Facing a Recent Disaster? Lifeline Can Help!
If you’re a disaster victim receiving assistance from FEMA’s Individuals and Households Program (IHP), you may qualify for the Lifeline program, which offers discounted or free phone and internet services. To be eligible, you must:- Be a survivor of a recent disaster (e.g., hurricanes, wildfires, floods).
- Have applied for and been approved for FEMA’s IHP assistance.
- Reside in a declared disaster area where FEMA aid is available.
States & Availability
Lifeline is available in all U.S. states, territories, and Tribal lands. Recent disasters have led to FEMA assistance in several areas, including:- California
- Texas
- West Virginia
- Kentucky
- Alaska
- South Carolina
How to Apply?
- Click “Apply Now” on the Lifeline website.
- Submit your FEMA approval proof to start receiving benefits.
Lifeline Program: Connectivity for All
The Lifeline Assistance Program, established by the FCC in 1985, helps low-income households afford phone and internet services. It provides monthly discounts and ensures access to education, healthcare, jobs, and emergency communication.Key Benefits
- Save on Bills – Up to $9.25/month off phone or internet services.
- Higher Discounts for Tribal Lands – Up to $34.25/month for eligible households.
- Nationwide Coverage – Available in all 50 states, Washington D.C., Puerto Rico, and Tribal regions.
- One Benefit Per Household – Only one Lifeline subsidy per address.
Lifeline Program: Essential Facts
- Over 10 million U.S. households benefit annually.
- Bridges the digital divide, providing equal access to connectivity.
- Supports job seekers, students, and emergency responders.
Do I Qualify for Lifeline?
You may qualify for the Lifeline Free Tablet Program through income, government assistance programs, or survivor status.1. Income-Based Eligibility
Your household income must be 135% or less of the Federal Poverty Guidelines. Below are the 2024 income limits:| Household Size | 48 States & DC | Alaska | Hawaii |
| 1 | $20,331 | $25,394 | $23,369 |
| 2 | $27,594 | $34,479 | $31,725 |
| 3 | $34,857 | $43,565 | $40,082 |
| 4 | $42,120 | $52,650 | $48,438 |
| Each additional | +$7,263 | +$9,086 | +$8,357 |
2. Program-Based Eligibility
You qualify if you or a household member receives benefits from:- SNAP (Food Stamps)
- Medicaid
- Supplemental Security Income (SSI)
- Federal Public Housing Assistance (FPHA)
- Veterans Pension & Survivors Benefit
3. Tribal Assistance Eligibility
Residents on Tribal lands qualify if they participate in any of the above programs or:- Bureau of Indian Affairs General Assistance
- Tribal TANF
- Head Start (income-based)
- Food Distribution Program on Indian Reservations
4. Survivor Eligibility
Survivors of domestic violence, human trafficking, or related crimes qualify if they:- Have household income ≤200% of the Federal Poverty Guidelines
- Receive WIC benefits, school meal assistance, or a Federal Pell Grant
5. Qualification Through a Child or Dependent
If your child or dependent is enrolled in any qualifying programs, you can apply for Lifeline.Apply & Check Eligibility: Lifeline Support Official Website Support Center: 1-800-234-9473Lifeline Service Providers Offering Free Tablets
Here’s a list of some of the significant Lifeline service providers that offer free tablets as part of their service plans:Note: Availability of free tablets depends on location and stock. Check with your provider for the latest details.How to Apply for the Lifeline Free Tablet Program
Follow these step-by-step instructions to apply for the Lifeline Free Tablet Program:Step 1: Check Your Eligibility
Visit the official Lifeline National Verifier website (https://www.lifelinesupport.org/) to check your qualifications.Step 2: Gather Your Documents
You’ll need to submit proof of eligibility, such as:- A tax return or income statement (for income-based eligibility)
- A government benefits statement (for program-based eligibility)
- A valid ID or Social Security number
Step 3: Apply Online or Via Mail
- Online Application:
- Visit https://www.lifelinesupport.org/
- Click on Apply Now
- Fill out the online application form
- Upload required documents
- Submit the application
- Paper Application:
- Download the Lifeline Application Form
- Complete the form and attach the required documents
- Please mail it to: USAC Lifeline Support Center, P.O. Box 7081, London, KY 40742
Step 4: Choose a Lifeline Provider
Once approved, select a Lifeline service provider that offers free tablets in your area.Step 5: Receive Your Benefits
Upon approval, you will receive:- A monthly service discount
- A free or discounted tablet (if offered by your provider)
- Access to affordable internet and phone services
Lifeline Service Providers Offering Free Tablets
Here’s a list of some of the significant Lifeline service providers that offer free tablets as part of their service plans:| Provider Name | Free Tablet Offer | Monthly Discount | Internet Data | Network Coverage |
| Q Link Wireless | Free tablet with service plan | Up to $9.25 | Up to 8GB LTE | Nationwide (T-Mobile) |
| Assurance Wireless | Tablet + unlimited talk & text | Up to $9.25 | Unlimited | Nationwide (T-Mobile) |
| StandUp Wireless | Discounted tablet with plan | Up to $9.25 | 10GB LTE, then 2G | Nationwide (AT&T, T-Mobile) |
| TruConnect | Free tablet + SIM card | Up to $9.25 | 12GB LTE, then 2G | Nationwide (T-Mobile, Sprint) |
| Easy Wireless | Free tablet for eligible users | Up to $9.25 | Unlimited (varies by state) | Nationwide (T-Mobile, Verizon) |