Free Government Cell Phones & Service – Puerto Rico

Written by Pamela Lipscomb in States
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Residents of the U.S. Territory of Puerto Rico you may be eligible for government-subsidized phone service.  You might be surprised to know, residents of Puerto Rico are eligible to receive free government cell phones.  That’s right, as a territory they are qualified to financial aid, and those receiving assistance, are also eligible for a free phone or landline service through the Lifeline Assistance.

In 1917, the Jones-Safroth Act made Puerto Rico U.S. citizens.   Though considered citizens, they can not vote in U.S presidential elections.  As an unincorporated territory of the United States, they are, however, able to receive government aid.  As part of the United States, and as a Territory are eligible to many of the same government benefits American citizens get.

Freephone services help the struggling both in the U.S. and PR to stay connected with friends, family, and other important contacts.  There are many phone providers, that cover the United States as well.   They receive the same benefits as those in the United States.   Some companies may offer discount services rather than total free service.

Puerto Rico’s Economy

This is a beautiful island in the Caribbean, but they are experiencing challenges in many countries these days.   Puerto Rico has its own set of financial difficulties and receives billions in grants for nutrition aid.  As of March

As of March 2012, the unemployment rate is 15% and the average hourly wage is $8.08.  The average family size is 3.6 persons and the average yearly salary is about $27,000.  As of March 2012, the unemployment rate is 15% and the average hourly wage is $8.08.  The average family size is 3.6 persons and the average yearly salary is about $27,000.

Though inflation has remained low in Puerto Rico, many of the people live below the poverty line.   The Lifeline Assistance program works with providers to make affordable service the territory. You can receive a phone from the Lifeline Assistance if you receive help from a government assistance program like:

  • Medicaid
  • SNAP  (Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program)
  • WIC (Woman Infants and Children)
  • TANF (Temporary Assistance for Needy Families)
  • Head Start
  • Section 8 Housing

How to Apply

To apply for a free government phone, go to the website of the provisions in your state or territory.  Enter your proof of eligibility.  If you qualify to submit required documents like:

  • A Statement from the following: Department of Social Services or SNAPS, Veteran’s Administration, Social Security Benefits.
  • A current Federal Tax Return
  • A letter from Unemployment/Workman’s Compensation
  • A payroll statement or current check stubs from your job

Puerto Rico Free Government Phones Providers

Regulations require you to re-certify eligibility each year on the anniversary of the date you applied for the phone.

New to Puerto Rico – Claro de Puerto Rico Lifeline Discount Cell Phones

Claro de Puerto Rico is a company connected with Safelink Wireless, which is one of the major players in the government phone program. Now, Puerto Rico, Claro provides solely Lifeline programs to Puerto Rico with free 4G LTE data and Smartphones. When you qualify for the program you can get a great discount of up to 12.75 on your service. Claro de Puerto Rico also offers paid internet, (3 months free) landline phone service and paid cable.

Other Companies in Puerto Rico that offer Lifeline Discounts

If you are low income but still don’t qualify for free government phone assistance, there are companies that offer LifeLine discounts. You may also be eligible for free government phone assistance, but certain providers do not offer the program in your area you still have an option of not free but discounted service.

ATT Mobility
Claro de Puerto Rico
Centennial de Puerto Rico
Open Movil de Puerto Rico
Total Call Mobile
T-Mobile

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