At AirTalk Wireless, we’re dedicated to providing accessible and affordable wireless services for everyone, especially for those in need of support. That’s why we’re excited to share a significant update from the Lifeline program: The Safe Connections Act (SCA) of 2022, which offers crucial assistance to survivors of domestic violence, human trafficking, and related crimes.
The Lifeline program, managed by the Universal Service Administrative Company (USAC), is a federal initiative that lowers the cost of monthly phone or internet services for eligible households. With the passing of the Safe Connections Act, survivors now have enhanced support to help them stay connected as they rebuild their lives.
How to Apply for Lifeline as a Survivor?
If you or someone you know is a survivor of domestic violence, human trafficking, or a related crime, you may be eligible for the Lifeline survivor benefit. The application process is straightforward and typically takes about 10 minutes to complete.
Note: You’ll need to provide documentation that verifies your line separation request and may need to provide proof of your eligibility, identity, or home address. If you have questions during the application process, contact the Lifeline Support Center by email at LifelineSupport@usac.org or call (800) 234-9473 from 9 a.m. to 9 p.m. ET.
Here’s how to apply:
Step 1: Choose application options
Survivors have two options for how to apply to the Lifeline program:
Option 1: Apply online
- Visit www.lifelinesupport.org to complete the online application and upload any required documentation
Option 2: Apply by Mail
- Fill out all the application, instructions are available in 10 languages
- Mail the application and supporting documentation to the Lifeline Support Center (P.O Box 1000 Horseheads, NY 14845)
Step 2: Apply online
- Visit www.lifelinesupport.org and select “Apply Now” to start your application
Step 3: Fill out your information
- Survivors will be redirected to the application landing page, select “how to qualify as survivor” to begin.
- Survivors can first review summarized information on applying for emergency Lifeline support, select yes and then click “Continue”
- Survivors need to fill personal information
- Survivors will be asked if they qualify for the benefit through themselves or through a child or dependent.
- If survivor qualifies for emergency Lifeline support through a dependent or a child, they will be asked to provide that person’s information
Step 4: Create account
- Survivors must create a username and password to set up an account and sign in
- Survivors should select the way they would like USAC to contact them about their benefit by choosing either “Email” or “Mail”. Detailed contact information should be provided and then prefer the language. Remember, survivors must agree to “Term & Conditions” by checking the box to continue their application
Step 5: Qualifying programs
- Survivor must state how they qualify by selecting all the program they participate in
- If they do not participate in any of the list program, they also qualify based on income or through a child or dependent
Step 6: Review & Submit
- Survivor can review and make correction to the information they provided, select “Edit” to make any change and continue by clicking “Submit”
- All survivors must provide proof of attempted line separation request to qualify emergency support from Lifeline. Please select “Yes” and then click “Next”
Step 7: Agreement page
- Survivors must initial each box and consent to the information of each statement by signing electronically with their first and last name. Finally, click “Submit” to finish application
Step 8: Application status
- After a survivor submits the application, they will receive a message that their documents are being reviewed. Once review is complete, people will get the notification via mail or email about the status of their application
- When survivors get approval, they will be informed and given instructions on how to sign up along with application ID. Please sign up before the deadline provided.
What is the Safe connection Act?
The Safe Connections Act (SCA) is a federal law that aims to protect survivors of domestic violence, dating violence, sexual assault, stalking, human trafficking, and other forms of abuse by providing them with access to safe housing and essential services. Key terms include survivors, who are individuals 18 years or older who have experienced or are caring for someone who has experienced a covered act, and covered acts, which encompass a wide range of harmful behaviors such as domestic violence, sexual assault, stalking, and child abuse.
How the Safe Connections Act Supports Survivors?
The Safe Connections Act of 2022 adds special provisions to the Lifeline program, helping survivors access discounted phone, internet, or bundled services. Survivors who qualify can receive emergency Lifeline support for up to six months, ensuring they have the essential communication services needed to remain safe and connected to their loved ones, support networks, and emergency services.
Survivors can participate in the Lifeline program, if they provide proof that they attempted a line separation request and can confirm they are experiencing financial hardship using one of the methods below:
- Based on the existing Lifeline program qualification requirements,
- If they suffer from financial hardship and can demonstrate that their household income is at or below 200% of the Federal Poverty Guidelines.
- If they participate in the following programs:
- Special Supplemental Nutrition Program for Women, Infants, and Children (WIC), Free and Reduced-Price School Lunch or School Breakfast Program, including enrollment at a Community Eligibility Provision (CEP) school or school district, or
- Received a Federal Pell Grant in the current award year.
Benefits for Survivors
Eligible survivors can receive:
- Up to $9.25/month in discounts on phone, internet, or bundled services.
- Up to $34.25/month in discounts if they live on qualifying Tribal lands.
These discounts make it easier for survivors to afford essential communication services during critical times of transition and healing. After six months, you may apply for the standard Lifeline benefit of up to $9.25/month off internet or bundled services or up to $5.25/month off phone (voice-only) service.
Why Lifeline Matters?
Staying connected is essential, especially for survivors who rely on communication services to access help and maintain safety. The Safe Connections Act ensures that survivors can receive affordable and reliable services through the Lifeline program, offering much-needed peace of mind.
If your household is eligible, the survivor benefit can be life-changing, offering financial relief and access to critical services for up to six months. For those on qualifying Tribal lands, the higher discount helps bridge the digital divide even further.
Take Action: Apply for Lifeline Today!
If you are a survivor or know someone who may benefit from the Lifeline survivor benefit, don’t wait to apply. The process is quick and simple, and the support can make a huge difference. Follow the steps above to apply online or contact the Lifeline Support Center if you need help. To learn more about the Lifeline program and its new benefits for survivors, visit USAC Lifeline Program today.
At AirTalk Wireless, we are committed to supporting communities in need. With the Safe Connections Act, survivors now have the tools to stay connected, safe, and empowered. Apply for Lifeline today and start benefiting from this essential support.