Quick answer
Ask your carrier for a payment arrangement or a short extension before the due date. If your household income is at or below 135% of the federal poverty guidelines, or you get SNAP, Medicaid, SSI, federal public housing assistance or the Veterans Pension, you can apply for Lifeline, an FCC program that takes up to $9.25 a month off phone or internet service, or up to $34.25 on Tribal lands.
Talk to the carrier first
Carriers often allow a payment extension or arrangement once or twice a year, especially if you call before the due date. Ask whether a late fee can be waived, and whether a cheaper plan on the same network would cut the bill without changing your number.
Lifeline in brief
- What it does: a monthly discount on one phone or internet service per household.
- Who qualifies: income at or below 135% of the poverty guidelines, or enrollment in a qualifying program.
- How to apply: online through the National Verifier at lifelinesupport.org, by mail, or through a participating provider. Texas and Oregon use their own state process.
- Keep it: recertify every year, and use the service at least once every 30 days if your provider does not charge you a monthly fee.
The separate Affordable Connectivity Program, which gave a larger internet discount, stopped enrolling and ended in 2024, so offers that promise it are outdated.
Lower the bill for good
Prepaid and smaller carriers often run on the same networks as the big ones for less. Drop add-ons you do not use, such as insurance or extra lines, and turn on autopay only if the discount is worth it and you will have the money on that date.
Common questions
Is there a free government phone?
Lifeline is a discount on service, not a phone. Some Lifeline providers offer a basic phone or a plan with no monthly charge after the discount. The FCC does not pay for devices.
Can I get Lifeline if I already have a phone plan?
Yes. You can apply the discount to a qualifying plan from a participating provider. Only one Lifeline benefit is allowed per household.
What happens if I stop paying my phone bill?
Service can be suspended, and an unpaid final balance may go to collections. Calling before the due date usually gets you more options.
Where these facts come from
- FCC: Lifeline support for affordable communications
- USAC: Lifeline National Verifier
- 211.org: local help with rent, food and bills
Sources checked October 10, 2026. Programs and rules change; confirm details with the agency or company before you act.
Disclosures
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