US Passport, or Military ID.
• To Prove Program: An official award letter or card from the current year (e.g., SNAP card + recent receipt, or Medicaid approval letter).
• To Prove Income: Prior year's state, federal, or Tribal tax return, current income statement, or three consecutive paystubs.