Are you struggling to keep up with expensive phone bills that take money out of your pocket month after month?
The California Lifeline Program could be your solution. This state-run initiative provides big discounts and sometimes FREE phone services (with the right provider) for qualifying low-income individuals, ensuring you stay connected with family, friends, and essential services.
But it doesn’t stop there—learn how you can also get a FREE smartphone with unlimited talk, text, and data when you sign up with StandUp Wireless. Discover what California Lifeline is all about and how it can benefit you today!
What is the California Lifeline Program?
The California Lifeline Program is a state initiative aimed at helping low-income individuals stay connected through discounted cell phone services. This program is designed to ensure that qualifying participants have access to essential communication tools. If you qualify, you can receive significant discounts on mobile phone services.
Who Can Qualify for California Lifeline Service?
There are two methods to qualify for California Lifeline discounts:
1. Program-Based Qualification Method:
You can qualify for California Lifeline if you or another person in your household is enrolled in any one of these qualifying public assistance programs:
Medicaid/Medi-Cal
Low Income Home Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP)
Supplemental Security Income (SSI)
Federal Public Housing Assistance or Section 8
CalFresh, Food Stamps or Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP)
Women, Infants and Children Program (WIC)
National School Lunch Program (NSL)
Temporary Assistance for Needy Families (TANF)
California Work Opportunity and Responsibility to Kids (CalWORKs)
Stanislaus County Work Opportunity and Responsibility to Kids (StanWORKs)
Welfare-to-Work (WTW)
Greater Avenues for Independence (GAIN)
Tribal TANF
Bureau of Indian Affairs General Assistance
Head Start Income Eligible (Tribal Only)
Food Distribution Program on Indian Reservations
Federal Veterans and Survivors Pension Benefit Program
2. Qualify by Income
You can qualify for Lifeline if your household income is below 135% of the Federal Poverty Guidelines.
You’ll need to provide proof of your eligibility when applying, so make sure to have the necessary documents ready.
Why Enroll in California Lifeline?
The California Lifeline Program offers crucial financial relief, making it easier to stay connected with friends, family, and essential services.
You’ll need to enroll with an approved California Lifeline provider to receive you benefits
Don’t worry about the amount you’ve paid during the application review period. California Lifeline benefits are retroactive, which means the refund will go back to the the date your service began or the date you first requested to be enrolled, whichever is later. For a net credit balance of $10 or more, you may request a refund check from your phone company.
If you find it difficult to afford up-front costs such like the service installation fee, service conversion fee, and deposits for your basic home phone service, you may consider an interest-free payment plan provided by your home phone company while waiting for the approval of your application.
StandUp Wireless Offers More!
StandUp Wireless (a California Lifeline provider) is committed to providing more than just basic phone service.
When you qualify for California LifeLine, we’ll provide you with a FREE Smartphone, ensuring you have access to modern communication tools. Plus, with FREE Unlimited Talk, Text, and 6 GB of data each month, you’ll have the freedom to stay connected without limitations.
Whether you need to make important calls, send texts, or browse the internet, StandUp Wireless has you covered—all at no cost to you, as long as you remain eligible.
Visit Our Locations to Sign Up Today!
Ready to get started? Visit one of our StandUp Wireless stores or tent locations in California to sign up for the California Lifeline Program. Our friendly team is here to help you through the process, ensuring you receive your free smartphone and all the benefits you deserve.
Don’t wait—find a location near you and start enjoying the benefits of StandUp Wireless today!
FAQs About the California Lifeline Program
How many people in a household can sign up for California Lifeline?
Only one person per household can receive California Lifeline benefits. The program defines a household as anyone living together who shares income and expenses, so even if multiple people qualify, only one can enroll.
More details can be found here.
What documentation do I need to apply for California Lifeline?
You will need to provide proof of eligibility, which can include income documentation or proof of participation in a qualifying public assistance program like Medi-Cal or SSI.
How often do I need to renew my California Lifeline benefits?
California Lifeline requires annual renewal. You will need to confirm your eligibility each year to continue receiving the benefits.