The government named its free government phone program Lifeline appropriately since we use mobile phones for many everyday activities. A free government cell phone can help you stay in touch with family, friends, employers, and emergency services. And Lifeline phones with smartphone capabilities can keep you connected through the internet.
All government phone companies must follow the federal guidelines. The government sets the requirements, minimum service standards, and the availability of specific features. Learn more about government phone providers, discounted plans, and free devices next.
The government cell phone program originally helped households afford a landline. Since its start in 1985, the Lifeline program has made telecommunication more affordable for low-income individuals and families.
Today, you can apply for help affording a landline or mobile phone, but most states do not allow you to receive help for both. You can qualify for the program based on your household income or your enrollment in a government program, such as the following:
- Federal public housing assistance
- Medicaid
- Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP)
- Supplemental Security Income (SSI)
- Veterans Pension and Survivors Benefit Programs
- Tribal-specific programs
- Bureau of Indian Affairs General Assistance, Tribally-Administered Temporary Assistance for Needy Families (TTANF), Food Distribution Program on Indian Reservations (FDPIR), and Head Start
You may meet the financial qualifications if your household’s earnings are at or less than 135% of the Federal Poverty Level (FPL). The income limit considers the number of people in your household, which means if you have a larger family, you may still qualify with higher earnings.
Below are the 2023 FPL guidelines for most states and the District of Columbia based on the number of people in your household:
- 1 – $14,580
- 2 – $19,720
- 3 – $24,860
- 4 – $30,000
- 5 – $35,140
- 6 – $40,280
- 7 – $45,420
- 8 – $50,560
If you have more than eight people in your household, you can add $5,140 per additional family member. The income thresholds are higher if you live in Alaska or Hawaii.
The income guidelines are not based on your gross (pre-tax) income. A government representative analyzes your post-tax income minus any qualifying deductions.
When you apply for government phones, the application process may require you to prove you meet the program’s requirements. You may need to show pay stubs, tax returns, or other income documents.
You typically must also submit information about each member of your household, such as the following:
- Full names
- Dates of birth
- Social Security numbers
If you meet the basic requirements, you can pick an authorized cell phone provider. While all government phone companies must adhere to the government’s requirements, you may find small differences between them. Check out the most popular government phone providers that offer free smartphones and affordable monthly plans.