Free Government Phones Providers By State

Are you struggling to pay your monthly cell phone plan to a point where you feel you can no longer afford a phone? Being jobless, sickly or disabled comes with many economic challenges that make it impossible for some people to own and maintain a phone. Thankfully, the government runs a Lifeline cell phone service in 49 states, plus Washington DC and Puerto Rico to ensure that every American has access to at least one phone. The Lifeline free government phones by state program offer free cell phone for seniors and free service plan to people enrolled on government assistance. The program further extends to Americans below certain income thresholds.

The qualification criteria vary among states. Some states have several providers including the leading phone carriers while others have one or two carriers. What you get with the program also varies among states. The program offers unlimited calling and text in some states, while some states provide lesser plans with some data allowance and touch screen government phones. Understanding the options and the free government cell phone companies available in your state will help you find the best free phone and free service for you and your family.

The 51 Best Free Government Phones Providers By State

Although the qualification criteria for free government phones are almost similar across the country, people in the same situation in different states are likely to have other possibilities. Some states have many Lifeline providers, giving the residents a competitive advantage allowing them to select the best option. The service plans vary among providers with some carriers offering touch screen government phones as part of their program while others offer feature phones.

Furthermore, some providers offer more attractive service plans with unlimited minutes and texts, but that also varies among states. It is possible to find a Lifeline provider with different programs for different states, which means that the best provider in one state is not necessarily the better option in another state. You will need to thoroughly review the programs available in your locality to find the ideal option. To help you find a free government phone, we have a list of the providers offering the Lifeline service in every state covered by the program.

1. Alabama

The eligibility for free government phones in Alabama requires one to be a beneficiary of at least one of the federal or government assistance programs. Furthermore, you can qualify for the government Lifeline program in Alabama if your household total income is at or below 135 percent of the Federal Poverty Guidelines.

Free cell phone providers:

  • Assurance Wireless
  • Safelink Wireless
  • North American Local
  • Access Wireless

Companies that offer lifeline discount:

  • T-Mobile
  • SouthernLINC Wireless
  • AT&T Mobility

2. Alaska

You will qualify for a free government phone in Alaska if you are already enrolled in a Federal assistance program or if your household total income is at or under 135 percent of the Alaska Federal Poverty Guidelines.

Free cell phone providers:

  • Arctic Scope Telephone Association Cooperative
  • Alaska DigiTel
  • Copper Valley Wireless

Companies that offer lifeline discount:

  • Cordova Wireless Communications
  • AT&T Mobility

3. Arizona

The qualification by income threshold is different in Arizona. The total income for a household should be at or under 150 percent of the federal guidelines. Nevertheless, being a beneficiary of federal assistance programs makes you a candidate for the program.

Free cell phone providers:

  • Assurance Wireless
  • Access Wireless
  • Life Wireless
  • Q Link Wireless
  • Stand Up Wireless
  • EnTouch Wireless
  • Terracom
  • Tag Mobile

Companies that offer lifeline discount:

  • Total Call Mobile

4. Arkansas

You can qualify for the Lifeline program in Arkansas through support programs or income thresholds. The entire household income should be at or below 135 percent of the poverty index to qualify.

Free cell phone providers:

  • Connexion Wireless
  • Assist Wireless
  • Assurance Wireless
  • Absolute Mobile
  • Safelink Wireless
  • Access Wireless
  • Cintex Wireless
  • Q-Link Wireless
  • EnTouch Wireless
  • Life Wireless
  • Stand Up Wireless
  • Terracom Wireless
  • True Wireless
  • TruConnect
  • US Connect

Companies that offer lifeline discount:

  • Viaero Wireless
  • US Connect
  • AT&T Mobility

5. California

You can qualify for a free government cell phone in California if anyone in your family is in a federal assistance program. The household income threshold in California is a bit different from other states. The income should be at or less than the annual limit for your household size.

