If you're on Medi-Cal, CalFresh, SSI, or other assistance, you may qualify for a smartphone and service through the federal Lifeline program. We'll connect you with the right provider.
📍 Now serving CaliforniaSelection varies by provider, eligibility, and availability.
Device models, availability, and any associated costs are determined by the participating Lifeline provider, not by LINC. Availability is subject to eligibility, stock, and provider terms. All product names and brands are the property of their respective owners.
LINC isn't a phone company. We're the middle step — we check what you qualify for and match you with the participating Lifeline provider that fits you best.
Provider names are shown for identification only. All trademarks are the property of their respective owners.
Tap any program you or someone in your home is part of.
Next, let's make sure you have the documents you'll need — it only takes a moment and saves you a trip.
Check my documents →Answer these four questions so we know you're ready. Having everything ready means your appointment takes minutes, not weeks.
We're currently serving California residents only.
A current, unexpired government-issued photo ID — such as a driver's license, state ID, passport, or permanent resident card.
Something current showing your California address — a utility bill, lease, bank statement, or official mail.
This is the one people get wrong most often, so read carefully:
Once you're ready, the sign-up form will appear here.
Fill this out and a local LINC agent in your city will reach out to meet with you.
Tap your program and confirm you have your documents ready.
Fill out the short form so we know how to reach you. It's free and there's no obligation.
We assign a LINC agent near you who meets with you and handles the paperwork with you in person.
We match you with the participating provider that fits you best, and you walk away connected.
Only about 1 in 5 people who qualify for Lifeline actually get it — usually because they never heard about it or the paperwork stopped them. That's what we're here to fix.
Someone from your area meets with you in person — not a call center in another state.
Checking your eligibility with us costs nothing, and there's never any obligation.
Our agents can help you in English or Spanish — whichever is easier for you.
We tell you exactly which documents count — so you don't get turned away for the wrong card.
Submit the form and a member of our team reaches out to set up your appointment.
Seniors, veterans, parents, students — if you qualify, we'll help you get connected.
Our agents cover the Inland Empire and surrounding Southern California communities, and we're expanding.
Don't see your city? Fill out the form anyway — we may still have an agent near you.
Lifeline is a federal program run by the FCC that helps low-income households access phone and internet service. Participating providers offer qualifying customers service plans, and many include a smartphone.
No. We're not a service provider or a government agency. LINC checks what you qualify for and connects you with a participating Lifeline provider. You can also apply directly and free of charge at lifelinesupport.org.
Three things: a valid photo ID, proof of your California address, and proof of your qualifying benefit — a Notice of Action letter or your Medi-Cal BIC card.
An EBT card only shows you have a card, not your current eligibility status or the details needed to verify it. You'll need a Notice of Action letter instead, which you can request from your county social services office, or a Medi-Cal BIC card.
It's the official letter from your county or state showing you've been approved for a benefit like Medi-Cal or CalFresh. If you can't find yours, contact your county social services office and ask for a copy.
No. Checking your eligibility with LINC is completely free and there's no obligation.
No — only one Lifeline benefit is allowed per household, not per person. A household means everyone living together who shares income and expenses.
A LINC agent near you will reach out to set up a time to meet. They'll go over your documents with you and help you get enrolled with the right provider.
It takes a couple of minutes to find out, it's free, and a local agent will handle the rest with you.
See if I qualify →