Learn How to Qualify

Programs like Lifeline Assistance, Affordable Connectivity Program (ACP), free government cell phone initiatives, veterans’ programs, and state-specific programs help eligible individuals get phones and discounted services.

Key Government Programs

Lifeline Assistance Program

Provides discounted phone and internet services to low-income households.

Eligibility: Income at or below 135% of federal poverty guidelines or participation in programs like Medicaid, SNAP, or SSI.
Benefits: Monthly discounts on phone or internet service, sometimes free phones.
How to Apply: Through approved Lifeline service providers or the Lifeline National Verifier.

Affordable Connectivity Program (ACP)

Helps households afford broadband and connected devices, including smartphones.

Eligibility: Participation in SNAP, Medicaid, WIC, Federal Housing Assistance, or income ≤ 200% of federal poverty guidelines.
Benefits: Discounts on broadband and connected devices.
How to Apply: Through participating broadband providers or the ACP website.

Free Government Cell Phones

Carrier partnerships provide free phones and services.

Eligibility: Based on income or federal assistance program participation.
Benefits: Free cell phones and service plans with talk, text, and data.
How to Apply: Contact carriers like Assurance Wireless, SafeLink Wireless, or Q Link Wireless.

Veterans’ Programs

Programs for eligible veterans offering phones and services.

Eligibility: Military veterans meeting certain criteria such as income or disability status.
Benefits: Free phones, discounted services, and communication tools.
How to Apply: Contact VA or veterans’ service organizations.

State-Specific Programs

Additional programs by state for eligible residents.

Eligibility: Varies by state, typically income-based or participation in state programs.
Benefits: Free or discounted phones and service plans.
How to Apply: Check your state’s public utility commission website or local government offices.

Program Comparison

Program	Eligibility	Benefits	How to Apply
Lifeline Assistance	Income ≤ 135% FPL or Medicaid/SNAP/SSI	Discounts or free phones	Lifeline provider or National Verifier
Affordable Connectivity (ACP)	Income ≤ 200% FPL or SNAP/Medicaid/WIC	Broadband & device discounts	Participating broadband provider or ACP website
Free Government Cell Phones	Income-based or federal program participant	Free phones & service plans	Assurance Wireless, SafeLink, Q Link Wireless
Veterans’ Programs	Eligible veterans	Free phones & discounted services	VA or veterans’ service organizations

Stay Connected

Access to a phone is crucial for emergency services, daily life, and social participation. Check your eligibility and apply through the appropriate channels to take advantage of these valuable programs.

Which Program Will You Try First?

Lifeline Assistance Program
Affordable Connectivity Program (ACP)
Free Government Cell Phones
Veterans’ or State-Specific Programs

These Government Programs Could Get You a Free Phone