Are you looking for a Christmas gift to reward yourself for all the hard work put in throughout the year? Here’s an idea that may be new to you. It may sound surprising to those who have never heard about it, but here in the U.S., there are a few government assistance programs that provide qualifying participants with free phone plans.
And the best part? If you sign up for these programs through specific providers in certain states, you may even get a brand new smartphone for free!
To take advantage of such benefits, all you need is to complete an application with a provider to check your eligibility. Once you qualify, just pick the plan and then you will enjoy discounted or even free mobile phone and data plans (and the phone also if the other criteria is met).
Sounds too good to be true? Well, if you are not familiar with these programs, you’ve come to the right place. In this blog, we will go through the benefits they offer and how you can apply for them. So without further delay, let’s dive right into it
Affordable Connectivity Program (ACP)
Whether to stay in touch with family and friends, keep up with the latest news, or reach out to emergency services, access to mobile devices and reliable connection is essential these days and this is exactly the main reason why the federal government created the Affordable Connectivity Program (ACP).
The ACP, formerly known as Emergency Broadband Benefit (EBB), is a federal communications commission (FCC) benefit program that provides monthly service discount to low income households for affordable internet services.
Program rules
If you meet the eligibility criteria, you can receive up to a $30 monthly discount on broadband service from the ACP (up to $75 if you live on qualifying tribal lands). The benefit will be paid directly to participating service provider.
The federal benefit program also provides a one-time discount of up to $100 for the purchase of internet connected devices, such as a tablet or computer, when you make a co-payment of more than $10 but less than $50. The benefit is limited to one monthly service discount and one device discount per ACP household.
Eligibility criteria
ACP eligibility is determined by the National Verifier. Eligible households should have an income at or below 200% of the Federal Poverty guidelines.
Alternatively, you can qualify for the benefit if one of your family members receives a Federal Pell Grant, or participates in other government benefit programs, such as Medicaid, Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP or food stamps), Lifeline, Supplemental Security Income (SSI), and Survivors Pension Benefit.
Note that every year, the Universal Service Administration Company (USAC) or your internet service provider will check to confirm your qualification for the benefit. If you do not respond to a recertification notice in a timely manner, your ACP service offers may be terminated or you have to pay applicable undiscounted rate plus applicable fees.
Lifeline Assistance Program
Lifeline is another federal government program that provides eligible consumers with discounted phone service across the country. Specifically, you can receive up to a $9.25 discount monthly (up to $34.25 if you’re living on qualifying tribal lands).
To qualify for Lifeline, you must either have a household income at or below 135% of the Federal Poverty guidelines, or participate in certain government programs like Federal Public Housing Assistance (FPHA), SNAP, and Food Distribution Program on Indian Reservations. You can also qualify based on your child’s or dependent’ participation in any of the above programs.
Lifeline Program rules
Eligible low-income households are not allowed to receive more than one Lifeline discount per household. Qualifying customers may receive a discount on either a wireline or wireless service. If you are receiving more than one Lifeline service, you must select a single Lifeline provider and de-enroll from other programs. Similar as the ACP, USAC or your service provider will rectify your eligibility each year.
You are allowed to receive both ACP and Lifeline benefits, or combine these benefits with other state and local benefits where available. For example, qualifying individuals can enjoy a Lifeline-supported mobile phone service and a separate ACP-supported home internet service.
Apply for ACP and Lifeline Through EASY WIRELESS
The application process for both Lifeline and ACP are similar. The first step is to prepare documents that can prove your eligibility such as pay stubs, benefit statements, or tax returns. Then submit your application along with supporting documents and wait for approval.
One of the simplest and hassle-free ways to sign up is to apply for ACP and Lifeline program with EASY Wireless.
If you choose to apply through EASY Wireless, you will receive your free phone by mail once your application is approved. Simply activate it by calling the provider or following the instructions in the package, then the Lifeline discount will be applied automatically to your monthly bills. Activate it by calling the provider or following the instructions in the package.
An ACP eligible applicant can pick the EASY Wireless Plus Plan, which includes a free smartphone, unlimited texting, unlimited talk and 5 GB of data. Qualifying customers for Lifeline benefits are eligible for the EASY Wireless Base Plan, including $25 smartphone, FREE text, 1000 talk minutes and 25 MB of data.
For those who qualify for BOTH programs, EASY Wireless offers an ultra Unlimited Plan that includes FREE unlimited data, FREE unlimited talk, FREE unlimited text, FREE SIM card kit and activation, and the flexibility of keeping your own number or getting a new one.
To get started with EASY Wireless, apply online by clicking the below:
Start Saving Today!
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.
Need More Than Just One Line of Service or an Additional Phone?
EASY Wireless is a full-service cellular store that cares about all of your communication needs. We have a wide range of pre-paid plans for every budget and usage requirement. Also, we offer a selection of brand-name phones that combine quality, reliability, and the latest technology.
That’s not all – we also provide an array of amazing accessories to enhance your mobile experience. At EASY Wireless, we’re dedicated to providing exceptional service and ensuring you find the perfect plan, phone, and accessories to suit your lifestyle and preferences.
Visit us for all your cell phone and wireless service needs today!
