In 2022, reports stated that nearly 450,000 Tennesseans have no reliable broadband. As a matter of fact, without a proper internet connection, lots of people, especially low-income individuals, will miss out on opportunities for employment, education, and access to healthcare. That’s why the US government launched assistance programs, such as free government phones for Tennessee, to help bridge the digital divide in modern days.
But is there such a thing as a free cell phone? And how can you get it? Read on for further revelation!
1. What is the Lifeline Program?
Lifeline Program is the federal funded initiative launched in 1985 and has been known by other names such as “Obama Phone”. The program provides discounted broadband and phone plans to help struggling households get access to telecommunication services.
You can directly apply for Lifeline via National Verifier. However, in order to get a free cell phone, a trick is to apply for Lifeline through a service provider. This way, you can get subsidized phone plans plus extra benefits that include a cost-free phone.
For those who haven’t known, Lifeline and Affordable Connectivity Program (ACP) used to run simultaneously with the same aim. However, ACP winded down following a cut of funding from the Congress.
Therefore, make sure you apply for Lifeline instead of Affordable Connectivity Program Tennessee.
2. Who’s Qualified for Free Government Smartphones Tennessee?
To garner a free cell phone from the government, you should meet certain requirements for the Lifeline Program.
If you already enrolled in other government assistance programs, you can be eligible for Lifeline. These programs include:
- Medicaid
- Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP/Food stamps)
- Supplemental Security Income (SSI)
- Federal Public Housing Assistance (FPHA)
- Veterans Pension and Survivors Benefit
- Tribal-specific programs, such as Bureau of Indian Affairs General Assistance, Tribal TANF, and Food Distribution Program on Indian Reservations (FDPIR).
Another option is based on your income. Individuals or households with income at or below 135% of the Federal Poverty Guidelines are also eligible for Lifeline.
Note: You should have proof of eligibility to apply for the free device and service. Also, each household can only get one device, and you need to recertify the program annually.
3. How To Apply for Free Government Smartphones Tennessee
To get a free Tennessee government cell phone, there are several basic steps you should follow:
- Check your eligibility
- Choose a participating provider
- Apply for the Lifeline Program
- Get your device and activate
But who provides free Tennessee government phone service? Among the pool of provider options, you may consider AirTalk Wireless. The trusted provider offers exclusive benefits to eligible customers who reside in selected areas.
The application process is simple and quick. Just make sure you have all the required documents on hand and submit them as instructed.
Check out the step-by-step guide to get free government phones for Tennessee from AirTalk:
Step 1: Apply Now
Head to AirTalk Wireless website, enter your zip code and click Apply to see whether free government phones are available in your area.
Step 2: Select phone plan
Next up, you need to choose a phone plan. Each broadband plan provides a different offer. You may choose the Basic, Plus, Premium, or Unlimited Lifeline Plan.
Step 3: Select your Tennessee free government phones
Click Select Now to opt for the free cell phone option you prefer.
AirTalk Wireless offers countless devices from various brands. However, do note that not every phone is cost-free.
Step 4: Upload documents
Make sure you upload required data such as date of birth, legal name, last 4 digits of your Social Security Number, as well as Proof of Government Benefit Participation, etc.
Step 5: Submit and wait
You should wait for around 7-10 business days for the package to arrive. Once approved, you’ll receive your AirTalk Wireless free phone, with additional benefits like unlimited talk and text, data, and international calling.
For activation and more support, you can directly contact AirTalk Wireless via +1 (855) 924-7825 or info@airtalkwireless.com.
Read more: Where Can I Get A Free Government Phone Today? Find Out Whether You’re Qualified
4. List Of Best Free Government Phones for Tennessee
In case you are puzzled by which free government smartphones Tennessee to choose, we will suggest some of the best deals from AirTalk:
| Brands | Options |
| Samsung | – Galaxy S8+ – Samsung Galaxy A03s – Samsung Galaxy A53 5G |
| Apple | – iPhone 8 – iPhone 6s – iPhone SE 2 |
| Nokia | – Nokia X100 5G – Nokia 2760 Flip |
| Wingtech | – REVVL 6 5G – REVVL V+ 5G |
| TCL | – TCL 20 XE |
| FoxxD | – FOXXD AS65U – FOXXD A56 |
| CAT | – CAT S22 Flip |
Additionally, you may qualify for a discounted bundle that includes both a phone and a tablet, providing a more complete and connected digital experience.
FAQs
How to get a free cell phone in Tennessee?
Certain residents in Tennessee may be eligible for a free cell phone. They should apply for Lifeline discounts through a service provider, such as AirTalk Wireless, to get both discounted plans and free devices as extra offers from the partner. Applicants should make sure they meet certain eligibility requirements, such as participation in specific assistance programs or a household income that is at or below 135% of the Federal Poverty Guidelines.
Can you get free government phones for Tennessee iPhone?
There are several iPhone options available for those seeking free government phones, including models like the iPhone 6, iPhone 7 Plus, iPhone 8, and iPhone SE. You can explore AirTalk Wireless’s collection and apply to get the model that best suits your needs.