If you can’t afford a phone or monthly phone or internet plan, you’re not alone. Many Texans are not able to pay for these bills due to rising costs. But did you know there’s a way to get a free phone and service if you meet certain eligibility requirements?
Lifeline program offers free or low-cost phone plans through approved providers, helping low-income individuals stay connected for work, healthcare, and emergencies. In this post, you’ll learn how to check if you qualify, what benefits you can get, and how to apply for a free phone and plan with Texas Lifeline service providers.
1. Is Lifeline Available in Texas?
If you live in Texas, the Lifeline program is available. It’s a government assistance program to lower phone and internet costs for low-income households. Eligible individuals can get up to $9.25 off their monthly bill. And for those on Tribal lands, the discount is up to $34.25 per month.
When applying through a licensed service provider that partners with the program, you get a chance to receive a discounted or free government phone or table. So, choosing the right provider is important. Every company is not the same. They offer different phones and plans.
The Lifeline program in Texas is especially valuable, bringing peace of mind and a lifeline to families with limited income.
2. How to Qualify for Texas Lifeline
There are two ways to qualify for Lifeline: through participation in specific public assistance programs or income-based eligibility. According to the 2024 USAC report, most people nationwide qualify for the Lifeline program through government assistance programs. Only 1.97% of participants qualify based on income.
Program-based eligibility
You or someone in your household must be actively participating in at least one of the public assistance programs:
- Medicaid (Medicaid is the most common qualifying program. As of June 2024, 49.11% of nationwide Lifeline subscribers qualified for Lifeline based on their Medicaid enrollment)
- Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP)
- Supplemental Security Income (SSI)
- Federal Public Housing Assistance (FPHA) or Section 8
- Veterans Pension and Survivors Benefit
If you reside on federally recognized Tribal lands, you may qualify for Lifeline by participating in certain Tribal programs.
Income-based eligibility
If your gross household income is at or below 135% of the Federal Poverty Guidelines, you may be eligible for Texas Lifeline. Check the table below for details:
| Household size | 2025 Federal Poverty Guidelines | Income Limit (135% of the Federal Poverty Guidelines) |
| 1 | $15,650 | $21,128 |
| 2 | $21,150 | $28,553 |
| 3 | $26,650 | $35,978 |
| 4 | $32,150 | $43,403 |
| 5 | $37,650 | $50,828 |
| 6 | $43,150 | $58,253 |
| 7 | $48,650 | $65,678 |
| 8 | $54,150 | $73,103 |
| Each Additional Member | $5,500 | $5,500 |
Required Documents for the Texas Lifeline Program
If you qualify through a government assistance program, you’ll need to provide an official document that includes:
- Your name or your dependent’s name
- The name of the qualifying program
- The issuing government or Tribal agency
- An issue date within the past 12 months or a future expiration date
If you qualify based on income, you must submit proof of your annual income, which should include:
- Your name or your dependent’s name
- Your total annual income, along with income documentation from the past three months (such as pay stubs) if a full year of records isn’t available
Additional required documents may include:
- Proof of Date of Birth
- Proof of Address
- Social Security Number or Tribal ID
- Verification for duplicate addresses
- Identity & Lifeline eligibility verification
Read more: Get A Free Government Texas iPhone – Quick & Easy Guide
3. Best Texas Lifeline Service Providers
You’ve got some Lifeline service providers in Texas. Each company offers different plans, phones, and benefits, so find the right one.
Here are the best Texas Lifeline service providers:
- AirTalk Wireless
- SafeLink Wireless
- Assurance Wireless
- StandUp Wireless
- TruConnect
Why AirTalk Wireless?
AirTalk Wireless is one of the best Lifeline providers in Texas. They’re making it simple for people to apply for Lifeline online.
AirTalk Wireless provides a wide range of high-quality phones, from flip phones to smartphones with premium features. Eligible Texan customers can receive top smartphones that are completely FREE, such as:
Besides, you can discover a large collection of upgraded smartphones, tablets, and bundles. AirTalk Wireless offers exclusive discounts you won’t easily find elsewhere, making these top-quality devices more affordable than ever. You always find great deals on AirTalk Wireless.
- Apple iPhone 14
- Samsung Galaxy A54 5G
- Motorola moto g 5G 2023
- FOXXD AS65U
- Samsung Galaxy Tab 4
- Apple iPad 5
In addition, AirTalk’s Lifeline plan includes:
- Up to 30GB of high-speed 5G+ data
- Unlimited talk & text
- Free international calling to 200+ countries
- WiFi calling & free calls to 911
- Voicemail, Caller ID & Call Waiting
- AirTalk’s BYOP (Bring Your Own Phone) program lets you keep your current phone while enjoying all Lifeline benefits.
Their “Always On” feature ensures that if you run out of minutes or data, you can still send unlimited texts. Also, their plans include useful features like 3-Way Calling, Call Waiting, and 411 Directory Assistance.
How to apply for Lifeline in Texas through AirTalk Wireless
Step 1: Access AirTalk Wireless
Visit the AirTalk Wireless website and enter your Texas zip code.
Step 2: Choose Your Lifeline Plan
AirTalk Wireless gives you two great options for Texas Lifeline applicants:
- Free Phone + Free Plan: This option lets you claim a free or highly discounted device along with a phone service plan.
- Free Plan (BYOD – Bring Your Own Device): You can keep using your current device while still enjoying AirTalk’s Lifeline plan.
There are no hidden fees, no contracts, and no monthly bills.
Step 3: Pick Your Device
Step 4: Submit Your Eligibility Documents
Step 5: Wait for Approval
If everything checks out, you’ll receive a confirmation, and your device will be shipped within 7–10 business days.
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.
Conclusion
Check your eligibility and choose from Texas Lifeline service providers that offer the best benefits for you. Once approved, you’ll have a reliable way to stay connected with financial relief.
Apply today and take advantage of this opportunity to get a free phone and service in Texas.