The Lifeline phone program has been providing free or discounted phone service to low-income Americans since 1985 — nearly four decades of connecting people to essential communication services. In 2026, the program serves more than 7 million households, offering free smartphones, unlimited talk and text, and monthly data plans through dozens of participating carriers nationwide. If you are paying for cell phone service while struggling to cover rent, food, or utilities, Lifeline can eliminate that expense entirely and redirect those dollars where they are needed most.
But the real power of a Lifeline phone goes beyond free calls and texts. With apps like I am Beezy, that free phone becomes an income-generating device. Spending 20 to 30 minutes per day viewing content on I am Beezy earns $5 to $15 daily — that is $150 to $300 per month from a phone that costs you nothing. The Lifeline program gives you the tool, and you decide how far it takes you.
Understanding the Lifeline Phone Program in 2026
What Lifeline provides
The Lifeline program provides a $9.25 per month discount on phone service or broadband internet service to eligible households. Most participating wireless carriers absorb the remaining cost, making the service completely free. In 2026, a standard Lifeline plan from most carriers includes a free smartphone (typically an Android device), unlimited domestic calls, unlimited text messages, and at least 4.5 GB of monthly data. Some carriers offer significantly more data — TruConnect, for example, provides 8 GB or more in many states. Enhanced Lifeline plans in some states offer even greater benefits.
Program eligibility in detail
You qualify for the Lifeline phone program through two paths. The first is income-based: if your household income is at or below 135% of the Federal Poverty Guidelines. For 2026, that means $20,385 for a single person, $27,465 for two people, $34,545 for three, and $41,625 for four. The second path is program-based: if anyone in your household participates in SNAP, Medicaid, Supplemental Security Income (SSI), Federal Public Housing Assistance, or Veterans Pension and Survivors Benefit. The program-based path is often faster because your participation in these programs automatically verifies your financial need.
One phone per household — the rules
Federal regulations limit Lifeline to one benefit per household, defined as people living at the same address who share income and expenses. If two adults live at the same address but maintain separate finances, they may each qualify for their own Lifeline benefit — but they must each complete a separate application and provide documentation of their independent household status. Roommates who do not share finances can each receive Lifeline. Married couples living together count as one household.
| Household Size | Income Limit (135% FPL) | Qualifying Programs |
|---|---|---|
| 1 person | $20,385/year | SNAP, Medicaid, SSI, Public Housing, Veterans Pension |
| 2 people | $27,465/year | Same programs |
| 3 people | $34,545/year | Same programs |
| 4 people | $41,625/year | Same programs |
| 5 people | $48,705/year | Same programs |
Step-by-Step: How to Get Your Lifeline Phone
Step 1 — check your eligibility
Before applying, confirm you meet the income or program requirements. If you receive SNAP, Medicaid, SSI, or live in federal public housing, you automatically qualify — no income calculation needed. If you are not in any qualifying program, check whether your household income falls below the 135% FPL threshold for your household size. You can verify your eligibility at checklifeline.org before starting the application.
Step 2 — choose a carrier
Visit lifelinesupport.org to see which Lifeline carriers serve your state and zip code. Compare what each carrier offers in terms of phone models, data amounts, and additional features. Some carriers include international calling, mobile hotspot capability, or upgrade options. Read reviews from current users to gauge service quality and coverage in your specific area. Most major Lifeline providers use the T-Mobile network, which provides strong coverage in urban and suburban areas.
Step 3 — complete the application
Apply online at checklifeline.org or directly through your chosen carrier's website. You will need your full legal name, date of birth, last four digits of your SSN, home address, and proof of eligibility. Acceptable proof documents include your SNAP award letter, Medicaid card, SSI benefit statement, or tax return showing income below the threshold. Upload clear photos or scans of your documents. Most applications are approved within minutes to a few days, and your phone ships immediately upon approval.
Step 4 — annual recertification
Every 12 months, you must recertify that you still qualify for Lifeline. The Universal Service Administrative Company (USAC) will send you a reminder 60 days before your recertification deadline. You can recertify online at checklifeline.org, by calling the Lifeline Support Center, or by returning the paper form. If you miss the recertification window, your service will be discontinued — so mark the date on your calendar.
Maximizing the Value of Your Lifeline Phone
Use it to earn supplemental income
Your Lifeline phone comes loaded with enough capability to generate real income. With I am Beezy, you view videos, articles, and ads on your phone, and each view earns money that accumulates in your account. The app works perfectly on the Android smartphones provided by Lifeline carriers, and using Wi-Fi for content viewing means your monthly data stays available for other needs. Users who build a consistent daily routine of 20 to 30 minutes report $150 to $300 per month — that is rent contribution money, grocery money, or the start of an emergency savings fund.
Stack free resources for maximum impact
The smartest financial strategy for low-income households is stacking — combining multiple free or low-cost resources to build stability. Your Lifeline phone eliminates a $50 to $80 monthly phone bill. SNAP covers groceries. Medicaid covers healthcare. LIHEAP covers heating costs. And I am Beezy earnings fill the gap between what assistance covers and what you actually need. Together, these stacked resources can equal hundreds of dollars per month in savings and income.
| Action | Time Required | Estimated Daily Earnings |
|---|---|---|
| Morning Beezy session (subway or bus) | 15 min | $3-$5 |
| Lunch break session | 10 min | $2-$3 |
| Evening session (couch) | 15 min | $3-$5 |
| Daily total | 40 min | $8-$13 |
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Lifeline the same as the "Obama phone" program?
The term "Obama phone" is a popular but inaccurate nickname. The Lifeline program was created in 1985 under President Reagan and expanded to include cell phones in 2005 under President George W. Bush. No single president created or owns the program — it is a long-standing FCC initiative funded by the Universal Service Fund. Regardless of its nickname, the program is real, legitimate, and available to qualifying households across all 50 states.
Can I upgrade my Lifeline phone?
Yes. Most Lifeline carriers offer upgrade options, either free (after a certain period) or for a reduced price. You can also use your own compatible phone with your Lifeline SIM card. If you purchase a phone separately, simply contact your Lifeline provider and ask them to transfer your service to the new device. Your Lifeline benefit stays active regardless of which phone you use.
What if I move to a different state?
If you move, you may need to transfer your Lifeline service to a carrier that operates in your new state. Contact your current provider and the Lifeline Support Center at 1-800-234-9473 to arrange the transfer. Your eligibility does not change because of a move, but the available carriers and plan details may differ in your new location.
Does the Lifeline phone have any limitations?
Lifeline phones are standard smartphones with full functionality. The main limitation is the monthly data allowance, which typically ranges from 4.5 GB to 8 GB or more. You can extend your data by using Wi-Fi. Some carriers throttle speeds after you use your data allowance rather than cutting you off entirely. There are no restrictions on which apps you can download or how you use the phone.
Claim Your Free Phone and Start Building Financial Momentum
The Lifeline phone program is one of the most straightforward government benefits available — if you qualify, the phone and service are completely free. Apply today at checklifeline.org or through any participating carrier. And once your phone arrives, put it to work generating income. Sign up for I am Beezy for free and turn that Lifeline phone into your first step toward financial independence — no cost, no commitment, and the earnings start immediately.