Free cell phone providers:

  • SafetyNet Wireless
  • Feel Safe Wireless
  • EnTouch Wireless
  • Safelink Wireless
  • Assurance Wireless
  • Life Wireless
  • Access Wireless
  • TruConnect
  • Tag Mobile

6. Colorado

You are eligible for the government free phone and service in Colorado if the total household income is at or below 135 percent of the Federal guidelines on poverty. You can also qualify for the Lifeline program if you are in one of the Federal or state assistance programs.

Free cell phone providers:

  • Life Wireless
  • EnTouch Wireless
  • Access Wireless
  • American Assistance
  • Assurance Wireless
  • TruConnect
  • Tempo Communications
  • Tag Mobile
  • Stand Up Wireless
  • Q Link Wireless
  • Life Wireless
  • Terracom Wireless
  • Tempo Communications

7. Connecticut

The easiest way to qualify for a free phone in Connecticut is through the Federal assistance program. Being a beneficiary of the Federal assistance allows you to register with any of the Lifeline providers in the state for a free phone and plan. You can also qualify for the government phones if you can show that your total household income is at or less than 135 percent of the poverty guidelines.

Free cell phone providers:

  • Assurance Wireless
  • Life Wireless
  • Access Wireless
  • Safelink Wireless

Companies that offer lifeline discount:

  • T-Mobile

8. Delaware

You can get a free government phone in Delaware if you are a recipient of the Federal assistance through one of the Federal programs. You can also qualify for the Lifeline program in Delaware if your entire household income is at or less than 135 percent of the state’s poverty index.

Free cell phone providers:

  • Safelink Wireless
  • Access Wireless
  • Assurance Wireless

Companies that offer lifeline discount:

  • T-Mobile

9. District of Columbia

A household income of 135 percent or less per the Federal guidelines qualifies you for a free government phone and service. You can also apply for the government phone service if you are already a beneficiary of the Federal assistance.

Free cell phone providers:

  • Assurance Wireless
  • Access Wireless
  • Safelink Wireless

Companies that offer lifeline discount:

  • T-Mobile

10. Florida

Getting a free government phone in Florida is straightforward if you already enrolled in a Federal assistance program. Equally, you can apply for a free phone-based on income. However, you will need to note that some Lifeline providers require a threshold of 150 percent while others need 135 percent of the poverty guidelines.

Free cell phone providers:

  • Assurance Wireless
  • Access Wireless
  • Safelink Wireless

Companies that offer lifeline discount:

  • T-Mobile

11. Georgia

Qualifying for a free phone is not difficult in Georgia if you are already a beneficiary of the Federal assistance programs. You can also enroll for a free phone if your entire household income is at 135 percent and below of the Federal guidelines.

Free cell phone providers:

  • Amerimex Wireless
  • Access Wireless
  • EnTouch Wireless
  • Assurance Wireless
  • TruConnect
  • Tempo Communication
  • Life Wireless
  • Stand Up Wireless
  • Q Link Wireless
  • SafetyNet Wireless
  • Safelink Wireless

Companies that offer lifeline discount:

  • T-Mobile
  • SouthernLINC Wireless

12. Hawaii

You need to have a household income of 135 percent or below the poverty index or be a member of the Federal assistance program.

Free cell phone providers:

  • Q Link Wireless
  • En Touch Wireless
  • Assurance Wireless

13. Idaho

The eligibility in Idaho is not different from other states. You need to be a beneficiary of the Federal assistance programs or have a household income of 135 percent or less than the Federal poverty index.

Free cell phone providers:

  • Q Link Wireless
  • EnTouch Wireless
  • Assurance Wireless

Companies that offer lifeline discount:

  • T-Mobile
  • AT&T Mobility

14. Illinois

A household income of 135 percent or less per the poverty index qualifies you to get a free government phone in Illinois, but you do not need to show your income if you are already enrolled in one of the Federal assistance programs.

