Eligibility & Programs
Learn how eligibility & Programs works and whether your household qualifies for free or discounted wireless service through Free Phone Wireless. Most applicants can find out in a few minutes.
Everything You Need to Know
Two Ways to Qualify
You only need to meet one of two standards: household income at or below 135% of the Federal Poverty Guidelines, or participation in a qualifying assistance program.
- SNAP, Medicaid, SSI, Federal Public Housing Assistance (Section 8), Veterans and Survivors Pension Benefit
- WIC, Federal Pell Grant, and School Lunch/Breakfast Program in many cases
- Tribal-specific programs including BIA General Assistance and Tribal TANF
Pick Your Situation Below
Use the category pages below to find the specific documents and steps for your situation — whether that's a program you're enrolled in or a life stage like being a senior, veteran, or student.
Eligibility & Programs
Lifeline Program
Learn about the federal program providing monthly discounts on phone and broadband service.
Qualify with SNAP
If you participate in the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program, you likely qualify.
Qualify with Medicaid
Medicaid recipients are eligible for free government wireless service and devices.
How the U.S. is closing the affordability gap
Public data on federal affordability programs shows real progress — and a large remaining opportunity for eligible households.
Lifeline-supported subscribers
Millions of subscribers, selected years.
Eligible vs. enrolled households (2025)
Of an estimated 38.5M eligible U.S. households.
Sources: USAC / FCC Lifeline program data; Benton Institute for Broadband & Society reporting. Figures are updated periodically and may not reflect real-time enrollment.
From Our Guides
Lifeline Eligibility Guide: Do You Qualify?
There are two paths to Lifeline eligibility — program-based and income-based. Here's how each one works and how to figure out which applies to you.
Read More
How to Apply for Lifeline: Step-by-Step
From gathering documents to activating your phone, here's exactly what to expect when you apply for Lifeline service.
Read More
Required Documents for Lifeline: A Checklist
Save yourself a back-and-forth with support by gathering the right paperwork before you apply. Here's the full checklist.
Read More