Who qualifies for Illinois Lifeline with Cliq Mobile?

Illinoisans with incomes below program limits or who receive benefits like SNAP or Medicaid can get free phone service.

How do I apply for a free government phone in Illinois?

Submit an application (online or paper) with proof of eligibility. Upon approval, we'll send your phone or SIM.

Will I need to recertify for Lifeline benefits each year in Illinois?

Yes, annual recertification is required by the FCC to maintain free service.

Does Illinois Lifeline offer unlimited talk and text with Cliq Mobile?

Yes, most Lifeline customers enjoy unlimited talk, text, and data within our coverage area.

Can I use my own phone with Illinois Lifeline from Cliq Mobile?

Yes, a compatible device can be activated under Lifeline at no cost.

Can I combine ACP with Lifeline in Illinois?

ACP is on pause, but you may combine both once its reactivated for even more savings.

Free Illinois Lifeline Phone Service & Internet

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Free Government Phone Service Illinois

Free Wireless Service for Qualifying Illinois Residents

Free Lifeline Service

Illinois residents in major cities like Chicago, Springfield, Peoria, and Rockford can benefit from the free government phone program through Lifeline. This essential service helps low-income individuals stay connected for job searches, healthcare appointments, and emergency services across the state. Qualifying residents receive a free smartphone with talk, text, and data to access vital resources. Whether you're in urban Chicago or smaller cities like Champaign or Decatur, Cliq Mobile provides reliable coverage throughout Illinois, ensuring you stay connected no matter where you live or work. Apply for your free government phone today and experience the benefits of staying connected for employment opportunities, telehealth services, and family communication across the Prairie State.

Illinois landscape with diverse people using free government phones, symbolizing connectivity across the state

See if I Qualify

1422337

Over 1422337 households in Illinois qualify for discounted or free Lifeline service.

212872

Of the 1422337 people that qualify for Lifeline in Illinois, only 212872 are using it.

15%

Only 15% of eligible families in Illinois are currently using their Lifeline benefit — meaning many are missing out on free wireless service with Cliq Mobile. .

How to Qualify for Lifeline

Lifeline Eligibility & Requirements in Illinois

Households in Illinois can qualify for the Illinois Lifeline program by meeting specific income limits or participating in a recognized government assistance program. In either situation, you may need to provide documentation and sign the required application to confirm your eligibility. Below is a concise overview of the income requirements and qualifying programs for Illinois Lifeline, ensuring you stay connected at an affordable rate.

Program Based Eligibility in Illinois

If you or any member of your household is enrolled in one or more of the following government assistance programs, you may qualify for Illinois Lifeline benefits:

Program-Based Qualification Method:

You can qualify for Illinois Lifeline if you or another person in your household is enrolled in any one of these qualifying public assistance programs:

Medicaid
Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) (Food Stamps)
Supplemental Security Income (SSI)
Federal Public Housing Assistance (FPHA)
Veterans Pension or Survivors Benefit Programs
Low-Income Home Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP)
National School Lunch Program (NSLP)
Temporary Assistance for Needy Families (TANF)
Tribal Specific Programs (if you live on Tribal lands):
1. Bureau of Indian Affairs (BIA) General Assistance
2. Tribal Temporary Assistance for Needy Families (Tribal TANF)
3. Food Distribution Program on Indian Reserves (FDPIR)
4. Tribal Head Start Income Eligibility

View All Qualifying Programs

Income Based Eligibility in Illinois

Your household may qualify for the Illinois Free Government Phone program if its annual income falls within the limits below.

Learn More About Income Based Eligibility

Easily APply

Easy Application Process

Check Eligibility

Enter your ZIP code and Program details.

Apply Now

Quick Approval

Usually approved in just 1-2 days.

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Receive Your SIM kit/Phone

Get your free SIM kit and/or smartphone shipped directly to your home.

Apply Now

ACP UPdate

📣 2025 Update - Illinois Affordable Connectivity Program (ACP)

The Affordable Connectivity Program (ACP) has provided essential phone and internet service discounts to millions of households across the Country, including many in Illinois. Due to recent funding changes, the ACP program is currently paused, and many in IL are asking: “Is ACP ending?” or “When will ACP funding resume?”. The reality is- we don't know (yet).

At Cliq Mobile, we’re actively monitoring ACP updates from the government and the FCC, along with the IL State Government. While ACP funding and benefits are temporarily on hold, experts believe there’s a strong possibility the ACP program may return. Make sure to join our mailing list to be among the first to find out, so that you'll be first in line if/when the program does return.

What ACP Offered (And Could Offer Again):

✅ Monthly discounts on phone and internet bills.

✅ Free or discounted smartphones.

✅ Easy application and qualification based on income or participation in assistance programs.