Free cell phone providers:

  • American Assistance
  • Safelink Wireless
  • Life Wireless
  • Terracom Wireless
  • Access Wireless

Companies that offer lifeline discount:

  • US Cellular

15. Indiana

You are eligible for the Lifeline program in Indiana if your total household income is at or under 135 percent of the poverty index or if you are enrolled in a Federal program.

Free cell phone providers:

  • Terracom Wireless
  • TruConnect
  • Tempo Communications
  • Q Link Wireless
  • EnTouch Wireless
  • Assurance Wireless
  • Life Wireless
  • Safelink Wireless
  • Access Wireless
  • American Assistance

Companies that offer lifeline discount:

  • T-Mobile

16. Iowa

In Iowa, the total income for the household has to be at 135 percent or lower to qualify for a free government phone. People receiving aid from one of the Federal assistance programs also qualify for Lifeline phone plans in Iowa.

Free cell phone providers:

  • Tag Mobile
  • TruConnect
  • Stand Up Wireless
  • Tempo Communications
  • Safelink Wireless
  • Terracom Wireless
  • Q Link Wireless
  • Access Wireless
  • Life Wireless
  • Assurance Wireless
  • EnTouch Wireless

Companies that offer lifeline discount:

  • US Cellular
  • iWireless
  • Verizon Wireless

17. Kansas

In Kansas, you need to have a total household income of 135 percent or lower of the Federal poverty index or be a member of a Federal assistance program.

Free cell phone providers:

  • Access Wireless
  • TruConnect
  • Tempo Communications
  • Safelink Wireless
  • Q Link Wireless
  • Stand Up Wireless
  • EnTouch Wireless
  • Assurance Wireless

Companies that offer lifeline discount:

  • US Cellular
  • Epic Touch / EpicPCS
  • Viaero Wireless

18. Kentucky

Kentucky is one of the states with the largest selection of Lifeline providers, ensuring that you can easily find government phones near me irrespective of your location within the state. If your household income is at 135 percent or lower of the Federal poverty index, you can register with one of the leading Lifeline carriers in Kentucky to get a free phone. You are also eligible if you are getting aid from one of the Federal assistance programs.

Free cell phone providers:

  • TruConnect
  • Tag Mobile
  • SafetyNet Wireless
  • Tempo Communications
  • Stand Up Wireless
  • Access Wireless
  • Safelink Wireless
  • American Assistance
  • Q Link Wireless
  • Assurance Wireless
  • Life Wireless
  • Easy Wireless
  • Feelsafe Wireless
  • EnTouch Wireless

Companies that offer lifeline discount:

  • T-Mobile
  • AT&T Mobility

19. Louisiana

You need a household income of 135 percent or below the Federal poverty, index to qualify for a government phone. You can also look for free government phone locations in Louisiana if you are receiving government aid through one of the Federal government programs.

Free cell phone providers:

  • Terracom
  • TruConnect
  • Tag Mobile
  • Access Wireless
  • Connexion Wireless
  • Assurance Wireless
  • Life Wireless
  • Q Link Wireless
  • EnTouch Wireless
  • NewPhone Wireless
  • Safelink Wireless
  • Stand Up wireless

Companies that offer lifeline discount:

  • AT&T Mobility
  • T-Mobile

20. Maine

The eligibility for the Lifeline free phones includes 135 percent or lower household income of the Federal poverty guideline. You will also qualify if you are benefiting from the Federal aid programs.

Free cell phone providers:

  • Cintex Wireless
  • Q Link Wireless
  • Assurance Wireless
  • Tag Mobile
  • Safelink Wireless

Companies that offer lifeline discount:

  • US Cellular

21. Maryland

You can qualify for the best free government phones in Maryland with a household income that does not surpass 135 percent or if you are listed on any of the Federal benefits programs.

Free cell phone providers:

  • Assist Wireless
  • Access Wireless
  • Assurance Wireless
  • American Assistance
  • Conexion Wireless
  • Life Wireless
  • EnTouch Wireless
  • Cintex Wireless
  • Safelink Wireless
  • Tempo Communications
  • Stand Up Wireless
  • Tag Mobile
  • US Connect
  • TruConnect
  • Terracom Wireless

Companies that offer lifeline discount:

  • US Connect
  • T-Mobile

22. Massachusetts

A total household income of 135 percent or lower of the Federal poverty guidelines and a listing on the Federal benefits programs will make you qualify for a Lifeline phone service.

