How often do I need to recertify my eligibility with the National Verifier?

You must recertify your eligibility status at least once every calendar year. You will receive notifications from the National Verifier or your service provider when it is time to submit documentation.

What document proves my SSI eligibility for Lifeline/ACP?

Commonly accepted documents include an SSI Benefit Verification Letter, an official award letter, or a current notice of eligibility from the Social Security Administration (SSA), ideally dated within the last 12 months.

Will the free phone service reduce my monthly SSI payment?

No. Lifeline and ACP subsidies are federally funded telecommunications discounts and are separate from Supplemental Security Income (SSI). Participation does not change your monthly SSI benefit amount.

Can I receive the free service if a child in my household receives SSI?

Yes. If anyone in your household, including a child, is an SSI recipient, the household may qualify for Lifeline (and ACP where available). The benefit is limited to one per household.

Do I have to use a specific provider because I qualify via SSI?

No. SSI qualifies you for the benefit, but you can choose any participating provider in your area that offers Lifeline (and ACP where available).

Can I switch mobile providers after I've enrolled using my SSI status?

Yes, you can switch providers. Program rules generally allow only one Lifeline benefit per household at a time, and transfers may be subject to timing limits set by the program and providers.

What happens if the ACP funding ends while I'm on SSI?

If ACP ends or changes, you can still receive the Lifeline subsidy (up to $9.25/month, with higher support in Tribal areas). Your provider will notify you of plan or pricing changes.

Is my qualification automatic, or do I still need to submit paperwork?

SSI provides categorical eligibility (no separate income verification), but you still complete enrollment and identity checks through your provider and the National Verifier.

Does the SSI program provide a free mobile device?

SSI itself does not provide devices. Some providers offer discounted or free devices tied to Lifeline plans, and ACP device discounts were offered where the program was funded and available.

SSI Recipients: How to Ensure Your Automatic Lifeline Qualification

Your enrollment in Supplemental Security Income (SSI) is one of the most direct paths to receiving discounted or free mobile phone service. Learn what steps to take next and how to stay eligible.

Get Started with Your Guide →

Understanding the Link Between SSI and Free Mobile Service

For individuals and families relying on Supplemental Security Income (SSI), navigating additional benefit applications can be complex and time-consuming. Fortunately, qualifying for discounted phone and internet service through the Lifeline program (and the ACP where available) is often straightforward because SSI is a recognized eligibility pathway.

This is commonly called “categorical eligibility,” meaning participation in a qualifying government program can be used to confirm eligibility for a telecommunications discount without a separate income review.

Why SSI is a Simple Path to Qualification

SSI is managed by the Social Security Administration (SSA.gov) and supports adults and children who meet disability or age requirements and have limited income/resources. Because those thresholds are already strict, eligibility systems like the National Verifier commonly accept SSI enrollment as valid proof.

The benefit is limited to one per household. If you, your spouse, or a dependent child receives SSI, your household may qualify for Lifeline and may qualify for other discounts depending on current program rules and availability.

Maintaining Your Eligibility

It’s essential to understand annual recertification requirements. To keep service active, respond promptly to notices from the National Verifier or your mobile provider. Failure to confirm eligibility can lead to service termination even if you still receive SSI benefits.

Documentation: What You Need to Apply with SSI

Although your qualification can be verified through SSI participation, providers must still confirm your eligibility through the National Verifier. This typically means uploading one official document that shows current SSI enrollment.

Required Documentation Checklist:

SSI Benefit Verification Letter: Often the preferred document, usually dated within the last 12 months.
Official SSI Award Letter: A letter from SSA confirming benefits.
Current Notice of Eligibility: Official documentation showing active SSI enrollment.

Make sure the document is current and clearly displays your name and the program name (Supplemental Security Income).

Your Three Simple Steps to Secure Service

Check Local Providers: Use our Eligibility Tool to view participating providers in your zip code.
Initiate Enrollment: Choose a provider and start the provider’s application.
Submit Verification: Upload your SSI document and proof of identity. The provider submits your application to the National Verifier for approval.

For official program information, refer to FCC Lifeline and (where applicable) AffordableConnectivity.gov.

The Dual Benefit: Lifeline and ACP

When both discounts are available, many plans combine the Lifeline subsidy (up to $9.25/month; higher on Tribal lands) with ACP-style discounts to reach a $0 monthly bill. Provider offerings and program funding can change over time, so always confirm current benefits at enrollment.

Ready to Secure Your Service?

Use your SSI status to verify eligibility and start enrollment for a device and service plan today.