Explaining CenturyLink’s Lifeline Program for Low-Income Households

In today’s connected world, reliable internet and phone service are essential—especially for households juggling work, education, and everyday communication. But for low-income families, these services can feel out of reach. That’s where CenturyLink’s Lifeline Program comes in.

If you’re looking for affordable internet or phone service, keep reading. We’ll break down how the Lifeline Program works, who qualifies, and how it can help you or someone you know stay connected without breaking the bank.

What Is the Lifeline Program?

Lifeline is a federal assistance program created to make communication services more affordable for low-income households. It offers a monthly discount on qualifying internet or phone services—and CenturyLink is one of the participating providers.

With the Lifeline benefit, eligible users can save up to $9.25 per month (or more if you live on tribal lands) on internet or home phone bills.

CenturyLink and Lifeline: A Valuable Partnership

CenturyLink, known for offering budget-friendly home services, actively supports the Lifeline initiative across many states. Through the program, the company helps qualified customers get connected at reduced monthly rates on both internet and phone services.

To get a better understanding of their offerings, check out this deep dive into CenturyLink residential services.

What Services Can You Get with Lifeline at CenturyLink?

Eligible households can apply the Lifeline discount to either:

• Home internet service

• Landline phone service

• Or, in some cases, bundled packages

For low-income families, this discount can significantly reduce the cost of essential services. You can explore current CenturyLink internet deals and CenturyLink phone deals to see which plans fit your needs best.

Who Qualifies for the Lifeline Program?

You may qualify for CenturyLink’s Lifeline discount if:

• Your income is at or below 135% of the federal poverty guidelines, or

• You or someone in your household participates in programs like:

  • SNAP (Food Stamps)

  • Medicaid

  • Supplemental Security Income (SSI)

  • Federal Public Housing Assistance (FPHA)

  • Veterans Pension or Survivors Benefit

  • Tribal-specific programs (for residents on Tribal lands)

How to Apply for CenturyLink’s Lifeline Program

Ready to apply? Follow these steps:

1. Verify Your Eligibility
   Use the National Verifier at lifelinesupport.org to confirm if you qualify.

2. Contact CenturyLink
   Once approved, reach out to CenturyLink to enroll in a Lifeline-supported plan. They’ll help you select eligible services and apply your discount.

3. Submit Required Documents
   You may need to provide proof of participation in qualifying programs or income level.

4. Annual Recertification
   Lifeline isn’t a one-and-done benefit. You’ll need to recertify each year to continue receiving your discount.

Can Lifeline Be Used with Other Discounts or Promotions?

Lifeline discounts usually apply to regular service rates, but they can sometimes be stacked with promotional offers, depending on the provider and the region.

For example, check out this post on whether CenturyLink Internet is good or bad to understand service performance, reliability, and what to expect if you’re combining Lifeline with a low-cost plan.

Benefits of the CenturyLink Lifeline Program

Here’s what makes this program so impactful:

• Lower Monthly Bills
  Save on essential services every month.

• Reliable Connectivity
  CenturyLink provides consistent service across rural and urban areas, giving more people access.

• Support for Vulnerable Households
  Perfect for seniors, students, or unemployed individuals needing communication services.

• Flexible Options
  Use the benefit on either phone or internet, depending on what you need most.

Limitations and Things to Keep in Mind

While the Lifeline program is a great option, it’s not without limitations:

• You can only use Lifeline with one provider per household—you can’t split it between phone and internet.

• Discounts vary by location and may not be available in all areas.

• Lifeline doesn’t cover installation or equipment fees unless otherwise stated.

Bundled Plans: Are They Worth It with Lifeline?

CenturyLink also offers bundled services, which include internet, TV, and home phone. While Lifeline may only apply to the internet or phone portion, bundling could still offer added savings and convenience.

Before committing, check which bundles qualify for a Lifeline discount and compare them to standalone deals.

Conclusion: Stay Connected, Affordably

CenturyLink’s Lifeline Program is a lifeline in every sense of the word—connecting low-income households to essential services like internet and phone at a price they can afford. Whether you’re a student, parent, or senior, staying connected is non-negotiable in today’s world.

Want to find the right plan for your needs? Start by checking out current CenturyLink internet deals and phone deals, or explore their residential service breakdown to make an informed choice.