North Carolina Joins FCC in Double-Checking Lifeline Phone Subsidy Qualifications
Published Date: 2/25/2025
Notice
Summary
The FCC and USAC are teaming up with North Carolina’s Health Department to double-check who qualifies for Lifeline and the Affordable Connectivity Program (ACP), which help low-income folks get discounted internet and phone services. This new computer matching program starts March 27, 2025, runs for 18 months, and aims to keep these programs fair and accurate. If you’re involved, now’s the time to send your comments before the March 27 deadline!
Analyzed Economic Effects
2 provisions identified: 0 benefits, 1 costs, 1 mixed.
SNAP Data Check for Lifeline and ACP
The FCC and USAC will run a computer matching program with the North Carolina Department of Health and Human Services starting March 27, 2025 to check whether Lifeline and Affordable Connectivity Program (ACP) applicants or subscribers in North Carolina receive SNAP. The program runs for 18 months (concluding on September 27, 2026) and written comments are due March 27, 2025. This will be used to verify eligibility for Lifeline and ACP when Lifeline qualification (such as SNAP participation) is a criterion.
Personal Data Shared for Verification
To perform the SNAP check, the National Verifier will send the last four digits of the applicant's Social Security Number, date of birth, and first and last name to the North Carolina Department of Health and Human Services, which will reply yes or no on SNAP enrollment. The records come from the Lifeline and ACP systems of records and will be used only to determine SNAP participation for eligibility verification.
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Key Dates
Department and Agencies
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Previous / Next Documents
Previous: 2025-03051, Privacy Act of 1974; Matching Program
The FCC and USAC are teaming up with Missouri’s Department of Social Services to double-check who qualifies for Lifeline and the Affordable Connectivity Program (ACP), which help low-income folks get affordable internet and phone service. This new computer matching program starts March 27, 2025, runs for 18 months, and aims to keep these programs fair and on track. If you want to speak up, send your comments by March 27, 2025!
Next: 2025-03053, Privacy Act of 1974; Matching Program
The FCC and USAC are teaming up with Tennessee’s Department of Human Services to double-check who qualifies for Lifeline and the Affordable Connectivity Program, which help low-income folks get affordable internet and phone service. This new computer matching program starts March 27, 2025, runs for 18 months, and aims to keep these programs fair and accurate. If you want to share your thoughts, comments are due by March 27, 2025.