Guide to Lifeline Wireless Phones. If you can’t afford a cell phone, consider free service with the Federal Communications Commission Lifeline assistance program. Lifeline is a Federal assistance program supporting low-income families by providing discounts on phone service.  Lifeline and Link-Up are both government programs that help with free phone services.

The government and FCC have been helping disadvantaged households with a monthly discount cost for landline telephone service for years. However, cell phones are the predominant means of communication, not a luxury but an absolute necessity.

Guide to Lifeline Wireless Phones

This Lifeline wireless phone guide can assist you in making the best choice for you. A cell phone can take a big chunk out of your budget. If you are unemployed or on a fixed income, this program can help ease a little of the burden on you and your family.

This site is dedicated to locating government companies offering free phone plans in your area and comparing cell phone plans.  We will bring updated news on your area’s new telephone assistance and cell phone providers.

You will find information about the phone companies participating in the Federal Lifeline program. And the benefits they offer you, the consumer. You will also get an overview of significant providers, like providing low-income customers with free cell phones and services.

The primary cell phone providers are SafeLink (TracFone), Assurance Wireless Sprint) and ReachOut (Nexus Communications). We will review their plans and show you how to apply and receive your phone.

Do I Qualify?

You qualify for a free phone when participating in a government benefit program, like Medicaid, SNAP, WIC, or Free and discounted School Lunch. Etc. You may be eligible for Lifeline assistance work and or are unemployed, and your gross family income is at or below 135% of the federal poverty guidelines,

What is Lifeline

Lifeline is an FCC program making phone and phone service affordable to those on supplemental security, food stamps or social security income, and other public assistance programs. Depending on income, low-income consumers can receive a monthly discount or free phone services.

Lifeline discounts monthly telephone service, broadband Internet bills, or bundled voice-broadband packages purchased from participating Lifeline or wireless providers. The deal helps ensure that low-income consumers can afford 21st-century broadband and access to jobs, healthcare, and educational resources.

Also, you need to know if you qualify for the free phone. According to the US Poverty Guidelines, you may be eligible for a free government phone when you live in the United States and your income qualifies. Once approved, you will receive your phone, accessories, and monthly free minutes.

How Do I Apply For a Phone?

To apply for a Lifeline government cell phone:

1. Find a suitable service provider.
2. When you find a company, go to its website to register.
3. Check to make sure their service is available in your state.
4. Submit the required documents, and wait to see if you are approved.

Free Government Phone Providers

Free phones and phone service is available in every US state and territory. When looking for a provider, check to see if they assist your state and go to their website to sign up. You can register online or by email, or by regular mail. When applying, you must provide proof of income or financial status.

How to Change Cell Phone Providers

All providers are not created equal. You may not like your phone service, you may not like your phone, or your provider may have left the program. Furthermore, you are free with the phone company you started with. Find out how to sign up with a new Lifeline phone company.

How to Replace A Lost Phone

If you have a phone that has been lost, stolen, or stopped working shortly after you received it, you can have that phone replaced. If your phone is lost, the company will replace it. Most companies do not charge a fee, but some will charge you for a replacement phone.  

What Companies Offer Smartphones

The free Lifeline program has grown since it began. The program started with landline phones and went on to small cell phones and flip phones, and now many companies offer Smartphones and Androids. Find out what companies provide free smartphones.

How to Complain About Poor Service

All providers are different. Some providers are new to the game. The most significant complaint we get from consumers is that they cannot contact the provider. This is very frustrating. It would be best to reach your provider when you have lost your phone or stopped working. Poor service is a problem that can be resolved. Find out where to turn.

How to Get Discount Internet

Because the Lifeline program continues to expand the program, above all, its goal is to help disadvantaged families have more access to modern technology. Many low-income households need access to the internet.

The library is the worst place to try a school project as most libraries only give you one hour to use the computers. Find out how families with a child or adult students can access Broadband Internet for $9.99 monthly.

Finally, you need more information about Lifeline wireless phones. This website can guide you to the information you need about free phone service. You will also learn how to navigate the program. We hope you find a provider and phone that you can use satisfactorily for years. Good luck, and stay connected.