Apply for a discounted communications service through the Lifeline Program

Check Your Eligibility 

There are three ways you can qualify for Lifeline service:

• Your income is at or below 135% of the Federal Poverty Guidelines
• Participation in certain government assistance programs like SNAP, Medicaid, Supplemental Security Income (SSI), Veterans Pension and Survivors Benefit or Federal Public Housing Assistance (FPHA)
• If you are a survivor of domestic violence, sexual assault, or related crimes

Review a full list of eligibility criteria, including the federal poverty guidelines, to determine if you qualify for the program.  Only one Lifeline discount is allowed per household.

Gather Information Needed

The following information is required to apply for Lifeline:

• Your full name
• Date of birth
• Last four digits of your Social Security Number
• Your home address
• Proof of eligibility documentation 

In Massachusetts, prior to enrolling in Lifeline service with a provider, you need to verify your eligibility for the Lifeline Program using the National Verifier, a centralized system that is managed directly by USAC, the administrator of the Lifeline Program under the direction of the Federal Communications Commission (FCC).  

In order to verify eligibility, you will need to complete the standard Lifeline Program application as well as submit a copy of proof of eligibility documentation, either online using the FCC's Lifeline Application Portal or by mail.

If you have a disability and need assistance with your Lifeline application, please contact the Lifeline Support Center at 1-800-234-9473.

Annual Eligibility Recertification

Each year, USAC will check to see that you still qualify to receive the Lifeline benefit. 

• If USAC confirms that you still qualify, you don’t need to do anything else.
• If USAC cannot confirm you still qualify, you will receive an email or letter in the mail requesting you recertify.  You may also receive additional reminders by email, mail, or pre-recorded calls.

When you are asked to recertify you must do so within 60 days, or you will lose your Lifeline benefit. This means your monthly bill may increase, or the services you normally receive for free each month will not be provided, which could cause your service to be turned off.  If you lose your Lifeline benefit but believe you still qualify, you will need to apply again.

Change Your Company

You may change your Lifeline service provider at any time by contacting another Massachusetts Lifeline provider and asking them to transfer your Lifeline benefit. You may need to reapply before your company can transfer you.

Keep Your Lifeline Provider Up to Date

If you change your address, no longer qualify for Lifeline, or more than one person in your household gets Lifeline, notify your Lifeline provider within 30 days or you may be subject to penalties.

Use It or Lose It

If your Lifeline service is free, you must use it at least once every 30 days to maintain your service. If you don’t, you will get a 15-day reminder notice to use the service. If you do not use it, it will be turned off and you will need to reapply.