FCC Compliance & Participation

Official standards and requirements for participation in the Lifeline and Affordable Connectivity Program (ACP). Ensuring program integrity and consumer protection.

Federal Communications Commission (FCC)

The Federal Communications Commission (FCC) is an independent agency of the United States government responsible for regulating interstate and international communications. The FCC administers the Lifeline and Affordable Connectivity Program (ACP) to ensure that low-income households have access to affordable communications services.

FCC Mission

The FCC's mission is to promote connectivity and competition in communications markets, protect consumers, and ensure universal access to communications services. Through programs like Lifeline and ACP, the FCC works to close the digital divide and ensure that all Americans can participate in the digital economy.

Program Administration

The FCC administers these programs through a network of certified providers, state regulatory agencies, and federal oversight. Program integrity is maintained through strict compliance requirements, regular audits, and consumer protection measures.

Provider Certification Requirements

All providers participating in Lifeline and ACP programs must meet strict FCC certification standards to ensure program integrity and consumer protection.

  • Legal Compliance: Must comply with all applicable federal and state laws
  • Financial Stability: Demonstrate ability to provide ongoing service
  • Consumer Protection: Implement policies protecting subscriber rights
  • Technical Capability: Maintain network infrastructure and service quality
  • Reporting: Submit regular reports on program participation and usage
  • Training: Ensure staff are trained on program rules and compliance
  1. Submit comprehensive application to FCC
  2. Provide evidence of compliance with all requirements
  3. Undergo background check and financial review
  4. Receive provisional certification
  5. Maintain ongoing compliance through annual recertification
  6. Participate in regular FCC audits and reviews
  • Annual recertification with updated documentation
  • Regular reporting of program participation data
  • Compliance with consumer protection rules
  • Participation in FCC training and education programs
  • Cooperation with FCC audits and investigations
  • Maintenance of service quality standards

Consumer Protection Standards

Privacy Rights

Providers must protect subscriber privacy and comply with FCC rules on customer proprietary network information (CPNI).

  • Secure data handling
  • Opt-in marketing rules
  • Identity theft prevention

Fair Billing

Transparent pricing and billing practices with protections against unauthorized charges and billing disputes.

  • Clear rate disclosures
  • Billing dispute resolution
  • Pro-rated charges

Service Quality

Minimum service quality standards ensure reliable communications for all program participants.

  • Network reliability
  • Customer service standards
  • Device quality requirements

FCC Compliance Monitoring

The FCC maintains rigorous oversight of program participants through multiple compliance monitoring mechanisms to ensure program integrity and consumer protection.

Oversight Mechanisms

  • Annual Audits: Comprehensive review of provider compliance
  • Data Analysis: Monitoring of enrollment and usage patterns
  • Consumer Complaints: Investigation of reported issues
  • Random Sampling: Verification of eligibility documentation
  • Performance Metrics: Tracking service quality indicators

Enforcement Actions

The FCC has authority to take enforcement actions against non-compliant providers:

  • Warnings: Notice of violations with correction requirements
  • Fines: Monetary penalties for serious violations
  • Decertification: Removal from program participation
  • Referral: Criminal prosecution for fraud or abuse

Program Integrity Measures

Anti-Fraud Measures

The FCC implements comprehensive measures to prevent fraud, waste, and abuse in government communications programs while ensuring eligible households receive the benefits they deserve.

Eligibility Verification

  • National Lifeline Accountability Database (NLAD)
  • Cross-verification with other government programs
  • Documentation review and validation
  • Annual recertification requirements

Fraud Prevention

  • Duplicate enrollment detection
  • Identity verification procedures
  • Pattern analysis and anomaly detection
  • Cooperation with law enforcement

Official FCC Resources

For complete and official information about FCC programs, compliance requirements, and regulatory standards, visit these official government resources.

Lifeline Program

ACP Program

Contact FCC Compliance

Report Non-Compliance

If you suspect fraud, waste, or abuse in government communications programs, report it to the FCC for investigation.

Provider Support

For providers seeking certification or compliance assistance, contact the FCC's Office of Managing Director.

  • Phone: 202-418-2998
  • Email: lifeline@fcc.gov
  • Address: FCC, 45 L Street NE, Washington, DC 20554