How to Qualify for a Lifeline Cell Phone?
Residents can now get a free phone and monthly wireless service with the new Affordable Connectivity Program (ACP) benefit. ACP is a federal assistance program and has a higher income level to qualify than Lifeline.
To qualify for Lifeline, consumers must enroll in one program or have an income below 135% of the Federal Poverty Guidelines. For more information about the eligibility criteria for Lifeline, please read this article:
Income Requirements
A Lifeline cell phone is a great way for low-income households to stay connected. This program provides a monthly discount to help eligible consumers save money on telephone bills. Depending on the Lifeline cell phone providers, this discount can be applied to landline or wireless services. Some states also offer additional benefits like bill credits and waivers to help consumers with their expenses.
Eligibility for a Lifeline phone is based on income or participation in certain government assistance programs. The federal government requires telecommunication companies to contribute to the Universal Service Fund, which then helps fund the free and discounted phones provided through the Lifeline program. Each year, you will be required to recertify your eligibility. This is done through a simple online form or by completing an in-person application at a provider’s store.
You can receive a free cell phone through AirTalk Wireless and other providers that partner with the state to provide this service. The company’s plans include free voice, text, and data and can be used on most GSM handsets. In addition to this, the company offers a wide range of accessories to help you get the most out of your phone.
State Requirements
Some states require proof of eligibility to obtain a Lifeline phone. This ensures that only eligible residents receive a free government phone. The proof of eligibility can be as simple as a document showing your income or participation in a government assistance program. Some common programs that qualify include Medicaid, SNAP (Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program), Section 8 Housing, School Lunch Program, Energy Assistance, or SSI. If you have a document showing one of these programs, you can upload it to your application and get started with your free cell phone.
Once you have been approved, you must use your Lifeline cell phone and check your balance regularly. If you don’t call, text, or go online (using plan data) within 30 days of receiving your activation letter, you may lose your Lifeline service. You must re-apply to get your free phone and plan back if you lose it.
Device Requirements
The FCC created the Lifeline phone program in 1985 to provide low-income households free or discounted communication services. The program was originally design to provide home phone service, but it expanded to include wireless services over time. Consumers can qualify for the program if they meet certain income requirements or participate in one of the eligible government assistance programs such as Medicaid, SNAP, Section 8 housing, school lunches, energy assistance, and federal public benefits like SSI or SSDI.
The Lifeline cell phone benefit is administered by the Universal Service Administrative Company (USAC). USAC provides consumers with information about the program, helps them apply for a Lifeline discount and helps them keep their eligibility current through an annual recertification process. There have been problems with fraud and abuse in the past, but the new rules require that applicants prove their eligibility by providing documentation of their financial situation or their participation in a qualifying government assistance program. This prevents people who are not eligible from receiving the phone service and helps to reduce fraudulent activity.
Many providers nationwide, offer lifeline phones and bundled services. You can find the provider that offers the best value for your needs and then enroll in the program using their online application. Also, you must provide proof of income and other required documents, but the enrollment process is usually very quick and simple. You can also enroll in the Connected Device Program (ACP) when you sign up for your Lifeline service if your provider offers it. The ACP will give you more data than you would receive with the traditional Lifeline program.
Additional Requirements
The FCC’s Lifeline program is a vital resource for low-income Americans. Whether working or not, many people don’t earn enough to afford essentials such as phones and Internet access. This is particularly true in America, where wages have fallen, and the middle class has been disappearing for years. To qualify for a government phone, your household’s gross yearly income must be at or below 135% of the Federal Poverty Guidelines.
To keep your Lifeline discount, you must recertify yearly using the National Verifier or answering prerecorded messages on your phone. If you do not recertify, your service will terminated. If you’re unsure if you qualify, the best way to find out is to apply for the program. You can get free government cell phone service from several providers by visiting their websites and applying for Lifeline.
In addition to a free smartphone and monthly wireless data. Assurance Wireless offers additional benefits through the Affordable Connectivity Program (ACP). The ACP is a new initiative that helps make broadband Internet more affordable for low-income households. Those who qualify for Lifeline and the ACP can receive a home telephone line credit. Also a wireless device with up to 10GB of free monthly data. To learn more, visit their website or call them directly.
