What if we tell you that if as food stamps recipients, you may qualify for a free cell phone? It’s true. Several phone carriers, such as EASY Wireless, offer free or discounted phones and monthly plans for those with lower incomes or on government programs like food stamps. If you have been on a tight budget lately have had to reduce spending, a free phone with free cell phone service could be a lifeline to help you stay connected to friends, family, and work.
In this blog post, we’re going to be discussing how to leverage food stamps participation to qualify for a bunch of exciting benefits. So if you’re having trouble paying your phone bill, don’t cancel your service just yet. Check if you qualify for free government phone service. Staying connected has never been more important, especially nowadays.
Understanding the Lifeline Program
First, it’s important to understand the Lifeline program, directed by the Universal Service Administrative Company (USAC). This is one of the programs you have to qualify for to get a free phone. Lifeline on its own provides discounts on landline or cell phone service. Specifically, you can receive up to a $9.25 discount each month on service (up to $34.25 if you’re on tribal lands).
To qualify, you must either have an income below 135% Federal Poverty guidelines or participate in certain government programs like Medicaid, food stamps — Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP), Supplemental Security Income (SSI), Federal Public Housing Assistance (FPHA), or Veterans Pension and Survivors Benefit.
Lifeline Program Application Process
To apply for Lifeline, go to USAC’s website for Lifeline or apply directly with EASY Wireless to receive your free cell phones. Once you submit your application, the process is easy. You just need to provide proof of participation from your food stamps program.
Each year, you need to re-certify your eligibility to continue receiving the free or low-cost phone service. As long as you still participate in an assistance program, you should be able to recertify and keep your Lifeline benefit.
What About The Affordable Connectivity Program (ACP)?
The Affordable Connectivity Program (ACP), formerly known as Emergency Broadband Benefit (EBB), work to make phone service more affordable for those on fixed budgets. The benefits they offer consist of up to a $30 discount on internet (up to $75 if you’re on tribal lands).
Eligibility
To qualify for the ACP, either you must have an income at or below 200% federal poverty or participate in at least one of these programs:
- SNAP (Food Stamps)
- Medicaid
- Supplemental Security Income (SSI)
- Federal Public Housing Assistance
- Veterans and Survivors Pension Benefit
You’ll need to provide proof of participation from your programs. The specific documents needed depend on which program you’re enrolled in.
ACP Information
The ACP is limited to 1 discount each household. The specific amount of your discount depends on which phone carrier and plan you choose. Sometimes, your discount may cover the entire cost of basic phone service.
To apply for the ACP, you can go to their website as well or print out an application to mail in. You’ll need to provide documents proving your participation in a qualifying assistance program. Apply today to start saving on your phone bill each month.
Other Programs That Could Qualify You For a Free Phone
Beyond the food stamps (SNAP) program, there are some other ways you could be able to qualify for free phones.
Medicaid
If you’re enrolled in Medicaid, you likely qualify either the Lifeline or ACP programs. Medicaid provides health coverage for low-income individuals including children, pregnant women, the disabled, elderly, and parents of dependent children.
Supplemental Security Income (SSI)
SSI provides monthly payments to adults and children with a disability who have limited income and resources. Recipients of SSI can qualify for a free phone. The Lifeline discount can apply to both mobile phones and landline home phone service.
Federal Public Housing Assistance
If you live in public housing or receive Section 8 rental assistance, you may be eligible for a free Lifeline phone. Public housing programs provide affordable housing for low-income families, the elderly, and disabled individuals.
Veterans Pension and Survivors Benefit
Certain veterans benefits like pension, compensation, and survivor’s benefits may qualify recipients for the Lifeline program. If you’re a veteran or surviving family member receiving these benefits, check with your phone company to apply for a free government phone.
Benefits You Get With EASY Wireless!!
Upon qualifying for both Lifeline & ACP programs with EASY Wireless, you’re able to join our free unlimited plan. Here’s what it offers:
EASY Wireless Unlimited Plan
- FREE Phone
- FREE Unlimited Data
- FREE Unlimited Talk
- FREE Unlimited Text
- FREE SIM Card Kit and Activation
- Choose to Keep Your Number or Receive Another One
How do I Apply For EASY Wireless Benefits?
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.
Either way, 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 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 issued-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 government food distribution program.
- Federal Public Housing Assistance Vouchers Documents
- Indian Affairs general assistance documents
- Notice letter of participation, such as an award letter
- Participation documents from a program, 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 Supplemental Security Income 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 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!
