Lifeline Free Tablet Program 2026: Complete Guide & Application
The FCC's permanent program connecting low-income Americans. Get a monthly phone/internet discount and qualify for a subsidized tablet.
Required Documents Checklist
SNAP / Food Stamps
- ✔ Card showing Name
- ✔ Benefit Award Letter (must be current year)
Medicaid
- ✔ Medicaid Card (Unexpired)
- ✔ State Eligibility Letter
SSI
- ✔ Benefit Verification Letter
- ✔ Social Security Statement of Benefits
For a full list of accepted documents, visit LifelineSupport.org.
2026 Income Eligibility Limits
You qualify for Lifeline if your household income is at or below 135% of the Federal Poverty Guidelines.
| Household Size | 135% Annual Income Limit (Approx. 2026) |
|---|---|
| 1 Person | $20,331 |
| 2 People | $27,594 |
| 3 People | $34,857 |
| 4 People | $42,120 |
| Each Additional Person | + $7,263 |
*Note: Figures are estimates based on projected 2026 inflation adjustments. Official numbers are updated annually by HHS.
The $10.01 Co-Pay Rule
Important Transparency Notice: Under FCC rules, service providers offering a connected tablet through the Affordable Connectivity Program (or its successor frameworks) are required to charge a co-pay of between $10.01 and $50.00.
This is a federal requirement to ensure the device is being used by the intended recipient. Providers like AirTalk Wireless or Q Link Wireless typically charge closest to the minimum ($10.01).
- You CANNOT get a tablet for $0.00 legally under these programs.
- The co-pay usually covers a 10.1" Android Tablet (e.g., Samsung Galaxy Tab S series or similar generic equivalent).
Lifeline Frequently Asked Questions
Previously yes, but with the ACP wind-down, Lifeline is now the primary benefit. You cannot receive duplicate Lifeline benefits from multiple providers.
If you use the National Verifier with an automatic database check (like SNAP), approval is often immediate. Manual document review takes 20-30 minutes.