Struggling to pay your phone bill each month? There’s a free phone service in Missouri you need to know about!
Through the Lifeline and Affordable Connectivity Programs, eligible Missouri residents can get free cell phone service. That means Unlimited Talk, Text, and Data at no cost to you each month.
Want even more? How about a brand-new Smartphone to go with your free service plan?
In this article, we’ll explain everything you need to know about these programs and how to apply with EASY Wireless to eliminate your costly phone bill. Keep reading to learn more!
What is the Lifeline Program?
Lifeline is a federal program that has existed since 1985 to help make phone and internet service more affordable. It offers discounted home phone and mobile phone service to qualified low-income households.
The goal of Lifeline is to make communication services more accessible so people can connect to jobs, family, healthcare, and emergency services. It is a government assistance program administered by the Federal Communications Commission (FCC). Over 13 million households currently participate in the Lifeline program nationwide. In Missouri specifically, over 600,000 residents benefit from Lifeline discounts.
What Does Lifeline Provide in Missouri?
If you qualify for Lifeline in Missouri, you can receive the following benefits:
- Discount on monthly phone service – Receive up to $9.25 off your phone bill. For cell phone service, this results in a free basic plan.
- Free unlimited minutes – Lifeline plans come with unlimited calling without per minute charges.
- Free unlimited texts – Send and receive as many texts as you want for free.
- Discounted internet – Receive up to $9.25 off monthly broadband internet service. Don’t worry. When you combine Lifeline with the ACP program, you’ll qualify for UNLIMITED Free Data from EASY Wireless.
These discounts apply to wireless phone and internet plans from participating providers like EASY Wireless. The program helps ensure affordable access to communication services.
Am I Eligible for Lifeline in Missouri?
To qualify for Lifeline assistance in Missouri, you must either participate in certain government assistance programs or meet income requirements.
You are eligible if you take part in any of the following government programs:
- Medicaid
- Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP)
- Supplemental Security Income (SSI)
- Federal Public Housing Assistance/ Section 8
- Veterans Pension or Survivors Benefit
Additionally, if your household income is at or below 135% of the Federal Poverty Guidelines, you qualify for Lifeline benefits in Missouri.
Helpful Tip: If you plan to qualify through income, you’ll need 3 consecutive months of paystubs or your latest Federal Income Tax Return.
What is the Affordable Connectivity Program (ACP)?
In addition to the Federal Lifeline Program, the Affordable Connectivity Program (ACP) is another federal benefit program that helps households afford phone and internet service.
The ACP was launched in 2022 and provides a monthly discount of up to $30 on internet service and up to $75 on qualifying tablets. Like the Lifeline service, it aims to close the digital divide by making internet access more affordable.
When you apply for Lifeline in Missouri, you can also enroll in the ACP at the same time to maximize your benefits and savings.
Do I Qualify for ACP in Missouri?
The ACP eligibility requirements are currently more flexible compared to Lifeline. You may qualify through the following government programs:
- Already being approved for Lifeline benefits
- Participating in any of the Lifeline qualifying programs
- Receiving WIC, Pell Grant, or assistance through the National School Lunch Program
- Having an income at or below 200% of Federal Poverty Guidelines
What is 200% of the Federal Poverty Guidelines?
Check the income guidelines chart below to see if you meet the requirements:
The expanded criteria under the ACP allow more Missouri households to receive assistance.
Applying for Lifeline and ACP Through EASY Wireless
EASY Wireless is an established Lifeline and ACP Benefits service provider in Missouri that helps tens of thousands of customers every year receive discounted service through the program.
Make sure to mention you also want to apply for ACP when first submitting your Lifeline application. This will start the eligibility verification process for both programs.
To enroll online:
- Visit the EASY Wireless website
- Click “Enroll Now”
- Provide basic contact information
- Answer questions to determine eligibility
- Submit application
EASY Wireless will ship your free phone and send your SIM card Kit once approved. Activate your phone by placing a call.
To apply in person at one of our Retail Stores:
- Locate a store near you
- Bring proof of eligibility (ID, benefits program award letter, etc.)
- Meet with a store representative and enroll for free government phone service
- Qualify and leave the same day with your new Smartphone and Free Unlimited Talk, Text & Data
Either way, the application process is quick and easy. Contact EASY Wireless customer support at 877 476-3451 if you have any questions.
Remember to use your phone service at least once a month to maintain your free service.
The Benefits of Lifeline and ACP in Missouri
By participating in both the Lifeline phone program and the Affordable Connectivity Program through EASY Wireless, here are the full benefits you can receive:
- FREE Unlimited Talk
- FREE Unlimited Text
- FREE Unlimited Data
- FREE New Smartphone
- FREE SIM card and activation
- Option to keep your existing number or get a new one
You’ll enjoy a free cell phone plan each month with no bills to pay! Stay connected with unlimited calling, texting, and data on a reliable network.
Having free government phone service and internet access at no cost alleviates financial stress. You can focus your income on other necessities without worrying about a big cell phone service and data usage bill.
Staying connected also provides access to critical services, education, job opportunities, and health resources. That’s why these federal programs are so important for low-income populations.
Helpful Tip: FREE International Calling
Don’t worry about paying for expensive international calls. With your free data and one of the many calling apps you can talk, video chat and send messages for FREE.
Get Even More Benefits with the EASY Wireless Rewards Program
At EASY Wireless, we love giving back to our valued customers!
That’s why we’re so excited to tell you about our Rewards Program.
Automatically Earn Rewards Each Month
As an EASY Wireless customer, you’ll start earning rewards points automatically after your first 30 days of service.
And you keep earning rewards just for being with us! The longer you are with us the bigger your rewards grow.
It’s our way of thanking you for choosing EASY Wireless. We appreciate you!
Use Your Rewards for Awesome Perks
You can redeem your rewards points for cool upgrades and extras like:
- Free phone upgrades to the latest models
- Adding more lines of service for your family
- Buying accessories in one of our stores
Get Your FREE Smartphone and FREE Cell Phone Service in Missouri
Alternatively, visit one of EASY Wireless’s store locations across Missouri to apply and pick up your free phone in person
Don’t wait to start saving on your monthly phone bill. With EASY Wireless, you can immediately benefit from Lifeline and ACP discounts. Contact a Missouri store or customer support if you have any questions. Otherwise, simply enroll online or in-person today!
Don’t Wait to Start Saving Money
Lifeline and the Affordable Connectivity Program offer Missouri residents struggling with low income an invaluable opportunity. You can get free monthly cell phone service including unlimited talk, text, and data.
With an easy application process through EASY Wireless, start accessing these savings to stay connected. Apply online or visit a Missouri store location to qualify if you meet the eligibility requirements. Pickup your free smartphone and start enjoying reliable phone service at no cost to you.
