The United States government has a program that helps people who meet certain requirements by providing them with a free mobile phone and a limited free usage plan. Eligibility varies by state and may include specific income limits or participation in programs such as food stamps. Imagining a present without a mobile is quite complicated; That is why many Americans resort to the option of requesting free cell phones from the Government . Thousands of families benefit from this proposal to access basic services that may be out of their reach.
As with many other State assistance programs, today we are going to show you everything you need to know about the Government’s free cell phone plan .
Free Government Cell Phones
To learn about the free cell phone offers from the Government , you first have to know where this proposal comes from. Responsible for this proposal is the Lifeline Assistance program , which, in agreement with different mobile phone companies, is responsible for providing cell phones and other free services to low-income families.
So far, Lifeline Assistance is available in forty-nine states. To these are added Puerto Rico, the District of Columbia and the Virgin Islands. Even if your place of residence does not have cell phones available, you may qualify for a free land line.
Requirements for Free Cell Phones from the Government
In order to reach the most vulnerable population to meet their needs, there are certain relevant eligibility requirements to apply for free cell phones from the Government . Through these, those who most urgently need the service are evaluated and prioritized.
The program is designed to serve those near the poverty line. Because of this, applicant families must fall within what is known as the Federal Poverty Guidelines . This tool allows beneficiaries to be chosen with relative accuracy.
To start you will have to calculate the income of your household. You must take into account all those who reside in the property and share expenses in the house. This calculation is made based on:
- Wages.
- Spousal support amounts.
- Amounts of support for parenting.
- Interests.
- Dividends.
- stipends.
- Rental fees.
- Tickets for Social Security.
- Pensions.
- Lottery or gambling prizes.
- Among other income.
Once the amount is resolved, you must verify that the calculated annual income is equal to or less than 135% of the federal poverty level. Depending on the state, this amount will be raised to 150% of the federal poverty level, as is the case in California.
How to apply for Free Cell Phones from the Government
Even having calculated your gross annual income, there are conditions that can make it easier for you to enter the Government’s free cell phone program . Most of them are linked to other economic and social assistance programs or plans, such as:
- Medicaid.
- The Bureau of Indian Affairs General Assistance .
- The Food Distribution Program on Indian Reservations .
- Social Security supplements.
- Veterans pension.
- Survivor benefits.
- Tribal Temporary Assistance for Needy Families.
- Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program food stamps .
- Section 8 plan or Federal Public Housing Assistance .
- The HeadStart .
Steps to follow
Knowing these important points, you can start to see which companies offer this benefit in your area.
To join the program with the company you have chosen, you must go to the corresponding online platform. There you will search in detail the services and proposals that the company has, its costs and requirements.
Once the query is ready, you must start the application process. It can be done over the phone or online. This last option is highly recommended, since it makes it easier for you to deliver any documentation that is required by the company.
What cell phone companies work with the program?
While it’s hard to get a high-end iPhone or phone or top-of-the-line network coverage, we’re sure you can get a functional and practical phone to meet your needs. The companies that work together with the Government’s free cell phone program are:
- TrueWireless.
- TruConnect.
- Time Communications.
- Terracom Wireless.
- Tag Mobile.
- Q Link.
- Wireless StandUp.
- SafelinkWireless.
- Safety Net Wireless.
- New Phone Wireless.
- LifeWireless.
- Infinity Mobile.
- GCI.
- FeelSafeWireless.
- EasyWireless.
- enTouch Wireless.
- Copper Valley Wireless.
- CintexWireless.
- Wireless Assurance.
If you want to know which companies provide these services in your region, you have an ideal tool. You just have to enter your zip code on the page that we leave you here and you will find a list with your offers.
What to do after applying for a free cell phone from the government?
After applying for free cell phones from the Government , all you have to do is wait for it to arrive by mail. The delivery time will depend on different factors, such as the company you have chosen.
Keep in mind that each year you must verify your benefits and whether you continue to meet the requirements of the program. If you do not meet the requirements or go outside the regulations, you will not be able to keep the free phone and the service plan included in the program.
Also, if you qualify as a beneficiary, either by discount for telephone or internet, only one will be delivered per household, instead of per person.
The State recognizes that access to the Internet and other means of communication is an essential right. Therefore, different ways have been created so that citizens can access these benefits if this endangers their economic security.
If you and your family need assistance to access these necessities , do not hesitate to check your opportunities through this guide on free cell phones from the Government !
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