In New York, Lifeline follows federal rules: the same qualifying programs, the same 135% income limit and the National Verifier for eligibility. What makes New York different is a separate state law for home internet affordability, which many residents confuse with Lifeline.
Qualifying in New York
- SNAP. New York's benefits card is the Common Benefit Identification Card (CBIC).
- Medicaid, including coverage through NY State of Health.
- SSI, Federal Public Housing Assistance (including NYCHA public housing and Section 8) and the Veterans Pension.
- Household income at or below $21,546 for one person, or $44,550 for four (2026).
135% of the 2026 Federal Poverty Guidelines, 48 contiguous states and D.C. Household size shown under each bar.
Source: USAC Lifeline Support – How to Qualify; HHS – Poverty Guidelines
Lifeline vs. New York's Affordable Broadband Act
Since January 2025, New York's Affordable Broadband Act (ABA) has required home internet providers with more than 20,000 customers to offer low-income plans capped at $15 a month (at least 25 Mbps) or $20 a month (at least 200 Mbps).
Applies to home internet providers with more than 20,000 customers. Separate from Lifeline.
| Federal Lifeline | NY Affordable Broadband Act | |
|---|---|---|
| What it covers | Discount on phone or internet service, including wireless | Low-cost home internet plans |
| Who offers it | Approved Lifeline providers like Combo Wireless | Large home internet providers |
| Eligibility includes | SNAP, Medicaid, SSI, FPHA, Veterans Pension, income | SNAP, Medicaid, school lunch, SCRIE/DRIE, utility affordability programs |
They're separate. The ABA applies to home internet, and Combo Wireless provides wireless service, so ask your home internet provider directly about ABA plans. Remember that Lifeline is limited to one benefit per household, whichever service you apply it to.
Free device combos for New Yorkers
For apartment households with limited space, compact pairings are popular: the Galaxy Z Flip with a tablet, or the all-Apple iPhone & iPad. All nine combos are available.
Tribal nations in New York
New York is home to several federally recognized Tribal nations, including the Seneca Nation, Onondaga Nation, Oneida Indian Nation, Saint Regis Mohawk Tribe and Shinnecock Indian Nation. Eligible residents of Tribal lands may receive the enhanced benefit. See Tribal Lifeline.
How to apply in New York
- Apply online and choose your combo.
- Your eligibility is checked through the National Verifier. Learn how it works in our National Verifier guide.
- After approval, your line is activated on the T-Mobile network and your devices ship free.
Questions or complaints? Email support@combowireless.com first. The New York State Department of Public Service handles utility and telecom complaints.
New York FAQs
Does NYCHA housing qualify me?
Public housing is part of Federal Public Housing Assistance, a Lifeline qualifying program.
Can I have Lifeline and a $15 ABA internet plan?
The ABA plan is a separate state requirement for home internet providers. Lifeline is limited to one benefit per household, so if you apply Lifeline to wireless service with us, it can't also be applied to your home internet. Ask your internet provider about ABA eligibility.
Is there a New York state Lifeline program like California's?
No. New York Lifeline follows the federal program's rules and income limits.