Many telecommunication companies offer free smartphones and devices to low-income households that qualify under the federal program.
Income Requirements
The Federal Communications Commission created a Lifeline program to ensure low-income families can access affordable phone services. The program offers a discount on monthly home phone or cellular data services depending on household income. Some Lifeline service providers may also provide qualified households with a free or low-cost wireless device. US families can determine if they qualify for the Lifeline and the Affordable Connectivity Program (ACP) by checking with local providers such as Assist Wireless.
Generally, households must receive one of several state and federal assistance programs to qualify. This includes the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP or food stamps), Section 8 housing assistance, HEAP energy assistance, TANF welfare, and Medicaid. To be eligible for the program, a household must have an annual income of 135% or less of the poverty guidelines set by the government. This amount changes based on the size of a family and its location. Many individuals wonder whether or not they have to choose between food and phone service. The good news is that you can receive both by applying for free or discounted Lifeline services. Furthermore, you can keep the phone that you already own and begin using it with your new Lifeline plan. Many seniors prefer this option because they don’t have to learn to use a new device.
Device Requirements
Enrolling in the Lifeline Program is the first step to getting free phone services with food stamps. When you do, the service provider will notify you of available device models compatible with their network. If you prefer to use a smartphone already set up to your preferences, you can bring it with you as long as it is unlocked and compatible with the network.
You’ll need to submit documentation that proves your household meets the income and program guidelines of the Lifeline program. This typically includes pay stubs, W-2 forms, or letters from government agencies that you participate in that indicate your household’s total income is at or below the poverty guidelines set by the federal and state governments.
Families qualifying for Lifeline can receive a free cell phone, touchscreen, or tablet. These devices are usually refurbished, but the specific models vary by provider and are determined by available funding for each type of device. The good news is that your eligibility for SNAP/Food Stamps or other federal assistance programs stays the same if you get Lifeline phone services. And you can only get a free phone once per year. After that, you must choose between using your Lifeline discount towards another phone or getting a reduced rate on your service with the same provider.
Data Requirements
The federal government requires that all low-income households have access to communication devices like cell phones. Two government resources that make this possible are Lifeline and Link-Up. Both programs are overseen by the Federal Communications Commission (FCC), giving qualified people free smartphones and tablets. The best part is that you don’t have to use food stamps to receive these phones or services. You can get a free phone and data service through these programs if enrolled in any federal assistance program, including SNAP, EBT, and cash aid.
Telecommunication companies administer these programs. They’ll provide free phones and tablets to qualified people. Usually, these phones will be slightly older models than those currently available. In addition to a free device, qualified households will receive a monthly allowance of voice minutes and data. Check out a provider’s website to sign up for the Lifeline program. Typically, you’ll find an “Apply Now” button on the homepage. From there, you’ll need to fill out some basic personal information and submit documents that prove your household income.
Activation Requirements
The federal government offers a free phone program for people on food stamps, EBT cash aid, and other public assistance programs. This program is backed by government grants and overseen by the FCC. The program has two main providers, Link-Up and Lifeline. Both programs provide free government phones and tablets. You will also receive unlimited data on your device. You can use the phone to call or text your family and friends or access social media apps. You must currently participate in a qualifying federal assistance program to qualify for the Lifeline or Affordable Connectivity Program (ACP). This includes programs such as Food Stamps, Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program, Section 8 Federal Public Housing Assistance, Medicaid, Veterans Pension or Survivors Benefit, or income at or below 135% of the Federal Poverty Guidelines. The eligibility criteria for both the ACP and Lifeline differ by state. You can only use one Lifeline phone per household in different parts of the country. This may include a landline, cellular, or voice-broadband bundled service.