Lifeline was established in 1985 as part of the Federal Communications Commission (FCC) which is administered by Universal Service Administrative Company (USAC) and provides a discount on monthly telephone service or internet access for eligible low-income subscribers. Originally dealing with landline phones, the scheme has now been expanded to include mobile phones and broadband internet since these have become more important to the average citizen.

Lifeline helps about 12 million Americans afford phone and internet service:

Job Seekers Keep in Touch: Job applicants can reach out to employers remotely, apply on the web and interview by video.

Education: Students can use online learning material and homework.

Health: Patients can book a telehealth appointment and communicate with their medical providers.

Emergency Help: Homes may request help in an emergency.

The discount — $9.25 a month (or up to $34.25 a month for eligible tribal households) — lowers the cost of essential communications services. The benefit can be applied to a home phone, or a mobile plan, or home internet, but not simultaneously to all three.