Pro Tip
Set a reminder on your phone or calendar to make sure you submit your form before the deadline!
California Lifeline Annual Renewal Process - Keep Your Free Monthly Service
All California LifeLine subscribers must renew their eligibility every year to continue receiving free or discounted wireless service.
If you don’t renew on time, you will be removed from the program and lose access to your Lifeline benefits.
We’re here to help you complete it in minutes. Choose the method that works best for you.
How to renew?
Option 1: Renew Online at the California Lifeline Website
Visit the California LifeLine website
Option 2: Call California Lifeline Administrator
Business hours: 7:00 AM – 7:00 PM (Mon – Fri)
Option 3: Mail Your Renewal Form
Send to: California Lifeline Administrator P.O. Box 138014, Sacramento, CA 95813-8014
Why Recertification Is Important
Recertification confirms that you still meet the eligibility requirements for the Lifeline program. It’s a mandatory yearly process to keep your free or discounted service active.
If you don’t complete your renewal, your Lifeline service will be discontinued, and you will no longer receive benefits.
Key Reminders
• You have 45 days from the date your recertification form is issued to complete and return it.
• Your form will only be mailed to you if you're still within the 45-day window.
• Form reprints are only available within this 45-day period.
• Reminders may be sent via mail, email, or text message — be sure to check regularly.
What If You Miss the Deadline?
If you don’t recertify within the deadline:
• Your Lifeline benefit will be terminated.
• Your phone or internet service may be disconnected.
• You may have to reapply from the beginning.
Do You Still Qualify for California Lifeline?
There are two ways to qualify:
1. Program-Based Eligibility
You or someone in your household participates in government assistance programs like:
Medi-Cal/Medicaid
CalFresh/Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP)
Federal Public Housing Assistance / Section 8
Supplemental Security Income (SSI)
Veterans Pension or Survivors Benefit
Specific Tribal Assistance Programs
Women, Infants and Children Program (WIC)
National School Lunch Program (NSLP)
Temporary Assistance for Needy Families (TANF)
1. California Work Opportunity and Responsibility to Kids (CalWORKs)
2. Stanislaus County Work Opportunity and Responsibility to Kids (StanWORKs)
3. Welfare-to-Work (WTW)
4. Greater Avenues for Independence (GAIN)
2. Income-Based Eligibility
Your household income is at or below California Lifeline income limits.
Still eligible? Then you're entitled to renew your benefit and stay connected!
Household Size
Annual Income Limits
1
$24,200
2
$32,600
3
$41,100
4
$49,600
Each Additional Member
$8,500
Efective June 1, 2025 to May 31, 2026
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Why do I need to renew my California Lifeline benefit?
2. How much time do I have to recertify?
3. How will I know when to renew?
4. What are my options to renew?
5. Do I need to send proof of eligibility?
6. What happens if I miss the deadline?
