Does Free School Lunch Qualify for a Free Government Phone?
School lunch programs don't qualify for federal Lifeline — here's what families can use instead.
The National School Lunch Program (free or reduced-price lunch) is not a federal Lifeline qualifying program. It qualified families for the ACP, which has ended. Some states, like California, accept it for state programs.
Other ways families qualify
- Medicaid — including a child's Medicaid
- SNAP
- Federal Public Housing Assistance
- Household income at or below 135%
Families who receive free lunch through community eligibility (CEP) should especially check income, since CEP covers entire schools regardless of each family's income.
Frequently asked questions
Is a free lunch letter proof of income?
No. You'll need income documents such as a tax return or pay stubs.
Does my child's Medicaid qualify my household?
Yes. A dependent's Medicaid enrollment qualifies the household.
Does Head Start qualify?
Tribal Head Start (income-qualifying) counts for residents of Tribal lands. Otherwise Head Start is not a federal Lifeline qualifier.
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