Affordable Internet: What to Know About the Lifeline Program

We are long past the days of slow dial-up internet connections and AOL. Reliable internet access is a necessity in 2025, not a luxury. It's how we stay connected to loved ones, access essential services like utilities or emergency relief, and manage our healthcare. In the digital age, Americans rely on high-speed internet to work remotely and pay bills. But for low-income consumers, the internet is too expensive creating a massive digital divide.

That's where the Lifeline Program comes in. This federal initiative provides affordable phone and internet services to families with low household incomes. Lifeline support helps Americans stay connected.

What is the Lifeline Program?

The Lifeline program is a federal initiative that offers discounted telephone or internet services to eligible low-income households, ensuring access to essential communication services.

Key features

• Monthly discounts: Eligible participants can receive up to $9.25 off their monthly telephone service or internet bills. For those residing on Tribal lands, the discount can be as much as $34.25 per month.
• Service options: Participants can apply the discount to either a landline or wireless phone service, broadband internet service, or a bundled package of voice and broadband services.

Lifeline eligibility requirements

Eligibility for Lifeline is determined by income level or participation in specific federal assistance programs:

• Income-based eligibility: Households at or below 135% of the federal poverty guidelines qualify for the program. Eligibility determination often takes additional time if documentation has errors. Be as accurate as possible when completing the Lifeline benefit application.
• Program-based eligibility: Participation in programs such as the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP), Medicaid, Supplemental Security Income (SSI), Federal Public Housing Assistance, or certain Tribal assistance programs can also make a household eligible.

Lifeline application process

To apply for the Lifeline program:

1. Verify eligibility: Confirm your eligibility based on income or program participation.
2. Submit a Lifeline application: Applications can be submitted online, by mail, or through a participating phone or internet company.
3. Select a provider: After approval, choose a participating service provider in your area to start receiving the discount.

Program rules

• One discount per household: Only one Lifeline discount is allowed per household, which is defined as individuals living at the same address who share income and expenses.
• Annual recertification: Participants must recertify their eligibility each year to continue receiving benefits.

Tips before applying for the Lifeline Program

1. Double-check information: Confirm all information on the application is accurate and up-to-date. Low-income Americans may need to provide additional financial documents. Depending on their completed Lifeline Program application, eligible households may qualify for an internet service discount.
2. Be patient: The Lifeline Program application process may take some time, so be patient and follow up if needed.
3. Contact the internet company: If you have questions or need more details, contact your chosen service provider for extra assistance.

Beyond Lifeline: Exploring other resources

Did you know that multiple options are available to Americans who need affordable internet access? While the Lifeline service is valuable, family caregivers should know about other opportunities for low-income households.

For instance, federal assistance programs offer discounts per household for broadband internet service and affordable phone service. These programs look at household size and eligibility standards, including participation in Social Security, food stamps, and other federal assistance programs.

Some wireless providers offer affordable high-speed internet service for eligible consumers with low income. It's worth exploring these alternatives to find the best fit for your care recipient's needs.

Ensuring affordable internet access is crucial for families across the United States. Beyond the Lifeline program, several nationwide initiatives and resources are available to assist low-income households:

Everyone On: Everyone On is a nationwide nonprofit organization dedicated to eliminating the digital divide by making affordable internet services and computers accessible to low-income families. They collaborate with various internet service providers and device manufacturers to offer discounted rates and devices.

Internet Service Provider (ISP) Low-Income Programs: Many ISPs offer discounted internet plans for low-income households. These programs often have specific eligibility criteria and may vary by provider:

• Comcast Internet Essentials: Offers affordable internet to eligible households.
• AT&T Access: Provides low-cost internet service to qualifying households.
• Spectrum Internet Assist: Delivers high-speed internet at a reduced cost for eligible families.

Universal Service Fund (USF): The USF is a system of telecommunications subsidies and fees managed by the Federal Communications Commission (FCC) to promote universal access to telecommunications services in the United States. It includes programs aimed at low-income consumers, rural healthcare providers, and schools and libraries.

PCs for People: A nonprofit organization that provides affordable computers, internet hotspots, and low-cost internet services to eligible individuals and families. They focus on low-income households and have a national presence.

Human-I-T: This organization helps connect low-income families with free or discounted internet services, computers, and digital literacy training. They also assist with ACP benefits (where applicable at the time of activity).

Public Wi-Fi hotspots: Some states, cities, and community organizations provide free public Wi-Fi in libraries, community centers, and public spaces as part of broader digital inclusion efforts.

Employer-sponsored programs: Some employers, particularly large corporations, offer subsidies or reimbursements for internet services as part of employee benefits.

Note: The Affordable Connectivity Program (ACP) was a federal program that provided eligible households with discounts on internet services and devices. However, as of April 30, 2024, the program has concluded due to the exhaustion of allocated funds.

Other local and state assistance programs: Local and state programs may offer additional support for affordable internet access. We recommend contacting your local government offices or community organizations to explore available resources in your area.

Some things to consider:

• Program availability: Some programs, like the ACP, have concluded. It's essential to verify the current status of any program and its availability in your region.
• Eligibility criteria: Each program has specific eligibility requirements, often based on income level or participation in other government programs.
• Application process: Be prepared to provide necessary documentation during the application process to demonstrate eligibility.

By exploring these resources, families can identify suitable options to obtain affordable internet access, enhancing opportunities for education, employment, and staying connected.

How to find local resources

To find specific programs in your area, contact your state's Public Service Commission, visit your local library, search online using relevant keywords, or contact community organizations.

The Lifeline Program fills in the digital gap for low-income families. As family caregivers, taking advantage of this program will open up opportunities. With extra help, you have a reliable lifeline to keep you and your family connected.