Being the “backbone of a country’s independence”, veterans wholeheartedly serve their nation and protect the freedom with their own lives. Therefore, they deserve the best veterans benefits that assist them in their daily life and any other endeavors. Do you know that there is free cell phone service for veterans?
In the US, the government launched an initiative that helps multiple groups of people access affordable broadband and internet access. Find out more through our sharing below!
1. Free Government Phones Program for Veterans
The aforementioned program is Lifeline. Administered by the Universal Service Administrative Company (USAC), the assistance program provides discounted phone plans and internet services for low-income consumers. Lifeline’s aim is also to bridge the digital divide and connect individuals to job opportunities, healthcare, education, etc.
For those who have not been informed, Lifeline is also known as Obama Phone program, although the former president wasn’t the torchbearer of this initiative.
Besides, Lifeline used to run parallel with ACP, another subsidized phone program. However, ACP winded down in mid-2024, leaving Lifeline the optimal choice if you struggle financially and need broadband internet connection.
2. How To Get Free Cell Phone Service for Veterans
How do veterans qualify for free phone service?
Firstly, who qualifies for military veterans benefits? In case you are already participating in these government assistance programs, you are eligible for Lifeline:
- Veterans and Survivors Pension Benefit
- Medicaid
- Federal Public Housing Assistance
- Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (Food Stamps or SNAP)
- Supplemental Security Income
Another case is if your household income is at or under 135% based on the Federal Poverty Guidelines, you can also qualify for Lifeline.
| Your Household Size | 48 Contiguous States, D.C., and Territories | Alaska | Hawaii |
| 1 | $20,331 | $25,394 | $23,369 |
| 2 | $27,594 | $34,479 | $31,725 |
| 3 | $34,857 | $43,565 | $40,082 |
| 4 | $42,120 | $52,650 | $48,438 |
| 5 | $49,383 | $61,736 | $56,795 |
| 6 | $56,646 | $70,821 | $65,151 |
| 7 | $63,909 | $79,907 | $73,508 |
| 8 | $71,172 | $88,992 | $81,864 |
| For each additional person, add: | $7,263 | $9,086 | $8,357 |
How to apply for Lifeline
One important point is we won’t be able to directly get a free phone from the government. Instead, we can get discounted phone service and a free cell phone when we apply for Lifeline through a service provider, such as AirTalk Wireless. The phone is a special benefit that AirTalk Wireless offers their eligible customers.
To get free cell phone service for veterans, follow these simple steps and apply on AirTalk now:
Step 1: Enter zip code and apply
You need to check whether AirTalk Wireless Lifeline program is available where you live. That way, the free phone and service can be up for grabs as soon as possible.
So, head to AirTalk Wireless website, insert your zip code and click Apply.
Whether you are in California, Kentucky, or Georgia, you can certainly apply for Lifeline.
Step 2: Choose a phone plan
Next, after making sure your residence has a Lifeline program, you’ll need to pick a phone plan.
There are several plans you can choose on AirTalk as seen in this photo.
Step 3: Pick a free phone
The next step is selecting a cell phone. You’ll find a variety of free phones that cater to different preferences and needs.
Step 4: Upload essential documents
When applying for Lifeline, you will be required to provide proof of identification, proof of program participation, or proof of income. So make sure you have copies of these documents in hand.
Step 5: Complete and wait
After verifying your application, you just need to wait for approval and another 7-10 business days until the phone package is delivered to you.
Simple, isn’t it? Don’t wait around any longer and apply now!
3. Best Veteran Phones You Can Get from AirTalk Wireless
AirTalk Wireless is one of the most trustworthy service providers that partner with Lifeline. The phone collection is diverse and you can even opt for a bundle or upgrade the phone anytime you want.
Check out the list of free Samsung, free iPhone for veterans, and more:
| Brands | Phone options on AirTalk Wireless |
| Apple | iPhone 8 Plus iPhone 7 Apple iPhone SE 2 Apple iPhone 6s iPhone 7 Plus |
| Samsung | Samsung Galaxy S8 Samsung Galaxy A23 5G Galaxy A14 5G Galaxy S6 Edge Samsung Galaxy A51 5G |
| LG | LG V40 ThinQ LG Stylo 6 Tribute Empire |
| Nokia | Nokia C300 Nokia 2760 Flip C110 X100 5G Nokia G400 5G |
| OnePlus | OnePlus Nord N200 5G OnePlus Nord N20 5G Nord N10 5G |
| FOXXD | FOXXD A56 |
Frequently Asked Questions
Who is considered a veteran?
In the US, a veteran is a person who served in the military, naval, or air service and was released or discharged under honorable conditions. How long do you have to be in the military to be a veteran? Service members must have served a minimum of 24 months of active duty to be considered a veteran.
Do veterans get a free phone?
Veterans can get a free phone if they apply for Lifeline when they are participants of certain assistance programs (Veterans and Survivors Pension Benefit, Medicaid, FPHA, Food Stamps or SNAP, SSI, etc.), or if their household income is under 135% of Federal Poverty Guidelines.
Who gives out the best free government phone?
Free government phones are provided by service providers who partner with Lifeline Program. While there are many providers in the market, an example you can look into is AirTalk Wireless. The company offers free smartphones and monthly cell phone service (with outstanding benefits) to eligible households in the United States.
