Verizon Wireless participates in the federal Lifeline program, which helps low-income individuals access affordable phone and internet services. While Verizon doesn’t offer free government phones, it provides discounted services to those who qualify. This article will explain the Lifeline program, Verizon’s role in it, eligibility criteria, application steps, and other related details.
Understanding the Lifeline Program
The Lifeline program began in 1985. It’s a federal initiative by the Federal Communications Commission (FCC) to make communication services more affordable for low-income consumers. The program offers a monthly discount on phone or internet services to eligible households. The goal is to ensure that all Americans have access to essential communication services, connecting them to jobs, family, and emergency services.
Verizon Wireless and the Lifeline Program
Verizon Wireless is an approved provider in the Lifeline program. It offers discounted phone and internet services to qualified customers. While some providers might offer free phones through Lifeline, Verizon focuses on reducing monthly service costs. This approach helps make ongoing communication expenses more manageable for eligible individuals.
Eligibility Criteria for Verizon’s Lifeline Program
To benefit from Verizon’s Lifeline discounts, you must meet specific criteria. Eligibility is based on income level or participation in certain government assistance programs.
Income-Based Eligibility
You may qualify if your household income is at or below 135% of the Federal Poverty Guidelines. These guidelines are updated annually and vary based on household size and state. For example, in 2025, a single-person household in the contiguous United States would qualify with an income of $21,128 or less. For each additional person in the household, the income limit increases.
Program-Based Eligibility
You can also qualify if you or someone in your household participates in one of the following programs:
Medicaid
Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP)
Supplemental Security Income (SSI)
Federal Public Housing Assistance (FPHA)
Veterans Pension and Survivors Benefit
Residents of federally recognized Tribal lands have additional qualifying programs, such as:
Bureau of Indian Affairs General Assistance
Tribal Temporary Assistance for Needy Families (Tribal TANF)
Head Start (only households meeting the income qualifying standard)
Food Distribution Program on Indian Reservations (FDPIR)
Geographic Availability
Verizon’s Lifeline services are available in specific areas. For wireless services, Verizon offers Lifeline in parts of Iowa, North Dakota, New York, and Wisconsin. It’s important to note that Lifeline service isn’t available in all areas of these states. For home phone and Fios Home Internet services, Verizon provides Lifeline plans in Connecticut, Delaware, Massachusetts, Maryland, North Carolina, New Jersey, New York, Pennsylvania, Rhode Island, Virginia, and Washington, D.C.
Lifeline Discounts and Benefits
If you qualify for Verizon’s Lifeline program, you can receive a monthly discount on your phone or internet bill. The standard discount is at least $9.25 per month. For residents of federally recognized Tribal lands, the discount can be higher, up to an additional $25 per month, making the total discount up to $34.25 monthly.
Verizon Lifeline Plans
Verizon offers Lifeline discounts on specific home phone services. Below are the available plans:
| Plan Name | Lifeline Plan | Home Phone Connect Plan |
|---|---|---|
| Standard Monthly Access | $25.00 | $19.99 |
| Monthly Access After Discount | $15.75 | $10.74 |
| Monthly Access After Discount (Tribal Lands) | $0.00 | $0.00 |
| Anytime Minutes | 1,000 | Unlimited |
| Local Mobile to Mobile Minutes | Unlimited | Unlimited |
| Domestic Long Distance | Included | Included |
| Per-Minute Rate After Allowance | $0.45 | Unlimited |
| One-Time Activation Fee | $35.00 | $35.00 |
Note: The Home Phone Connect Plan requires a Home Phone Connect Device.
Application Process
Applying for Verizon’s Lifeline program involves several steps:
Check Eligibility: Determine if you meet the income or program-based criteria.
Apply Through the National Verifier: The Lifeline National Verifier is a centralized system that confirms eligibility. You can apply online at Lifelinesupport.org or by mailing a paper application. Applying online typically provides faster results. Customers in Connecticut must use a paper application.
Gather Documentation: You’ll need to provide proof of eligibility. This might include income statements, tax returns, or documentation showing participation in a qualifying program. Ensure you have copies of the necessary documents ready to submit.
Contact Verizon: Once approved by the National Verifier, reach out to Verizon at 1-800-Verizon to select your service and have the Lifeline discount applied to your account. Be prepared to provide your approval confirmation and any additional information Verizon may require.
Services Offered
Verizon offers several services under the Lifeline program:
Home Phone Service: Traditional landline service with essential features.
Wireless Service: Mobile phone plans with talk, text, and data options.
Fios Home Internet: High-speed internet service for your home.
Each service comes with its own set of plans and features. It’s advisable to contact Verizon directly to find the best option for your needs.
TracFone and Verizon
In November 2021, Verizon acquired TracFone, a leading prepaid and Lifeline service provider. This acquisition expanded Verizon’s reach in offering affordable communication services. TracFone operates brands like SafeLink Wireless and Walmart Family Mobile, which also participate in the Lifeline program. This means more options for eligible customers seeking discounted services.
How to Apply Through TracFone Brands
If you’re interested in applying for Lifeline services through TracFone brands:
SafeLink Wireless: Visit the SafeLink Wireless website or call 1-800-723-3546.
