Lifeline (US)
Check eligibility with the program. Rules, income limits, dates and funding change and differ by area. This site is a directory of official and major nonprofit help. It is not legal or financial advice, and we are not connected to any program. Official programs don’t charge a fee to apply.
Lifeline
Federal Communications Commission (FCC)
A discount of up to $9.25 a month on phone or internet service (up to $34.25 on Tribal lands). You may qualify with income at or below 135% of the federal poverty guidelines, or if you get SNAP, Medicaid, SSI, Federal Public Housing Assistance or the Veterans Pension. One benefit per household.
How to get it: Check eligibility and apply through the National Verifier.
Other options in the US
Ask your provider about low-cost plans. 211 can point you to local digital inclusion programs.
Outside the US
United Kingdom
- Citizens Advice: Free, independent advice on bills, benefits, debt and housing, online, by phone or in person.
- Broadband and phone social tariffs: Cheaper broadband and phone deals for people on Universal Credit and some other benefits.
Canada
- 211 Canada: Free help finding local community, social, health and government services.
Australia
- National Debt Helpline: Free, confidential financial counselling for help with bills, rent arrears and debt.
Canada and Australia: ask your provider about low-income plans, or call 211 Canada or the National Debt Helpline.
Watch out for scams
Real programs don’t charge you to apply. A utility company won’t demand payment by gift card, wire transfer, cryptocurrency or payment app to stop a same-day shut-off. If someone does, hang up and call the number on your bill. FTC: scammers pretend to be your utility company.
Find help that fits you
Pick your country and what you need help with to see official programs.
Open the bill help finderFrequently asked questions
Who qualifies for Lifeline?
Households with income at or below 135% of the federal poverty guidelines, or where someone gets SNAP, Medicaid, SSI, Federal Public Housing Assistance or the Veterans Pension, among other ways. Only one Lifeline benefit per household.
How much is the Lifeline discount?
Up to $9.25 a month, or up to $34.25 a month on Tribal lands.
What is a broadband social tariff?
In the UK, a cheaper broadband or phone deal for people on Universal Credit and some other benefits. Ofcom lists the providers.
Last reviewed: October 2026. General information only — check providers' official sites for current features and pricing.