Annual Recertification Guide
Every Lifeline subscriber must recertify their eligibility once a year. Recertification confirms to USAC that you still qualify for the program — that you still live in your state, still receive a qualifying assistance program (or still meet the income limit), and still want the benefit. The process takes about five minutes online and is free.
When does recertification happen?
Your recertification window opens roughly 60 days before the anniversary of your original enrollment. USAC mails a paper notice to your address and emails one if you provided an address. The window is typically 60 days long; if you don't recertify within that window, USAC suspends your benefit, gives you 30 more days to act, and then de-enrolls you.
How to recertify online (the fast path)
- Go to checklifeline.org (the USAC consumer portal).
- Log in with the email address and password you set up during enrollment.
- Confirm or update your address.
- Confirm or update your qualifying program (SNAP, Medicaid, SSI, etc.) or income.
- Re-sign the certification statement.
Recertification by phone or mail
If you can't recertify online, USAC accepts paper recertifications mailed to USAC Lifeline Support Center, P.O. Box 7081, London, KY 40742. You can also recertify by phone at 1-855-359-4299. Both options take longer than the online portal — plan for two to three weeks for processing.
What if I missed the deadline?
If your benefit was de-enrolled because you missed recertification, you can reapply at any time — but you'll have to start a fresh application from scratch with a carrier of your choice. The carrier you previously used will still see you in their system; some can re-instate the same line, others will issue a new SIM. There is no penalty period and no waiting time before you can reapply.
Keep your line active separately
Separate from the annual recertification, every Lifeline line must be used at least once every 30 days. A single text, call, or data session counts. Lines that go 30 days without use are flagged for non-use and de-enrolled after a 15-day grace period. The fix is simple: send yourself a text on the first of every month.
Continue reading: browse state-by-state Lifeline guides or compare approved carriers.