Quick Answer If you already have a cell phone when you apply for Lifeline, you can usually keep your existing number and often keep your current device. The discount only applies through a participating Lifeline provider, so if your current carrier doesn’t participate, you’ll need to switch to one that does. You’ll receive a monthly […]

Quick Answer No, you generally cannot get two free government phones in one household. The federal Lifeline program — and the now-ended Affordable Connectivity Program (ACP) — are both limited to one benefit per household. The only exception is when multiple “separate economic households” exist at the same street address (for example, unrelated roommates who

Quick Answer Yes—being unemployed can help you qualify for a free or low-cost phone and service through the federal Lifeline program if your household income is low enough or you’re enrolled in qualifying benefits such as SNAP or Medicaid. Unemployment status alone isn’t a qualifying factor, but many job seekers qualify based on reduced income.

Quick Answer Yes—college students can get a “free government phone,” but not because they’re students. Eligibility comes through the federal Lifeline program based on low income (at or below 135% of the Federal Poverty Guidelines) or participation in certain assistance programs like SNAP or Medicaid. Some Lifeline providers include a free smartphone with service, but

Quick Answer Yes. If you receive Section 8 (also called Federal Public Housing Assistance or FPHA), you qualify for the federal Lifeline program, which can give you free or heavily discounted cell service—and with some carriers, a free smartphone. The “free phone” itself isn’t guaranteed everywhere, but many Lifeline providers offer a no-cost device when

Quick Answer Yes. If you’re enrolled in Medicaid, you qualify for the federal Lifeline program, which many carriers use to provide a free smartphone and free monthly talk, text, and data. While the separate Affordable Connectivity Program (ACP) ended in 2024 after funding lapsed, Lifeline remains active nationwide, and many providers still offer no-cost phone

Quick Answer Yes. If your household gets SNAP (Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program) benefits, you qualify for the federal Lifeline program, which can provide free or discounted phone service and, with many providers, a free smartphone. The Affordable Connectivity Program (ACP) that used to add extra data and device discounts has ended due to lack of

Quick Answer Yes. If you receive Supplemental Security Income (SSI), you automatically qualify for the federal Lifeline program, which can get you a free or deeply discounted cell phone plan and, with many providers, a free smartphone. The exact device and monthly data vary by provider and state, but most Lifeline carriers offer unlimited talk