Business What is the Advantage of a Lifeline Phone? Volodymir BezditniyNovember 12, 20220185 views Smartphone with lifebelt isolated on white background. Mobile phone emergency service or support online concept. 3d illustration The Lifeline program offers low-income Americans a free introductory phone service plan. This program has helped millions of Americans get phone service. It was expanded and updated in 2016, making it easier for low-income individuals to qualify. It also implemented a nationwide rapid verification system in 2018. How to apply for a Lifeline phone The Lifeline program is designed for low-income consumers to get phone service at a discounted rate. It is available to eligible consumers in every state, including federally recognized Tribal lands. Lifeline offers a landline, wireless, and bundled phone and internet service discount. Eligibility varies by state and may be based on your household size or other federal assistance programs. Once you know if you qualify, you can fill out the lifeline phone company’s application to get started. If you qualify for Lifeline, you should apply as soon as possible. You should submit proof of your income. If you do not, you will not be eligible for the program. Criteria to qualify for a Lifeline phone The Lifeline program provides discounted telecommunications services to low-income customers. It is available in seven states and Puerto Rico. Customers can apply for Lifeline services online, at a Lifeline Support Center, or by mail. If you apply by mail, it takes about two weeks for eligibility to be determined. To be eligible for Lifeline, you must meet specific income requirements outlined in the program. You’ll be eligible for discounts on your monthly phone service if you meet all of these requirements. You can also receive discounts on Internet-capable devices. Once you’ve applied for Lifeline, you’ll be given 90 days to choose a participating service provider. You can also ask your current service provider to enroll you in the Lifeline program. Benefits of a Lifeline phone The Lifeline program provides a phone to people who are economically disadvantaged and have limited access to a landline telephone. Initially, the program was limited to specific households, but now it’s available to all qualified households in the United States, US territories, and US commonwealths. In addition to providing affordable phone service, Lifeline provides reliable access to emergency services and family members. It also allows eligible families to stay in touch with friends and employers. The program provides discounted landline and wireless phone services. Lifeline can lower your monthly costs by as much as $9.25 a month, not including taxes, mileage charges, and surcharges. How to re-certify eligibility for a Lifeline phone To keep receiving free phone service, you must re-certify your eligibility for Lifeline every year. You may receive a notice in the mail, by phone, or by text message. If you’re no longer eligible, you’ll need to notify your phone provider and de-enroll from the program. Lifeline customers who initially signed up for the program before June 1, 2012, must re-certify by December 31, 2012. This process is generally free, and you won’t have to worry about additional charges. The process for recertification can be completed online with some phone providers. Cost of a Lifeline phone A Lifeline phone’s cost depends on several factors, including the plan and model. The government offers this program to eligible customers in selected areas. However, the service is not transferable and is not guaranteed to be free of cost. Consumers must meet specific criteria, including eligibility and household size. They may also be barred from the program if they make a false statement. The plan may also vary in data speeds, and there may be add-ons required. The discount is available for wireless and landline services and applies to one line per household. To qualify, you must receive certain government benefits or have a low income. You can prove this by providing tax returns, pay stubs, or other documents.