Illinois LINK Card Holders Qualify for a Free Phone Through Lifeline.
The Illinois LINK Card delivers SNAP and TANF benefits to eligible Illinois residents. Both programs qualify you for the federal Lifeline program — free phone or internet service from participating providers.
Last updated: April 2026 · Reviewed by the Cliq Mobile editorial team.
What Is the Illinois LINK Card?
The Illinois LINK Card is the state's Electronic Benefit Transfer (EBT) card, issued by the Illinois Department of Human Services (IDHS). It works at stores, ATMs, and online grocers that accept EBT, and delivers:
- SNAP — Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (food benefits)
- TANF — Temporary Assistance for Needy Families (cash benefits)
You applied through ABE.Illinois.gov (Application for Benefits Eligibility) or at a local Family Community Resource Center. Check your LINK Card balance at ebtedge.com or 1-800-678-LINK (5465).
LINK Card = Lifeline Eligibility
The federal Lifeline program lists SNAP as a direct qualifier. If your Illinois LINK Card receives SNAP each month, you qualify for Lifeline today — no separate income verification needed.
Lifeline provides a $9.25/month discount on phone or internet service. Most Lifeline providers in Illinois deliver this as a free smartphone with unlimited talk, text, and high-speed data.
Chicago & beyond
Coverage varies by provider. In Cook County and Chicago, most Lifeline carriers have strong coverage. In rural downstate Illinois, compare networks before picking a provider.
Other Ways to Qualify for Lifeline in Illinois
- Medicaid (Illinois HealthChoice, All Kids, Moms & Babies)
- SSI (Supplemental Security Income)
- Federal Public Housing Assistance (Section 8)
- Veterans Pension & Survivors Benefit
- Income at or below 135% of the Federal Poverty Guidelines
How to Apply for a Free Phone
- Pull proof of your SNAP case — an ABE.Illinois screenshot, IDHS approval letter, or your most recent benefit notice.
- Choose a Lifeline provider — compare Lifeline providers serving Illinois on coverage and phone options.
- Apply with the provider — submit your name, address, date of birth, and the last four of your Social Security number, plus your SNAP proof.
- Verify and receive — the National Verifier confirms eligibility, and your chosen provider ships the free phone.
Illinois LINK Card + Lifeline FAQ
Can I use my LINK Card number directly as Lifeline proof?
Providers usually want case documentation, not just the card number. Pull a screenshot of your active case on ABE.Illinois.gov or a recent IDHS letter.
My LINK Card only has TANF. Does that qualify me for Lifeline?
TANF alone is not on the federal Lifeline qualifying list. But your TANF income almost certainly meets the 135% FPG limit — apply on income proof instead.
Does my All Kids / HealthChoice Medicaid count?
Yes. Illinois Medicaid is a direct Lifeline qualifier. Your Medicaid ID card or a recent approval notice works as proof.
I haven't used my LINK Card in a while. Is it still active?
Inactive SNAP cases may be suspended — check your status on ABE.Illinois.gov. If your case has lapsed, you'll need to reapply or recertify before using SNAP as Lifeline proof.