Based on the 2021 American Community Survey (ACS), approximately 50,000 households in North Dakota lack a broadband subscription. Connected Nation’s findings also indicated that around 42,019 households in the state do not have internet access. One of the reasons that led to this outcome is poverty and to address this issue, the government has initiated campaigns to bridge the digital divide.
Good news for ND residents, the free government phone North Dakota program is available to eligible residents. Here’s how to get the best phone for free along with other perks that can elevate your life.
1. What Is the Phone Assistance Program In North Dakota?
The Federal Communications Commission (FCC) created the Lifeline program in 1985 to help low-income households access affordable communication services. The initiative’s aim is to connect people to healthcare, education, employment opportunities and more.
In recent years, Lifeline has shifted its focus to include broadband access following the increasing importance of internet connectivity in the modern era. Lifeline is also available in North Dakota, and qualified consumers can receive:
- A monthly discount of up to $9.25 on phone, broadband, or bundled services
- A discount of up to $34.25 for those on Tribal lands.
For the unknown, providers across the US participate in the Lifeline program to offer discounted plans to eligible consumers. And if you apply for the program through these licensed providers, such as AirTalk Wireless, you will have a chance to get a free phone besides the discounted plan.
Read more: How to Get an iPhone Free Government Phone 2024: A Step-By-Step Guide!
2. How To Get Free Phone ND
To apply for the Lifeline program in North Dakota, what participants should do are:
- Check their eligibility at the Lifeline National Verifier website.
- Apply through the National Verifier or through a participating provider in their area.
- Submit necessary documentation, such as proof of participation in a qualifying program or proof of income.
North Dakota consumers who want to get both discounted plans and a free smartphone, should choose to enroll through a provider. And here’s a comprehensive guide that helps you learn to apply via Air Talk Wireless, and therefore receive:
- Free smartphone – exclusively at AirTalk
- Free plans with high-speed data, free talk, free text
- Discounted tablet, or phone-and-tablet combo
- International calling to 200+ countries, etc.
2.1. Eligibility
To qualify for free government phone North Dakota, individuals’ income level should be at or below 135% of the Federal Poverty Guidelines.
OR they also qualify through participation in government assistance programs such as:
- Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP)/Food Stamps
- Medicaid
- Supplemental Security Income (SSI)
- Federal Public Housing Assistance (Section 8)
- Veterans Pension or Survivors Benefit
- Tribal-specific programs (e.g., Tribal TANF, FDPIR)
You can check more details for North Dakota Lifeline eligibility HERE.
2.2. Application guide
Among various Lifeline providers available, AirTalk Wireless is an excellent choice. With only 5 simple steps, you can quickly get access to a variety of phone plans and devices that suit your needs.
Step 1: Verify your eligibility
Before applying, it’s crucial to confirm that you meet the eligibility requirements for Lifeline. You must either qualify based on income or participate in a government assistance program as outlined earlier.
Step 2: Choose a plan
North Dakota can get a free SIM card and a free phone if they choose Lifeline Basic to Unlimited Plan.
For those who only prefer the plan, they can opt for the Bring Your Own Device (BYOD) option.
Step 3: Choose a phone
Do note that only those who chose “Free Phone and Plan” pathway will be able to get a new phone.
Apart from the cell phones, you can also take a look at the tablets or bundle options at steeply subsidized prices.
Step 4: Submit your application
Carefully complete their Lifeline application form by submitting needed documentation.
Depending on your qualification method, this may include:
- Proof of participation in a qualifying program (e.g., benefit award letter).
- Proof of income (e.g., recent pay stubs or tax return).
- Proof of identity and address (e.g., government-issued ID or utility bill).
Step 5: Await approval
After submitting your application, AirTalk Wireless and the National Verifier will review your information. This process typically takes a few days.
If you’ve applied through AirTalk Wireless, expect a response within 7–10 business days.
2.3. Important notices
- Lifeline recipients must annually verify their eligibility to continue receiving benefits.
- Each household is eligible to receive only one Lifeline benefit. This rule applies regardless of whether the benefit is used for a home phone, a cell phone, or internet services. On the other hand, the FCC has implemented the National Lifeline Accountability Database (NLAD) to reduce fraud and make sure only eligible households receive benefits.
3. Free Government Phone North Dakota: iPhone, Samsung & More
ND citizens can access a collection of phones from trusted brands on AirTalk Wireless. Do note that the price for each phone and device depends on where you reside.
Apart from these discounted and free phones, North Dakota residents may also look into tablets or phone-and-tablet combos at deducted prices. These combinations can help your life become more hassle-free.