Free cell phone providers:

  • Stand Up Wireless
  • Safelink Wireless
  • Assurance Wireless

Companies that offer lifeline discount:

  • T-Mobile

23. Michigan

You can easily qualify for a Lifeline cell phone in Michigan if you are on any of the Federal benefits programs or if your household has total income that is at 135 percent or lower of the Federal poverty figure.

Free cell phone providers:

  • Life Wireless
  • EnTouch Wireless
  • Safelink Wireless
  • Feelsafe Wireless
  • Q Link Wireless
  • Assurance Wireless
  • American Assistance
  • SafetyNet Wireless
  • Access Wireless
  • Tempo Communications
  • Stand Up Wireless
  • TruConnect
  • Tag Mobile

Companies that offer lifeline discount:

  • AT&T Mobility
  • T-Mobile

24. Minnesota

You can qualify Lifeline discounted phone plans or free phones in Minnesota if you are on a Federal benefits program or if the total income in your household is at 135 percent or below as per the Federal guidelines.

Free cell phone providers:

  • Tempo Communications
  • TruConnect
  • Terracom
  • Q Link Wireless
  • EnTouch Wireless
  • Stand Up Wireless
  • Life Wireless
  • Assurance Wireless
  • Access Wireless
  • American Assistance

25. Mississippi

You can get a free phone or a discounted phone plan from the big carriers if you are on any Federal benefits program or a total household income that is at or under 135 percent as per the Federal guidelines.

Free cell phone providers:

  • Safelink Wireless
  • Assurance Wireless
  • Access Wireless
  • EnTouch Wireless

Companies that offer lifeline discount:

  • T-Mobile
  • AT&T Mobility

26. Missouri

The eligibility criteria in Missouri are not different from other states. You only need to be on a Federal benefit program or have a household income of 135 percent as per the Federal guidelines on poverty.

Free cell phone providers:

  • Life Wireless
  • Access Wireless
  • EnTouch Wireless
  • American Assistance
  • Easy Wireless
  • Assist Wireless
  • Q Link Wireless
  • Assurance Wireless
  • Safelink Wireless
  • Tag Mobile
  • TruConnect
  • Tempo Communications

Companies that offer lifeline discount:

  • US Cellular
  • Total Call Mobile
  • T-Mobile

27. Nebraska

The Nebraska Lifeline eligibility requires you to have a total household income of not more than 135 percent of the Federal poverty index. You may also qualify if you are on a Federal support program.

Free cell phone providers:

  • Tempo Communications
  • EnTouch Wireless
  • Stand Up Wireless

Companies that offer lifeline discount:

  • Viaero Wireless
  • US Cellular

28. Nevada

The qualification criterion for Nevada Lifeline phones is a bit different from other states. Being listed on any Federal program will qualify you to get any Lifeline offer. However, the difference with other states is on the income-based criteria. The annual income per household varies based on the members of the household. The annual income for a family with one member is $17,226, while that of a family with eight members is $59,562. Families with more than eight members should add $6,048 for each additional member.

Free cell phone providers:

  • TruConnect
  • Tempo Communications
  • Terracom Wireless
  • Tag Mobile
  • Q Link Wireless
  • Life Wireless
  • Assurance Wireless
  • EnTouch Wireless
  • American Assistance
  • Absolute Mobile
  • Access Wireless

29. New Hampshire

You can get a free government phone in New Hampshire with an entire household income that does not surpass 135 percent of the Federal guidelines on poverty. Nevertheless, you will not need to use the income-based eligibility if you are on any Federal benefits program.

