Federal rules prohibit eligible consumers from receiving more than one Lifeline service per household

Lifeline Wireline Service

Cox Communications

Verizon

YMax Communications

Lifeline Wireless Service

With approval by the Federal Communications Commission, wireless telephone service providers have begun offering Lifeline service to eligible low-income customers. Several have received Public Utilities Commission approval to operate in order to offer Lifeline service in Rhode Island. The terms offered by these providers vary. Consumers should compare terms to determine which provider is best suited to their needs. These Lifeline accounts are limited to one per household. In addition, applicants cannot currently receive Lifeline service on their household phone.

FCC Lifeline Public Service Announcements

Wireless carriers approved to provide Lifeline service in Rhode Island:

Assurance Wireless (Virgin Mobile, USA, LP)

Blue Jay Wireless

Budget Mobile (Budget Prepay, Inc.)

Cintex Wireless

Life Wireless (Telrite Corporation)

Nexus Communications

Safelink Wireless (TracFone Wireless, LLC)

True Wireless

YourTel America

These links are offered to assist consumers in comparing service plans. Web addresses and site navigation may change from time to time, at the discretion of the service providers.

Frequently Asked Questions:

What is Lifeline wireless service?

In recent years, wireless telecommunications providers have been granted Federal Communications Commission approval to be eligible for funds from the Universal Services Fee, which had earlier supported only wireline discounted telephone service for low-income customers. Eligible applicants can now receive discounted wireless service under the program through carriers approved by the PUC.

Who is eligible?

Generally, anyone who is receiving a form of state or federal public assistance such as Supplemental Social Security income, aid from the Family Independence Program, the Supplemental Nutritional Assistance Program, the Low Income Home Energy Assistance Program, as well as Medicaid eligibility.

Can I have more than one Lifeline account in my household?

No, the program is limited to one Lifeline account (either wireline or wireless) per household.

Are all calling plans the same?

No, applicants should review the plans offered by each carrier and determine which terms best suit their needs. For example, the number of minutes, activation fees, and features may differ.