The Lifeline Program provides a monthly discount on one communications service from a certified Lifeline service provider. Currently, Lifeline subscribers have the choice—where available—of applying their benefit discount to one of the following types of service offerings:
- Home or wireless phone service or
- Home internet or a wireless phone data plan
Some Lifeline service providers may offer a bundled package of home or wireless phone service with internet access.
The Department provides additional information on the Lifeline Program's eligibility criteria and application process.
Minimum Service Standards
The Federal Communications Commission has established minimum service standards to make sure supported services keep pace with the ever-changing digital landscape. These service standards will be evaluated each year to ensure the continued support of robust and meaningful internet connectivity.
The chart below outlines the minimum service standards:
| Mobile Voice | Mobile Internet (Data Plan) | Home Internet |
|---|---|---|
| Usage Allowance: 1,000 Minutes | Usage Allowance: 4.5 GB Speed: 3G | Usage Allowance: 1280 GB Speed: 25/3 Mbps |
Please note: the minimum service standard ONLY applies to the discounted communications service.
On July 1, 2025, the FCC’s Wireline Competition Bureau paused the phase-out of Lifeline support for voice-only services for an additional year. As such, the basic Lifeline support of $5.25 remains available to eligible consumers who subscribe to voice-only service until December 1, 2026. The Bureau also paused the scheduled increase in the Lifeline minimum service standard for mobile broadband data capacity for an additional year. As such, the minimum service standard for mobile broadband data capacity will remain at 4.5 GB per month until December 1, 2026.
For mobile service, the Lifeline Program does not cover the cost of a mobile phone, but some Lifeline providers may choose to provide one for free when you enroll. If you have a mobile device you would like to use, please contact your preferred Lifeline mobile provider before completing enrollment to make sure it is compatible with their network.
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If you have Diversity, Affirmative Action or Equal Employment Opportunity questions or need a Reasonable Accommodation, please contact Diversity Officer Corey Pilz.
Open from 9 a.m.–5 p.m., M-F