FreeLine Wireless
Lifeline Program Overview
Lifeline is a federal affordability program designed to help eligible low-income households access phone
service.
The program is overseen by the Federal Communications Commission (FCC) and administered through the
Universal Service
Administrative Company (USAC). Lifeline exists to support access to essential communications for work,
school, healthcare,
and emergency needs.
For qualifying households, Lifeline provides a monthly service discount that may reduce the cost of phone service, and in some cases may result in no-cost service depending on the provider and the plan available in a given state.
One benefit per household
Lifeline is limited to one benefit per household. A household is generally defined as a group of people who live together and share income and expenses. If more than one person in a household applies, the application may be denied or require additional review.
The role of the National Verifier
Most applicants must confirm eligibility through the National Verifier, the official Lifeline eligibility system operated by USAC. The National Verifier reviews eligibility information and supporting documentation. Providers cannot approve Lifeline eligibility on their own.
Official eligibility confirmation is handled through the National Verifier. Provider websites and program directories are informational and do not replace the official verification process.
Who Qualifies for Lifeline
Lifeline eligibility is determined in two primary ways. Eligibility requirements can vary by state and by program rules. If you are unsure, use our directory filters to review options specific to your state and situation.
You may qualify based on household income at or below the threshold defined by federal or state Lifeline guidelines. The National Verifier may request proof of income during the application process.
You may qualify if you participate in certain qualifying assistance programs. Examples may include:
- SNAP (Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program)
- Medicaid
- SSI (Supplemental Security Income)
- Federal Public Housing Assistance
- Veterans Pension and Survivors Benefit
Participation in a qualifying program supports eligibility for the Lifeline service benefit. It does not guarantee any particular device, plan, or inventory availability.
Required Documents
The National Verifier may ask for documents to confirm identity, eligibility, and address. Document requirements vary depending on your situation and what information can be verified automatically.
Common documents used for verification
- Proof of identity (for example: government-issued ID or other accepted identity documentation)
- Proof of income (for income-based eligibility)
- Proof of participation in a qualifying program (for program-based eligibility)
- Address verification (for example: lease, utility bill, or other accepted documentation when required)
All documentation is reviewed through the official verification system as part of the Lifeline enrollment process. If additional information is needed, you may receive follow-up instructions during the application workflow.
Lifeline Providers and Device Availability
Lifeline benefits are delivered through approved providers. Providers may offer different plans, coverage options, and enrollment steps depending on the state. Not every provider offers the same device options, and some providers may focus on service only.
Device availability depends on several factors, including state availability, the program type, and inventory at the time of application.
FreeLine Wireless works with:
- Wireless service providers
- Program partners
- Nonprofit and assistance organizations
Devices offered through providers
Some providers may offer devices as part of enrollment or as an option alongside service plans. Device offerings vary by provider and state and may change based on inventory.
- Mobile phones — availability of Android and iPhone varies by provider and state; specific models are not guaranteed.
- Tablets — may be available through select programs or provider offerings in certain locations.
- Laptops — typically offered only through limited programs, special eligibility, or nonprofit partnerships.
Which providers offer which devices
Device offerings differ across providers and organizations. At a high level:
- Some providers focus only on phone service and may offer phones as part of enrollment.
- Some providers offer tablets through qualifying programs, depending on state rules and inventory.
- A smaller number of programs provide laptops through special programs or nonprofit partnerships.
FreeLine Wireless does not guarantee specific device models. The most accurate way to confirm what is available is to filter by your state and review each listing’s details.
Find Programs, Providers, and States
Availability and eligibility details are location-specific. To see accurate results for your situation, use the tools on our site to browse and filter:
- Browse available programs in the directory
- Filter by state to see location-specific options
- Filter by provider or organization when available
- Open each listing to review eligibility requirements and current device availability
Using filters helps ensure you’re viewing the most relevant, up-to-date information based on your state and eligibility. Always complete verification through the official system to confirm enrollment.