The direct phone number for AT&T Lifeline program assistance is 800.377.9450. This number connects you with the AT&T Lifeline Customer Care Center, which can confirm if AT&T offers the federal Lifeline discount on wireless service in your specific location.
It is critical to note that AT&T Wireless does not typically provide a free cell phone through the federal Lifeline program. Instead, AT&T applies a significant monthly discount to an existing or new wireless service plan for eligible low-income customers. This article clarifies AT&T’s participation, explains how to apply, and lists other providers that do offer free devices.
How to Apply for the AT&T Lifeline Discount
The Lifeline program is a federal benefit that lowers the monthly cost of wireless or home phone service for qualifying low-income households. The application process is generally two-fold: Federal verification, followed by AT&T enrollment.
Step 1: Confirm Federal Eligibility via the National Verifier
Before contacting AT&T, you must first be approved for the Lifeline benefit by the federal government.
- Access the National Verifier: Go to the official Lifeline National Verifier website (org) or call the Lifeline Support Center at 800.234.9473.
- Submit Your Application: The National Verifier determines your eligibility based on income guidelines or participation in approved government assistance programs (see eligibility table below).
- Receive Approval: Once your eligibility is confirmed, the National Verifier will provide you with an eligibility decision.
Step 2: Contact AT&T to Apply the Discount
After receiving federal approval, you can contact AT&T to apply the discount to your wireless plan.
- AT&T Lifeline Customer Care Number: 377.9450
- Operating Hours: Monday through Friday, 8 a.m. to 8 p.m. Eastern Time.
When you call, a representative will check to ensure AT&T is an authorized Lifeline provider in your state and location and will then help you apply the monthly discount to your selected wireless plan.
AT&T Lifeline vs. “Free Government Phone” Providers
The most important distinction to understand is that AT&T’s approach to the Lifeline program focuses on discounted service, not a free device.
| Feature | AT&T Lifeline Discount | “Free Phone” Lifeline Providers (e.g., AirTalk, Life Wireless) |
| Device | You must use your own device or purchase a device separately. AT&T provides no cost discount phones. | Often provides a free smartphone to the customer upon enrollment. |
| Service Discount | Provides a monthly discount of at least $5.25 (up to $34.25 on Tribal lands) applied to an AT&T wireless bill. | Uses the discount to offer a plan that is completely free (e.g., free talk, text, and data). |
| Benefit Focus | Ideal for customers who want to keep their AT&T service and simply lower their monthly bill. | Ideal for customers who need both a phone and free service and don’t require the AT&T network specifically. |
If your primary goal is to get a free cell phone with free monthly service, you should apply for the Lifeline program with a participating provider that specifically offers device benefits.
Lifeline Eligibility Requirements
Eligibility for the federal Lifeline discount is the same regardless of the provider you choose and is based on either your income or your participation in government assistance programs.
Qualification Criteria
You may qualify for the Lifeline benefit if your household income is at or below 135% of the Federal Poverty Guidelines OR if you, or someone in your household, participates in one of the following federal programs:
| Federal Assistance Program | Tribal Assistance Program (for those on Tribal Lands) |
| Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP), formerly Food Stamps | Bureau of Indian Affairs General Assistance |
| Medicaid | Tribal Temporary Assistance for Needy Families (Tribal TANF) |
| Supplemental Security Income (SSI) | Tribal Head Start (meeting income qualifying standards) |
| Federal Public Housing Assistance (FPHA) | Food Distribution Program on Indian Reservations (FDPIR) |
| Veterans Pension and Survivors Benefit |
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
- Does the Lifeline discount apply to AT&T Prepaid service?
Yes. The federal Lifeline discount can often be applied to an AT&T Wireless Prepaid service plan. The discount of at least $5.25 is credited to your eligible Prepaid plan each month, reducing your overall cost. You must still be federally approved by the National Verifier first.
- Can I get more than one Lifeline discount for my household?
No. The Lifeline program is strictly limited to one discount per household (per physical address), not per person. This discount can be applied to either one wireless phone service or one home phone/internet service, but not both at the same time.
- What is the Emergency Communications Benefit?
The Safe Connections Act (SCA) Emergency Communications Benefit is a temporary Lifeline support for domestic violence survivors experiencing financial hardship. This benefit provides an enhanced monthly discount for up to six months. Survivors must first successfully request line separation and then apply through the National Verifier, often using the separate AT&T phone number 800.377.9450 for enrollment assistance.
- What is the separate number for the Lifeline Support Center?
If you have general questions about the application or eligibility process for the Lifeline program before contacting AT&T, you can call the Lifeline Support Center directly at 800.234.9473. This is managed by the Universal Service Administrative Company (USAC), which administers the program nationwide.
