The Lifeline Program
The federal program behind every Free Government Phone — how it works, who qualifies, and how to apply.
Lifeline is a federal program created in 1985 and overseen by the FCC that lowers the monthly cost of phone or internet service for eligible low-income households. It provides up to $9.25 per month, or up to $34.25 on Tribal lands, and is administered by the Universal Service Administrative Company (USAC).
What Lifeline covers
Lifeline discounts one service per household: mobile phone service, home phone, home internet, or a bundle. It does not directly pay for devices — providers like Free Link Wireless offer phones separately, sometimes with a small co-pay.
Maximum monthly Lifeline support
Per eligible household.
Source: FCC Lifeline rules.
Who is eligible
You can qualify through participation in one of these programs:
- Medicaid
- Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP)
- Supplemental Security Income (SSI)
- Federal Public Housing Assistance (including Section 8)
- Veterans Pension or Survivors Pension
- Tribal programs (for residents of Tribal lands)
- Household income at or below 135% of the Federal Poverty Guidelines
Lifeline income limits by household size
Maximum yearly household income (135% of Federal Poverty Guidelines, 48 states + DC). Bars show household size.
Source: 2025 HHS Poverty Guidelines × 135%. Alaska and Hawaii limits are higher. Limits update yearly — confirm on USAC's Lifeline site.
How to apply
Apply directly with Free Link Wireless through our online application. We'll help you complete the National Verifier check. You can also learn more at the official Lifeline Support site run by USAC.
Lifeline rules
- One benefit per household
- Annual recertification is required
- Service must be used at least once every 30 days when you pay nothing
- The benefit is non-transferable
- Knowingly providing false information can lead to fines, imprisonment, or removal from the program
Lifeline vs. the ACP
The Affordable Connectivity Program was a separate, temporary internet benefit that ended in 2024. Lifeline was not affected. Read our ACP update.
FAQs
Is Lifeline the same as Obama Phone?
"Obama Phone" is a nickname for Lifeline wireless service. Lifeline actually began in 1985 and was expanded to wireless phones in 2008.
Can I get Lifeline for home internet instead?
Yes. Lifeline can be applied to qualifying broadband service instead of a phone plan — but only one Lifeline benefit per household.
Do I have to pay taxes on Lifeline?
Lifeline is a discount on service, not income, so it isn't considered taxable income.
Ready to get your Free Government Phone?
Check eligibility in about two minutes, then apply online. No contracts, no credit checks.