Lower Your Phone and Internet Bill With Lifeline (Free to Apply)

There may be a discount on your monthly bill

If your phone or internet bill feels too high, you may qualify for help. Lifeline is a federal program run by the Federal Communications Commission (FCC). It lowers the monthly cost of phone or internet service for people who qualify.

This is your money and your benefit. There is no fee to apply, and you never need to pay a middleman to get it.

One important note: Lifeline is still running. A different, temporary program called the Affordable Connectivity Program (ACP) ended, but Lifeline did not. So it is still worth checking.

Who can qualify

You can qualify for Lifeline in two main ways. The first is by income. If your household income is low enough under the program rules, you may be eligible.

The second way is through other programs you may already be in. If you take part in certain government benefit programs, you may automatically qualify for Lifeline.

Lifeline is meant for one benefit per household. You choose whether to use the discount on a phone line or on internet service.

How to apply, step by step

Applying goes through the National Verifier, the official system that checks if you qualify. You can apply online, by mail, or through a phone or internet company that offers Lifeline.

Once you are approved, you pick a company in your area that takes part in Lifeline. The discount is then applied to your monthly bill with that company.

The whole process is free. Be careful of anyone who asks you to pay a fee to sign up. The official path never charges you to apply.

A quick reminder for this week

If you pay estimated taxes, remember that third-quarter estimated taxes are due September 15. That deadline is separate from Lifeline, but it is a good time to look at your monthly budget.

Trimming a bill like phone or internet through Lifeline is one steady way to keep more money each month. Check your eligibility when you have a few quiet minutes.

Frequently asked questions

Is Lifeline still available?

Yes. Lifeline is still running. A different, temporary program called the ACP ended, but Lifeline did not.

Does it cost anything to apply?

No. Applying through the official National Verifier is free. If anyone asks you to pay a fee to sign up, that is a warning sign.

Can I use Lifeline for both phone and internet?

Lifeline offers one benefit per household. You choose to apply the discount to either phone service or internet service.

How do I know if I qualify?

You may qualify by income or by taking part in certain other benefit programs. The National Verifier at lifelinesupport.org checks for you.