Free Cell Phone For Low Income Individuals: How To Get A Phone Without Paying

In the modern fast-paced world, staying connected is not a luxury, but a necessity. While cell phones have become an inseparable and somewhat easy-to-get tool for almost everyone, low-income families and individuals may not feel the same. To help patch this digital gap, many free cell phone for low income programs have been implemented. 

In this guide, we’ll walk you through the best ways to get a free cell phone, the benefits it can bring, and how to qualify. If you’ve been searching for a way to stay connected without the financial strain, this article has the answers you need.

What Is Considered Low Income In The US?

The definition for “low income” may vary depending on where you reside, the size of your household, or the age of family members. In the United States, a commonly known concept for low income is the federal poverty level (FPL) established by the government.  

The Department of Health and Human Services calculates the FPL annually to determine eligibility for assistance programs from private companies, nonprofit organizations, and certain federal programs. For example: 

• Medicaid
• Children’s Health Insurance Program
• National School Lunch Program
• Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program 

The guidelines are adjusted every year for inflation. For the poverty guideline in 2024, you can take a look below:

Note: FPL amounts in Hawaii and Alaska are higher. 

Why Should Low Income People Get Free Phones?

Low-income families and individuals surely come across a lot of hardships in their daily life. Without telecommunication and virtual connection, they would miss out on countless chances to access opportunities that can make their life quality better. 

Although free cell phone service for low income can’t singlehandedly solve every problem they encounter, the benefits they bring about are undeniably worth fighting for. 

• Less financial burden: A free phone can help low-income consumers set aside money for other endeavors.
• Access to education and job opportunities: Online learning and remote working has become more frequent than ever. Therefore, getting a free phone could help low incomers turn over a new leaf when it comes to education and securing a decent job.
• Better preparation for emergencies: An unstable income can make accessing healthcare even more challenging, adding financial stress to an already difficult situation. Getting a functioning phone could assist you in dealing with emergencies more efficiently.
• Other essential services: Everything is now working virtually, including banking, making orders, updating news, etc. 

In general, digitally connected is a way to help us explore the world, connect with people, and become the better versions of our own selves. 

How To Get Free Cell Phone For Low Income Individuals

Getting a cell phone on discount or for free is not that hard. There are a variety of methods you can consider. Let us guide you through the best ways possible: 

Apply for the federal Lifeline program

The Lifeline Program is a federally funded initiative that offers discounted phone service to low-income families. They reduce monthly phone services by up to $9.25 or up to $34.25 if you are tribal land residents. 

One can qualify for subsidized phone service through Lifeline if:

• Their income is at or under 135% of the federal poverty guidelines.
• They are part of a government assistance program, such as the Medicaid, Supplemental Security Income (SSI), or Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP), etc.
• They or someone in their family participates in a tribal support program. 

For the unknown, consumers in most states can apply for this program via a phone service provider. Certain providers can also give you a free phone or tablet as their exclusive benefits. That’s why this is the most recommended way to get a free cell phone for low income participants. 

Do note that if approved for the Lifeline program, you need to recertify annually.  

>>> Find out more: Where Can I Get A Free Government Phone Today? Find Out Whether You’re Qualified

Explore state programs for low-income families 

Do you know that your state may offer a low-income program that can be used alongside Lifeline program? Its eligibility requirements are usually quite similar to the federal government program. 

For instance, the Idaho Telephone Service Assistance Program (ITSAP) offers more economical phone installation costs or $2.50 in monthly savings on service costs. 

Another example is the California LifeLine program that offers a discounted monthly service of up to $17.90 for cell phone or home phones. Eligible participants should have specific income requirements or enrolled in a certain public assistance program,like Medi-Cal or Medicaid. An important note is that each household can only have the discount on either their home phone or cell phone, instead of both. 

Do check if you are eligible for any program in your state and contact your phone company to begin the application as soon as possible. 

>>> Also read: Free Cell Phone Service For Low-income In Pennsylvania

Search on marketplaces 

Another way to get a phone for a good price, you can also go for a surfing on online marketplaces. Searching for a device on Facebook, Craigslist, or groups can get you deeply discounted devices regardless of income. However, in this way, you need to watch out for stolen gadgets or scams. 

How to Apply for a Free Cell Phone for Low Income

Before applying for a free government phone, it’s important to check your Lifeline eligibility. This method is the most trustworthy to get a free phone for yourself. So do follow these steps to make your process seamless: 

Step 1: Click Apply Now  

Go to the website of AirTalk Wireless and click the Apply button on the homepage.

