Best Free Unlimited Cell Phone Plans for Tribal Lands
Indigenous residents represented a high proportion of those living in extreme poverty. Researchers found that even in salaried work, Indigenous people earn around 18% less than the wider workforce.
Across the U.S., the income gap is wide. Native Americans in tribal areas earn a median income of $46,408, far below the national median of $78,538. By 2023, Native American incomes In Oklahoma’s tribal areas had risen by 56%, while the state’s overall income grew by 48%.
However, despite these improvements, Native Americans in Oklahoma’s tribal areas still earned over $7,500 less than the state’s median income during 2019-2023, according to a study from Oklahoma Economist.
The government has made so much effort to support tribal communities and make sure they’re not left behind. One example is free unlimited cell phone plans for tribal lands through the Lifeline program. The Lifeline program makes sure tribal residents have the communication services they need.
1. Lifeline Program: Best Free Government Phone Program for Tribal Lands
Lifeline is a government assistance program to help low-income individuals stay connected by providing discounts on phone, internet, or bundled services. If you live on Tribal lands, you can receive a monthly discount of up to $34.25.
This includes a $9.25 discount available to all eligible Lifeline consumers across the U.S. and an additional $25 discount for those living on Tribal lands.
Besides, there’s another program called Link Up. It helps cover the cost of starting a voice-only service at your home. Link Up offers a 100% reduction of connection charges, up to $100. This benefit is available for those who live on Tribal lands and use a service provider that receives High-Cost program support. Link Up is a one-time benefit per address, and you can apply for it again if you change your primary residence.
2. Best Free Unlimited Cell Phone Plans for Tribal Lands
AirTalk Wireless is a licensed provider of Lifeline cell phones. If you live on Tribal lands and apply for the Lifeline program on AirTalk Wireless, you’ll enjoy a free and reliable cell phone plan with all the benefits you need to stay connected.
Some amazing offers like free unlimited data, talk, and text every month.
Yes, you read that right – FREE!
All Free Unlimited Cell Phone Plans for Tribal Lands include:
- Unlimited Talk
- Unlimited Text
- Free International Calling to 200+ Countries
- Free SIM kit or eSIM
- Free Wi-Fi Calling
- Free Calls to 911, free 411 Directory Assistance
- Caller ID, Call Waiting, 3-Way Calling, Voicemail
Free Monthly Mobile Data
If you apply for Lifeline with AirTalk Wireless, you can get free mobile data every month for your smartphone. You can get up to 30GB of data of high-speed 5G+ internet per month.
Unlimited Text Messaging
Free unlimited cell phone plans for Tribal lands also include unlimited text messaging. You’ll be able to text your loved ones as much as you want, sharing important moments and keeping in touch.
Also, with the “Always On” feature, you can keep texting even if you run out of your free minutes or data. That way, you’ll never be out of reach.
Caller ID, Call Waiting, 3-Way Calling, & Voicemail
With AirTalk Wireless, your phone comes with Caller ID, so you can see who’s calling or texting before you answer. You’ll also get Call Waiting, which lets you put a call on hold while you answer a second one.
And if you need to chat with someone else, 3-Way Calling lets you add a third person to your conversation. (Minutes will be used for these calls.)
If you miss a call, free voicemail ensures you never miss important messages, even if your phone is turned off or in use.
Bring Your Own Phone and Bring Your Own Number
AirTalk Wireless gives you the Bring Your Own Device (BYOD) option, so you can bring your own phone and still enjoy all the benefits of a free cell phone plan. You can easily connect your device to AirTalk’s network and start using it.
If you’ve got a phone number that you’re attached to and don’t want to lose, AirTalk lets you bring that along too with their Bring Your Own Number (BYON) program. You won’t have to worry about changing your number or getting used to something new.
Free Cell Phone
When applying for Lifeline on AirTalk Wireless, you can receive a FREE phone from a large selection of smartphone models like iPhone, Samsung, and Motorola. For instance:
California Tribal Lifeline Free Phone:
- Apple iPhone 7 Plus
- Samsung Galaxy A23 5G
- Motorola one 5G ACE
- LG VELVET 5G
- OnePlus Nord N20 5G
- Nokia C300
Oklahoma Tribal Lifeline Free Phone:
3. How to Apply for Tribal Lifeline Program on AirTalk Wireless
3.1. Eligibility
To qualify for the Lifeline Program, Tribal residents must meet certain requirements based on their income or participation in a qualifying government assistance program.
Income-Based Eligibility
If your household income is at or below 135% of the federal poverty guidelines, you are eligible for Lifeline. Check a detailed guide about income limits.
Program-Based Eligibility
You can also qualify if you are enrolled in any of the following programs:
- Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP)
- Medicaid
- Federal Public Housing Assistance
- Supplemental Security Income (SSI)
- Veterans Pensions Survivors Benefits
Besides, you may qualify for Lifeline if you are part of one of these Tribal programs:
- Tribal Temporary Assistance for Needy Families (Tribal TANF)
- Tribal Head Start
- Bureau of Indian Affairs General Assistance
- Food Distribution Program on Indian Reservations (FDPIR)
You must provide proof of eligibility when applying for the program. If you have more than one Lifeline service, you must choose one provider right away, or you may face penalties.
3.2. Step-by-step application process
Step 1: Visit the AirTalk Wireless Website
Go to the official AirTalk Wireless website. On the homepage, enter your zip code to get started.
Step 2: Choose a Plan
You have two options to choose from:
- Free Phone and Plan: Get a free phone along with your plan.
- Bring Your Own Device: If you want to keep your current phone, you can bring it along and still get the Lifeline service that includes a SIM card with data plan.
Step 3: Pick a Device
AirTalk Wireless offers a variety of smartphones and tablets, and bundles for eligible Tribal customers. Select the device that works best for you.
Step 4: Provide Documentation
You need to prove you qualify for Lifeline. If you’re eligible through a government assistance program, you’ll need to provide proof of enrollment. If your eligibility is based on income, you must show proof, such as recent pay stubs or other official documents.
Step 5: Submit Your Application
Submit your application for review. AirTalk Wireless will check the details to make sure everything is correct. Once your application is approved, you will receive a confirmation, and your device will be shipped to you.
Also read: How to Apply for the Lifeline Program at AirTalk Wireless?
Conclusion
Free unlimited cell phone plans for tribal lands are an important way to help these communities stay connected. The Lifeline program makes it easier for people living on tribal lands to access affordable communication services. Supporting these efforts can lead to a better future for all.
