The government established the Lifeline Assistance program to help low-income people get phone service at a reduced cost or even for free. This program is also available to AT&T, a major telecommunication company that provides phone services in the US. It is part of the program that gives customers who qualify for AT&T free government phone services, or they can offer you a free government phone.
This guide will provide an extensive review of the AT&T Lifeline program- including the program’s eligibility requirements, how to apply, benefits, and much more to ensure you stay connected without incurring financial hardships. Eligible participants in the Lifeline phone program can enjoy the quality and affordability of AT&T’s network.
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Lifeline Program
What Is the Lifeline Assistance Program?
Lifeline Government Phone and Internet Program Lifeline is a government assistance program created by the Federal Communications Commission in 1985. The bill ensures that every American has adequate communication tools for jobs, schooling, health, and emergencies. Lifeline is available everywhere in the United States. Librarian Note: Universal Service Administrative Co. distributes the series. through the USAC.
AT&T is also proud to offer Lifeline, a government assistance program that provides discounted services to eligible low-income customers in some states. Depending on the state and Lifeline plan, eligible households can get a free government phone with monthly service that includes talk, text, and data. Through this engagement, AT&T is demonstrating its commitment to linking people and reducing the digital gap.
Eligibility for AT&T Free Government Phone
Who Qualifies for a Free AT&T Government Phone?
To qualify for AT&T’s Lifeline program, you must meet specific eligibility criteria based on income or participation in certain federal assistance programs. Here are the primary ways to qualify:
- Income-Based Eligibility: Your household income has to be either less than 135% of the Federal Poverty Guidelines or exactly there.These rules are changed every year and depend on the size of the family and the state. For example, in 2025, the income limit for a single-person household is approximately $20,331 in most states (higher in Alaska and Hawaii).
- Program-Based Eligibility: One of the following government assistance programs must be used by you or someone in your household:
- Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP, formerly Food Stamps)
- Medicaid
- Supplemental Security Income (SSI)
- Federal Public Housing Assistance (FPHA)
- Veterans Pension and Survivors Benefit
- Free and Reduced-Price School Lunch or Breakfast Program (including Community Eligibility Provision schools)
- General Help from the Bureau of Indian Affairs for Tribal Lands
- Tribal Temporary Assistance for Needy Families (TTANF)
- Food Distribution Program on Indian Reservations (FDPIR)
- Head Start (if income eligibility is met)
- Special Provisions for Survivors: Under the Safe Connections Act (SCA), people who have been victims of domestic violence, human trafficking, or crimes connected to these can get emergency Lifeline support if they are having trouble paying their bills.They must provide documentation of a completed line separation request from their phone provider.
Every home—which consists of people living together and splitting expenditures and income—is only entitled one Lifeline subsidy. The benefit is non-transferable and cannot be applied to multiple phone lines or providers.
Documentation Needed
When applying, you may need to provide proof of eligibility, such as:
- A benefit letter or official document from a qualifying program (e.g., SNAP or Medicaid card)
- Income verification, like recent pay stubs, tax returns, or Social Security statements
- A government-issued ID with the same name as the applicant
- Proof that you want to be separated from the line (for survivors under SCA)
How to Apply for AT&T Lifeline
Step-by-Step Guide to Apply for AT&T’s Free Government Phone
Applying for AT&T’s Lifeline program is straightforward, but the process varies slightly by state. Follow these steps to get started:
- Check Eligibility: Confirm that you meet the income or program-based eligibility criteria outlined above. Use the USAC’s eligibility checker on their website (www.lifelinesupport.org) for guidance.
- Gather Documentation: Collect required documents, such as proof of income, program participation, or survivor status. Ensure all documents are current and include your name.
- Apply Through the National Verifier:
- Online: Visit the National Verifier portal at www.lifelinesupport.org to submit your application. You’ll need to provide personal information (full name, date of birth, last four digits of your Social Security Number or Tribal ID, and home address) and upload documentation.
- Mail: Download and print the Lifeline application from the USAC or AT&T website, complete it, and mail it with copies of your documentation to the address provided on the form.
- State-Specific Process: If you live in California, Oregon, or Texas, you may need to apply through state-specific processes. For example:
- Oregon: Contact the Oregon Telephone Assistance Program at 800.848.4442 or apply online.
- Texas: You can apply by phone at 866.454.8387 or online, and then mail it in with proof that you are eligible.
- California: Apply through the California LifeLine program at www.californialifeline.com, as it has additional state-specific requirements.
- Contact AT&T: Once approved by the National Verifier, call AT&T to enroll in their Lifeline program:
- For wireless service: 800.377.9450 (weekdays, 8 AM–8 PM ET)
- For home phone service in Kansas or Nevada: 888.319.0519 (weekdays, 8 AM–8 PM ET)
- For Missouri-specific inquiries: 877.677.0250
- Confirm that AT&T offers Lifeline services at your location, as availability varies by state.
- Sign Up for Service: Choose a participating AT&T Lifeline plan. If eligible, you may receive a free phone or discounted service. AT&T will apply the Lifeline discount to your account once enrollment is complete.
- Annual Recertification: Every year, USAC will verify your continued eligibility. Respond promptly to recertification requests to maintain your benefit.
For additional support, use the “Companies Near Me” tool on the USAC website to find AT&T or other Lifeline providers in your area. You can also visit an AT&T retail store for in-person assistance.
Benefits of AT&T’s Lifeline Program
What You Get with AT&T Free Government Phone
AT&T’s Lifeline program offers significant benefits to eligible customers, ensuring affordable access to reliable communication services. Here’s what you can expect:
- Free or Discounted Phone: In some cases, AT&T provides a free basic smartphone or feature phone to qualifying Lifeline customers, subject to availability and state-specific offerings. Phone models vary, but they are sufficient for essential communication needs.
- Monthly Service Discounts:
- Standard Discount: Up to $9.25 off your monthly bill for wireless phone, home phone, or broadband internet service.
- Tribal Lands Discount: Up to $34.25 per month for eligible customers living on federally recognized Tribal lands.
- Emergency Support for Survivors: Up to $9.25 for six months under the Safe Connections Act, with the option to transition to standard Lifeline benefits afterward.
- Service Features:
- Wireless Plans: Depending on the state, plans may include unlimited talk, text, and a data allowance (e.g., up to 6GB in some regions). Check with AT&T for state-specific details.
- Home Phone: Discounted landline service in select areas (e.g., California, Kansas, Nevada).
- Reliable Network: AT&T’s nationwide 5G and 4G LTE network ensures strong coverage and connectivity, with 99% of Americans covered.
- No Contracts or Hidden Fees: Lifeline service through AT&T requires no long-term contracts or credit checks, making it accessible to all eligible customers.
- Additional Perks: Some states offer enhanced plans with mobile data usage allowances or reduced rates for wireless customers. For example, California LifeLine may provide additional state-specific benefits.
If you no longer qualify for Lifeline, AT&T will transition you to a comparable non-Lifeline plan, ensuring continued service. You can explore other plans at att.com/myatt.
Conclusion
Lifeline AT&T’s Lifeline program ensures that every American family can have access to a telephone and that it provides connectivity and security. From a free or discounted phone, steep discounts on monthly services, and access to AT&T’s powerful 5G and 4G LTE network, qualified customers will benefit from their essential need for connectivity without worrying about the cost. The application process is simple, with straightforward rules to qualify and assistance available from the National Verifier and AT&T customer service.
Call-to-Action: Visit www.att.com/lifeline or www.lifelinesupport.org to confirm your eligibility and apply for AT&T’s Lifeline program today!
