Frequently asked questions

Yes. Lifeline is a permanent, ongoing FCC program funded by the Universal Service Fund. It did not end when the separate Affordable Connectivity Program (ACP) expired in 2024 — Lifeline continues to operate and accept new applicants.

The ACP was a temporary, larger internet-and-device discount program that ran out of Congressional funding and ended in 2024. Lifeline is a separate, longer-running program that provides a smaller monthly phone or internet service discount and remains active. If you previously had ACP, you needed to separately apply for Lifeline — it wasn't an automatic rollover.

No current program, including Lifeline, provides free iPhones. Lifeline carriers typically include an entry-level Android smartphone with enrollment. If you already own an unlocked iPhone, you can usually bring it to a Lifeline carrier and activate a discounted SIM instead. See our full explainer on this.

The federal discount is $9.25 per month ($34.25 on qualifying Tribal lands). Most participating carriers price their basic plan at or below that discount amount, so many subscribers pay nothing out of pocket for service — though a modest one-time co-pay for a bundled device is common.

Generally no. Lifeline allows one discount per household, and that benefit is applied to one line and one bundled device — a phone or a tablet, not both — depending on what the carrier offers.

No. Lifeline eligibility is based on income or program participation, not credit history. There's no credit check for the core Lifeline service discount.

Only one Lifeline benefit is allowed per household. If more than one household member applies, the National Verifier will flag the duplicate and can deny both applications. Decide as a household who will hold the benefit.

Most complete applications are approved within 1–2 business days, though it can take longer if you need to submit documents manually rather than being verified automatically through a database check.

Most providers require some usage — a call, text, or data session — at least once every 30 days to keep the line active. Extended non-use can lead to deactivation, after which you may need to reapply.

Legitimate applications go through the FCC's National Verifier system and your chosen carrier's official site. Never provide your Social Security number, EBT PIN, or payment information in response to an unsolicited call, text, or email — apply directly through the provider's site instead.