Do You Qualify for Free Government Cell Phone Service?
Qualify if You Participate in a Government Assistance Program
If you participate in most government assistance programs (this varies by state), then you automatically qualify for free government cell phone service.
The eligible government benefit programs vary by state, so you will need to verify your state’s specific eligibility criteria. Below are the top 7 government assistance programs that you can participate in that will also qualify you for a free government cell phone:
Medicaid
Food Stamps, or SNAP (Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program)
Supplemental Security Income (SSI)
Low Income Home Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP)
Federal Public Housing Assistance (Section 8)
Temporary Assistance for Needy Families (TANF)
National School Lunch Program (Free Lunch Program Only)
Most Other Government Assistance Programs (varies by state)
Remember that eligibility depends on your state, and some states have special programs that will also qualify you for Lifeline.
Qualify by Having Low Household Income
If you do not yet participate in a government assistance program (remember, it varies by state, so if you do not participate in any of the above 7 programs, don’t worry), then you may still be eligible for free government cell phone service. If your total household income is at or below your state’s Federal Poverty Guidelines, then you may also qualify for a free government cell phone with free monthly minutes, data, and texting. Usually, if your household makes less than 135% of the Federal Poverty Guidelines, you qualify for free government cell phone service.