Required Documents for a Free Government Tablet
A complete list of every document you may need to apply for Lifeline, with tips on obtaining them quickly.
In many states, USAC can automatically verify your enrollment in SNAP, Medicaid, and other programs â meaning you may not need to upload any documents. If automatic verification fails, you'll need the documents below.
Required for All Applicants
Government-Issued Photo ID
- Driver's license
- State-issued ID card
- U.S. Passport or passport card
- Military ID
- Tribal ID
Must show your full name and date of birth.
Proof of Current Address
- Utility bill (gas, electric, water)
- Lease or mortgage agreement
- Bank or credit card statement
- Current vehicle registration
- Official government mail
Must be dated within 90 days and show your current address.
Program-Based Eligibility Proof (Choose One)
| Program | Accepted Documents | How to Get It |
|---|---|---|
| SNAP / EBT | Official SNAP benefit award letter or approval notice | State SNAP office, state benefits portal, or request by phone |
| Medicaid | Medicaid card + benefit letter, or Medicaid approval notice | State Medicaid office or healthcare.gov account |
| SSI | SSA benefit verification letter or SSI award letter | Call SSA at 1-800-772-1213 or request online at SSA.gov |
| Federal Housing | Housing assistance award letter or current lease showing subsidy | Your local housing authority or HUD office |
| Veterans Benefits | VA award letter showing pension or survivor benefits | Your VA regional office or eBenefits portal |
| Federal Pell Grant | Financial aid award letter showing Pell Grant amount | Your school's financial aid office or studentaid.gov |
Income-Based Proof (If Not Using Program Above)
- Federal tax return (most recent Form 1040 with all household income)
- Pay stubs from the past 3 months (all jobs, all household members)
- Social Security benefit statement showing monthly payment amount
- Unemployment benefit determination letter
- Retirement or pension statement
- Divorce decree or child support documentation (if applicable)
â Documents That Will NOT Work: EBT card alone (not accepted), screenshot of EBT balance, Medicare card (Medicare â Medicaid), bank statements showing benefit deposits, verbal confirmation of enrollment.
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