New York Lifeline Eligibility & Phone Plans
New York Lifeline 2026: compare eligible programs, monthly discounts, carrier data plans and keeping your phone number.
New York applicants may qualify for Lifeline through Medicaid, SNAP, SSI, other recognized programs or income at or below 135% of federal poverty guidelines. The standard federal discount is up to $9.25 per month, or up to $34.25 on qualifying Tribal lands. In 2026, the one-person income threshold is $21,546 in the contiguous states. Verify eligibility with USAC.
2026 New York enrollment process
Qualifying New York households should check the National Verifier, then compare address-level plans and published broadband labels. Verify that the carrier supports your SIM/eSIM and number transfer. See the relevant public program site for current state-specific instructions.
Federal 2026 income and program checks
| Household size | 135% income limit in 48 states / DC |
|---|---|
| 1 | $21,546 |
| 2 | $29,214 |
| 3 | $36,882 |
| 4 | $44,550 |
SNAP, Medicaid, SSI, qualifying housing assistance and certain Veterans or Tribal programs can also qualify. Limits for Alaska and Hawaii differ. Only one Lifeline benefit is allowed per economic household.
Carrier lookup and phone choices
| Carrier to research | Official site | Plan and device check |
|---|---|---|
| AirTalk Wireless | Open provider site | Enter your ZIP code. Check its current Broadband Facts label, monthly data, hotspot allowance, device options and applicable charges. |
| TAG Mobile | Open provider site | Enter your ZIP code. Check its current Broadband Facts label, monthly data, hotspot allowance, device options and applicable charges. |
| Assurance Wireless | Open provider site | Enter your ZIP code. Check its current Broadband Facts label, monthly data, hotspot allowance, device options and applicable charges. |
| SafeLink Wireless | Open provider site | Enter your ZIP code. Check its current Broadband Facts label, monthly data, hotspot allowance, device options and applicable charges. |
| TruConnect | Open provider site | Enter your ZIP code. Check its current Broadband Facts label, monthly data, hotspot allowance, device options and applicable charges. |
| Life Wireless | Open provider site | Enter your ZIP code. Check its current Broadband Facts label, monthly data, hotspot allowance, device options and applicable charges. |
Check carrier participation for the ZIP, local network coverage, exact data allotment, activation support and any device promotion. A free iPhone is never automatically supplied by the government.
BYOD and keeping your number
Verify the IMEI and carrier lock of your handset before requesting activation. If porting an existing number, keep the current line open and follow the number-transfer checklist.
Official references: USAC Consumer Eligibility · USAC Minimum Service Standards · FCC Lifeline.
Frequently asked questions
Can New Yorkers apply with Medicaid?+
Yes. Medicaid is a qualifying Lifeline program, subject to verification.
Can I keep a New York mobile number?+
Often yes, if the line is active and the receiving provider supports the transfer.