13.7% of Texan residents lived below the poverty line in 2023, Statista reported. The McAllen-Edinburg-Mission metro area has 27.2% of residents living in poverty and Eagle Pass, with a 24.4% poverty rate. This means millions of people across the state can’t afford necessities, including phone and internet access.
In fact, across the U.S., nearly one in four adults earning less than $30,000 per year said they didn’t own a smartphone in early 2021, based on a Pew Research Center survey. Many low-income families in Texas can’t afford smartphones or reliable internet.
The Lifeline program helps low-income people access affordable phone or internet service. It also provides the best free government phone in Texas from participating providers. By letting more people know about such programs and making Lifeline easier to access, we can help more Texans get the free government phone service they can and keep in touch with everyone.
1. What is the Best Free Government Phone Program in Texas?
If you’re in Texas and looking for free or discounted phone service, the Lifeline program is your best option.
Lifeline is a government assistance program that helps low-income households save costs on phone and internet services. If you qualify, you can get a discount of up to $9.25 per month on your phone bill. And if you live on Tribal lands, the savings go up to $34.25 per month.
Why is Lifeline important now more than ever?
Besides Lifeline, there was another program, the Affordable Connectivity Program (ACP). It helped many Texans get affordable internet and phone services. However, ACP ended in 2024 due to funding cuts from Congress.
With ACP gone, Lifeline is more important than ever for those who need assistance. Lifeline is now the best available option for Texan residents looking for financial relief on phone services. 3,051,060 households in Texas qualified for the Lifeline program based on the 2023 ACS data.
You must meet certain income requirements or be enrolled in a government assistance program to qualify for Lifeline. Once approved, you can receive your best free government phone in Texas from one of Lifeline’s participating providers.
2. How to Get the Best Free Government Phone in Texas
2.1. Do You Qualify for Lifeline in Texas?
Income-based criteria
If your gross household income is at or below 135% of the Federal Poverty Guidelines, you may be eligible for Lifeline. For example, you live in Texas and your household has three people. Your household income must be $35,978 or less per year to qualify for the Lifeline program.
| Household size | 2025 Federal Poverty Guidelines | Income Limit (135% of the Federal Poverty Guidelines) |
| 1 | $15,650 | $21,128 |
| 2 | $21,150 | $28,553 |
| 3 | $26,650 | $35,978 |
| 4 | $32,150 | $43,403 |
| 5 | $37,650 | $50,828 |
| 6 | $43,150 | $58,253 |
| 7 | $48,650 | $65,678 |
| 8 | $54,150 | $73,103 |
| Each Additional Member | $5,500 | $5,500 |
Program-based criteria
If you or someone in your household already received help through at least one of certain government assistance programs, Lifeline could be another benefit for you:
- Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP)
- Medicaid
- Supplemental Security Income (SSI)
- Federal Public Housing Assistance (FPHA)
- Veterans and Survivors Pension Benefit
And if you live on Tribal lands, there are more programs to qualify. Check out:
- Bureau of Indian Affairs (BIA) General Assistance
- Tribally-Administered Temporary Assistance for Needy Families (TANF)
- Tribal Head Start (for income-eligible households)
- Food Distribution Program on Indian Reservations (FDPIR)
2.2. How to Apply for Lifeline on AirTalk Wireless
Lifeline-assisted providers like AirTalk Wireless make the application process quick and convenient. You can complete everything online, submit your application, and wait for approval.
Step 1: Visit the AirTalk Wireless Website
Visit AirTalk Wireless online.
When you get there, you’ll enter your Texas zip code to check availability in your area.
Step 2: Choose the Best Plan for You
AirTalk Wireless offers completely free phone plans and you can receive your best free government phone in Texas.
Besides, they have a Bring Your Own Device (BYOD) option. That way, you can keep using your current phone while enjoying the benefits of a government-subsidized service.
Step 3: Select Your Free Phone
AirTalk Wireless has a variety of options for eligible residents. You’ll find one that suits you, whether a big-button cell phone for seniors or a feature-packed smartphone.
Step 4: Submit Your Documentation
If you qualify based on participation in a government assistance program, submit proof of enrollment. If you qualify based on income, upload documents that show your earnings.
You can upload everything directly on the AirTalk Wireless website.
Step 5: Submit & Get Approved
Submit your application. AirTalk Wireless will review your information, and if everything checks out, you’ll get a confirmation that your application has been approved.
3. Best Free Government Phone in Texas for Low Income
Check out the top choices and apply today to claim your phone. Importantly, not all phone models are available at all times. Popular options can go fast, so if you see your favorite device, don’t wait too long to apply.
3.1. Best free government smartphones in Texas for low income individuals
Check out the top picks for Texas residents from AirTalk Wireless.
| Model | Price | Resolution | Battery Capacity | Screen Size | Camera | Data Capable |
| FOXXD A56 | Free | N/A | 2000 mAh | 5.5″ | 5MP | 4G LTE |
| Nokia C100 | Free | 720 x 1440 | 3000 mAh | 5.45″ | 8MP | 4G LTE |
| LG Aristo 5 | Free | 720 x 1520 | 3000 mAh | 5.7″ | 13MP | 4G LTE |
3.2. Best free government phone in Texas for seniors
AirTalk Wireless has some fantastic options – the easiest phones for seniors. From flip phones with big buttons to devices with simple menus!
Let’s explore the top choices and find the right one for you or your grandparents.
| Model | Price | Resolution | Battery Capacity | Screen Size | Camera | Data Capable |
| CAT S22 Flip | Free | 480 x 960 | 2000 mAh | 2.8″ | 5MP | 4G LTE |
| Nokia 2760 Flip | Free | 320 x 240 | 1450 mAh | 2.8″ | 5MP | 4G LTE |
| ATT Flex | Free | 320 x 240 | 1500 mAh | 2.8″ | 2MP | 4G LTE |
Read more: Easiest Phone For Seniors To Use: How To Choose And Top 5 Best Choices
3.3. Best government iPhone in Texas
AirTalk Wireless has a lineup of upgrade phones, including iPhones, at incredible discounts. Eligible customers can get a high-quality iPhone for a fraction of the price.
| Model | Retail Price | Price (Our Price) | Price (New Enrollment) |
| iPhone 14 | $721.99 | $618.99 | $603.99 |
| iPhone 13 Pro | $776.99 | $665.99 | $650.99 |
| iPhone 13 Pro Max | $853.99 | $731.99 | $716.99 |
| iPhone 13 | $659.99 | $499.99 | $484.99 |
| iPhone 12 Pro | $649.99 | $467.99 | $452.99 |
| iPhone 11 Pro Max | $599.99 | $435.99 | $420.99 |
Conclusion
The Lifeline program ensures everyone, no matter their financial situation, has access to essential communication services. If you qualify, apply today and secure your best free government phone in Texas.