Do You Qualify for Free Government Cell Phone Service?

Each state may have specific criteria for qualifying for Lifeline free government cell phone service. Only the verified Lifeline service providers are the ones that handle your personal information. These providers are also the ones that gives your free government cell phone service to you. Furthermore, they will also manage your Lifeline service account. Since Lifeline is regulated by the government, certain eligibility requirements are the same regardless of the state you live in. 

There are 2 main ways you can qualify for free government cell phone service. These two ways are explained below. 

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.