Independent Lifeline page
Changing Lifeline companies: plan your move
Compare the new service, ask about your number and understand the benefit-transfer process before you commit.
Your starting point
A Lifeline benefit transfer and keeping a phone number are different questions. Discuss both with the companies involved; this site does not submit a transfer.
No application, account change or eligibility decision takes place on this website. Official resources appear at the end of the page.
Compare the reason for switching
Write down what you want to improve: service coverage, plan details, device terms, support or compatibility. Use the plan comparison to turn a device headline into questions you can ask a company.
Review the actual offer and any costs with the company. A general page cannot confirm coverage at an address or promise a particular device. Keep your current account details private while you research.
Ask the new company about the benefit transfer
USAC directs consumers to contact the new participating company to request a Lifeline benefit transfer. A new application may be needed, and the new company needs consent for the transfer. The completed transfer ends the benefit with the previous company.
USAC’s change-company page and its general FAQ use different wording about transfer timing. Confirm current timing and eligibility with the new company instead of using this page as a promise that a transfer can happen immediately.
Ask separately about keeping your number
Tell the companies that keeping your number matters. Ask which account information is required, whether the phone you want to use is compatible, and what sequence they recommend for your situation. Do not publish account numbers or transfer credentials here.
Write down the company’s instructions and any questions about activation or service continuity. The benefit-transfer guidance is not a guarantee of number portability, device compatibility or uninterrupted service in your case.
Review the whole service decision
Compare the plan, network, device, potential costs and customer support before agreeing to new terms. A transfer does not mean your preferred phone is held in inventory. If the offer changes, revisit your comparison rather than assuming that an older screenshot still applies.
Use the official company and program resources at the end when you are ready to verify your next action. This site does not cancel service, enroll you or transfer a number on your behalf.
Official resources and current provider instructions
Reviewed 26 October 2026. Read the original instructions before submitting private information or requesting an account action.