How To Get A Free Obama Phone?

Having a phone in today’s digital-driven world goes far beyond simple social interactions. Instead, it serves as a lifeline for staying connected, job searching, and accessing crucial online resources. Free Obama Phone indicates one of the most well-known federal government programs that help low-income families to afford these services. 

If you’re having many questions about Obama Phone program, its history and how it works nowadays, our article will certainly be a big help to you. 

1. What is an Obama Phone?

The Obama Phone program, officially known as the Lifeline Program, started way back in 1985 during President Ronald Reagan’s administration. 

Initially, Lifeline was funded by a Universal Service Fund fee with the aim to provide landline phones for low-income households. The program expanded in 2005 under President George W. Bush to include cell phones. It was a response to the rising need for mobile communication in various circumstances such as emergencies, especially after Hurricane Katrina. 

The evolution of Obama Phone was furthered during Obama’s presidency. It adapted to support mobile phones more widely, given the shift from landlines to cell phone usage in the general population. 

The “Obama Phone” label is somewhat misleading, as former President Barack Obama did not initiate the program. By the time Obama took office in 2008, the Lifeline program had been operating for over two decades. However, media attention during his presidency led to an increase in its usage, and additional government funds were allocated to it. In 2016, the Lifeline program was further expanded to include broadband internet, making it more comprehensive in bridging the digital divide.

With the Lifeline program expanded to cover broadband internet, struggling low-income Americans can benefit from landline, mobile phone service, or home or mobile internet service and any bundled voice and data service packages. 

2. Obama Phone Providers

For the unknown, the FCC has approved several national and regional companies to offer Obama phone and internet services to needy Americans. 

Among a number of service providers, you can look into AirTalk Wireless for reference. The provider grants eligible customers free smartphone service that includes unlimited and high-speed data, talk, and text.  In some cases, they can even qualify for a free phone and tablet. 

The program is available in every state, territory, and on Tribal lands in the United States. You can always consider the provider whose service is available in your area and can provide just the things you need.

Also read: How to Choose the Best Free Phone Service Providers: A 2024 Guide

3. Who is Qualified for a Free Obama Phone?

To be qualified for Obama Phone or Lifeline Program, you need to be either a participant of certain assistance programs or meet requirements for household income. In detail: 

• You will be eligible if you are part of federal assistance programs like: 
  • Medicaid
  • Food Stamps (SNAP) 
  • Supplemental Security Income 
  • Federal Public Housing Assistance 
  • Veterans and Survivors Pension Benefit 
  • Certain Tribal Programs
• You may also be eligible for Obama phone service if your household income is at or under 135% of the Federal Poverty Guidelines. 

In case you haven’t known, Lifeline offers up to a $9.25 monthly discount on service for eligible low-income subscribers and up to $34.25 per month for eligible subscribers on Tribal lands. 

You can receive a Lifeline discount for either a wireline or a wireless service, but not for both at the same time. Lifeline also extends support to broadband Internet service as well as bundled broadband-voice packages. Moreover, there can be only one Lifeline service per household.

4. Where Can I Get a Free Obama Phone Today?

To enroll in the Lifeline or Obama Phone benefit, you need to find a Lifeline service provider like AirTalk Wireless. At AirTalk Wireless, eligible participants may get a free smartphone alongside exclusive service including high-speed data, unlimited talk, text, international calling, and more.  

To get a free government phone today, you should head to AirTalk Wireless and complete the simple application. If you’re wondering how, just follow these quick steps: 

• Head to AirTalk Wireless  
• Make sure to insert the zip code of your residence. (For example, how to get an Obama phone in California? First thing first, insert the California zip codes, which could be 90001, 90009, etc.) 
• Press Apply Now 
• Select the phone plan 
• Select the phone you want 
• Complete the online Lifeline application form by submitting your personal information and proof of qualification. 

If you qualify for free phone service through the Lifeline program, your device and service will be shipped directly to you within 7–10 business days.

5. What More can You Get if Applying for Obama Phone via AirTalk Wireless

AirTalk Wireless is a trusted phone provider that leaves no stones unturned when it comes to ensuring customer satisfaction. Being an eligible customer of Lifeline at AirTalk, you will be receiving: 

• Unlimited talk 
• Unlimited text 
• Free international calling to 200+ countries 
• Roaming feature: available in 37 countries, including Europe, Canada, and Mexico*(charges apply) – coming soon 
• 5G speed hotspot capacity (charges apply) – coming soon 
• Cashback, freebies from loyalty programs 
• Free SIM kit or esim 
• Free wifi-calling, call to 911 
• Cost-free 411 directory assistance 
• Caller ID, call waiting, 3-way calling, voicemail 
• Nationwide coverage 
• 24/24 customer support 

Moreover, you can have access to a variety of free phones and tablets from top brands. 

• Apple iPhone 6S, iPhone 7 Plus, iPhone SE 2
• Samsung Galaxy S10e, Samsung Galaxy S9
• LG Velvet 5G, LG Stylo 5
• FoxxD A56, FoxxD AS65U
• Wingtech REVVL 6 5G, Wingtech REVVL V+ 5G

Learn more about Lifeline and apply for your free phone service today through AirTalk Wireless.