The 'One-Per-Household' Rule (Worksheet Explained)

USAC defines a household as people living together who share income and expenses. Two unrelated adults at one address can each qualify.

The 'one-per-household' rule is the most misunderstood part of Lifeline. It does not mean one Lifeline benefit per address. It means one Lifeline benefit per household — and households and addresses are not the same thing. This guide breaks down what USAC actually means.

USAC's definition of a household

A household is everyone who lives at the same address AND shares income and household expenses. Two roommates who split rent equally but manage their own income, food, and bills separately are two households. A married couple living with their adult child who pays them rent is two households (the couple and the adult child).

When two households share an address

Two unrelated adults at one address can each receive their own Lifeline benefit if they're financially independent. To document this, USAC requires both applicants to complete the Lifeline Household Worksheet, which asks specifically about shared income, shared bills, and shared meals. Submit the Worksheet with your National Verifier application.

Related: Independent state-level resources for Lifeline applicants.

What does NOT make a household

Sharing an address. A roof. A kitchen. The Worksheet asks about money: do you and the other person share income, share rent or mortgage payments, share utility bills, share most meals? If most of those are 'no,' you're a separate household.

Common scenarios

Multi-generational families: an elderly parent living with adult children is usually a separate household if the parent's income and bills are separate. Group homes and assisted living: typically each resident is a separate household. College roommates: typically separate households. Married couples: always one household.

Next steps

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