Lifeline Benefit at Cellcom: Affordable Wireless & Internet for All

lifeline + united way - family sitting together using internet

Lifeline Benefit at Cellcom: Affordable Wireless & Internet for All

February 10, 2025 – Access to reliable communication tools has become a necessity for work, education, healthcare, and keeping connected with loved ones. Yet, for many low-income households, the cost of phone or internet services can be an overwhelming burden. That’s where the Lifeline Program steps in and Cellcom proudly partners to make connectivity affordable and accessible to everyone. 

 

Lifeline at Cellcom and Its Key Features

At Cellcom, we’ve partnered with the Lifeline Program for over 20 years to ensure every household can afford reliable communication services. This pairing allows us to bundle Lifeline discounts with our affordable phone and internet plans, offering you solutions for your needs. 

Here are some of the standout features when you choose Cellcom for Lifeline:

Inclusive Plans: Get unlimited talk, text, and data with plans starting as low as $20/month (plus taxes) for postpaid or $25/month (including taxes) for prepaid options. 

Flexible Options: Choose from postpaid or prepaid plans based on your budget. Prepaid plans come with no credit checks or long-term contracts. 

Tribal Plans: More robust discounts and tailored plans for individuals living on Tribal lands. Tribal Lifeline plans starting as low as $5/month (plus taxes) for postpaid or $10/month (including taxes) for prepaid.

Free phone: Get a free phone on postpaid plans (select phone available). 

 

What is the Lifeline Program?

The Lifeline Program is a federal initiative designed by the Federal Communications Commission (FCC) to reduce the cost of phone and internet services for eligible low-income households. Since its inception in 1985, this program has helped families and individuals stay connected through affordable communication options. Here's how it works:

  • Discounts: Offers up to $9.25 per month off phone or internet services, or up to $34.25 for residents living on Tribal lands.
  • Coverage: Includes wireless cell phone service, home phone service, and internet.
  • Eligibility: Qualification is based on income (at or below 135% of the Federal Poverty Guidelines) or enrollment in federal assistance programs like SNAP or Medicaid.
  • Limitations: Only one benefit is available per household (either phone or internet), ensuring the program's resources are distributed fairly.

How Lifeline Helps Bridge the Digital Divide

Providing Access to Essential Resources 

With a reliable phone or internet connection, Lifeline users can access education, apply for jobs, attend telehealth appointments, and even connect to emergency services. 

Reducing Financial Barriers 

By addressing the high costs of modern connectivity, Lifeline allows low-income families to prioritize other essentials, like food, housing, and healthcare.

Promoting Inclusion and Empowerment 

Staying in touch with loved ones, accessing news, or engaging in social and cultural activities ensures households remain part of an increasingly digital world.

Why Choose Cellcom as your Lifeline Provider?

Cellcom offers standout advantages that make life easier and your connection more reliable. As a top provider in Wisconsin that offers Lifeline, here’s why Cellcom should be your choice for Lifeline benefits:

Affordable Options Tailored to You: We combine discounted rates with flexible plans, ensuring every family can find a solution that works for their budget.

Extensive Network Coverage: With a local focus, Cellcom provides top-quality service and dependable coverage in rural, suburban, and urban areas.

Community Commitment: For over 20 years, we’ve focused on delivering affordable communication options with Lifeline that improve the lives of families in underserved areas.

How to Get Started with Lifeline

Signing up for the Lifeline Program through Cellcom is simple. Follow these four simple steps to ensure your household stays connected:

Step 1

Check Your Eligibility

Qualify for the Lifeline Program by meeting at least one of these requirements:

  • Income-Based Eligibility: Household income at or below 135% of the Federal Poverty Guidelines.
  • Program-Based Eligibility: Enrolled in assistance programs such as:
    • Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP)
    • Medicaid
    • Supplemental Security Income (SSI)
    • Veterans Pension or Survivors Benefit
    • Tribal-specific programs 

Step 2

Gather the Required Documents

To apply, you'll need documentation to verify your eligibility. This could include:

  • Proof of income (pay stubs, tax returns, or benefit letters).
  • Program verification (a letter of benefits or official document of program participation).
  • Government-issued identification (driver’s license, passport, or state ID).

Step 3

Apply Through the National Verifier

  • Submit an application through the National Verifier.
  • Provide your personal information, upload documents, and complete the eligibility process.

Step 4

Select Cellcom as Your Service Provider 

Once approved, connect with Cellcom:

  • Visit your local Cellcom store, website, or contact our customer care team at 800-236-0055.
  • Provide your National Verifier approval code to proceed.
  • Choose a Lifeline-eligible plan that aligns with your needs (phone or internet service).
Empower Your Household with Affordable Connectivity

Staying connected shouldn’t be a luxury, and with Lifeline at Cellcom, it doesn’t have to be. Whether you need reliable internet for schooling, affordable phone plans to stay connected with loved ones, or a strong network for business opportunities, Cellcom is here to help. 

Call us today at 800-236-0055, learn more online, or visit your nearest Cellcom location to take advantage of Lifeline benefits.

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