Well over thirteen million people are carrying a free cell phone right now, but tens of millions more could qualify for the free phone program if only they enrolled. Dozens of trusted cell phone providers throughout the country fund this government supported national service, and qualifying is easier than most people think.

If You Are Part of a Government Assistance Program, You May Instantly Qualify

Individuals who are already receiving government assistance may instantly qualify for a free cell phone. Some of the qualifying federal programs include:

• Supplemental Nutritional Assistance Program (food stamps, SNAP, etc.)
• Medicaid
• Supplemental Security Income (SSI)
• National School Lunch Program
• Federal Public Housing Assistance
• Tribal Head Start Program
• Low Income Home Energy Assistance Program

Employed Individuals Can Also Qualify

It’s not only those on government assistance programs that qualify—anyone with a household income which is at or below 135 – 150 percent of the Federal Poverty Guidelines may be eligible for this vital service. All it takes to find out is to make an application.

Claiming Eligibility Is Quick and Easy

Eligibility requirements vary from vendor to vendor as well as from state to state as many various government aid programs are state-specific. When filling out your application, you will be able to claim eligibility in one of two ways:

1. a) Through income-based eligibility
2. b) Through program-based eligibility

If you are claiming income-based eligibility, you will need to self-certify your total household income and the number of people who are living in your home. You will also have to provide additional documentation including:

• A pay stub
• A current income statement from your employer
• An unemployment or worker’s compensation statement of benefit
• The previous years’ state, federal, or tribal tax return
• A Social Security statement of benefit
• Retirement or pension statement of benefits
• Veteran’s Administration statement of benefits
• A divorce decree

Claiming through program-based eligibility is also a self-certifying process, though you may not need to provide documentation proving that you are participating in the program.

Eligible Individuals Qualify for One Phone per Household

Qualifying individuals may have one free phone per household (an individual or group of people who live together at the same address and as one economic unit). Free phones are also available to individuals who are residing in a group living facility.

No Verification of Citizenship Required

Most free cell phone vendors require no verification of citizenship, no Social Security Numbers, and several do not verify whether or not an individual is participating in a state government assistance program. It is important to note, however, that you must swear under penalty of perjury that your statement of citizenship and/or that you are participating in an assistance program is truthful.

Shop around for the Best Vendor Online

The program makes it easy for those interested in a free phone to find vendors in their state online. On the website of each vendor, such as here at Lifeline Community Partners, you will find detailed information regarding the availability of these free government supported phones, what sort of plans are available, how you can add minutes, and how you can apply.