Utilities, Energy & Communications · Surprise rank #426
Get Up to $9.25 Off Internet Every Month With Lifeline!
Federal Lifeline remains available to qualifying households even though the larger Affordable Connectivity Program ended.
Who
Households within the income limit or receiving a qualifying benefit such as SNAP, Medicaid or SSI.
Where: Nationwide, including target New York areas.
What to do
Start here: Check eligibility through the National Verifier and then enroll with a participating provider.
Eligibility: One benefit per household and participation by the selected provider.
What you get
Eligible households can receive a federal monthly discount on one phone or internet service.
Benefit: Up to $9.25 per month off eligible internet or bundled service; voice-only phone service receives up to $5.25 per month. A higher benefit applies on qualifying Tribal lands.
Possible value: Up to $111 per year for most households.
Good to know
Important: The standard benefit is up to $9.25 for internet or bundled service, but only up to $5.25 for voice-only phone service. It does not guarantee free service; provider plans and recertification matter.
Availability: Ongoing; annual recertification may be required.
Why people miss it: Confusion with the expired Affordable Connectivity Program leads people either to expect a large subsidy or assume all telecom help ended.
Sources reviewed: Aug 2, 2026