Does a “free phone with EBT” mean you must choose between service or food? Luckily, if you own an EBT card, you may qualify for the Lifeline program and get a phone without having to pay. How does this system work exactly? Find out more right below.
1. What Is an EBT Card in the USA?
Electronic benefits transfer (EBT) is a system that lets government assistance recipients pay using their benefits. The EBT system has been operating since 2004 and is most commonly known for the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP/Food Stamps), which provides low- and no-income people with food purchasing.
When someone uses their SNAP benefits at a store authorized to accept SNAP, the food cost that they buy is automatically deducted from their EBT account. The store is then reimbursed for the purchase from the participant’s SNAP benefits. Generally, the EBT card works like a debit card for eligible food purchases.
2. Free Phone With EBT: Who is Eligible?
Lifeline Program is a government program that offers discounted wireless services to low-income households. Qualified participants can receive up to $9.25 monthly discount on their internet services, and those who live on federally recognized Tribal lands may get a discount of up to $34.25.
But how are a free phone and an EBT card related? For those who have not known, simply being on SNAP, aka having an EBT card, may qualify you for Lifeline. And by applying for Lifeline through a licensed service provider, you can receive a phone for free as one of the benefits from the provider to the customers.
Apart from SNAP, consumers who participate in other programs (Medicaid, SSI, FPHA, Veterans Pension, Tribal Programs) are also eligible for Lifeline. OR, their income should be 135% or lower than the Federal Poverty Guidelines.
3. Best Free Phone Service with Food Stamps
Which is the best free phone service provider that you should rely on? Being one of the most trusted internet and phone providers in the US, AirTalk Wireless offers its customers a lot of special perks.
Food Stamps/SNAP recipients, if qualified for Lifeline, can get free phone plans and a high-quality cell phone from trusted brands like Apple, Samsung, and more.
And that’s not all, they can benefit from a slew of other features:
- Up to 30GB high speed 5G+ internet
- Local calls
- National long distance
- Free International Calling to 200+ countries including Canada & Mexico
- Voicemail
- Nationwide text
The Lifeline application process is also straightforward. With that much privilege you may get from AirTalk Wireless, why not apply right now?
4. How To Get a Free Phone With EBT
Here’s an essential guide for EBT holder to get a free government phone:
Step 1: Access AirTalk Wireless
First thing first, visit the AirTalk Wireless website and insert your zip code to check for coverage in your area.
This will ensure you don’t have to travel far to get your perks.
Step 2: Choose a plan or BYOD
Now to the next step, you can opt for a Lifeline phone plan.
Please note that there are two options on AirTalk: if you want a free phone and a phone plan, OR if you only get the free plan from the government. With the second option, you can choose the BYOD pathway and stay with your current device.
Step 3: Pick a free phone
This is where you should consider which phone suits your needs the most. AirTalk Wireless offers a great collection of iPhones, Samsung Galaxy, or Motorola smartphones.
Another note to remember is the availability for each phone will depend on your area.
Besides, those who are looking for a free tablet and phone with EBT can give a quick look at the bundle collection on AirTalk Wireless. While these bundles may not be entirely free, they offer valuable features that can greatly enhance your convenience and simplify your daily life.
Step 4: Upload your documents
To apply for Lifeline and get free phones with EBT benefits, you’ll need a valid Electronic Benefits Transfer card or other official paperwork that indicates your participation in the SNAP.
Several other documentations needed in the process may include:
- Proof of Identification (unexpired Driver’s License or Passport, Birth Certificate, Certificate of Naturalization or of U.S. Citizenship, etc.)
- Proof of Address (Utility bill; Current Income Statement, Paycheck Stub, or W2; etc.)
Check HERE for more details.
Step 5: Complete and wait for approval
After approval, your device will be shipped within 7-10 business days.
Also read: Free Phone With Plan: How You Can Have The Best Package Deal
Commonly Asked Questions about EBT Free Phone
Can you get a free phone if you’re on SNAP?
Yes, being a SNAP recipient is one of the requirements that make you automatically eligible for a free phone. Remember to provide a valid EBT card or paperwork that proves your participation in the program when applying for Lifeline via a service provider.
Who has the best free government cell phone?
Lifeline partners with quite a lot of service companies, one of which is AirTalk Wireless. AirTalk has been in place since 1999 and has proven reliability in delivering wireless service for many customers. You can get a 4G/5G+ smartphone along with unlimited talk and text, international calling, and more.
Best free phone Food Stamps iPhone
With Food Stamps/SNAP, you have a chance to get Apple phones for free. Take a look at some options available on AirTalk here:
