Use this checklist before making a decision

Find lower-cost connectivity, protect devices and accounts, recognize cyber scams, and make online services easier and safer to use. A checklist cannot decide an individual case, but it can prevent missed questions, missing records, and avoidable deadlines.

Decision checklist

  • Use a unique password for important accounts and enable multifactor authentication.
  • Install operating-system, browser, application, router, and security updates.
  • Back up essential contacts, documents, and photos.
  • Verify links and websites before entering credentials.
  • Check FCC Lifeline eligibility and local digital-literacy programs.
  • Create a trusted-helper plan that limits access and documents permissions.

Information to write down

  • The exact program, provider, company, service, product, or legal document involved.
  • The person’s state, county, ZIP code, coverage, deadlines, accessibility needs, and preferred contact method.
  • Names, dates, confirmation numbers, written notices, estimates, contracts, and appeal instructions.
  • The original source used to verify each important claim.

Questions to ask

  • Which rule or program applies to this exact situation?
  • What is the deadline, and what proves that the request was received?
  • What costs are excluded from the quoted amount?
  • What changes by state, plan, provider, or household?
  • Is there an appeal, grievance, correction, or second-review process?
  • Where is the answer published by the responsible agency?

Official sources

Related information

Within this subject: Updates and Official Changes, Official Help and Trusted Starting Points, Common Mistakes and Warning Signs, State-by-State Differences.

Also review: Scams, Identity Theft, Robocalls, and Financial Exploitation, Loneliness, Social Connection, and Purpose, Disability Rights, Accessibility, and Accommodations.

Last reviewed

This checklist was reviewed on 2026-07-30. Verify current rules before acting.