National Verifier Annual Report and Data

In March 2016, the Federal Communications Commission adopted the Lifeline Reform and Modernization Order (2016 Lifeline Order), which included changes to eligibility verification for enrollment and recertification. The FCC directed the Universal Service Administrative Company to establish a system for independent, third-party eligibility determinations. To accomplish this, USAC built the National Lifeline Eligibility Verifier (National Verifier) to automate, where possible, and standardize eligibility verification across all states and territories. This 2024 annual report describes how the National Verifier meets the three objectives from the 2016 Lifeline Order: protecting against waste, fraud, and abuse; lowering costs through administrative efficiencies; and improving the enrollment experience. A key feature is automated access to eligibility data sources managed by state and federal agencies, which reduces manual reviews and associated costs, errors, and potential manipulation. In 2024, automated database connections confirmed eligibility for almost 94% of qualified Lifeline applicants, with the Medicaid connection having the biggest impact. For fraud prevention, the National Verifier acts as an independent administrator, eliminating the conflict of interest when service providers verify their own customers' eligibility. The Representative Accountability Database (RAD) validates enrollment representatives' identities to guard against misuse. For cost efficiency, the centralized system is more efficient than having each carrier develop unique processes, and it provides automated connections to all carriers nationwide. To improve consumer experience, the National Verifier offers multiple application methods including a consumer portal, service provider portals, an API integrated into provider websites, and mail options. In 2024, 93% of Lifeline applications were submitted through the eligibility check API, and USAC plans to continue implementing enhancements to streamline the user experience in 2025.