SNAP
Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP / food stamps)
Learn moreLifeline Eligibility: who qualifies in 2026
There are three ways to qualify: a federal program, your income, or a Tribal program on Tribal lands.
Quick answer
Who is eligible for Lifeline in 2026?
You are eligible for Lifeline if you or someone in your household receives SNAP, Medicaid, SSI, Federal Public Housing Assistance or the Veterans Pension and Survivors Benefit, or if your household income is at or below 135% of the 2026 federal poverty guidelines ($21,546 for one person). Tribal programs also qualify on Tribal lands.
- 6 qualifying programs
- Income at or under 135%
- One per household
What are the ways to qualify for Lifeline?
You qualify for a Free Government Phone if you meet one of these. Pick yours for details and accepted proof.
Medicaid
Medicaid
Learn moreSSI
Supplemental Security Income (SSI)
Learn morePublic Housing
Federal Public Housing Assistance (FPHA), including Section 8 vouchers
Learn moreVeterans Pension
Veterans Pension and Survivors Benefit
Learn moreTribal Programs
Tribal programs: BIA General Assistance, Tribal TANF, Head Start (income-qualified) and FDPIR
Learn moreIncome
Household income at or below 135% of the 2026 federal poverty guidelines.
Learn moreWhat counts as a household?
A household is everyone who lives together and shares income and living expenses, such as rent, food and bills. Married couples and parents with dependent children are always one household. Roommates who keep their money separate are separate households, even at the same address. Lifeline is limited to one benefit per household, so the application asks a few questions to confirm this.
What are the 2026 income limits?
| Household size | 48 states + D.C. (yearly) | 48 states + D.C. (monthly) | Alaska (yearly) | Hawaii (yearly) |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 person | $21,546 | $1,796 | $26,933 | $24,786 |
| 2 people | $29,214 | $2,434 | $36,518 | $33,602 |
| 3 people | $36,882 | $3,074 | $46,103 | $42,417 |
| 4 people | $44,550 | $3,712 | $55,688 | $51,233 |
| 5 people | $52,218 | $4,352 | $65,273 | $60,048 |
| 6 people | $59,886 | $4,990 | $74,858 | $68,864 |
| 7 people | $67,554 | $5,630 | $84,443 | $77,679 |
| 8 people | $75,222 | $6,268 | $94,028 | $86,495 |
| Each additional person | +$7,668 | +$639 | +$9,585 | +$8,816 |
Use your gross yearly income before taxes, for everyone in the household. Try the income checker.
How is eligibility verified?
FreeCall Wireless submits your application to the National Verifier run by USAC, or to your state system where required. The verifier checks state and federal databases. If it confirms your program, you are approved without documents. If not, you upload proof. See the documents checklist.
Who cannot get Lifeline?
- A household that already has Lifeline with any provider
- Someone claimed as a dependent on another person's tax return
- People who cannot verify their identity
- Applicants under 18 who are not emancipated
Are there special rules for survivors?
Under the Safe Connections Act, survivors of domestic violence, human trafficking and related crimes can get up to six months of emergency Lifeline support, with expanded eligibility rules. Contact us confidentially at (918) 931-0991 for help.
Frequently asked questions
Do I need to be a U.S. citizen to get Lifeline?
Lifeline does not require citizenship, but you must verify your identity and meet program or income rules.
Can I qualify if I have no income?
Yes. If your household has no income, you meet the income rule. You may be asked to explain how you pay expenses.
Do I need a permanent address?
No. You can use a temporary address, such as a shelter, and indicate it on the application.
Can I qualify through my child's benefits?
Yes. If any household member receives a qualifying benefit, the household qualifies.
How often do I need to prove eligibility?
When you apply and once a year at recertification.
Sources and last update
Reviewed and updated on by the FreeCall Wireless team. Program figures come from these official sources:
- FCC: Lifeline Support for Affordable Communications
- Lifeline Support (USAC): How to qualify
- USAC: Lifeline consumer eligibility
- HHS ASPE: 2026 Poverty Guidelines
- USAC: Lifeline program overview
- eCFR: 47 CFR Part 54, Subpart E (Lifeline rules)
Spotted something out of date? Email support@freecallwireless.com and we will correct it.
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