You’re retired now and living on a fixed income, so you have to watch every penny. But staying connected with friends and family is still important. Do you know that, for seniors who qualify, there are ways to receive free cell phones? These aren’t just basic flip phones either. You can get a free smartphone with data by applying for the government’s Lifeline Program.
In this blog post, you’re going to be learning what the Lifeline program is, who qualifies, and how to apply for your own free smartphone. Getting a free cell phone helps you stay socially connected without breaking your budget. Read on to find out if you’re eligible and how to get set up with a free phone today.
Is there Such Thing as a Government Phone?
For starters, we need to clarify that there’s no such thing as a “government phone.” Nor does the government itself give out free phones. That said, as a senior citizen, you could qualify for a free cell phone when you sign up for federal assistance programs like Lifeline through certain providers. But how?
Well, wireless companies such as EASY Wireless work with these government programs to offer their members some extra connectivity benefits. So while they’re commonly referred to as “government phones,” they’re actually given out by private carriers.
Lifeline Program
The Lifeline assistance program provides eligible low-income households with discounted phone service. As a senior citizen, you could benefit from a \$9.25 monthly service discount (up to \$34.25 if you’re on tribal lands) on either landline or wireless phone service with the Lifeline program.
If you choose a landline phone, receive $9.25 off your phone bill each month. The Lifeline discount can be used for basic phone service charges as well as any additional calling features you choose. The discount applies to whichever phone company provides local phone service in your area.
Do I Qualify For Lifeline?
To qualify for the Lifeline program, you need to meet certain eligibility criteria based on your income and participation in other government assistance programs. The good news is that if you’re a senior citizen, you have a good chance of qualifying for free phones with free phone service from Lifeline.
Income requirements
Lifeline uses the Federal Poverty Guidelines to determine income eligibility. If your household income is at or below 135% of the poverty guidelines for your state, you qualify based on income. For most seniors, Social Security income falls within this limit.
Other qualifications
Even if your income is slightly higher, you can still qualify for Lifeline benefits in several other ways:
If you participate in Medicaid, Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP), Supplemental Security Income (SSI), Federal Public Housing Assistance (FPHA), or Veterans Pension and Survivors Benefit.
If you live on tribal lands. Some Lifeline providers offer additional discounts and benefits for those living on tribal lands.
If you qualify for other government benefit programs such as Food Stamps, or Section 8 housing.
The best way to find out if you qualify for a free government cell phone is to apply directly with a Lifeline provider in your state. They will review your information to verify your eligibility before approving you for a free phone and cellular service plan. Many seniors find that once approved, a Lifeline cell phone gives them security and independence by ensuring they have a way to call for help in an emergency or stay connected to loved ones.
Don’t delay – apply today to check if you qualify for a free government cell phone. Staying connected can make a big difference in safety, security and quality of life for seniors.
What Benefits do I Receive With EASY Wireless?
Upon qualifying for the programs above with EASY Wireless as your service provider, here’re the connectivity benefits you receive:
EASY Wireless Free Service Plan
- FREE Data
- FREE Unlimited Talk
- FREE Unlimited Text
- FREE SIM Card Kit and Activation
- Choose to Keep Your Number or Get a New One
How do I Apply For my FREE PHONE With EASY Wireless?
To get started with EASY Wireless, apply online by clicking the below:
Start Saving Today!
Or you can come to one of the EASY Wireless’s retail stores, where our customer service agent will help you apply for the benefits.
