What is the best free government phone program?

Lifeline and the Affordable Connectivity Program (ACP) are the most widely accepted and federally funded programs. Providers like Cliq Mobile make it easy to apply and include generous talk, text, and data plans.

Who qualifies for a free government phone?

Anyone who receives benefits such as Medicaid, SNAP, SSI, or has a household income at or below 135% of the Federal Poverty Guidelines may qualify.

How do I get a free government phone with Medicaid or SNAP?

If you’re enrolled in Medicaid or SNAP, you qualify automatically. Simply apply online and upload proof of your participation.

What documents do I need to prove I qualify?

You'll need a document showing participation in a qualifying program (e.g., EBT card, Medicaid letter), or income documentation like pay stubs or a tax return.

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Eligibility for free government phone service

How to Qualify for Free Government Phone Service

Wondering if you qualify for free government phone service? If you’re enrolled in a government assistance program like Medicaid, SNAP, or SSI — free wireless service through the Lifeline. Powered by American Broadband and Telecommunications Company. Below is a list of programs that qualify you instantly.

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beautiful brown woman using her free government phone while a cute baby is sitting on her lap.

Qualify Based On Government Program

You may qualify for free government phone service if you participate in any of these government programs:

Qualifying Program	How This Helps You Qualify for Lifeline
SNAP (Food Stamps)	If you receive SNAP benefits, you automatically qualify for a free government phone or discounted internet service through the Lifeline program.
Medicaid	Medicaid recipients are eligible for Lifeline benefits, which provide free or discounted wireless service to low-income households.
Medi-Cal	California’s version of Medicaid qualifies residents for free phone and internet through the Lifeline program.
Supplemental Security Income (SSI)	If you receive SSI, you’re eligible for Lifeline benefits that offer free wireless and data services.
Federal Public Housing Assistance (FPHA)	HUD programs like Section 8 qualify you for free government phones and internet under the Lifeline program.
Veterans Pension & Survivors Benefit	Veterans and their families receiving these benefits are eligible for discounted or free mobile phone and data plans.
Head Start (Income-Based)	Families eligible for Head Start due to income are also eligible for government phone and internet programs.
WIC (Women, Infants, and Children)	If you’re enrolled in WIC, you may qualify for discounted phone or broadband service under the federal Lifeline program.
Free or Reduced School Lunch / Breakfast	Children enrolled in these school meal programs qualify their families for Lifeline benefits. CEP participation also applies.
Federal Pell Grant (Current Year)	College students receiving Pell Grants are eligible for discounted or free high-speed internet and mobile service through Lifeline.
Income-Based Eligibility	Households earning 135% or less of the Federal Poverty Guidelines may qualify without being enrolled in a benefit program.
Safe Connections Act (SCA)	Survivors of domestic violence or human trafficking may qualify for phone service support by demonstrating financial hardship or separation from an abuser’s phone plan.

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FAQ

Got Questions About Qualifying? We’ve Got Answers.

Whether you’re on Medicaid, SNAP, or just wondering if your income qualifies, this section covers everything you need to know to get free or discounted service.

Have a question in mind?

How to Qualify for Free Government Phone Service

Qualify Based On Government Program

SNAP (Food Stamps)

Medicaid

Medi-Cal

Supplemental Security Income (SSI)

Federal Public Housing Assistance (FPHA)

Veterans Pension & Survivors Benefit

Head Start (Income-Based)

WIC (Women, Infants, and Children)

Free or Reduced School Lunch / Breakfast

Federal Pell Grant (Current Year)

Income-Based Eligibility

Safe Connections Act (SCA)

Ready for Your Free Lifeline Phone Service?

Got Questions About Qualifying? We’ve Got Answers.