Free cell phone providers:

  • Safelink Wireless
  • Access Wireless
  • Assurance Wireless

Companies that offer lifeline discount:

  • US Cellular
  • Viaero Wireless

30. New Jersey

It is easier to qualify for the Lifeline program in New Jersey through a Federal benefit program as it allows you to register with any phone carrier. It is also possible to qualify through household income, but some providers require a threshold of 135 percent while others require 150 percent of the Federal guidelines.

Free cell phone providers:

  • Safelink Wireless
  • Assurance Wireless

Companies that offer lifeline discount:

  • T-Mobile

31. New Mexico

You are eligible for the Lifeline program in New Mexico if the income for your entire household income is at 135 percent or below the Federal guidelines on poverty, or if you are enrolled in a Federal benefit program.

Free cell phone providers:

  • Assurance Wireless
  • Safelink Wireless

32. New York

You can get a free phone from any Lifeline provider in New York if you are on any Federal benefits program or if your entire household earnings are at 135 percent or under the poverty index.

Free cell phone providers:

  • Assurance Wireless
  • Access Wireless
  • Safelink Wireless

Companies that offer lifeline discount:

  • Verizon Wireless
  • T-Mobile

33. North Carolina

You meet the Lifeline requirements in North Carolina if you are in a list of any Federal benefits group or if the earnings in your household are at or under 135 percent of the poverty index.

Free cell phone providers:

  • Safelink Wireless
  • Access Wireless
  • Assurance Wireless

Companies that offer lifeline discount:

  • US Cellular
  • T-Mobile

34. North Dakota

Although North Dakota has limited options, you can get a free phone with free service if you are a beneficiary of the Federal assistance program or if your household earnings are at or under 135 percent of the poverty index.

Free cell phone providers:

  • Tempo Communications
  • EnTouch Wireless
  • Life Wireless

Companies that offer lifeline discount:

  • Nemont Wireless
  • AT&T Mobility
  • Verizon Wireless

35. Ohio

Residents of Ohio can get a Lifeline phone service if they are on the list of Federal benefits programs or if their total household earnings are at or under 135 percent of the poverty index.

Free cell phone providers:

  • TruConnect
  • Access Wireless
  • Tempo Communications
  • American Assistance
  • Stand Up Wireless
  • Assurance Wireless
  • Safelink Wireless
  • i-Wireless
  • EnTouch Wireless
  • Q Link Wireless
  • Feelsafe Wireless

Companies that offer lifeline discount:

  • T-Mobile
  • AT&T Mobility

36. Oklahoma

In Oklahoma, you need to have a household earning of 135 percent or below the poverty index or be a beneficiary of the Federal assistance programs to qualify for the Lifeline phones and plans.

Free cell phone providers:

  • True Wireless
  • Assist Wireless
  • TruConnect
  • Easy Wireless
  • Terracom Wireless
  • EnTouch Wireless
  • Tag Mobile
  • Feelsafe Wireless
  • Sprocket Wireless
  • Infinity Mobile
  • Q Link Wireless
  • Life Wireless

Companies that offer lifeline discount:

  • US Cellular
  • EpicPCS / Epic Touch

37. Oregon

You can apply for a free Lifeline phone in Oregon if you are a beneficiary of the Federal assistance programs or if your entire household income is at or under 135 percent of the government poverty guidelines.

Free cell phone providers:

  • EnTouch Wireless
  • Assurance Wireless

Companies that offer lifeline discount:

  • T-Mobile
  • AT&T Mobility
  • US Cellular

38. Pennsylvania

Residents of Pennsylvania can seek for free government phones by state if they are receiving benefits from any Federal assistance programs or if their household earnings are at or below 135 percent.

Free cell phone providers:

  • Q Link Wireless
  • Feelsafe Wireless
  • Safelink Wireless
  • Life Wireless
  • EnTouch Wireless
  • Tag Mobile
  • SafetyNet Wireless
  • TruConnect
  • Terracom Wireless
  • American Assistance
  • Amerimex Wireless
  • Assurance Wireless

Companies that offer lifeline discount:

  • T-Mobile

39. Puerto Rico

Individuals enlisted in a Federal benefit program or people in the household with earnings that stand at or below the 135 poverty guideline, can apply for a government phone.

