FreeLine Wireless
Lifeline Plans
Discover how Lifeline can provide discounted or no-cost wireless service.
Lifeline Plans Overview
The Lifeline program is a federal initiative that helps eligible low-income households afford essential phone and internet services. Through participating providers, Lifeline plans offer discounted or, in many cases, no-cost wireless service to ensure that everyone has access to critical communication. FreeLine Wireless is committed to guiding you through these options.
Administered under strict federal guidelines by the Universal Service Administrative Company (USAC), Lifeline plays a vital role in bridging the digital divide. These plans enable eligible individuals to stay connected to jobs, education, healthcare, and emergency services.
The Affordable Connectivity Program (ACP) has been discontinued. Lifeline is currently the primary federal program for communication assistance.
What Lifeline Plans May Include
Lifeline plans are designed to provide essential wireless communication. While the exact benefits and limits can vary by provider and state, a typical Lifeline plan through a participating provider may include:
- Monthly Talk Minutes: Often unlimited talk minutes to stay in touch with family, friends, and essential services.
- Text Messaging: Generally includes unlimited text messages for easy communication.
- Mobile Data: A monthly allowance of high-speed mobile data, allowing for internet access, email, and app usage. The amount of data can differ significantly.
- Nationwide Coverage: Service is typically provided over robust national networks, ensuring reliable coverage where available.
It is essential to review the specific plan details offered by providers in your state to understand exact benefits.
Device Options With Lifeline Plans
Many Lifeline plans come bundled with a free or discounted smartphone, making it easier for eligible households to get connected. However, device offerings are not universal and depend on the individual provider.
- Included Devices: Some Lifeline plans provide a free basic or refurbished smartphone upon enrollment. These are typically Android devices, with iPhone availability being much more limited and often subject to special offers.
- Bring Your Own Device (BYOD): If you already have a compatible phone, many Lifeline providers allow you to use your existing device and activate it with their service plan. This can be a faster way to get connected if your phone meets compatibility requirements.
- Tablets & Laptops: While less common directly through Lifeline, some providers may offer tablets at a discount, or you may find separate programs for laptops through nonprofit partners (see our Free Government Tablet and Free Government Laptop pages).
Device availability depends entirely on provider participation, current inventory, and state regulations. No specific device model is guaranteed.
Eligibility and Verification for Lifeline Plans
To qualify for a Lifeline plan, your household must meet specific income-based guidelines or participate in certain federal assistance programs. The verification process is standardized to ensure fair and compliant distribution of benefits.
- Eligibility Verified by National Verifier: Your eligibility will be officially confirmed through the National Verifier (NV) system, operated by USAC. Providers cannot approve Lifeline eligibility independently.
- One Benefit Per Household: Federal rules strictly limit Lifeline benefits to one per household (a group of people who live together and share income and expenses). This rule applies to both service and devices.
For detailed information on eligibility criteria and required documents, please visit our Lifeline Program overview page.
Explore Available Lifeline Plans
The best way to find current Lifeline plans and device offers is to use our website to explore options specific to your situation.
- Browse our Programs directory to see all federal, state, and nonprofit assistance options.
- Filter by state to find specific providers and plans operating in your local area.
- Use our Eligibility Checker to confirm your qualification for Lifeline.
Always review the full terms and conditions from your chosen provider before enrolling in a Lifeline plan.