Who qualifies for New York Lifeline with Cliq Mobile?

New Yorkers with low income or active benefits in SNAP, Medicaid, or other programs can get a free phone.

How do I apply for a free government phone in New York?

Submit eligibility documents online or by mail. Cliq Mobile will provide your free phone or SIM once approved.

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

Yes, the FCC mandates an annual recertification. We'll help you meet this requirement.

Does New York Lifeline offer unlimited talk and text with Cliq Mobile?

Yes, our free plan generally includes unlimited talk, text, and data for qualified subscribers.

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

Yes, any compatible phone can be activated at no cost once you're approved.

Can I combine ACP with Lifeline in New York?

ACP is on pause, but you may stack both once it's reinstated for greater benefits.

Free New York Lifeline Phone Service & Internet

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Free Government Phone Service New York

Free Wireless Service for Qualifying New York Residents

Free Lifeline Service

New York residents in major cities like New York City, Buffalo, Rochester, Syracuse, and Albany can qualify for a free government phone through the Lifeline program. This essential service helps low-income individuals stay connected for job opportunities, healthcare appointments, and emergency services across the Empire State. Lifeline benefits are particularly valuable for those seeking employment in urban centers, accessing telehealth services, or maintaining contact with social services. Cliq Mobile offers comprehensive coverage throughout the entire state of New York, ensuring that eligible residents from Manhattan to Montauk can enjoy reliable communication. Apply today to see if you qualify for a free government phone and experience the connectivity that Lifeline provides to New Yorkers.

See if I Qualify

2693604

Over 2693604 households in New York qualify for discounted or free Lifeline service.

958898

Of the 2693604 people that qualify for Lifeline in New York, only 958898 are using it.

36%

Only 36% of eligible families in New York 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 New York

Households in New York can qualify for the New York 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 New York Lifeline, ensuring you stay connected at an affordable rate.

Program Based Eligibility in New York

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

Program-Based Qualification Method:

You can qualify for New York 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)
Supplemental Security Income (SSI)
Federal Public Housing Assistance
Veterans Pension and Survivors Benefit
Home Energy Assistance Program (HEAP)
Family Assistance/Safety Net Assistance
National School Lunch Program
Tribal Programs:
1. Bureau of Indian Affairs General Assistance
2. Tribal Temporary Assistance for Needy Families
3. Food Distribution Program on Indian Reservations
4. Tribal Lands Head Start (if income eligibility criteria are met)

View All Qualifying Programs

Income Based Eligibility in New York

Your household may qualify for the New York 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 - New York 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 New York. Due to recent funding changes, the ACP program is currently paused, and many in NY 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 NY 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.