FCC Teams Up to Verify Lifeline Internet Subsidy Qualifiers
Published Date: 2/18/2026
Notice
Summary
The FCC and USAC are teaming up with Indiana’s Family Services to double-check who really qualifies for Lifeline and the Affordable Connectivity Program, which help low-income folks get cheaper internet and phone service. This new computer matching program starts March 20, 2026, runs for 18 months, and aims to keep the programs fair and on track. If you’re involved, watch for updates and get ready to share info to keep your benefits.
Analyzed Economic Effects
2 provisions identified: 1 benefits, 1 costs, 0 mixed.
Indiana Lifeline/ACP Eligibility Checks
Starting March 20, 2026, the FCC and USAC will run a computer matching program with the Indiana Family and Social Services Administration for 18 months to verify whether people who applied for or receive Lifeline or the Affordable Connectivity Program (ACP) are enrolled in SNAP or Medicaid in Indiana. If you are an applicant, subscriber, a household member who enables eligibility, or a parent/guardian qualifying through a minor, your Indiana SNAP or Medicaid enrollment may be checked to confirm Lifeline/ACP eligibility.
Your Personal Data Sent for Verification
The National Verifier will send the last four digits of your Social Security Number, your date of birth, and your first and last name to the Indiana Family and Social Services Administration to determine whether you are enrolled in Indiana SNAP or Medicaid. Indiana will reply 'yes' or 'no' about enrollment as part of this eligibility check during the 18-month matching program that begins March 20, 2026.
Personalized for You
How does this regulation affect your finances?
Personalize government policy and PRIA will tell you what this federal register document means for your household, plus every other regulation we track. PRIA reads each provision against your financial profile to show you exactly what matters to your wallet.
Key Dates
Department and Agencies
Related Federal Register Documents
2026-20590, Information Collection Being Reviewed by the Federal Communications Commission
The FCC is asking for your thoughts on how it collects info about radiofrequency safety rules. This affects individuals, businesses, and governments who must report or share info sometimes. They want to make the process easier and clearer, especially for small businesses, and need your comments by December 7, 2026.
2026-20681, Information Collection Being Submitted for Review and Approval to Office of Management and Budget
The Federal Communications Commission (FCC) is asking the public and other agencies to comment on a paperwork update aimed at making things easier, especially for small businesses with fewer than 25 employees. They want your thoughts by November 9, 2026, to help reduce the hassle and keep everything running smoothly. This is part of a government effort to cut down on unnecessary forms and save time and money.
2026-20607, Information Collections Being Submitted for Review and Approval to Office of Management and Budget
The Federal Communications Commission (FCC) is asking the public and other agencies to review and comment on their paperwork plans to make things easier, especially for small businesses with fewer than 25 employees. They want feedback by November 9, 2026, to help reduce the time and hassle of filling out forms. This is part of a government effort to cut down on unnecessary paperwork and save everyone time and money.
2026-20591, Information Collection Being Reviewed by the Federal Communications Commission Under Delegated Authority
The FCC is checking in on its paperwork rules for TV stations using Next Gen TV technology to make sure they're not too tricky or time-consuming. Businesses, governments, and nonprofits involved with local TV broadcasts might need to share info, but the FCC wants to keep it simple and clear. If you have thoughts, speak up by December 7, 2026, so the FCC can keep things smooth and fair without extra costs or hassle.
2026-20676, Information Collection Being Reviewed by the Federal Communications Commission Under Delegated Authority
The FCC is checking in on its paperwork rules for cable companies and local governments to make sure the info they collect is useful and not too much work. They want your thoughts on how to make the process easier, especially for small businesses with fewer than 25 employees. If you want to share your ideas, send them in by December 7, 2026—this helps keep things fair and smooth for everyone involved.
2026-20464, Radio Broadcasting Services; Selmer, Tennessee
The FCC is removing a vacant FM radio channel (288A) in Selmer, Tennessee, because it’s too close to another station and breaks spacing rules. This change affects radio broadcasters and helps keep the airwaves clear and fair. The rule takes effect on November 12, 2026, with no costs involved for the public.
Previous / Next Documents
Previous: 2026-03107, Elem Indian Colony of Pomo Indians of the Sulphur Bank Rancheria, California; Liquor Control Ordinance
The Elem Indian Colony of Pomo Indians in California just passed a new Liquor Control Ordinance that starts on March 20, 2026. This new rule lets the tribe manage how alcohol is sold, made, and used on their land, keeping things safe and fair. It affects everyone on the reservation and helps the tribe take charge of liquor activities without federal interference.
Next: 2026-03109, Categorical Exclusion Adoption Public Notice
NASA is adopting special environmental shortcuts called categorical exclusions (CATEXs) from other federal agencies to speed up reviews for projects that are similar to theirs. This means NASA can move faster on certain activities without extra paperwork, starting February 18, 2026. If you’re involved in NASA projects, expect quicker decisions with no extra costs or delays!