With inflation running high and the threat of recession looming, low-income American households are increasingly concerned about the impact they may have on their abilities to pay for essential utilities. Luckily, there are a number of US government programs set up to help these families lower these expenses, such as those that offer free phone service for disabled individuals and veterans.
These programs often aim to help people connect to family, healthcare providers, and essential resources. Their application process varies but is usually quick and easy. In this guide, we will show you how to apply for them so you can start saving hundreds of dollars each year on phone services. And the best thing? You may even get a free smartphone!
Lifeline Program: Free Landline or Free Cell Phone Service
The first of these programs that we want to talk about is Lifeline. The Lifeline assistance program provides low-cost landline or cell phone service for Americans with low incomes. If you are currently receiving benefits from another government program, such as Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP), there is a good chance that you will qualify.
Lifeline also offers discounted broadband internet service in some areas. Ask your phone company about affordable high-speed internet plans for your home. They may offer heavily discounted internet for Lifeline subscribers.
Affordable Connectivity Program (ACP)
Next on our list is the Affordable Connectivity Program (ACP). The ACP, formerly known as the Emergency Broadband Benefit, is a Federal Communications Commission (FCC) program that provides monthly discounts on internet service and devices for qualifying low-income households. If you are a veteran, person with a disability, or recipient of certain government benefits, you may be eligible for the ACP.
Eligibility Criteria for Free Phone Programs
Some of the above programs require that you meet certain eligibility criteria. The common requirements are:
Low income
Most programs are aimed at those with limited means. You will need to provide proof of participation in government assistance programs, such as Medicaid, SNAP (commonly known as food stamps), Supplemental Security Income (SSI), Federal Public Housing Assistance, Veterans Pension and Survivors Benefit, or Tribal Programs.
Location
Where you live can also affect your eligibility. Programs like Lifeline’s Tribal Lands program are only available to those living on federally recognized Tribal lands. Some state-specific programs may also have location requirements.
Disability
Having a disability qualifies you for certain specialized free programs like iCanConnect. You will need to provide documentation from a medical professional certifying your disability.
Veteran status
Veterans and active military members may qualify for additional free phone program benefits. You will need to provide documents proving your veteran or military status.
Lack of access
Some programs aim to provide phone service to those who currently lack access to basic communication. You may need to certify that you do not have landline or wireless phone service to qualify.
How to Apply for Free Phone Service Programs
We advise that you first determine if you qualify for any of the available programs before applying. One way is to apply for ACP or Lifeline with EASY Wireless, as that may help you qualify for a series of additional benefits!
How To Get a FREE Smartphone, FREE Unlimited Data, and More..
EASY Wireless is dedicated to providing more and more Americans with access to FREE connectivity, and to connect people to their loved ones, essential resources, and potential employers. If you qualify for ACP, here’s what you’ll receive:
EASY Wireless Unlimited Plan
- FREE Unlimited Data
- FREE Unlimited Talk
- FREE Unlimited Text
- FREE SIM Card Kit and Activation
- Choose to Keep Your Number or Get a New One
Those residing in qualifying areas will even receive free cell phones!
Are You Eligible For The ACP?
There are two ways you can qualify for ACP: either by your household income level or by taking part in certain government programs.
You can qualify for the ACP if you’ve participated in one of the following government assistance programs:
- Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP)
- Medicaid
- Supplemental Security Income (SSI)
- Federal Public Housing Assistance (FPHA)
- Veterans and Survivors Pension Benefit
- Bureau of Indian Affairs General Assistance
- Tribal Temporary Assistance for Needy Families (Tribal TANF)
- Food Distribution Program on Indian Reservations
- Tribal Head Start
- Women, Infants, and Children (WIC)
- National School Lunch Program (NSLP)
- Pell Grant Awards
The second criteria is your income level. You may qualify if your income is under the amounts on the chart below.
How do I Apply For EASY Wireless Benefits?
When you come to one of EASY Wireless’s retail stores, our customer service agent will help you apply for the benefits.
The first step is to provide proof of identity with a government-issued ID. This is so you can confirm your participation in one of the qualifying programs or that you meet the household income requirement.
We accept the following U.S. Government Issued ID:
- U.S. Driver License
- Certificate of U.S. Citizenship
- Certificate of Naturalization
- U.S. Passport
- U.S. Government, State or Tribal issue-ID
- U.S. Military ID cards
- Permanent Resident Cards
- Permanent Resident Alien Cards
You can show the following documents to prove that you are taking part in a government assistance program or use them as proof of active benefits:
- Statement of benefits from a qualifying Program.
- Notice letter of participation, such as an award letter
- Program participation documents, such as a screenshot from an online account.
- In order to show income, you can provide any of the following proofs:
- Unemployment Documentation
- Copy of your State or Federal income tax return.
- Three months’ worth of current pay stubs.
- Veterans Administration or SSI benefits letter.
- A divorce decree or child support document that states income.
- Retirement or pension statement.
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 variety of pre-paid plans for every budget and usage requirement. Not only that, but we also offer a selection of brand-name phones that combine quality, reliability, and the latest technology.
And that’s not all – we provide an array of amazing accessories to enhance your mobile experience as well. At EASY Wireless we’re dedicated to delivering 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!
