“How can I get a free cell phone in Minnesota?”. If this question is puzzling you, the answer is you can rely on a government assistance program called Lifeline. The initiative is launched to bring affordable phone and internet services to various groups of individuals. To find out how to get a free government phone MN, you should dig right in our guide.
1. What Is the Best Free Government Phone Program in Minnesota?
There are a few government phone programs in Minnesota, including Lifeline and MN ACT:
- Lifeline offers free or discounted cell phone service to eligible customers. To lower the cost of participants’ phone service, they provide a $9.25 discount on their monthly phone, internet, or bundled services. If customers reside in qualifying Tribal lands, the discount can be up to $34.25 per month.
- MN ACT (Minnesota Access to Communication Technology), formerly known as TED Program, offers free telecommunications equipment for people who are deaf, hard of hearing, speech disabled, deafblind, or physically disabled. In case participants don’t qualify, MN ACT can grant a directory of vendors that sell equipment.
While the MN ACT primarily focuses on individuals with disabilities, Lifeline provides services to a broader range of households, including seniors, veterans, and low-income individuals.
Previously, ACP (Affordable Connectivity Program) also equipped participants with discounted phone plans. However, it was winded down in July due to lack of funding.
2. How Can I Get a Free Cell Phone in Minnesota?
To be able to collect a free government cell phone in MN, you need to apply for Lifeline through a service provider that partners with the program.
For example, if you choose to enroll via AirTalk Wireless, you can get special monthly phone services like unlimited talk and text, free international calling. And along with that is a free iPhone, free Samsung Galaxy phones or deeply discounted phone and tablet combos.
Take a look to see whether you’re eligible for best free government phone MN and how to apply below.
Eligibility requirements
You may be eligible if your income is at or below 135% of the federal poverty level.
In another scenario, if you or a member of your home participate in certain federal programs, your household is also eligible for Lifeline. These government assistance programs include:
- SNAP
- Medicaid
- SSI
- FPHA
- Veterans’ Pension and Survivors Benefit
- Tribal assistance programs such as the Bureau of Indian Affairs General Assistance, Head Start (if you qualify by income), Tribal TANF, or Food Distribution Programme on Indian Reservations
Application process
Step 1: Apply on AirTalk Wireless
Start by visiting the AirTalk Wireless website, entering your zip code, and clicking on “Apply Now.”
For instance, those who are searching for “Where can I get a free government phone near Minneapolis, MN?” can insert Minneapolis zip code such as 55112 or 55416.
If you live in an area where the AirTalk Wireless Lifeline program is available, you’ll be able to move forward with the next steps.
Step 2: Choose a phone plan
Choosing the appropriate phone plan is an important element of the Lifeline application process. AirTalk Wireless provides a variety of options to satisfy different needs.
Step 3: Select a free phone
Once you’ve chosen your preferred phone plan, it’s time to select a free phone that suits your style and requirements. AirTalk Wireless provides various options, including popular models like Samsung, so you can pick the one that fits you best.
Step 4: Submit documents
Next, upload the necessary documents to verify your eligibility. For example, if you are enrolled in Food Stamps/SNAP, you’ll need to provide proof of participation. Make sure to check the specific documentation required based on your eligibility.
Step 5: Wait for approval and shipment
After your application is reviewed and approved by the National Verifier and AirTalk Wireless, your free phone package will be shipped within 7-10 business days.
3. Best Free Government Phone MN
The compilation of free government phone MN iPhone, free government phone MN Samsung or free government phone MN for seniors on AirTalk Wireless is surely diverse. Check out some of the best options below:
| Brands | Phone options |
| Samsung | Samsung Galaxy S8+ Galaxy S8 Samsung Galaxy S10e Galaxy A13 |
| Apple | Apple iPhone 7 iPhone SE 2 iPhone XR Apple iPhone 13 Apple iPhone 6s |
| Nokia | Nokia C300 Nokia X100 5G 2760 Flip Nokia C110 |
| TCL | TCL 20 XE |
| FOXXD | FOXXD AS65U FOXXD A56 |