Tribal Lifeline Program: How To Get Free Government Phone & Tablet

There are currently more than five million Native Americans in the United States. However, a finding by the American Indian Policy Institute (AIPI) showed that 18% of Tribal reservation residents do not have internet access. This indicates a barrier to wireless access for many Native Americans. Being cognizant of this, the government has provided Tribal Lifeline Program, which offers discounted phone plans and broadband access to those in need. 

Find out who can qualify and what the application process is. 

1. What Is Tribal Lifeline Program? 

Lifeline is an assistance program launched in 1985 by the Federal Communications Commission (FCC). The government aims to blur the digital divide as many low-income individuals have little to no opportunity to get access to the internet. 

Lifeline offers discounted phone services, high-speed internet, or combined voice and internet packages available through participating wireless or wireline providers. In detail: 

• You can get up to $9.25 monthly discount off your service for phone, internet, or bundled services  
• You may receive up to $34.25 per month if you live on qualifying Tribal lands 

The Lifeline program targets a wide range of individuals, from Tribal residents to seniors, low-income students, veterans, etc.

2. How Do I Qualify for Lifeline? 

For those who are intrigued about Tribal Lifeline Program, you may qualify for a free government phone and discounted phone services if you reside in federally recognized Tribal lands. 

• Federally recognized Indian tribe’s reservation, colony, or pueblo
• Former reservations in Oklahoma: 
  • Adopted Enhanced Support Area 
  • Cherokee Outlet 
• Hawaiian Home Lands
• Indian Allotments
• Alaska Native regions established under the Alaska Native Claims Settlement Act.
• Any land recognized as Tribal for the Lifeline Program by the FCC’s Office of Native Affairs and Policy and the Wireline Competition Bureau.

You can find Lifeline-eligible Tribal lands in this nationwide map.

Besides, you need to provide proof of any of the following to be eligible for Lifeline:

• Your income is at or under 135% of the federal poverty guidelines,
• OR you participate in any of these government programs:
  • Tribal Head Start
  • Tribal Temporary Assistance for Needy Families (Tribal TANF)
  • Food Distribution Program on Indian Reservations Assistance
  • Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP)
  • Medicaid
  • Federal Public Housing Assistance (FPHA)
  • Veterans Pension and Survivors Benefit
  • Supplemental Security Income (SSI)

Also read: Free Government Phone And Tablet Combo: How To Get It Cost-Free

3. How to Apply for Free Phone on Tribal Lands

Did you know that applying for Lifeline can grant you more than just subsidized phone and internet plans? If you choose to apply through a service provider that partners with the program, you will have a chance to receive a free phone or combo as a benefit from the provider. 

For example, if you enroll through AirTalk Wireless, you will receive a slew of benefits like: free unlimited cell phone plans for tribal lands, high-speed data, text, free international calling to 200+ countries, etc. 

Here are several simple steps to follow to join Tribal Lifeline Program: 

Step 1: Apply via AirTalk Wireless

Head to the AirTalk Wireless website, input your zip code, and click “Apply Now”.

For example, Oklahoma is a state with one of the largest Native American communities. Those who want to get a free tribal phone can insert Oklahoma zip code, such as 73099, 73160, depending on where they live. 

If the AirTalk Wireless Lifeline program is accessible in your location, congratulations, you can continue to the next phase.

Step 2: Select a plan

Choosing a plan is essential, as it is part of the Lifeline benefit. Be sure to select the plan that best fits your needs.

Step 3: Select a phone or bundle 

At this stage, you can choose a phone or a phone and tablet combo to your liking. There are a lot of choices ranging from iPhone to Samsung Galaxy, smart watches to laptops.

Step 4: Submit documents 

You will need to provide proof of income or proof of program participation.

Step 5: Wait for approval and shipping 

Once approved by the National Verifier and AirTalk Wireless, your package will arrive in 7-10 business days.

4. Best Free Phone & Bundle for Tribal Lands 

You may also take a look at some of the most sought-after phones and bundles at AirTalk Wireless below: 

Frequently Asked Question (FAQs)

What is a household?

A household is people who live together and share expenses (even though they may not be related). If you live together and share money, you form one household. If you live together but do not share money, you are two or more households.  

You can have many households at the same address, for example: Three adult family members living at the same address but do not share income or costs may be eligible for separate Lifeline benefits. 

In which states do we currently offer Tribal Lifeline?

Alaska, Oklahoma, New Mexico, South Dakota, Montana, and North Dakota have the greatest Native American population percentages. However, Lifeline is available in all states, territories, and commonwealths of the United States where federally recognized Tribal lands are located. 

Is there any other Tribal Benefit Program?

In addition to Lifeline, there is another benefit program known as the Tribal Broadband Connectivity Program. This $3 billion initiative is designed to support Tribal governments by funding broadband deployment on Tribal lands. It also aims to enhance telehealth services, distance learning opportunities, broadband affordability, and digital inclusion efforts.