What is Lifeline Program?
The Lifeline program was started by the Federal Communications Commission (FCC) in the United States. The program was first established in 1985 to offer reduced rates for landline phone service, and it has since been expanded to cover broadband internet and mobile phone services. It intends to lower the cost of basic communication services for low-income households.
Who Can Apply?
Applicants must meet certain income-based requirements or take part in particular government assistance programs, such as Medicaid, the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP), the Federal Public Housing Assistance (FPHA), and others, to be eligible for the Lifeline program.
Tribal Household Eligibility
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Tribal Temporary Assistance for Needy Families
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Bureau of Indian Affairs General Assistance
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Head Start
Lifeline Program Eligibility
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Medicaid
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Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP)
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Federal Public Housing Assistance (FPHA)
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Supplemental Security Income (SSI)
LifeLine Program
Benefits
The Lifeline program offers eligible customers a monthly discount on their phone or internet subscription.
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​Lifeline Program covers
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Landline
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Mobile
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Internet services
The participant's bill is normally directly applied with the discount, which lowers their monthly expenses. The discount amount can vary.