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Free and Low Cost Phone and Internet Help in South Carolina

How to get a discounted phone or internet plan through Lifeline, and where to use free computers, phones and internet in South Carolina at SC Works and Transitions.

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Start here

Hi friend. A working phone helps you get jobs, benefits and housing calls. There is a federal discount program, and there are places that let you use a phone or computer for free.

Lifeline SupportDial 211Transitions, Columbia

Quick answers

What is Lifeline?

Lifeline is a federal program that lowers the monthly cost of phone or internet service. The standard discount is up to $9.25 a month. It is run by USAC under FCC oversight.

Official page: lifelinesupport.org

Who qualifies for Lifeline?

You may qualify based on your income, or because you or a child or dependent take part in a program like SNAP or Medicaid. Survivors of domestic violence or human trafficking can also qualify.

Official page: lifelinesupport.org

How do I apply for Lifeline?

Apply on the Lifeline application site, getinternet.gov. After you are approved, contact a participating phone or internet company to get your benefit. For help, call Lifeline Support at 800 234 9473, any day from 9 am to 9 pm Eastern time.

Official page: lifelinesupport.org

Where can I use a computer or the internet for free?

SC Works Connection Points offer free public use of computers and tools for job searching in all 46 counties. In Columbia, Transitions has a computer lab with internet, plus phone access and mail delivery.

Official page: scworks.org/centers

How do I manage my benefits without a phone?

You can apply for SNAP and TANF online through the DSS benefits portal, track your application, and report changes there. If you need a paper form mailed, call DSS at 800 616 1309.

Official page: dss.sc.gov/assistance-programs/tanf

Your next steps

Tick each one as you go. Your ticks stay on this phone only.

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All done. You are ready, friend.

Bunkly tip: give DSS, your shelter and any case manager one phone number you can keep. Missing one call can delay SNAP or housing help.

Who to call in South Carolina

Here are official places to start. Other places may also help. Each place decides who it can serve, and hours change, so call ahead when you can.

More help in South Carolina

Housing help in South Carolina (rent, eviction, utilities)Find Help in South Carolina: Where to Start with 211, SNAP, Medicaid and IDEmergency Shelter Tonight in South Carolina: Columbia, Charleston, Greenville and How to Get HelpNo cost Food Help in South Carolina: SNAP, WIC and Food BanksNo cost Clothing, Showers and Hygiene Help in South CarolinaFree Job Help and Job Training in South Carolina: SC Works, Job Corps and MoreFree and Low Cost Health and Mental Health Care in South CarolinaDomestic Violence Help, Safety and Housing in South CarolinaHelp for Veterans in South Carolina: Housing, Crisis Support and BenefitsHelp for Youth and Young Adults in South Carolina: Safe Places, Support and TrainingGetting ID and Documents Back in South Carolina: State ID and Birth CertificateFree Legal and Tenant Help in South Carolina: Evictions, Benefits and CourtHow to Make Blessing Bags in South Carolina: Safe Food, Water and Heat Tips

Sources last checked Oct 28, 2026. If something has changed, please tell us so we can fix it.

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