How to See if You Qualify for a Free Smartphone Through Lifeline
Smartphones make it easy to perform certain day-to-day tasks, like scheduling medical appointments, searching the internet for information, and staying connected with friends and family. But because smartphones are in many ways like mobile computers, they can be expensive. That’s where Lifeline comes in.
What is Lifeline?
Lifeline is a federal program that provides phones, data, and minutes to households that qualify.
Do I Qualify to Receive a Smartphone Through Lifeline?
There are two ways to find out if you qualify for a smartphone through Lifeline. The first way is if your income is 135% or less than the Federal Poverty Guidelines. The second way is if you receive support through any of the following programs:
- Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP), formerly known as Food Stamps
- Medicaid
- Supplemental Security Income (SSI)
- Federal Public Housing Assistance (FPHA)
- Veterans Pension and Survivors Benefit
You only need to meet one of these requirements to qualify. You also qualify if your child or dependent participates in any of these programs. If you live on tribal lands, you can get Lifeline if your household income is at or below 135% of the Federal Poverty Guidelines, or if you (or someone in your household) participate in:
- Any of the federal assistance programs listed above
- Bureau of Indian Affairs General Assistance
- Head Start (only households meeting the income qualifying standard)
- Tribal Temporary Assistance for Needy Families (Tribal TANF)
- Food Distribution Program on Indian Reservations
You can learn more about the tribal benefit here.
How to Apply for Lifeline
After reviewing the eligibility requirements for the Lifeline program, you must apply to confirm that you qualify. You can apply in several ways:
- Apply online: First, create an account. You will need your Social Security number to sign up.
- Apply through a local phone or internet provider: You can ask them for more details on how to apply.
- Apply through the mail: You can print the application and send it in along with proof of qualification to:
Lifeline Support Center
P.O. Box 9100
Wilkes-Barre, PA 1877
If you need help applying for Lifeline, you can call the Link to Care WA Hotline. Their representatives can help you fill out an application. Once you’re approved, you will need to choose a phone company that offers Lifeline and sign up for phone service. Once enrolled, you will start receiving your Lifeline benefit.
Access to the internet helps you stay connected to friends and family, local resources, and your healthcare team. The Lifeline program offers smartphones that connect to the internet, helping you stay connected wherever you go.
