Lifeline Requirements
LIFELINE (a federal program available from Golden West), provides qualifying customers with a monthly credit of $9.25 off the basic service portion of their internet bill OR $5.25* off the basic service portion of their telephone bill. This discount can also be applied to a bundle with internet.
For details about Tribal Lifeline, click here.
Lifeline customers must participate in one of the following programs or meet the income levels listed below:
- Medicaid**
- Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP)
- Supplemental Security Income (SSI)
- Federal Public Housing Assistance (FPHA) or Section 8
- Veterans Pension and Survivors Benefit Programs
Income Levels: You may also qualify for the monthly savings if your income level falls at or below 135% of the Federal Poverty Guidelines. Qualifying income levels range from $20,331 for a single person household to $42,120 for a family of four as of April 1, 2024.
How do I apply? Use the Lifeline National Verifier to enter your information online, create an account and see if you qualify. If you do not want to qualify online, you can use a paper form, however, qualifying with a paper form can take longer.
Are there any restrictions? Lifeline can only be used for one internet connection OR phone line in a household. You may purchase additional services available to a non-Lifeline customer.
What proof of eligibility do I need to provide? You will be required to provide proof of enrollment in one of the qualifying programs listed above. Proof of total household income will be required for income based qualification. Your Lifeline benefits will take effect when proof of eligibility is received. Those who qualify for Medicaid should select this program option to qualify as they could receive approval sooner.
How do I continue to receive Lifeline benefits? Eligibility will be reviewed annually. Your benefits will be discontinued when you no longer meet the eligibility requirements or when proof of eligibility is not received. Customers who are no longer eligible for Lifeline benefits must notify their service provider.
Being a Lifeline customer does not protect you from being disconnected if you fail to pay your bill. Customers permanently disconnected must re-certify for their Lifeline benefit. Lifeline discounts cannot be applied to an outstanding balance owed to your telecommunications company.
If you’re currently enrolled in any of the above programs or meet the income-based eligibility guidelines, apply online for your Lifeline benefit today.
*The Federal Communications Commission has extended the $5.25 Lifeline discount on phone service through Dec. 1, 2024.
** Those who qualify for Medicaid should select this program option to qualify as they could receive approval sooner.