Step 2: Enter ZIP code  

Make sure to provide the ZIP Code of your area to see whether AirTalk Wireless service is available in your state. 

Step 3: Submit documents  

Fill out the online application form by entering your information and uploading your supporting documents. You need to submit it on both the AirTalk Wireless website and the National Verifier.  

• Proof of Identification:
• Driver’s License or Passport (unexpired)
• Birth Certificate
• Certificate of Naturalization or of U.S. Citizenship
• Permanent Resident or Resident Alien Card (unexpired)
• Foreign Passport
• U.S. government, military, state or Tribal issued-ID, including date of birth and/or Social Security Number and/or Tribal ID
• Mexican Consular Card (Matricula Consular – 2006, 2014, 2015 and later versions), etc.  

All forms of ID must be valid and used before expiration date. Check here for a full list of ID documents. 

Step 4: Choose your free phone 

After the previous step, you’ll be redirected back to the AirTalk website, where you may choose your free smartphone. AirTalk has a large selection of 4G/5G smartphones from well-known brands including iPhone, Samsung, LG, and more.  

FYI, AirTalk is also offering its customers the option to purchase a government tablet at deeply discounted rates!

Step 5: Wait for your order  

Once your application is approved, your device will be shipped within 7-10 business days. You will also receive a shipping confirmation email with your order’s tracking number. You may now easily follow along with the arrival of your shipment!

What are the best phones for low income 

Phones for low-income individuals might have cheap prices, but the best phone options should still have essential features. Choosing a cell phone that meets your requirements might take a while. And to help you resolve this, here’s a list of the best phones for low income you can consider on AirTalk Wireless: 

• Motorola G Stylus 2020: Reliable performance for daily tasks, long battery life, expandable storage as it comes with 128GB of internal storage and an option to expand with a microSD card.
• Samsung Galaxy A01: Compact design, decent performance for basic tasks, decent camera quality, expandable storage, dual SIM capability.
• Samsung Galaxy A03s: Large and high-quality display, long battery life, triple camera, expandable storage.
• Apple iPhone 6s: Affordable price, reliable performance with iOS support, high-quality camera, touch ID security, Wi-Fi and LTE connectivity.
• FOXXD AS65U: Vibrant visuals, HD+ display which makes it perfect for video streaming and gaming.
• Alcatel Volta: Compact size for easy handling, decent camera quality, good battery life, expandable storage. 

Do note that available phones on AirTalk Wireless can run out of stock anytime. So, make sure you apply as soon as possible for the device you prefer.

Common Questions About Free Cell Phone And Service For Low Income 

Does the US government give free cell phones? 

The US government establishes several programs that offer discounted internet and phone plans to eligible participants, such as the Lifeline Program. When participants apply for the program via a provider, they might get free cell phones or free tablets as part of exclusive benefits offered by the provider. 

What carrier will give me a free phone? 

Several carriers offer free or discounted phones through government assistance programs, particularly the Lifeline Program (ACP). Providers like AirTalk Wireless, T-Mobile, Verizon, AT&T often participate in these programs. You can check out certain eligibility requirements and apply to get the low-cost device to your needs. 

How can I get phone service with no money? 

To get a free phone without having to pay, you need to check whether you have enough eligibility for the government program. For Lifeline Program, you should be categorized in the list of Federal Poverty Guidelines or be participating in some government assistance programs like Food Stamps or SNAP, SSI, Veterans and Survivors Pension Benefit, etc. 

Can Lifeline be used for the internet? 

Yes, the Lifeline program can be used for internet services. It provides eligible low-income households with a monthly discount on internet service and phone services. Many participating providers offer discounted or free plans that include both voice and broadband services. 

For more details on available plans and eligibility, you may check with local providers or visit the Lifeline program website. 

What is the cell phone plan for the poor? 

The federally funded program Lifeline provides a monthly discount on phone and internet service for eligible low-income families. The program is available in every state, territory, commonwealth, and on Tribal lands. While residents in other states can get a discount of up to $9.25, consumers in Tribal lands may be eligible for an enhanced discount of up to $34.25 per month.

For more exclusive benefits and updated information on government programs, make sure to catch up with AirTalk Wireless! We always have the best deals that you can find for you and your family.

Opinions expressed in this article are those of the guest author and not necessarily AirTalk Wireless. Staff authors are listed here