While a free phone might seem simple, it’s necessary for keeping in touch with loved ones, job hunting, schoolwork, and healthcare access, especially for low-income households. People with lower incomes are especially likely to rely on smartphones as their main way of online access. What makes a phone free? There are government programs that bridge the gap between technology and accessibility. Check out how to receive a free phone in Lincoln, NE.
1. Nebraska Free Cell Phone: Free Phone Assistance Program in Nebraska
Through federal and state programs, eligible Nebraska residents may receive subsidies for communication services, giving them a larger overall discount on their telephone or internet bills.
1.1. What is the Lifeline Program?
Lifeline is a federal program in the U.S administered by the FCC. Lifeline provides a monthly subsidy to low-income households to help cover the cost of phone or internet service.
- Standard Lifeline discount: Up to $9.25 per month off the cost of phone, broadband, or bundled services for eligible low-income households.
- Enhanced discount: Eligible consumers living on federally recognized Tribal lands can receive an additional discount of up to $25 per month.
Free phone: It is not a direct government subsidy; it is offered by phone companies that participate in the Lifeline program. These providers may give eligible customers special offers, which can include a free phone, tablet, smartwatch, or even device bundles.
The Nebraska Telephone Assistance Program (NTAP) is a state program that supplements the federal Lifeline program by providing an additional $3.50 per month discount for eligible Nebraska residents. This discount can be applied to one landline, wireless phone bill, or eligible cell phone service.
Before, the Affordable Connectivity Program (ACP) provided a significant discount on internet service for eligible households. Unfortunately, this program has ended, and the benefit is no longer available.
1.2. Who Are Eligible for the Free Phone Assistance Program in Nebraska?
To qualify, you must meet certain income or participation requirements.
Income:
If your household income is at or below 135% of the Federal Poverty Guidelines, you may be eligible for Lifeline benefits.
The limit depends on your household size and state. For example, in 2025, the income limit for a one-person household in Nebraska is $21,128 per month.
Check if your total income qualifies you for the Lifeline program.
Program Participation:
If you do not qualify based on income, you may still be eligible if you or someone in your household is enrolled in one of the following programs:
- Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP)
- Medicaid
- Federal Public Housing Assistance (FPHA)
- Supplemental Security Income (SSI)
- Veterans Pension or Survivors Benefit
(If you haven’t heard about these government assistance programs, review our detailed guidelines to see if you may qualify for these financial supports.)
For individuals on federally recognized Tribal lands, you may qualify through extra programs such as:
- Bureau of Indian Affairs (BIA) General Assistance
- Tribal TANF (Temporary Assistance for Needy Families)
- Food Distribution Program on Indian Reservations (FDPIR)
- Head Start (income-based)
2. Step-by-Step Guide to Register for a Free Phone in Lincoln, NE for Low-Income Families
Step 1: Verify Your Eligibility
Confirm that you qualify for Lifeline. You can visit the official National Verifier website to quickly determine if you are eligible by entering your information.
Step 2: Prepare the Necessary Documents
Depending on whether your eligibility can be verified automatically, you may need to submit some documents, for example:
- Proof of program participation, such as a benefits award letter or an official program approval notice
- Proof of income, such as recent pay stubs, a tax return, a Social Security statement, or an unemployment benefit letter
- Proof of Tribal eligibility, such as a Tribal ID card or documentation of participation in qualifying Tribal programs
- Proof of identity and address, such as a valid government-issued photo ID, utility bill, lease, or another official document showing your address
Step 3: Find a Trusted Provider in Lincoln, NE
Once you’re eligible, you’ll need to choose a participating phone or internet company in your area and sign up for service.
If you already have service, you can ask your current provider to apply the Lifeline discount to your existing plan (not all telephone companies participate in this program).
If you live in Lincoln, NE, you can apply directly with our service, AirTalk Wireless, especially if you’re looking to get a free phone.
Find the complete guide to applying for Lifeline and getting a free phone with free service from AirTalk Wireless.
Step 4: Complete the Registration Process
It’s time to apply. Go to your provider’s website (like AirTalk Wireless) and fill out the application form.
