Get Connected with Lifeline
The Lifeline program helps eligible low-income households get connected to wireless and internet services, with the goal of making access to essential services more affordable.
Lifeline provides up to a $9.25 monthly discount on service for eligible low-income subscribers and up to $34.25 per month for eligible subscribers on Tribal lands. Subscribers may receive a Lifeline discount on either a wireline or a wireless service, but they may not receive a discount on both services at the same time. Lifeline also supports broadband Internet service and broadband-voice bundles. FCC rules prohibit more than one Lifeline service per household.
What's the Lifeline Program?
Since 1985, the Lifeline Assistance Program has provided a discount on phone service to low-income Americans. The program is administered by the Universal Service Administration Company (USAC) and overseen by the Federal Communications Commission (FCC). It was founded to ensure that all Americans, regardless of income, have access to the security and opportunity that a phone service offers. This includes being able to look for jobs, access emergency services, go to school, and much more. In recent years, it has expanded to include internet services.
Qualifying individuals are eligible to receive one Lifeline benefit per household.
Can I still receive service in areas where Ethos Broadband doesn’t offer Lifeline service?
Of course! We offer a variety of affordable plans that will meet your needs.
How to Qualify for the Lifeline Benefit
You can qualify for discounted service from Ethos Broadband if your total household income is at or below 135% of the Federal Poverty Guidelines or through qualifying government programs. See the list below for program-based eligibility and details on household income requirements.
Your household is eligible for the Lifeline benefit, if you or someone in your household participates in the following programs:
If your household is on qualifying federally recognized Tribal land, here are the programs you can participate in to be eligible for Lifeline, in addition to any of the programs listed above.
Bureau of Indian Affairs General Assistance
Head Start (only if you qualified for this program based on income)
Tribal TANF (Tribal Temporary Assistance for Needy Families)
You may need to show proof of participation, such as a benefit letter or other official document when you apply for Lifeline.
Household Income Qualifications
Your eligibility is based on location and if your household income is at or below 135% of the Federal Poverty Guidelines. The 2024 guidelines can be found in the chart below.
California offers the Lifeline benefit to households at or below 150% of the Federal Poverty Guidelines. You can find details for California here.
| Household Size | 48 States, DC, & Territories | Alaska | Hawaii |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | $20,331 | $25,394 | $23,369 |
| 2 | $27,594 | $34,479 | $31,725 |
| 3 | $34,857 | $43,565 | $40,082 |
| 4 | $42,120 | $52,650 | $48,438 |
| For each additional person add: | $7,263 | $9,086 | $9,086 |
| Household Size | 48 States, DC, & Territories |
|---|---|
| 1 | $20,331 |
| 2 | $27,594 |
| 3 | $34,857 |
| 4 | $42,120 |
| For each additional person add: | $7,263 |
| Household Size | Alaska/ Hawaii |
|---|---|
| 1 | $25,394/ $23,369 |
| 2 | $34,479/ $31,725 |
| 3 | $43,565/ $40,082 |
| 4 | $52,650/ $48,438 |
| For each additional person add: | $9,086/ $8,357 |
Note: The Federal Poverty Guidelines are adjusted annually, and the above chart reflects guidelines for 2024. This chart does not pertain to California.
What are the Benefits of Lifeline?
Lifeline keeps you connected to what matters most, while saving you hundreds per year on your internet bill.
Job hunting online is key for low-income households to maintain solvency and increase earning potential. Many jobs require online applications and the best way to look for jobs is online through services like Google, Craigslist, LinkedIn, Indeed, Monster, Taskrabbit, and more.
An internet connection is essential for accessing healthcare and is especially important if a household member has health issues. With the advances in telehealth, Friends and family can easily access their provider from the comfort of their home.
Being able to contact our friends and family is essential for quality of life and mental health.