Link-Up America (Tribal Lands)
People living on federally recognized Tribal lands rely on phone service as an important part of daily life. The Link-Up America (Tribal Lands) program, offered alongside the Lifeline benefit, helps make this possible by lowering both the cost of starting new phone service and the ongoing monthly bill. If you live on eligible Tribal lands, you could qualify for a free government phone and generous discounts on service.
What is Link-Up America (Tribal Lands)?
Link-Up America is a one-time setup assistance program designed specifically for Tribal residents. It reduces the activation or connection cost of phone service at your primary home, making it easier and more affordable to get started. This benefit is offered in addition to the monthly Lifeline discount, so you can save money on both the setup and the service itself.
Here’s what you can get with Link-Up America:
- Up to $100 off the cost of starting phone service (voice service only)
- An interest-free deferred payment plan for up to $200 in service initiation charges, spread over 12 months
- Access to free phone programs through participating providers when combined with California Lifeline.
This is a once-per-household-per-address benefit. You can use Link-Up again only if you change your primary residence.
How It Works with the Lifeline Program?
The Lifeline program is a federal initiative that provides a monthly discount on phone or internet service for qualifying low-income households. For those living on Tribal lands, Lifeline offers enhanced support that boosts the monthly discount significantly.
Here’s a quick comparison:
| Program | What It Covers | Benefit Amount |
|---|---|---|
| Lifeline (Tribal) | Monthly phone or internet discount | Up to $34.25/month (includes $9.25 federal + $25 tribal boost) |
| Link-Up America (Tribal Lands) | Service initiation costs | Up to $100 off activation, or interest-free payment plan up to $200 |
When you combine both programs, you’re reducing the cost to connect and the cost to stay connected—often qualifying you for a free government phone and affordable service.
Who Qualifies?
You may be eligible if:
- You live on federally recognized Tribal lands (including reservations, pueblos, colonies, Alaska Native regions, Hawaiian Home Lands, or other FCC-approved Tribal areas).
- Your household qualifies if it meets income limits or takes part in programs like SNAP, Medicaid, SSI, Federal Public Housing Assistance, or eligible Tribal programs.
How to Apply for Link-Up America (Tribal Lands)
- Check your eligibility through the National Verifier.
- Reach out to a local provider that offers both Lifeline and Link-Up services
- Submit proof of eligibility and your residential address on Tribal lands.
- Choose whether to receive the $100 activation discount or the no-interest payment plan for setup fees.
Final Thoughts
The Link-Up America (Tribal Lands) program is an incredible opportunity for eligible Tribal residents to get connected without worrying about high upfront costs. When paired with the Lifeline program, it not only lowers your monthly bill but can also help you secure a free government phone so you can stay connected to work, school, healthcare, and loved ones.
