Lifeline eligibility paths
Lifeline qualifying programs.
If you already receive food, health, housing, veteran, disability, or Tribal benefits, you may already have a path to free or discounted phone service. You can also qualify by household income.
Common federal paths
Start with the benefit you already have.
SNAP / EBT
Food assistance benefits are one of the most common ways to qualify for Lifeline.
Medicaid
Medicaid, including state programs like Medi-Cal, can qualify a household.
SSI
Supplemental Security Income can qualify; retirement Social Security and SSDI are different.
VA Pension
Veterans Pension and Survivors Pension count under the federal Lifeline rules.
Public housing assistance
Federal Public Housing Assistance can be used as proof when applying.
Household income
You may qualify based on income even if you are not enrolled in another benefit program.
Tribal programs
Eligible households on Tribal lands may qualify for enhanced monthly support.
More ways people search
State programs and special situations.
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CalFresh
If approved for CalFresh, you may qualify for a free smartphone and monthly wireless service via Lifeline. We make comparing providers easy and fast.
Reviewed 2026-07-08
Income-based Lifeline eligibility
Households at or below 135% of the Federal Poverty Guidelines may qualify for Lifeline even without SNAP, Medicaid, SSI, or another benefit program.
Reviewed 2026-07-08
Medi-Cal
California Medi-Cal recipients automatically qualify for a free Lifeline smartphone and monthly service.
Reviewed 2026-07-08
Safe Connections Act
Survivors of domestic violence, human trafficking, and related crimes may qualify for emergency Lifeline support under the Safe Connections Act.
Reviewed 2026-07-08