Telecommunication Assistance Programs

Lifeline Program

Since 1985, the Lifeline program has provided a discount on phone service for qualifying low-income consumers to ensure that all Americans have the opportunities and security that phone service brings, including being able to connect to jobs, family and emergency services. The Lifeline program is available to eligible low-income consumers in every state, territory, commonwealth, and on Tribal lands.

Lifeline is funded through state and federal Universal Service Funds (USF) as approved by the Federal Communications Commission (FCC) and the State of Utah. These public funds traditionally provided a discount for only monthly phone services to qualified low-income households, however the program was expanded to now allow the choice between discounted phone or internet services.

To learn more about the Lifeline program, visit the Universal Service Administrative Company (USAC) here .

Federal law limits Lifeline service to one recipient per household except in the case of group homes or multiple families within the same home. It is important for customers to evaluate the different available plans before selecting a provider as the offerings vary significantly.

There are two types of Lifeline service:

  • Fixed Lifeline Service: Lifeline home phone or Internet service
  • Mobile Lifeline Service: Lifeline mobile phone or Internet service

Lifeline Providers

It is important to understand that in order to obtain Lifeline phone or internet services, applicants must undergo a two-step process:

  1. The applicant must verify if they are eligible here .
  2. If found eligible, the applicant then must search for service providers here and contact them directly to set up service.

Take your time researching and selecting a provider to ensure that you find the Lifeline offering that best fits your needs at the best price.