Aside from discounts to groceries, movies, or other purchasing items, the government is now providing free cell phones for senior citizens. This program is called Lifeline assistance. However, being able to be one of the citizens that can get one, you must be approved by the requirements respected by your state. If you are qualified, without further objection, expect to get your mobile phone within your hands.


Eligibility Requirements of the Program

Household’s Income Level : Under the Federal Poverty Guidelines, household income level must be below 135%. However, the income level varies on which state you are in. So, make sure that you check your provider about the requirements needed to be approved of the Lifeline assistance or free cell phones for senior to use.

Federal Benefit Programs Participation: Participating in these programs mean that you are needing a financial assistance. Hence, if you have participated in any of these programs, mean you are qualified to enroll in Lifeline assistance program. There is one program though that you can attend only if your household’s income level qualifies – Tribal Head Start. Here is the list of the programs you need to participate:


  • SNAP or Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program
  • FDPIR or Food Distribution Program on Indian Reservations
  • Tribal TANF or Tribally Administered Temporary Assistance for Needy Families
  • SSI or Supplemental Security Income
  • Medicaid
  • Section 8 or Federal Public Housing Assistance
  • BIA or Bureau of Indian Affairs General Assistance
  • Veterans Pension and Survivor’s Benefit

Steps in Getting Your Mobile Phone

Now, if you think you are eligible enough to have a mobile phone, then you can now proceed to its formal process of getting one. Here are the steps you need to do:


  1. Find the list of providers currently available in your state. It has all the list of companies that can assist and help you in providing free government smartphone.
  2. Once you found one, check all the information about their services that can offer you. Plans, mobile phones available, and their contact information are the basic ones to verify first. If you are now sure about the company, a minimum of 1-year service will be co ntracted to you and the company.
  3. Finally if you are now certain about everything, you can now enroll through their website or through online mobile. If you are eligible, and have successfully enrolled, your phone will be delivered to you. Delivery usually takes a week or more to be completed.

Some Notes to Remember


  • Only one person per household can have an account from Lifeline assistance. One mobile phone per family.
  • Your mailing address should be the same as your residential address. Mobile phones will be delivered to your door, so it is strictly followed to put the address where you are staying.
  • Company offers mobile phones for free for a minimum of 1-year service. So, make sure that you have chosen well for you cannot undo the process once you have decided.
  • Eligibility of an individual to be approved for Lifeline assistance varies on the state and is not limited only to a specific state. It may have the possibility to change without prior notice.