Lifeline
Lifeline is the FCC’s program to help make communications services more affordable for low-income consumers. Lifeline provides subscribers a discount on monthly telephone service, broadband Internet access service, or voice-broadband bundled service purchased from participating providers.
Lifeline is available to eligible low-income consumers in every state, commonwealth, territory, and on Tribal lands. The Lifeline program is administered by the Universal Service Administrative Company (USAC). USAC is responsible for data collection and maintenance, support calculation, disbursements, and assisting consumers with Lifeline eligibility and enrollment for the program. USAC’s website provides additional information regarding the program, including program requirements.
Do I Qualify?
Based on Your Income
You can get Lifeline if your income is 135% or less than the federal poverty guidelines. The guideline is based on your household size and state.
Show proof of income, like three consecutive pay stubs or a tax return, when you apply for Lifeline.
If You Use SNAP, Medicaid, or Other Programs
You can get Lifeline if you (or someone in your household) participates in one of these federal assistance programs:
- Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP), formerly known as Food Stamps
- Medicaid
- Supplemental Security Income (SSI)
- Federal Public Housing Assistance (FPHA)
- Veterans Pension and Survivors Benefit
- Tribal Programs (and live on federally-recognized Tribal lands)
Show a card, letter, or official document, as proof that you participate in one of these programs when you apply for Lifeline.
Qualify Through Your Child or Dependent
You can sign up for Lifeline if your child or dependent participates in any of the programs listed above.
How Do You Apply For Lifeline?
There are three ways to apply for Lifeline:
1. Apply Online
Find the online application here.
2. Mail in Your Application
Print an application in English or Spanish.
Complete the application and send with proof of eligibility to:
Lifeline Support Center
P.O. Box 7081
London, KY 40742
3. Contact a Phone or Internet Company
Ask your provider if they offer Lifeline or use Lifeline’s online tool to find a company near you.
After you submit an application, Lifeline will share the results with you. If you apply online, you may receive an immediate approval. If Lifeline cannot prove your eligibility automatically, you will need to share some more information with them.
Lifeline Service Providers Serving the Seattle Area
| Company | Phone Number | Service |
|---|---|---|
| Access Wireless | (866) 594-3644 | Mobile |
| Assurance Wireless | (888) 898-4888 | Mobile |
| AT&T Mobility | (800) 377-9450 | Mobile |
| CenturyLink | (800) 407-5411 | Home Phone |
| enTouch Wireless | (866) 488-8719 | Mobile |
| Frontier Communications | (800) 921-8101 | Home Phone |
| Life Wireless | (888) 543-3620 | Mobile |
| Q Link Wireless | (855) 754-6543 | Mobile |
| Safelink Wireless | (800) 723-3546 | Mobile |
| T-Mobile | (800) 937-8997 | Mobile |
| Yourtel America | (855) 299-9990 | Mobile |
