Your Texas Benefits SNAP = Free Lifeline Phone Eligibility
If your SNAP case is active on YourTexasBenefits.com, you automatically qualify for the federal Lifeline program — $9.25/month off phone or internet service, which most providers apply as a free smartphone with unlimited talk, text, and data.
Last updated: April 2026 · Reviewed by the Cliq Mobile editorial team.
Your Texas Benefits = SNAP, Medicaid, TANF
YourTexasBenefits.com is the Texas Health and Human Services Commission (HHSC) portal where Texans apply for and manage:
- SNAP (food stamps) — delivered via the Lone Star Card
- Medicaid — including STAR, STAR+PLUS, STAR Kids
- TANF — cash assistance for families with children
- CHIP — Children's Health Insurance Program
- Healthy Texas Women
SNAP is the federal food-assistance program. The Lone Star Card is the EBT card that holds your SNAP benefits each month — see our Lone Star Card guide for the full picture.
Texas SNAP Is a Direct Lifeline Qualifier
The federal Lifeline program recognizes SNAP as one of its direct qualifying programs. If your Texas SNAP case is active — whether your initial application was submitted online through YourTexasBenefits.com, by phone with 211, or at an HHSC benefits office — you qualify today.
No separate income verification. No waiting period. You submit your SNAP proof to a Lifeline provider and get a free phone.
What counts as proof
A screenshot of your active SNAP case on YourTexasBenefits.com, an HHSC approval letter, or a recent benefits renewal notice. The Lone Star Card alone isn't usually enough (it doesn't show case status) but works alongside ID and a recent benefits screenshot.
Other Programs That Qualify You for Lifeline in Texas
- Medicaid (STAR, STAR+PLUS, STAR Kids, etc.)
- 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 SNAP case — log in to YourTexasBenefits.com and grab a screenshot showing active SNAP status and your name.
- Pick a Lifeline provider — compare Lifeline providers serving Texas on network coverage, phone options, and plans.
- Apply with the provider — submit your name, address, date of birth, and the last four of your Social Security number. Upload your SNAP screenshot or HHSC letter.
- Get verified and receive — the National Verifier confirms eligibility, and your chosen provider ships the free smartphone.
Your Texas Benefits SNAP + Lifeline FAQ
I just got approved for SNAP this month — can I apply for Lifeline now?
Yes. As soon as your SNAP case is active, you meet Lifeline requirements. Your HHSC approval letter is valid proof.
What if my YourTexasBenefits account shows SNAP as "pending"?
You'll need to wait for approval. Lifeline requires an active, approved case. Pending applications don't count yet.
Can I apply for Lifeline on income alone, without SNAP?
Yes. If your household income is at or below 135% of the Federal Poverty Guidelines, you qualify on income proof — pay stubs, tax returns, or Social Security benefit statements.
My spouse has Medicaid but I have SNAP. Do we each get a Lifeline phone?
No. Lifeline is one benefit per household, regardless of how many qualifying programs someone in the household is on. Choose which household member's line the benefit goes to.