Consumers experiencing homelessness who apply with a paper form may provide a description of the location where they live as their home address, along with map that allows USAC to identify geographic coordinates for their location. Examples of maps that are acceptable include: a screenshot of an online mapping tool with a pin drop on the consumer’s location; a gas station map with the consumer’s location circled; or a hand-drawn map with identifiable crossroads, landmarks, and distances.
To receive updates from USAC about the status of their application, consumers experiencing homelessness may provide a mailing address of a shelter or another service where they frequently visit. Another option is for the consumer to work with a Lifeline provider that can submit the application on their behalf and update the consumer on the status of their application.
Lastly, if a consumer experiencing homelessness has access to the internet through a public library or other services, they may submit an online application instead of a paper form. The online application has a built-in mapping tool that consumers can use to identify where they live, and they can return to the website after they have submitted their application to see their application status.
Regarding whether the Lifeline discount can be used for a WiFi hotspot, available Lifeline services vary depending on the provider.