Free government cell phone providers are in every state and US territory, but all providers do not cover every state. Our Guide will help you find the best government phone companies and plans. Lifeline Assistance is a tremendous help to the low-income community. You will be happy to know there are many companies that offer free and affordable services to low-income consumers. Find out how to apply for free cellular service, who offers Smartphones, how to replace a lost or stolen phone, and more. When you qualify financially you can sign up with any provider that covers your state.
What is Lifeline?
Lifeline assistance is a government program that helps low-income consumers obtain free and discounted phone service. See how easy it is to apply and qualify for a cell phone, or Smartphones. The Federal Communications Commission (FCC), is funded by taxes charged on all telephone bills (Universal Service Fund).
The program began to assist the disadvantaged rural communities with affordable phone service. Today Lifeline offers free and discount cell phone service and discount Internet plans that help millions of families, students, and seniors. Having Internet access is not a luxury but a necessity! To find out how to get Broadband Internet for under $10 a month, click here.
How Can I Get A Free Government Phone?
There are free providers in every state, but every provider is not in every state. This guide features a list of phone providers showing cell phone companies near you. 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 your state. However, all providers give a cell phone, free minutes, texting, and other benefits. Some free cell phones are a newer model (provider list here) Every provider gives a free phone. Many companies now provide free Smartphones with unlimited talk and text and free Data.
How To Apply For A Free Government Phone
How Do I Apply for the Free Government Phone?
Qualification varies slightly from state to state. However, financial eligibility is pretty standard throughout the U.S. You must receive assistance from some federal programs or your income must qualify. Find a cell phone company with a good reputation and the features you desire. Applying for a phone is relatively simple. There are three ways to apply for a free phone and service.
- Go to the provider website
- Apply by fax or, mail
- Sign up with a representative at an outside sales tent
Submit proof of eligibility when you apply. Your application will be reviewed. They will contact you by email, robocall, or letter to notify you that you have been approved, denied, or that they need further documentation.
How Do I Qualify For A Free Phone?
You qualify for a phone when you receive help from one of these government programs.
- Medicaid
- Head Start
- Food Stamps (SNAP)
- Supplemental Security Income (SSI)
- Federal Public Housing Assistance (Section 8)
- Temporary Assistance for Needy Families (TANF)
- Low-Income Home Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP)
- The National School Lunch Program’s Free Lunch Program.
- Bureau of Indian Affairs General Assistance
- Tribally-Administered Temporary Assistance for Needy Families
- Food Distribution Program located on Indian Reservations
You may be eligible if your household income is at or below the federal poverty guidelines. 2019 US Poverty Guidelines
| NUMBER IN HOUSEHOLD | 48 STATES AND DC | ALASKA | HAWAII |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 PERSON | $12,490 | $15,600 | $14,380 |
| 2 PEOPLE | $16,910 | $21,130 | $19,460 |
| 3 PEOPLE | $21,330 | $26,660 | $24,540 |
| 4 PEOPLE | $25,750 | $32,190 | $29,620 |
| 5 PEOPLE | $30,170 | $37,720 | $34,700 |
| 6 PEOPLE | $34,590 | $43,250 | $39,780 |
| 7 PEOPLE | $39,010 | $48,780 | $44,860 |
| 8 PEOPLE | $43,430 | $54,310 | $49,940 |
| FOR EACH ADDITIONAL PERSON, ADD | $4,420 | $5,530 | $5,080 |
What Are the Best Free Government Cell Phones?
It is difficult to say what is the best free government phone. It will depend on what you are looking for in a free phone provider. Most Lifeline providers offer free phones and minutes, and, some providers offer smartphones and Androids and some offer basic phones. It is important to choose a phone that is right for you.
What Are The Top Free Government Phone Providers
Some of the tops cell phone companies are,
- Safelink Wireless – 1000 free minutes, unlimited texting Wifi, Smartphones, 1 GB Data
- QLinkwireless – 1000 free minutes, Wifi, unlimited texting, Smartphones, I GB Data
- Assurance Wireless – 350 minutes, 2GB, unlimited texting, free Android Smartphone
- Access – 1000 Minutes Talk, Unlimited Text and 50 MB Data
What States Offer Free Government Phones?
You can find free government phones and providers in every state and US, Indian Land, and Territories. Qualification varies slightly from state to state. Financial eligibility is pretty standard throughout the U.S. You must receive assistance from federal programs. You can join this program if you receive WIC, (Food Stamps) Medicaid, Section 8, or SSI. You also qualify if your income is at or below 135% of the Federal Poverty Guidelines. Are there Any Lifeline Program Restrictions?
There Are Restrictions with the Lifeline Assistance Program
- Must provide proof of financial eligibility.
- Only one household at a time can participate in the program.
- Participants must live in areas where government companies 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
What Document Are Needed to Prove Eligibility
To prove eligibility, present one of the following documents when applying,
- Recent Federal Tax Return (W-2 Forms)
- A letter from Unemployment
- Child Support letter
- Workman’s Compensation letter
- Payroll statements or current check stubs from your job
- Department of Social Services letter
- SNAPS, Veteran’s Administration,
- Social Security Benefits letter