How To Qualify for Lifeline
Wondering how you can qualify for the federal Lifeline program? lTEwireless is here to help! Read on to learn about the Lifeline qualifying programs and income levels that allow Americans receive this government benefit.
If you qualify for Lifeline, you're eligible for lTEwireless's free Lifeline phone plan! This plan costs nothing, and includes 4.5 GB of high-speed data per month, unlimited talk and text, and free international calling to over 200 countries.
Apply for Our Lifeline-Supported PlanLifeline Qualifying Programs
You may qualify for free phone service from lTEwireless if your total household income is at or below 135% of the Federal Poverty Guidelines or through qualifying government programs. See the list below for program-based eligibility and details on household income requirements.
- Medicaid / Medi-Cal
- SNAP / CalFresh
- SSI (Supplemental Security Income)
- Federal Public Housing Assistance (FPHA)
- Veterans and Survivors Pension Benefits
- Bureau of Indian Affairs General Assistance
- Head Start (only if you qualify for this program based on income)
- Tribal Temporary Assistance for Needy Families (Tribal TANF)
- Food Distribution Program on Indian Reservations
Household Income Qualifications
Your eligibility can be based on household income. If your household income is at or below 135% of the Federal Poverty Guidelines, you qualify for Lifeline.
California offers its California LifeLine benefit to households at or below 150% of the Federal Poverty Guidelines. You can learn more about lTEwireless in California by visiting the California LifeLine page.
How To Enroll in Lifeline
- Visit our apply page.
- Enter your email address and ZIP code.
- Provide the requested personal information (address, Social Security number, etc.).
- Choose to sign up for the free Lifeline plan.
- Finalize your application with Lifeline’s national Verifier.
- Wait for email confirmation that you’ve been approved.
- Receive your new SIM card in the mail.
Tribal Household Eligibility
If your household is on qualifying federally recognized Tribal land, you may be eligible for the enhanced Tribal Lifeline benefit and receive a Tribal Lifeline plan from lTEwireless. This plan comes with 10GB of monthly data, increased from our standard 4.5GB plan. Certain Tribal-related benefits can also be used to qualify for Lifeline:
- Bureau of Indian Affairs General Assistance
- Head Start (only if you qualify for this program based on income)
- Tribal TANF (Tribal Temporary Assistance for Needy Families)
You may need to show proof of participation, such as a benefit letter or other official document, when you apply for Lifeline.
What’s the Lifeline Program?
Since 1985, the Lifeline program has provided a discount on phone service to low-income Americans. The program is administered by the Universal Service Administrative Company (USAC) and overseen by the Federal Communications Commission (FCC). It was created to help ensure all Americans—regardless of income—have access to the security and opportunity that a phone service provides. This includes being able to look for jobs, access emergency services, attend school, and much more.
Qualifying individuals are eligible to receive one Lifeline benefit per household. LTE Wireless provides free phone service, including unlimited talk and text, international calling to select countries, and free monthly data to qualifying customers.
In a state where LTE Wireless doesn’t offer Lifeline service, we also offer affordable prepaid plans and devices.
Job hunting
Job hunting online is key for low-income households to maintain solvency and increase earning potential. Many jobs require online applications and the best way to look for jobs is online through services like Google, Craigslist, LinkedIn, Indeed, Monster, Taskrabbit, and more.
Emergency services
The police, ambulance, and fire department all require a working phone to access. Having the ability to place a phone call can save lives.
Telehealth
A phone is essential for accessing healthcare and is especially important if a household member has health issues. With the advances in telehealth, a phone with internet offers access to lower-cost, high-quality healthcare.
Friends and family
Being able to contact our friends and family is essential for quality of life and mental health. Access to a smartphone with internet is critical for our elderly populations and those who are homebound.
Still Have Questions?
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