You need help paying for a cell phone plan, but you're not sure where to start. The United States government has a benefit program called Lifeline that helps people save money on a phone plan. In this article, I'll explain what Lifeline is, who qualifies, and how you can get a free government cell phone plan!
What Is The Lifeline Program?
Lifeline is a government assistance program that helps low-income individuals afford communications services, such as cell phone plans. The program was established in 1985 by the Federal Communication Commission (FCC).
Lifeline usually provides qualifying applicants with up to a $9.25 discount on communications services. However, you'll often find that plans and phones are free when you go to the websites of the carriers who provide service through Lifeline.
Who Can Apply For Lifeline
Low-income consumers in every state, commonwealth, and territory are eligible for Lifeline. Those who live on Tribal lands also qualify, and are often eligible for additional benefits.
To qualify for Lifeline, you must have a household income that is at or below 135% of the federal poverty guidelines, or you must participate in one of the following federal assistance programs:
- Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program, formerly known as food stamps (SNAP)
- Medicaid
- Supplemental Security Income (SSI)
- Federal Public Housing Assistance
- Veterans Pension and Survivors Benefit
- Tribal Programs (and live on federally-recognized Tribal lands)
Subscribers of Lifeline who live on Tribal lands are entitled to additional savings. Those who qualify for Tribal Lifeline can receive up to an additional $25 on their monthly cell phone bill.
This program is limited to one discount per household.
What Plans Are Available Near Me?
There are many different carriers offering free government cell phone plans through Lifeline. You can find the different carriers offering Lifeline plans in your area using the Universal Service Administrative Companies' search tool. Just type in your ZIP code or city and state!
How To Apply For Lifeline
Before you can get approved for a Lifeline service, you'll have to prove you meet the eligibility requirements. You can do this by providing:
- A card or award letter to prove you receive one of the following public assistance benefits:
- SNAP
- Medicaid
- SSIFederal Public Housing Assistance
- Veterans Pension
- Survivors Pension
- Bureau of Indian Affairs General Assistance
- Tribal Head Start
- Tribally-Administered Temporary Assistance for Needy Families
- Food Distribution Program on Indian Reservations benefits
- A tax return or pay stub showing your income is at or below 135% of the federal poverty guidelines
There are a few other ways to prove you qualify for Lifeline, as lined out by the Universal Service Administrative Company.
What Are Lifeline Plans Like?
The free Lifeline plans include quite a lot. We think the plans are worth well more than the standard $9.25 discount provided by the United States government. Many of these plans include unlimited texting, a little bit of cellular data, and a large monthly allotment of minutes.
Can I Get A Free Phone Too?
Yes, some carriers provide free cell phones through the Lifeline program to qualifying customers. Most of these carriers also let you bring your own phone with you, as long as its compatible with their network.
If you don't have your own cell phone, you can buy one directly from these carriers. Many offer decent, reliable phones for less than $100.
I Don't Qualify For Lifeline. How Can I Save On A Cell Phone Plan?
Even if you don't qualify for Lifeline, there are a lot of great options. Most carriers today offer cell phone plans for less than $25 / month. Check out our cell phone comparison tool to find the perfect plan for you, or watch our latest video where we break down the best plans under $25 / month.
I'd Like To Use A Lifeline!
You now know everything you need to about Lifeline and how to get a free government cell phone plan. Make sure to share this article on social media to teach your friends, family, and followers how to get a free government plan too. Leave a comment down below if you have any other questions about this program!