The process is often simple and quick; in many cases, you’ll know within minutes whether you’ve been approved.
Once your application is accepted, your benefit will be applied to your phone plan, and if eligible, you may receive a free device.
3. Free Phone in Lincoln, NE: Tips for Low-Income Families
Typically, you will receive a free phone that covers your basic communication needs, such as calling, texting, and browsing the web.
If you apply through AirTalk Wireless, you can access service plans that include a free phone. Also, AirTalk plans all come with unlimited calls and texts, a significant amount of high-speed data, and free international calls to over 200 countries.
3.1. Tips for picking the right phone
Basic use
If you only need calling and texting, a basic phone like the TCL GO FLIP 2 or budget smartphones like AirVoice AS65U or Hotpepper Cascabel A88C are sufficient.
Internet and apps
If you plan to use apps or browse the web often, pick a smartphone with at least 32GB of storage and 2GB of RAM to run messaging, social media, or educational/work apps smoothly. Examples: iPhone SE 2, iPhone 8, Samsung Galaxy A42 5G.
Phones with larger screens can enhance the viewing experience: Motorola One 5G ACE or AirVoice S67 5G.
Photography and video
For high-quality photos or smooth video playback, consider premium devices. While these may come with a small additional cost, they provide better performance.
The AirVoice S67 5G can be considered a mid-range phone, offering performance and camera quality sufficient for general entertainment needs.
For a premium option, the iPhone 11 and iPhone 12 Pro Max are excellent choices. They feature high-quality cameras, powerful performance capable of running any app, and high-resolution screens ideal for watching videos.
3.2. Tips for using free minutes and data
- Maximize your plan: For example, AirTalk service plans include unlimited calls and texts. Take advantage of this to stay connected with family, friends, and essential services.
- Use Wi-Fi: Connect to Wi-Fi whenever possible to conserve mobile data.
- Monitor usage: Download your provider’s app to track remaining data and minutes. This helps prevent running out of service unexpectedly.
3.2. How to keep your Lifeline account active
To maintain your Lifeline benefits, you must verify your eligibility annually. You will receive a request to confirm that you are still eligible for the program.
If you fail to respond on time, you may lose your Lifeline benefits.
>>> Read more: Nebraska Free iPhone: Your Guide to Getting a Free Cell Phone in Nebraska
FAQs
Can I keep my current phone number?
Absolutely. You can keep your existing phone number when you sign up for the Lifeline program and switch to a new provider. This process is called “porting”, and it is common practice supported by Lifeline service providers.
Do I have to sign a long-term contract?
One of the great features of Lifeline is that you are not required to sign a long-term contract.
So, you can switch providers easily if you’re not satisfied with your current Lifeline service or phone. If you no longer need the service or are no longer eligible, you can stop using it without worrying about penalties.
What does the free service plan include?
The exact features depend on your provider and your state, but in general, Lifeline plans include:
- Voice minutes: Some plans offer a set number of minutes per month, while many providers now offer unlimited minutes.
- Text messaging: Most free plans include unlimited texting.
- Mobile data: Data is a key part of modern Lifeline plans. While the amount of high-speed data may vary, users are guaranteed enough data to access the internet, use basic apps, and stay connected digitally.
Each Lifeline provider offers different plans. Some providers may also include extra perks, such as additional high-speed data, free phones or device discounts, a mobile hotspot with limited data, or free international calling to select countries.
For eligible residents living on Tribal lands, an enhanced Lifeline benefit of up to $34.25 per month is available, allowing access to higher-quality service or even completely free plans.
If I already have a phone, can I just get the service?
Yes. This is known as Bring Your Own Device (BYOD). If you prefer to keep your current phone, you can still sign up for Lifeline service and use it with your device.
How long does it take to receive my phone?
After your application is approved, delivery time varies depending on the provider and shipping method. If you apply through AirTalk Wireless, you can often receive your phone within 7 to 10 business days.
Conclusion
We took an in-depth look at the free phone available through Lifeline to low-income families in Lincoln, NE. It’s clear this program helps remove barriers to communication and connect families to essential services. For many households, the value is undeniable.