Free Government Cell Phones is a guide to free Lifeline cell phone services available to qualified consumers in your state. Free cellular phone service helps low-income families stay connected. The government’s Lifeline Assistance Program gives offers free cell phones and monthly service to those living in the U.S. and in need of financial help.
The Lifeline is a federal government-mandate program that helps low-income consumers with free phone service. See how easy it is to apply and qualify for a cell phone, and even Smartphone and data depending on the provider.
Lifeline is the FCC’s program that helps low-income individuals and families with affordable landline and cell phone service. Safelink, Assurance, and Budget Wireless are just a few of the hundreds of free cell phone providers in the U.S. These phones are distributed based on gross family income. Benefits range from a monthly discount to totally free phone service. Many companies now offer Smartphones.
Lifeline Assistance
The Federal Communications Commission or FCC is funded by the taxes paid on all telephone bills (Universal Service Fund). The program began as a way to assist the very poor and rural communities with affordable phone service. Today it provides affordable phone service nationwide and includes cell phones and broadband service.
Since this is a federally-mandated program began there have been many changes. The cell phone program began with providing 67 minutes a month of free phone service, then grew to 250 minutes of talk and text and even up to 1,000 free talk and text minutes with data.
Free Government Cell Phones? Find Out How to
- Apply and Qualify
- Add extra Minutes
- Locate authorized companies
- Receive up to 1000 minutes Monthly
- Upgrade your Services, and more!
Cellular Phone Service is a Necessity
Mobile phones are not a luxury, they are a necessity! This is the way we communicate, in and outside our home daily. A Free government phone, gives you the freedom and peace of mind, that comes with having a reliable means of communication. They help eliminate fear and isolation as well. These phones are also a way of contacting a rescue and abuse hotlines for battered women.
Cell phones are not a luxury, they are a necessity. A free cell phone is a blessing to many poor people. Have you ever had a neighbor knock on your door to use your phone, or to use your number as a contact for a job? Over 15 million living in America receive help and millions of working consumers are eligible for free government cell phones as well. Free phones allow families and individuals to
- Call 911 when in an emergency
- Keep in touch with children, and elderly family members
- See a doctor or other important appointments
Discount Internet
Lifeline also offers a discount of broadband services as well. (see discount Internet services). Unbelievable as it may seem, many families still do not have computers or the Internet. Thirty-four percent of that seeking employment in the U.S. believe the Internet is a necessary tool when looking for work. Forty-eight percent of Americans make under $25,000 a year and don’t have the Internet. There is no getting around it access to broadband is a necessary resource for everyone.
Today many families participate in Lifeline program and receive cellular phone service courtesy of the U.S. government. If you receive free government cell phones and service you may qualify for a free cell phone plan. If you are working, check US Poverty Guideline to see if you are eligible. These benefits are available to anyone who qualifies financially.
Rules and Regulations
- You must provide proof of financial eligibility.
- Only one household at a time can participate in the program.
- Participants must live in areas where Lifeline providers operate
- Enrollees must recertify eligibility every year or lose your service
- You must also inform you provider within 30 days of any change in income or address
Free Government Cell Phones – How Do I Qualify
Qualification varies slightly from state to state, but financial eligibility is pretty standard throughout the U.S. You must receive assistance from a federal programs such as WIC, (Food Stamps) Medicaid, Section 8 or SSI. You also qualify if your income is at or below 135% of the Federal Poverty Guidelines. Find out if you are eligible here.
You also qualify if you receive help from
- Head Start
- Bureau of Indian Affairs General Assistance
- Tribally-Administered Temporary Assistance for Needy Families
- Food Distribution Program located on Indian Reservations
How to find Free Cellular Phone Service
There are free providers in every state, but every provider is not in every state. Check out our providers listing to find a cell phone provider near you. Find a phone company in your state, that offers free cell phone plans. You can register online, or download an application and fax or email it to the company, with proof you are eligible.
Policy rules vary, depending on the phone provider, and the state you live in. But all will provide you with a cell phone, free minutes or more, text messaging, call waiting, voice mail, long distance, and a charger.
UPDATE: Because of issues of fraud, you are now required to provide proof of income or enrollment in an assistance program. To prove eligibility, provide one of the following documents when applying:
- A current Federal Tax Return (W-2 Forms)
- A letter from Unemployment/Workman’s Compensation
- A payroll statement or current check stubs from your job
- A Statement from the following: Department of Social Services or SNAPS, Veteran’s Administration, Social Security Benefits.
Find out what cellular phone service and other programs, are available to help you during this difficult financial season.