Frequently asked questions
Search or browse — every answer here is written to be accurate first, not to sell you anything.
About the programs
No. No federal program distributes iPhones. Lifeline provides a monthly bill discount, and some carriers separately offer a free basic Android smartphone. See our full devices guide for what's realistic, including how to use your own iPhone through BYOD.
Lifeline is an ongoing program dating to 1985 that discounts monthly service by $9.25–$34.25. ACP was a separate, more generous program that ran from December 2021 to June 2024 and has since ended. See our full comparison.
As of 2026, Congress has not passed new funding to restart ACP or launch an equivalent replacement. Watch official FCC announcements for any future changes.
The FCC sets the rules; the Universal Service Administrative Company (USAC) administers day-to-day operations, including the National Verifier that checks eligibility.
Eligibility
135% of the federal poverty guidelines for your household size. See the exact table on our eligibility page.
No — Lifeline allows only one benefit per household, regardless of how many individuals qualify.
Unemployment benefits count as household income for the income-based eligibility path, but recipients may also separately qualify through other programs like Medicaid or SNAP if enrolled.
Yes, annual recertification is required to keep your Lifeline benefit active.
Devices & providers
It changes often and varies by state. Compare current offers on our providers page before choosing.
Usually yes, through standard number porting — ask your new carrier to confirm during signup.
Warranty terms vary by carrier; ask about repair or replacement policy before activating.
Yes, if it's unlocked and compatible with the carrier's network — this is called BYOD. See our devices page for details.
No — that specific offer doesn't exist. Free devices through Lifeline are basic Android phones; see our free iPhone government phone page for the honest breakdown and the realistic BYOD path.
Most Lifeline carriers advertise unlimited talk and text with a capped high-speed data allowance. Compare current data allotments on our best Lifeline providers page.
No — those are separate commercial promotions from mainstream carriers, usually requiring a credit check and a new postpaid line. See the comparison on our providers page.
Applying
Typically a few days to a few weeks, depending on the carrier and application volume.
No — Lifeline eligibility is based on income or program enrollment, not creditworthiness, so most applications don't involve a credit check.
No. We guide you to the carrier's or the National Verifier's official application; your documents go directly to them.
Update your address with your carrier; you may need to switch to a carrier that serves your new state if your current one doesn't operate there.