Free Government Phones and Internet: How to Apply for Lifeline and Affordable Connectivity Programs
Access to communication services is essential, but for low-income individuals and families, the cost of phone and internet services can be a financial burden. To address this issue, the U.S. government offers assistance through two major programs: Lifeline and the Affordable Connectivity Program (ACP). These initiatives provide free or discounted phone and internet services to eligible households.
If you need help obtaining a free phone or internet access, this guide will walk you through the eligibility requirements and application process.
What Are the Lifeline and Affordable Connectivity Programs?
Lifeline Program
Lifeline is a federal assistance program that provides discounted or free phone service to low-income individuals. Eligible participants receive a monthly discount of up to $9.25 on phone service, broadband internet, or bundled plans. Households living on tribal lands may receive an enhanced benefit of up to $34.25 per month.
Many Lifeline providers also offer free government phones as part of their service. These devices typically include basic smartphones with talk, text, and data allowances.
Affordable Connectivity Program (ACP)
The ACP is a newer program designed to help low-income households access high-speed internet. It provides:
- Up to $30 per month toward broadband service for eligible households.
- Up to $75 per month for households on tribal lands.
- A one-time discount of up to $100 for purchasing a laptop, tablet, or desktop computer (with a small co-payment of $10-$50).
Households can combine both ACP and Lifeline benefits, further reducing or eliminating their monthly phone and internet costs.
Who Qualifies for Free Phones and Internet?
Eligibility for Lifeline and ACP is based on income or participation in government assistance programs.
Income-Based Eligibility
You qualify if your household income is at or below 135% of the Federal Poverty Guidelines for Lifeline or 200% for ACP. The specific income limits vary by household size and state.
Program-Based Eligibility
You automatically qualify if you or someone in your household participates in any of the following programs:
- Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP)
- Medicaid
- Supplemental Security Income (SSI)
- Federal Public Housing Assistance (FPHA)
- Veterans Pension and Survivors Benefit
- Tribal Programs (Bureau of Indian Affairs General Assistance, Tribal TANF, Food Distribution Program on Indian Reservations)
If you are already enrolled in Lifeline, you automatically qualify for ACP benefits.
How to Apply for Lifeline and ACP
Step 1: Check Your Eligibility
Visit the National Verifier website (https://www.lifelinesupport.org/) to check if you qualify. You may need to provide proof of income or participation in a qualifying program.
Step 2: Apply for the Program
You can apply online through:
Alternatively, you can mail a paper application or apply through a service provider offering Lifeline or ACP benefits.
Step 3: Choose a Service Provider
After approval, you must select a phone or internet provider that participates in the program. Many wireless carriers and internet service providers (ISPs) offer Lifeline and ACP benefits. Some popular providers include:
- Safelink Wireless
- Q Link Wireless
- Assurance Wireless
- TruConnect
- Metro by T-Mobile, AT&T, Verizon, and other major ISPs
You can search for participating providers in your area on the Lifeline or ACP websites.
Step 4: Activate Your Service
Once you select a provider, follow their instructions to activate your free government phone or internet service. You may need to provide additional documentation.
Maintaining Your Benefits
To continue receiving free or discounted phone and internet service, you must:
- Use the service at least once every 30 days to avoid cancellation.
- Recertify annually to confirm continued eligibility.
If your financial situation changes and you no longer qualify, you must notify your service provider.