Best Free Government Phone Plans. A free government phone with the internet can make a significant difference in the life of a disadvantaged family. Now you can get a free smartphone and free monthly minutes. Lifeline Assistance and Linkup assistance programs have been helping low-income families with grants and benefits, and individuals gain affordable phone service since 1985.
The upgraded program now offers smartphones and includes major companies like Safelink Wireless, QLink Wireless, and Assurance. The availability of cell phone service gives the poor access to all the benefits associated with communicating with the outside world.
The free cell phone program was created to help low-income families with discounted landline services, such as paying installation fees and a bill discount. Today the program includes cell phone service. A cell phone is a necessity in the fast-pasted world we live in. Lifeline is financed by the Federal Universal Service Fund (USF).
The USF provides free and discount phone services to families, schools, libraries, rural and urban areas, and low-cost, high-speed Internet.
Who Qualifies for a Lifeline Free Government Phone?
You may wonder if you are eligible for this free cell phone plan. Families with a gross monthly or yearly income at or below 350% of the Federal Poverty Guideline or if you receive assistance from a government agency.
You may be eligible for a free cell phone plan, even if you work but are still considered low-income. Many families have Mothers and Fathers working one or even two jobs to meet ends. It is especially significant to know consumers like this can be helped.
Eligibility Requirements
You may qualify for this program if you receive assistance, such as
- TANF
- SNAP
- Receiving LIHEAP
- Receiving Medicaid
- Public Housing assistance programs
- National School Lunch Program
- Supplemental Security Income SSI
The process of applying for the free government phone program is very easy. Once you choose a provider, go to their website to apply. You can also apply by phone or download and fax the application to the company.
You will receive a cell phone, free minutes, and all the provider’s benefits if approved. Each year, you must re-certify your financial status to continue the program.
Best Free Government Phone Companies
There are dozens of new cell phone providers throughout the U.S., Puerto Rico, and the Territories. The plans vary slightly from company to company, and some charge small phone and service fees.
All provide phones, text messaging, 3-way calling, caller ID, Voice Mail, and a charger. You are only allowed one phone per family unit. A family is considered anyone who lives together in one location.
These are some of the Top Phone Provider
- Safelink Wireless
- Access Wireless
- Assurance Wireless
- Reachout Wireless
- Budget Wireless
- Free Government Internet Provider List
You Must Provide Proof of Eligibility
This free government phone benefit has been a tremendous help to millions of people. However, there has been a lot of fraud and waste associated with the program.
Every application must be submitted with income proof and government assistance program enrollment.
Documents you Need when Applying for a Lifeline Phone
- A Statement from:
- Department of Social Services
- 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
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