Lifeline Eligibility: Do You Qualify for a Free Phone?
There are two ways in: take part in a qualifying government program, or meet the income limit. Most people qualify through SNAP or Medicaid.
Check My Eligibility
You qualify for Lifeline if you or someone in your household receives SNAP, Medicaid, SSI, Federal Public Housing Assistance, a Veterans Pension or Survivors Benefit, or certain Tribal benefits. You also qualify if your household's annual income is at or below 135% of the Federal Poverty Guidelines, which in 2026 is $21,546 for one person and $44,550 for a family of four. Only one Lifeline benefit is allowed per household.
Qualify through a government program
If anyone in your household takes part in any of these, you're eligible:
On Tribal lands? See Tribal Lifeline for the enhanced benefit of up to $34.25/month.
2026 Lifeline income limits by household size
135% of the 2026 Federal Poverty Guidelines, annual gross income (48 states, D.C. & territories). Add $7,668 for each extra person.
People in household
View as table
| Household size | Max annual income |
|---|---|
| 1 | $21,546 |
| 2 | $29,214 |
| 3 | $36,882 |
| 4 | $44,550 |
| 5 | $52,218 |
| 6 | $59,886 |
| 7 | $67,554 |
| 8 | $75,222 |
Alaska and Hawaii limits are higher. Source: HHS 2026 Poverty Guidelines / USAC.
Qualify by income
Add up your household's total gross (before-tax) annual income, then compare it with the chart. If it's at or below the limit for your household size, you qualify.
Proof can include last year's tax return, three consecutive months of pay stubs, a Social Security or Veterans benefit statement, or a divorce decree or child-support award.
What is a "household" for Lifeline?
A household is everyone who lives at your address and shares income and expenses. Two families in the same house who don't share money can each get Lifeline; you'll fill out a short household worksheet to show this.
What documents prove eligibility?
- Program proof: benefit award letter, approval letter or statement of benefits, dated within the last 12 months
- Identity: driver's license, state ID, passport, military ID or Tribal ID
- Address: utility bill, lease or a government letter (if asked)
Many applicants are verified automatically through state databases, with no uploads needed.
Keeping your eligibility
Use your service at least once every 30 days and recertify every year. If you stop receiving your qualifying benefit, let us know within 30 days.
Last reviewed October 13, 2026. Program rules can change; always confirm with the FCC/USAC.
Eligibility questions
Does EBT count as proof for Lifeline?
Your SNAP case (delivered on an EBT card) qualifies you. Use a SNAP approval letter or benefit statement as proof, never your card number or PIN.
Does Social Security disability (SSDI) qualify?
SSDI on its own is not a Lifeline program, but SSI is. You may still qualify through income or another program.
Does unemployment qualify?
Unemployment isn't a qualifying program, but if your household income is at or below 135% of the poverty guidelines, you qualify by income.
Can my child qualify for me?
Yes. If a child or dependent in your household is on Medicaid or SNAP, your household can qualify.
What counts as a household?
Everyone who lives together and shares income and expenses. Roommates who keep separate finances can be separate households.
Ready for your free phone?
Check eligibility and apply online in about 10 minutes. No contract, no credit check, no monthly bill.