For many Alaskans, the Lifeline program provides tremendous, undeniable value. In other words, you can receive both discounted internet services and a free Lifeline phone Alaska.
1. The Lifeline Program in Alaska
Alaska, the largest U.S. state by area but with the lowest population. Due to the remote location, transporting goods and food is expensive, which results in a much higher cost of living.
Many rural and remote areas have no basic services such as healthcare, education, and public transportation.
U.S. News ranked Alaska 49th out of 50 states, placing it near the bottom nationally in overall quality of life. The state’s economy is less robust than many others, and transportation and public services remain underdeveloped.
The Lifeline program is one of the most important government initiatives nationwide, including Alaska, that makes internet and phone services more accessible and affordable for low-income households.
Standard discounts provide up to $9.25 per month, while Tribal residents with limited income may qualify for a higher discount of $34.25 each month.
In addition to phone bill savings, the program offers access to free or discounted cell phones from participating providers.
This means you can receive a free phone along with free monthly service through Lifeline.
If you’re interested, check how to qualify for Lifeline in Alaska just below.
Eligibility is determined through income-based or program-based criteria.
Income-Based Eligibility
Individuals may qualify if their gross income is at or below 135% of the Federal Poverty Guidelines. Alaska’s higher cost of living means the income limits are higher than in most other states.
Below are the Federal Poverty Guidelines 2025:
Household size | Poverty guideline |
1 | $19,550 |
2 | $26,430 |
3 | $33,310 |
4 | $40,190 |
5 | $47,070 |
6 | $53,950 |
7 | $60,830 |
8 | $67,710 |
Each Additional Member | $6,880 |
Program-Based Eligibility
If you or any member in your household participates in one of the following programs:
- Medicaid
- Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP)
- Supplemental Security Income (SSI)
- Federal Public Housing Assistance (FPHA)/Section 8
- Veterans and Survivors Pension Benefit
- Certain Tribal programs
Then you’re automatically eligible for Lifeline.
2. Best Lifeline Phone Alaska Plan with Unlimited Talk and Text
As expected, you can receive a free Lifeline phone, but to get it, you must apply for the program through a provider that offers these benefits.
In remote areas like Alaska, you can apply through AirTalk Wireless, one of the most popular providers.
Alaska residents can choose from a variety of Lifeline plans that provide unlimited talk and text, along with data options to suit different needs:
Lifeline Basic/Standard Plan ($0/month):
- 5GB* on the 5G+ network
- Option for a free phone. (Top pick: iPhone 8, Samsung Galaxy S20 FE 5G)
Upgrade Options for More Benefits:
- Lifeline Plus Plan: $10/month*, 10GB on 5G+ network
- Lifeline Premium Plan: $20/month*, 16GB on 5G+ network
- Lifeline Unlimited Plan: $35/month*, unlimited data on 5G+ network
All options include a free phone. (Top pick: iPhone 8, Samsung Galaxy S20 FE 5G, Motorola One 5G ACE)
*Offers may vary and are subject to future updates.
You can also try the Lifeline Data Boost Plan (completely free), a BYOD (Bring Your Own Device) option.
With this plan, you won’t receive a free device but can use your own while still enjoying Lifeline benefits, including up to 10GB* on the 5G+ network.
All AirTalk plans include:
- Unlimited talk and text
- Free international calling to over 200 countries
- Free SIM kit or eSIM
- Free WiFi calling
- Free calls to 911 and 411 directory assistance
- Caller ID, call waiting, 3-way calling, and voicemail
- Nationwide coverage
Please note that if you live on Tribal lands, the Lifeline plans come with more benefits beyond the standard offerings.
3. Lifeline Application Alaska: How to Apply for the Alaska Lifeline Plan
Step 1: Go to AirTalk Wireless’s website. Enter your ZIP code to start the application process.
Step 2: Select from available plans such as Basic/Standard, Plus, Premium, or Unlimited. Each plan includes free or discounted smartphones.
You can also choose a Bring Your Own Device (BYOD) plan to keep your current phone while still receiving Lifeline benefits.
Step 3: Choose a device from the options provided. Availability changes frequently, so it’s best to apply as soon as possible.
Step 4: Verify your eligibility. Eligibility is usually verified automatically. In some cases, you may need to provide supporting documents.
Step 5: Submit your application.
4. Best Free Lifeline Phone in Alaska
Seniors
Many seniors have fixed incomes and may qualify through low-income criteria or by participating in programs such as Medicaid or SSI.
Older adults prefer simple, easy-to-use phones for basic calling and texting, such as the Nokia 2760 Flip and Nokia G300 5G.
However, if they need more advanced features to make video calls with their grandchildren or use health apps, smartphones like the Samsung Galaxy S20 FE 5G with a large screen and good battery life could be a suitable choice.
Best free Lifeline phone Alaska for seniors:
- Motorola One 5G Ace
- Motorola One 5G
- Nokia G300 5G
- Nokia 2760 Flip
- Cascabel A88C
- Samsung Galaxy A51
- Samsung Galaxy S20 FE 5G
- Samsung Galaxy A23 5G
SNAP or Medicaid recipients
People who receive Medicaid or SNAP are automatically eligible to participate in the Lifeline program. This is among the most common ways to qualify.
Both basic phones and smartphones are appropriate for them. Frequent internet users may prefer devices like the iPhone XR and Samsung Galaxy S20 FE 5G.
Depending on individual needs, pick one from the best free Lifeline phones in Alaska:
- iPhone 6s
- iPhone 7
- iPhone 8
- iPhone XR
- AirVoice S67 5G
- AirVoice AS65U
- Nokia C300
- Motorola One 5G Ace
- Motorola Moto G 5G 2023
- Samsung Galaxy A23 5G
- Samsung Galaxy S20 FE 5G
- Samsung Galaxy A51
- Samsung Galaxy S10e
Students
Having a smartphone is essential for studying and staying in touch with friends and family, as well as for media use, apps, streaming, and a decent camera.
- Samsung Galaxy S20 FE 5G
- Samsung Galaxy A51
- Samsung Galaxy A23 5G
- iPhone XR
- iPhone 8
- Motorola One 5G Ace
- Nord N200 5G
- AirVoice AS65U
Conclusion
Of course, if you’re looking for the ultimate value and convenience, getting a free Lifeline phone in Alaska is the way to go. It gives you access to essential connectivity at no cost.
With options ranging from basic phones to fully featured 5G smartphones, Lifeline, along with participating providers (like AirTalk Wireless), ensures you get the best device for your needs.
NOTE: The government does not subsidize devices. Lifeline programs cover basic service costs only. Free or discounted devices, upgrade plans, or top-ups are exclusive benefits provided by AirTalk Wireless as part of our promotional offers. Terms and conditions apply. Limited-time promotion—offers vary by state, stock availability, and eligibility.