Free cell phone providers:

  • Absolute Mobile
  • Life Wireless
  • EnTouch Wireless
  • Q Link Wireless
  • Stand Up Wireless
  • Safelink Wireless

Companies that offer lifeline discount:

  • AT&T Mobility
  • Centennial de Puerto Rico
  • Total Call Mobile
  • Claro de Puerto Rico
  • T-Mobile
  • Open Movil de Puerto Rico

40. Rhode Island

A total income that is at or under 135 percent of the Federal guidelines qualifies you to get a free phone in Rhode Island. Alternatively, you can seek a government phone if you are a beneficiary of any Federal benefits program.

Free cell phone providers:

  • True Wireless
  • Tempo Communications
  • Q Link Wireless
  • Safelink Wireless
  • Feelsafe Wireless
  • Life Wireless
  • EnTouch Wireless
  • ClearTalk Wireless
  • Access Wireless
  • Assurance Wireless
  • American Assistance

41. South Carolina

You need to be enlisted on a Federal-aid program or have a household income that is at or below 135 percent of the poverty index to qualify for a free government phone.

Free cell phone providers:

  • TruConnect
  • EnTouch Wireless
  • Tempo Communications
  • Stand Up Wireless
  • Tag Mobile
  • Feelsafe Wireless
  • Q Link Wireless
  • Life Wireless
  • Safelink Wireless
  • ClearTalk Wireless
  • Assurance Wireless
  • Access Wireless

42. South Dakota

South Dakota has limited options when it comes to companies that offer free government phones. Residents can qualify if they are on a Federal benefit program or if their household income is at or under 135 percent as per the Federal guidelines on poverty.

Free cell phone providers:

  • EnTouch Wireless

Companies that offer lifeline discount:

  • AT&T Mobility

43. Tennessee

You may qualify for touch screen government phones in Tennessee if you are on a Federal-aid program or if your household earnings are at or under 135 percent of the Federal poverty index.

Free cell phone providers:

  • Cleartalk Wireless
  • Access Wireless
  • Safelink Wireless
  • Assurance Wireless

Companies that offer lifeline discount:

  • US Cellular
  • T-Mobile

44. Texas

It is easier to qualify for a government phone in Texas if you are a beneficiary of any Federal benefits program. Residents who want to qualify through income will have to check with different providers as some want an income percentage that is 135 or below the poverty index while others require a percentage of 150 percent or below.

Free cell phone providers:

  • True Mobile
  • TruConnect
  • Tag Mobile
  • Terracom
  • Stand Up Wireless
  • Q Link Wireless
  • Safelink Wireless
  • Life Wireless
  • Access Wireless
  • Assurance Wireless
  • EnTouch Wireless

Companies that offer lifeline discount:

  • AT&T

45. Utah

You will qualify for a government phone in Utah if you are a Federal beneficiary or if the total household earnings are at or under 135 percent.

Free cell phone providers:

  • Tempo Communications
  • Stand Up Wireless
  • Safelink Wireless
  • Q Link Wireless
  • Assurance Wireless
  • Life Wireless
  • Access Wireless
  • American Assistance

46. Vermont

You are eligible for a free government phone in Vermont if you are on any Federal benefits program. Alternatively, you can check with the provider for the income percentage that qualifies you to get a free phone.

Free cell phone providers:

  • Q Link Wireless

47. Virginia

You will qualify for a free government phone in Virginia if your household income is at or under 135 percent of the poverty index or if you are on any Federal assistance program.

Free cell phone providers:

  • Assurance Wireless
  • Access Wireless
  • Safelink Wireless

Companies that offer lifeline discount:

  • T-Mobile
  • AT&T Mobility
  • US Cellular

48. Washington

You need a total household income of 135 percent or below to qualify for a government phone in Washington. Nevertheless, all Lifeline providers will give you a phone if you are in any Federal assistance program.

Free cell phone providers:

  • Assurance Wireless
  • Access Wireless
  • Life Wireless
  • EnTouch Wireless
  • Q Link Wireless
  • Terracom Wireless
  • Safelink Wireless

Companies that offer lifeline discount:

  • T-Mobile
  • AT&T Mobility
  • Inland Cellular
  • US Cellular

49. West Virginia

Residents of West Virginia can get a free phone if they are part of the Federal assistance beneficiaries or their household income is at or below 135 percent of the poverty index.

Free cell phone providers:

  • US Connect
  • Terracom Wireless
  • TruConnect
  • Tag Mobile
  • Safelink Wireless
  • Q Link Wireless
  • Stand Up Wireless
  • Gulf Coast Wireless
  • Cintex Wireless
  • Life Wireless
  • EnTouch Wireless
  • Assurance Wireless
  • American Assistance
  • Access Wireless

Companies that offer lifeline discount:

  • US Cellular
  • AT&T Mobility

50. Wisconsin

You will have a chance to get a free phone in Wisconsin if the total household income is at or below 135 percent of the Federal index or if you are on the list of any Federal assistance program.

Free cell phone providers:

  • Access Wireless
  • TruConnect
  • American Assistance
  • Terracom Wireless
  • Assurance Wireless
  • Tempo Communications
  • EnTouch Wireless
  • Tag Mobile
  • Feelsafe Wireless
  • SafetyNet Wireless
  • Life Wireless
  • Safelink Wireless
  • Q Link Wireless

Companies that offer lifeline discount:

  • US Cellular
  • AT&T Mobility
  • Verizon Wireless
  • Element Mobile

51. Wyoming

If the total income for your household is at 135 percent or below, or if you are on the list of Federal assistance programs, you can qualify for a free phone in Wyoming.

Free cell phone providers:

  • Tempo Communications
  • EnTouch Wireless

Companies that offer lifeline discount:

  • Nemont Wireless

The 5 Best Providers With Touch Screen Government Phones

1. Access Wireless

Access Wireless is one of the biggest providers of the Lifeline Assistance program with a presence in almost all states. The company offers touch screen government phones to individuals receiving Medicaid, TANF, SNAP and SSI. You can also get a free phone at Access Wireless if your income is at or below your state’s poverty index as per Federal data.

The carrier offers a free mobile phone with monthly plans for one year for those who qualify for the Lifeline program. Access Wireless has a reward program that allows customers to earn free minutes when they use Loyalty Care in Kroger stores. Access Wireless free plan offers one free cell phone and free minutes and texts. However, it is worth noting that minutes and text messages vary among states.

Access Wireless gives its customers 250 free talks and unlimited text messages in most states. New customers usually receive 1000 minutes and unlimited text with 50MB of data. The plan further includes free voicemail, caller ID, call waiting, nationwide coverage and a wireless rewards program. The additional airtime starts at $10 with 150 minutes and text and 100 MB of data.

Highlights

  • No contracts or hidden fees
  • Free voicemail, call waiting and caller ID
  • Free domestic long distance
  • A free phone
  • An option to bring your own phone

2. Assurance Wireless

Assurance Wireless offers many free government phone locations across the US. As one of the carriers offering the Lifeline program in most of the states, you can easily find government phones near me at Assurance Wireless stores across the country. You can qualify for a free phone at Assurance Wireless if you are receiving Medicaid, WIC, section 8, Work First, SNAPs, Low-Income Energy, Crisis Intervention, National Free lunch and TANF. You can also qualify if your income meets the percentage requirement for your state.

What you get with Assurance Wireless varies among states, but it offers free talk, text and data in most states. Nevertheless, you will likely get a free android smartphone, unlimited text, 1000 minutes and 50 to 2GB of data per month. Assurance Wireless offers a free smartphone with Wi-Fi access, unlimited free minutes and texts, and 500 MB of high-speed data in California. The plan further includes unlimited 211 calling, Emergency 911 Access and access to mobile hotspots.

