Making telecommunications services more affordable for low-income households.
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Overview
The Lifeline Program is a federal and local initiative that makes telecommunications services more affordable for low-income households. Overseen by the Federal Communications Commission (FCC) and the Public Service Commission of the District of Columbia (DCPSC), Lifeline provides eligible subscribers with a monthly discount on their telephone or broadband services. The program's core purpose is to ensure residents can maintain the essential connectivity required to access jobs, healthcare, and educational opportunities.
The DCPSC highlights this assistance each September during National Digital Connectivity and Lifeline Awareness Week. Additionally, following the end of the federal Affordable Connectivity Program (ACP), Lifeline serves as the primary assistance option for telecommunications utility services.
Economy II (Local Wireline Service)
While the DCPSC does not regulate cable or internet providers in the District, it does oversee local wireline telephone service. In the District, the wireline Lifeline program is known as Economy II and is provided by Verizon DC.
Economy II offers discounted wireline local telephone service with unlimited calling within the DC metropolitan area:
- Qualified DC residents under age 65: $3.00 per month
- Qualified DC seniors (age 65 and older): $1.00 per month
Note: Federal FCC rules limit the Lifeline discount to one service per household. Customers may apply the discount to either wireline or wireless/broadband service, but not both simultaneously. Once enrolled, subscribers must recertify their eligibility annually with their provider to maintain their discount.
Do I Qualify?
Eligibility is based on income or participation in specific assistance programs. To qualify for Lifeline, subscribers must meet one of the following criteria:
- Have a household income at or below 135% of the federal poverty guidelines
- Participate in Medicaid
- Participate in the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP/Food Stamps)
- Receive Supplemental Security Income (SSI)
- Receive Federal Public Housing Assistance (Section 8)
- Receive a veterans pension or survivors benefit
How to Apply
Wireless and Broadband Services
To apply for the federal Lifeline program, verify your eligibility, or find participating wireless and broadband providers in the District, visit the national portal at LifelineSupport.org.
Economy II Wireline Service
To apply specifically for the Economy II wireline telephone service in the District, contact Verizon directly at 1-800-234-9473 to request an application and verify eligibility.
Additional Resources
If you have questions about utility discount programs or experience an issue with your service, please contact the DCPSC Office of Consumer Services.