{"id":14352,"date":"2025-06-11T03:11:34","date_gmt":"2025-06-11T03:11:34","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/airtalkwireless.com\/blog\/?p=14352"},"modified":"2026-02-27T07:30:46","modified_gmt":"2026-02-27T07:30:46","slug":"is-the-lifeline-program-ending","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/airtalkwireless.com\/blog\/is-the-lifeline-program-ending","title":{"rendered":"2025 Update: Is The Lifeline Program Ending?"},"content":{"rendered":"\n

We\u2019ve seen several headlines claiming \u201cThe government is ending free phones\u201d and \u201cLifeline is shutting down!\u201d. But how much of it is actually true? <\/p>\n\n\n\n

With the Affordable Connectivity Program (ACP) ending in 2024, there has been a lot of confusion and concern about what comes next for low-income households that rely on government assistance to stay connected.  <\/p>\n\n\n\n

So, is the Lifeline program ending?<\/p>\n\n\n\n

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Claim your benefits with Lifeline now!<\/strong><\/a><\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n

1. Why Are People Confused About Lifeline Ending?<\/strong> <\/h2>\n\n\n\n

The Affordable Connectivity Program (ACP)<\/a> officially ended<\/strong> on June 1, 2024, because Congress did not approve additional funding to continue the program.  <\/p>\n\n\n\n

Once funding ran out, the ACP stopped accepting new applications after February 7, 2024, and the last fully funded month of service was April 2024. As a result, many low-income households lost the discounts<\/a> they had relied on for internet service and connected devices like phones and tablets. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

The application expired along with the program, and no further benefits, such as the monthly broadband discount or the one-time device discount, will be provided under ACP. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

However, some internet providers may still have outdated information on their websites or may continue to collect personal data under the impression that the ACP is still active.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

If you see offers for ACP benefits in 2025, be cautious; these are no longer legitimate under the original government program.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

If Congress allocates additional funding for the ACP, the FCC will provide updated guidance on the program\u2019s future and next steps. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

The end of the ACP has created a lot of confusion, and many people are worried, \u201cIs the Lifeline phone program ending as well?\u201d. This fear is understandable because both programs were government efforts to help low-income families afford phone and internet services. But it’s important to know that Lifeline is not ending<\/strong>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

2. Is the Lifeline Program Ending?<\/strong> <\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Lifeline provides a monthly discount on phone or internet services for eligible low-income households. Lifeline and ACP are separate programs<\/strong> with different funding sources. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

The Lifeline program<\/a> is a long-standing federal program that began in the 1980s, long before the ACP was introduced. Lifeline is a permanent benefit program<\/strong> with ongoing federal funding. It is still available nationwide, and there are no current plans to discontinue it. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

If you were part of the ACP, you may still qualify for Lifeline. You can check with participating providers or visit the official Lifeline website to apply. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

In short, while the ACP has ended, Lifeline remains active, and it’s currently the best option for those seeking continued support with communication services.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

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The Lifeline program is a long-standing federal program for households with limited income.<\/em><\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n

>>> Read more: No ACP Phone Plans in 2025? Here\u2019s the Best Alternative!<\/a><\/em><\/p>\n\n\n\n

3. What Are the Current Lifeline Benefits?<\/strong> <\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Here\u2019s a closer look at the current Lifeline benefits and what you can expect in 2025: <\/p>\n\n\n\n

How Much Is the Lifeline Discount? <\/h3>\n\n\n\n

If you qualify for Lifeline, you can receive a monthly discount of up to $9.25<\/strong> on your phone or internet bill. For those who live on Tribal lands, the benefit is greater: you can receive a monthly discount of up to $34.25<\/strong>. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

Discounted or Free Devices <\/h3>\n\n\n\n

Many Lifeline providers also offer free or discounted phones, tablets, or bundled packages. The specific devices vary by provider. Some plans may offer upgraded services (such as more data or international calling) for a small monthly fee. However, basic Lifeline plans can cost $0 per month with the discount applied. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

To receive Lifeline benefits, you must meet at least one<\/strong> of the following criteria: <\/p>\n\n\n\n

Income-Based Eligibility: <\/strong>Your gross household income is at or below 135% of the Federal Poverty Guidelines. Income limits can vary by state, so it\u2019s important to check the specific thresholds based on where you live. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

Program-Based Eligibility: <\/strong>You or someone in your household must participate in at least one of these assistance programs: <\/p>\n\n\n\n