Highlights

  • A free Android Smartphone
  • Unlimited minutes and texts
  • Free mobile hotspots access
  • 2GB free data
  • Cheap international calls

3. Tag Mobile

Tag Mobile allows individuals to apply online or visit a store that offers Tag Mobile services. You are eligible for the Lifeline service if you are a beneficiary of Medicaid, SNAP, Federal Public Housing Assistance, SSI or Veterans Pension and Survivors Benefit program. You can also qualify for the Lifeline program if you meet the income guidelines for our state.

Tag Mobile offers free cell phones, minutes and texts to those who qualify for the service. The carrier offers 500 talk and text minutes in most states. The plan does not have monthly bills or contracts. However, the minutes not used in a month will be lost. If you need extra minutes, the carrier offers 100 minutes for $7, 500 minutes for $20 and 1000 minutes for $30.

Highlights

  • A free phone
  • Free 4GB of data
  • Pre-determined minutes
  • Caller ID
  • Voice mail
  • No credit checks
  • No monthly bills
  • Low-cost mobile plans

4. Cintex Wireless

Although Cintex is not one of the biggest providers of the Lifeline program in the US, it has some of the best offers for low-income persons and families. You also do not have to worry about exhausting your minutes every month as the company supports the rollover of unused minutes. You can qualify for the Cintex Lifeline program if your income meets the Federal poverty guidelines for your state. You will not need to qualify through income if you are a beneficiary of TANF, Medicaid, Food Stamps, SSI, and LIHEAP.

Cintex Wireless Lifeline plan offers 250 talk and text minutes to all those who qualify. However, the company has affordable plans. You can purchase an additional 100 national minutes or 100 international texts for $5. The plan further features international and domestic calling, caller ID, call waiting and call forwarding.

Highlights

  • Free smartphone
  • Free unlimited talk
  • Free unlimited text
  • Free 10 GB of data
  • Call forwarding
  • End month minutes rollover
  • Call waiting
  • Affordable additional minutes

5. Life Wireless

Life Wireless allows people with low income to get a free smartphone. However, your income should be at or below 135 percent of the Federal poverty index to qualify. You will also qualify for the plan if you are receiving SSI, Food Stamps, WIC and Medicaid among other government assistant programs. Life Wireless Lifeline plan offers 123 monthly minutes with the rollover of the unused minutes. The plan further features call waiting, caller ID, voice mail and national and international calls.

Highlights

  • Free smartphone
  • Purchase air time through MoneyGram
  • Call waiting
  • Voice mail
  • Caller ID

Conclusion

Whether you are unemployed, disabled or employed with low income, you can enjoy some of the best phone services at no cost. The free government phones help people with low-income access the basic services at all times. However, you need to note that different carriers offer unique services ranging from a free smartphone to high-speed data and unlimited minutes and texts.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Who has the best free government phones?

Different Lifeline phone carriers offer unique services to their customers. Some providers allow new customers to bring their phones while others offer a free phone as part of the plan. It is even possible to find Lifeline carriers with free smartphone devices as part of their plan. However, the offers vary from one state to another, but some of the best carriers with free government phones are Assurance Wireless and Access Wireless.

Does Verizon offer a free phone?

Yes. Verizon offers a free phone when you switch or upgrade your service. The company also offers discounted Lifeline options that enable you to get some of the best brand phones at affordable prices.

Does AT&T offer free government phones?

AT&T does not offer free government phones, but it has a discounted Lifeline program that allows people to get affordable phone services.

What free phone does Assurance Wireless give you?

Assurance Wireless has some of the best free government smartphones. The company’s large selection of phones includes Kyocera Jax S1360, ZTE Quest, Coolpad Avail and Alcatel OneTouch Cinch among other brand phones.

How can I get Internet for free with low income?

Most Lifeline carriers offer a data plan that offers free internet as long as you qualify. Assurance Wireless offers up to 2GB free data a month, depending on your state.

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