How do you transfer your Lifeline provider?
Apply with the new Lifeline provider and agree to transfer your existing benefit. The new provider handles the switch, and you can port your phone number so you keep it.
- You can transfer at any time in most cases
- Your old phone may be locked to the old provider
- Report enrollments you didn't authorize to USAC
Can you switch Lifeline providers?
Yes. You can transfer your Lifeline benefit to a new provider at any time. Rules that once required waiting before switching no longer apply to most customers. People switch for better coverage, more data, a better phone or better support.
How to transfer your Lifeline provider
- Pick your new provider Compare on our provider page.
- Apply with the new provider Say you're transferring an existing Lifeline benefit.
- Consent to the transfer You'll confirm you want to move your benefit.
- Port your number (optional) Get your account number and PIN from the old provider.
- Activate the new service Your old Lifeline service ends when the transfer completes.
Not sure which option fits you?
Answer 5 quick questions and the Phone Finder matches you with programs, providers and deals.
What happens to your old phone?
A phone from your old provider may be locked to its network. If you want to keep using it, ask the old provider to unlock it, or use a phone you own. See bring your own phone.
Transferring when someone enrolled you without permission
If you find you're enrolled with a provider you never chose, contact that provider, ask them to de-enroll you, and report it to USAC's Lifeline Support Center. Then apply with the provider you want.
Be careful: Ads promising a brand-new free iPhone 17 with no conditions are almost always scams or data harvesting. Real offers come from known carriers or approved Lifeline providers.
What should you check before you switch?
- Compare the network coverage at your home
- Check the new data allowance and phone offer
- Note any balance on paid add-ons with the old provider
- Back up your contacts and photos
Eligibility stays the same
There are two routes to eligibility: program-based (you already receive certain benefits) or income-based (your household earns no more than 135% of the poverty guidelines).
Qualifying programs
- SNAP (food stamps)
- Medicaid
- Supplemental Security Income (SSI)
- Federal Public Housing Assistance (including Section 8)
- Veterans Pension or Survivors Pension
On federally recognized Tribal lands, these also qualify: Bureau of Indian Affairs General Assistance, Tribally Administered TANF, Food Distribution Program on Indian Reservations (FDPIR), Tribal Head Start (income-qualified households).
Income limits
| Household size | Maximum yearly income (135% of poverty guideline) |
|---|---|
| 1 person | $21,128 |
| 2 people | $28,553 |
| 3 people | $35,978 |
| 4 people | $43,403 |
| 5 people | $50,828 |
| 6 people | $58,253 |
| 7 people | $65,678 |
| 8 people | $73,103 |
| Each additional person | add $7,425 |
Figures are based on the 2025 Federal Poverty Guidelines for the 48 contiguous states and DC, rounded. Alaska and Hawaii have higher limits. USAC updates the limits each year, so check lifelinesupport.org for the current figures.
Want an instant answer? Use the Lifeline eligibility checker. It takes under a minute.
Good reasons to transfer
| Problem | What a new provider can fix |
|---|---|
| Poor coverage at home | A provider on a different network |
| Too little data | Larger allowance or unlimited plans |
| Basic phone | Better free phone or iPhone BYO support |
| Bad customer service | Providers with stores or better support |
Documents you may need to transfer
- A current benefit letter or card (SNAP, Medicaid, SSI, public housing, Veterans Pension), or
- Income proof: last year's tax return, three consecutive pay stubs, or a Social Security or unemployment statement
- Government photo ID (driver's license, state ID or passport)
- Proof of address if your ID shows a different one (utility bill or lease)
- The last four digits of your Social Security Number, or a Tribal ID number
Frequently asked questions
Will I lose my benefit if I switch?
No. Your benefit moves to the new provider.
Can I keep my phone number?
Yes, you can port your number.
How long does a transfer take?
Usually a few days, including shipping a new SIM or phone.
Sources & last update
Last reviewed . We check program rules against official FCC and USAC guidance and update pages when rules, income limits or offers change. Spot something out of date? Tell us.