Michigan Bridge Card Holders Qualify for a Free Lifeline Phone.
Michigan's Bridge Card is the state's EBT card for SNAP (Food Assistance) and cash assistance. Both qualify your household 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 Michigan Bridge Card?
The Bridge Card is Michigan's Electronic Benefit Transfer (EBT) card, issued by the Michigan Department of Health and Human Services (MDHHS). It works like a debit card at grocery stores, ATMs, and participating retailers, and delivers:
- Food Assistance Program (FAP) — Michigan's SNAP program
- Family Independence Program (FIP) — Michigan's TANF cash assistance
- State Disability Assistance (SDA)
You applied and manage your case through MI Bridges (newmibridges.michigan.gov) or an MDHHS local office. Check your balance at ebtedge.com or 1-888-678-8914.
Your Bridge Card Is Your Ticket to Free Lifeline
The federal Lifeline program recognizes SNAP as a direct qualifier. If your Michigan Bridge Card is loaded each month with Food Assistance benefits, you qualify for Lifeline automatically.
Lifeline pays a $9.25/month discount on phone or internet service. Most Lifeline providers in Michigan apply that as a free smartphone with unlimited talk, text, and a generous monthly data allotment — no contract, no credit check, no monthly bill.
Other Programs That Qualify You for Lifeline in Michigan
- Medicaid (including Healthy Michigan Plan, MI Child)
- 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
- Confirm your case is active — log in to MI Bridges and grab a screenshot, or pull a recent MDHHS approval letter.
- Pick a Lifeline provider — compare Lifeline providers serving Michigan.
- Apply with the provider — submit your name, address, date of birth, and the last four of your SSN, plus your SNAP or Medicaid proof.
- Get verified and receive — the National Verifier confirms eligibility, and your chosen provider ships the free phone.
Bridge Card + Lifeline FAQ
Is the Bridge Card the same as a Medicaid card?
No. The Bridge Card is for SNAP and cash assistance. Medicaid in Michigan uses a separate mihealth card (or your managed-care plan ID card). Both qualify you for Lifeline, but they're different documents.
My Bridge Card only has FIP (cash assistance), not FAP. Does that still qualify for Lifeline?
FIP alone isn't a federal Lifeline qualifier. But FIP recipients almost always meet the 135% FPG income limit — apply on income proof instead.
I applied through MI Bridges but my case is still pending. Can I apply for Lifeline?
Not yet. You need an active, approved case to use it as Lifeline proof. Once your SNAP or Medicaid case is approved, you can apply the same day.
Does Healthy Michigan Plan Medicaid count?
Yes. Healthy Michigan Plan is Michigan's Medicaid expansion, and Medicaid is a direct Lifeline qualifier.