Everything You Need to Know About USAC’s Recertification Process

At Excess Telecom, we want to ensure you continue enjoying the benefits you deserve—especially when it comes to staying connected.

If you’ve recently received a notice from USAC (the Universal Service Administrative Company) or Excess Telecom about the Lifeline recertification process, we’re here to guide you every step of the way.

What Is the Lifeline Recertification Process?

The Federal Lifeline program is designed to help make phone and internet service more affordable for eligible, low-income customers. Administered by USAC, this program ensures that people who qualify have consistent access to essential communications services.

Each year, USAC checks in with participants to confirm they still qualify. This “recertification” process simply involves reviewing your information to ensure you meet the current eligibility requirements. If you receive a notice from USAC, it means you need to certify (or update) your details and possibly submit supporting documents to continue receiving the Lifeline discount.

Why Am I Being Entered into This Process?

There are a few reasons you might be asked to recertify:

Routine Annual Check: If it’s been a year since your last certification, USAC will reach out to confirm your eligibility again.
Information Updates: If USAC’s records aren’t up to date, or if they can’t certify you through automated systems, you may need to provide additional information.
Change in Eligibility Factors: Perhaps you switched programs, or your income changed—anything that might affect your Lifeline eligibility prompts a recertification request.

USAC’s data checks will automatically recertify your status if possible. If you are receiving communication saying you need to reverify your status, that means the automatic check was unable to confirm your status.

When this happens, you have 60 days to complete the Recertification Form or you will be automatically disconnected.

How do I Re-Certify my Status?

In order to re-certify your status, you should first ensure that you are still eligible. Review the Federal Lifeline Eligibility Criteria before moving forward. For more detailed information, you can visit USAC’s Eligibility Certification page.

Once you have confirmed you are still eligible, you must complete the recertification form. There are three options available at this stage:

1. Online: Complete the recertification form online

2. Mail: Complete the Recertification Form (English or Spanish) and send it with copies of your proof documentation to:

Lifeline Support Center

PO Box 1000

Horseheads, NY 14845

3. Call: This option is only available if you do not have to provide proof documentation. Call (855) 359-4299, enter the application ID number found on your letter, and follow the prompts.

To recertify using your Tribal ID number, call (800) 234-9437

What If I Don’t Qualify for Lifeline Anymore?

If you find that you no longer qualify for Lifeline—or decide you don’t want to continue—you can stay connected with an affordable plan from Flex Mobile.

Keep Your Number: No need to worry about losing your phone number; you can smoothly transition from Lifeline to Flex Mobile without missing a beat.
Continue Enjoying Perks: If you have Reward Dollars in Excess Perks, they will automatically transfer to your Flex Perks dashboard
No Surprises: Prepaid means no annual contract or hidden fees—just straightforward, reliable service.