Walmart Family Mobile: Visit the Walmart Family Mobile website or call 1-800-973-9716.
These brands offer prepaid options, which can be beneficial for those seeking flexibility without long-term contracts.
Important Considerations
One Discount per Household: Lifeline benefits are limited to one per household. A household is defined as individuals living at the same address who share income and expenses. Receiving multiple Lifeline benefits is against program rules and can lead to de-enrollment.
Annual Recertification: Participants must recertify their eligibility each year. Failure to do so can result in losing the discount. Verizon or the Lifeline program will provide instructions on how to recertify when the time approaches.
Non-Transferable Benefit: The Lifeline benefit is for the eligible individual or household and cannot be transferred to another person. Attempting to transfer benefits is prohibited and can lead to penalties.
Additional Support and Customer Assistance
If you have any questions or need help with the Lifeline program, Verizon provides multiple ways to get assistance:
Call Verizon Customer Support: You can reach Verizon’s Lifeline Customer Support at 1-800-Verizon (1-800-837-4966). They can help with the application, eligibility questions, and plan details.
Visit Verizon’s Official Website: You can check for updates and more details at verizon.com under the Lifeline section.
Lifeline Support Center: If you need assistance with the National Verifier or eligibility verification, you can contact the Lifeline Support Center at 1-800-234-9473 or visit Lifelinesupport.org.
Local Verizon Stores: Some Verizon stores may also provide assistance with Lifeline applications. You can check with your nearest store to confirm.
Alternative Free Government Phone Options
While Verizon offers Lifeline discounts, it does not provide completely free government phones. If you are specifically looking for a free government phone, you may need to consider other Lifeline providers. Some companies that offer free phones include:
- Assurance Wireless
- Q Link Wireless
- Safelink Wireless
- Cintex Wireless
- StandUp Wireless
- Airtalk Wireless
These providers often include a free smartphone and a set amount of free talk, text, and data per month. However, coverage and service quality might not be as extensive as Verizon’s.
Affordable Connectivity Program (ACP)
Another government assistance program that can help with phone and internet bills is the Affordable Connectivity Program (ACP). This program provides up to $30 per month in discounts for broadband internet and up to $75 per month for eligible Tribal households.
If you qualify for the Lifeline program, you are also automatically eligible for ACP. Many providers combine Lifeline and ACP benefits, offering free phones, free unlimited talk and text, and high-speed data.
Unfortunately, Verizon does not offer free devices through ACP, but it does participate in the ACP program by providing discounts on broadband plans.
Note: The Affordable Connectivity Program (ACP), a federal initiative that provided internet service discounts to low-income households, concluded on June 1, 2024, due to the exhaustion of its allocated funds. For more information visit Affordableconnectivity.gov
Comparing Verizon’s Lifeline Program vs. Other Providers
Here’s a quick comparison of Verizon’s Lifeline program and other free government phone providers:
| Feature | Verizon Lifeline | Other Lifeline Providers (e.g., Safelink, Assurance Wireless) |
|---|---|---|
| Free Phone | ❌ No | ✅ Yes |
| Monthly Discount | ✅ $9.25–$34.25 | ✅ $9.25–$34.25 |
| Free Unlimited Data | ❌ No | ✅ Yes |
| Network Quality | ✅ Excellent (Verizon network) | ⚠️ Varies by provider |
| 5G Access | ✅ Yes | ❌ Not always available |
Which One Should You Choose?
- If you need the best network coverage and reliability, Verizon’s Lifeline plan is a good choice.
- If you must have a free phone, you may want to choose a different Lifeline+ACP provider.
- If you qualify for both Lifeline and ACP, combining both programs can help you get better benefits.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Can I get a free phone from Verizon’s Lifeline program?
No, Verizon does not provide free government phones, but it does offer a discount on phone and internet services.
2. Does Verizon offer Lifeline for wireless (cell phone) service?
Yes, but only in limited areas: Iowa, North Dakota, New York, and Wisconsin.
3. How much is the Verizon Lifeline discount?
It is at least $9.25 per month. For Tribal land residents, the discount can be up to $34.25 per month.
4. Can I use my own phone with Verizon’s Lifeline program?
Yes, you can bring your own phone, but it must be compatible with Verizon’s network.
5. How do I apply for Verizon’s Lifeline program?
You must first apply through the National Verifier at CheckLifeline.org. After approval, you contact Verizon to enroll in their Lifeline plan.
6. Is Verizon’s Lifeline available in all states?
No. Verizon offers Lifeline home phone and internet in certain states and wireless Lifeline in only a few states.
7. Can I switch from another Lifeline provider to Verizon?
Yes, but you must first de-enroll from your current Lifeline provider before applying with Verizon.
Verizon Wireless offers Lifeline discounts on home phone, internet, and limited wireless services, but it does not provide free government phones. If you are looking for a reliable network with Lifeline discounts, Verizon is a good option. However, if you need a completely free phone, you may need to consider other Lifeline and ACP providers.
If you qualify for both Lifeline and ACP, you may be able to combine benefits to get the best deal on phone and internet services.