Revisions to the 2016 Lifeline Modernization Order

Changes from the 2016 Lifeline Modernization Order included revisions to accepted eligibility documentation for recipients of the Lifeline Program. As part of the changes which went into effect December 2, 2016, the program has added two new benefits as acceptable proof of eligibility for Lifeline: the Veterans Pension and/or the Survivors Pension Benefit.

Eligibility for both benefits, administered by the U.S. Department of Veteran Affairs, require the yearly family income to meet requirements set by Congress. Consequently, low-income U.S. Veterans who receive them also meet the income criteria for Lifeline, however, there are criteria for each of these benefits in addition to the income requirements.

What These Lifeline Program Changes Mean For Veterans

Veterans who receive the Veterans Pension and/or Survivors Pensions benefits are now eligible for a free cell phone through the national Lifeline Program. Qualifying U.S. Veterans can enroll in this program, which offers both a free cell phone and discounted or free cell phone service to eligible Lifeline program participants.

Read More About Cell Phones For Veterans

More information on Veteran Pension benefits eligibility can be found on the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs website.

Source: http://www.usac.org/li/about/outreach/newsletters/2017/Jan26.aspx