Public Housing Free Phone: FPHA and Section 8 qualify

Which housing programs count as FPHA?

• Public housing run by a local housing authority
• Housing Choice Voucher program (Section 8)
• Section 8 Project-Based Rental Assistance (PBRA)
• Section 202 Supportive Housing for the Elderly
• Section 811 Supportive Housing for Persons with Disabilities
• Section 236 Interest Reduction Program
• Housing assistance for Native Americans under NAHASDA

State or local rent help that is not funded by HUD may not count. If you are unsure, apply using income.

What proof of housing assistance is accepted?

• Your housing authority notice of eligibility or annual recertification letter
• Your lease showing the housing program and rent assistance
• A HUD Form 50058 or 50059 showing your name

Does everyone in my building qualify?

Each household applies on its own. If you live in a public housing unit, your household qualifies. Neighbors must apply for their own household. Lifeline is still one benefit per household.

How do I apply with public housing assistance?

1. 1

   Pick Federal Public Housing Assistance

   Choose it as your qualifying program.

2. 2

   Verify

   Upload your housing notice or lease if needed.

3. 3

   Get your phone

   Your phone ships free once approved.

Why does public housing qualify?

To receive Federal Public Housing Assistance, your household already went through an income review by a housing authority. The FCC accepts that review for Lifeline, so you do not need to prove your income again.

Tips for a smooth approval

• Use the same name and address that appear on your housing documents
• Upload a letter dated within the last 12 months
• If the lease is in someone else's name, show that you live at the same address
• Apartment and unit numbers must match exactly

What if I do not qualify through public housing assistance?

You have other options. Lifeline accepts several programs, and you only need one. If public housing assistance does not work for you, check SNAP or Medicaid. You can also qualify by income if your household earns $21,546 a year or less for one person, $29,214 for two, or $44,550 for four in 2026. And if you live on qualifying Tribal lands, Tribal programs count too. The application lets you pick whichever option fits you best, and our team can help you choose at (918) 931-0991.

How long does approval take with public housing assistance?

When the National Verifier can match your public housing assistance record electronically, approval usually takes only a few minutes. If it cannot, upload a clear photo of your proof and a reviewer will check it, usually within one to three business days. Your free phone ships as soon as you are approved.