Apple iPhone is the epitome of cutting-edge phone technology. While its hefty price is one of the reasons why buyers hesitate to get the phone, the US government implemented an assistance program that keeps people updated. That free government phone California iPhone is called Lifeline.
Getting a free phone has never been more effortless with Lifeline. If you live in California and aspire to be an iPhone-haver, keep reading for all the details.
1. How Can I Get a Free iPhone From the Government?
It is possible to get a free iPhone government phone if you apply for Lineline Program. The initiative is funded by FCC to provide eligible residents with discounted or even free phone service. Low-income individuals can get:
- Up to $9.25 discount on their monthly phone, internet, or bundled services.
- Up to $34.25 discount per month if they live on qualifying Tribal lands.
Lifeline Assistance has been around for decades and managed to offer subsidized phone services to over 6.5 million households until 2021. Surely, the number has grown significantly over time, with millions of people now able to access emergency services, explore job opportunities, and stay connected with their families.
However, please note that the government does not directly send you a free phone. Participants should apply for the program through a service provider that partners with Lifeline. Only then that you may get a free phone from the provider as a benefit for the customers.
2. Best Free Government Phone Provider
What Lifeline company gives free iPhones in California? AirTalk Wireless is one of the most well-known providers of Lifeline Program. Their service is available in almost every part of the country, including California.
AirTalk can offer many phone brands such as Apple (free government iPhone 13, iPhone 7, iPhone 6, etc.), Samsung, LG, and more. Customers might as well get other benefits like high-speed data, unlimited talk and text, free international calling to 200+ countries, etc.
To qualify, your annual income should be at or under 135% of the Federal Poverty Guidelines.
OR you must be part of several government assistance programs such as:
- Medicaid/Medi-Cal
- CalFresh, Food Stamps or Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP)
- Veterans and Survivors Pension Benefit Program
- Low Income Home Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP)
- Supplemental Security Income (SSI)
- Federal Public Housing Assistance or Section 8
- Women, Infants and Children Program (WIC)
- National School Lunch Program (NSL)
- Temporary Assistance for Needy Families (TANF)
- California Work Opportunity and Responsibility to Kids (CalWORKs)
- Stanislaus County Work Opportunity and Responsibility to Kids (StanWORKs)
- Welfare-to-Work (WTW)
- Greater Avenues for Independence (GAIN)
- Tribal TANF
- Bureau of Indian Affairs General Assistance
- Head Start Income Eligible (Tribal Only)
- Food Distribution Program on Indian Reservations
Read more: Free Government Phone California: Best Free iPhone, Samsung & More
3. How To Apply for Free Government Phone California iPhone
On AirTalk Wireless, the application process is simple with an easy online form and device selection after eligibility checking.
Step 1: Apply on AirTalk Wireless
Head to AirTalk website, enter your zip code and click “Apply Now”.
If the AirTalk Wireless Lifeline program is available in your area, you’ll proceed to the next step.
Step 2: Choose a phone plan
Choosing the right phone plan is an important step in the Lifeline application process. AirTalk provides a range of plans designed to meet different needs.
Please notice that if you already have a phone and only want to get the phone plan, you can choose the Bring Your Own Device (BYOD) option.
Step 3: Select a free phone
After having done choosing your phone plan, pick a free iPhone that meets your preferences.
Step 4: Submit documents
Submit the required documents according to your eligibility criteria. For instance, if you are a participant in Food Stamps/SNAP or Medicaid, provide evidence of your enrollment.
Step 5: Wait for approval and shipment
After you get an approval from the National Verifier and AirTalk Wireless, your free phone package will be delivered within 7-10 business days.
4. List Of Best Free Government Phones in California
Choosing the best free government phone in California can be challenging, especially if you’re unsure which device will meet your needs most effectively while staying within financial limits. For example, which is the best free phone for seniors in California? What about individuals who are not technologically adept?
Each iPhone model will match with a different user. So, we have compiled a list to help you navigate through all choices more seamlessly:
- iPhone 6s: Ideal for seniors and basic users, compact size and physical home button for simple navigation.
- iPhone 7: A good choice for basic users, water resistance, good camera quality.
- iPhone 7 Plus: Larger display and improved camera features, dual-camera setup.
- iPhone 8: Good for seniors and casual users, wireless charging and a True Tone display for better visibility.
- iPhone X: Suitable for users who are tech-savvy and prioritize screen quality.
- iPhone XR: Great for students and media enthusiasts, larger screen, Face ID, and excellent battery life.
- iPhone 11: Perfect for families and photography lovers with its dual-camera system, rugged build.
- iPhone 13: Best for tech-savvy users, 5G connectivity and a stunning XDR display.
- iPhone SE: Budget-friendly, suitable for first-time smartphone users, physical home button.
- iPhone SE 2: Affordable price, modern performance, compact model, strong processing power.
FAQs
What is the best free government phone program for iPhone?
A number of government programs aim to bridge the modern day digital divide by offering free cell phones to low-income families and individuals. One of the most sought-after programs is Lifeline Program. Qualifying users can get subsidized phone or internet service.
Are there free phones for seniors in California?
Seniors in California can apply for Lifeline via a service provider and get a free phone from the provider if they are approved. The older citizens can be qualified for a free government phone California iPhone if they have an income that meets requirements of the Federal Poverty Guidelines; or if they enroll in government assistance programs, such as Medicaid, SSI, or SNAP.
