Lifeline: A Federal Discount That Can Lower Your Phone or Internet Bill
Before you build a side income to cover your phone or internet bill, it’s worth checking whether that bill can be made smaller first. One real, long-running option is Lifeline, a federal program that lowers the monthly cost of phone or internet service for people with lower incomes.
What Lifeline Offers
As of 2026, the program’s official site lists a standard discount of up to $9.25 a month. People living on qualifying Tribal lands can get up to $34.25 a month. The discount can go toward phone service, internet service, or a bundle of both from a participating company.
That may not sound like much, but over a year it adds up to about $111 off a bill. It also means the side income you need for that bill gets a little smaller.
Who Can Qualify
You can qualify in one of two ways:
- By income: your household income is at or below 135% of the Federal Poverty Guidelines.
- By taking part in certain programs: SNAP, Medicaid, Supplemental Security Income (SSI), Federal Public Housing Assistance, or the Veterans Pension and Survivors Benefit. Some Tribal programs also count for people on Tribal lands.
The FCC says only one Lifeline discount is allowed per household. A household here means the people at one address who share income and expenses.
How to Apply, Step by Step
- Gather proof. That could be a benefit letter showing you’re in a qualifying program, or proof of income such as a tax return or three pay stubs in a row.
- Go to the official site, lifelinesupport.org, and follow the link to apply online. You can also apply by mail. A few states, such as Oregon and Texas, have their own application, and the site points you there.
- Once you’re approved, contact a participating phone or internet company to set up the discount on your bill.
- Watch your mail each year. Your eligibility is checked annually. If you miss the deadline to respond, you can lose the discount.
If you’d like help, the Lifeline support center is listed at (800) 234-9473.
Stay Safe While You Sign Up
Apply through the official site or a company you already know. Be careful with anyone who calls or knocks on your door offering to sign you up and asks for payment, gift cards, or bank login details. Hang up and contact the program directly instead.
If You Qualify by Income
If you qualify based on income, any new side income may count when your eligibility is reviewed each year. Side income can also affect taxes and some other benefits. This is general information only, so check your own situation with the Lifeline program and the Social Security Administration.
