Smartphones have become an essential part of our lives, but they come at a high cost. However, there are options available in the United States for those who need a smartphone and a wireless plan but cannot afford it. The US government offers subsidized phone plan costs through its Lifeline Assistance program or Affordable Connectivity Program, which can even provide a free phone and service in some cases. In this article, we will discuss the best free government phone program, their benefits, and how to qualify.
There are two primary options available to pay less or nothing for phone service: the Affordable Connectivity Program and the Lifeline Assistance Program. The Lifeline Assistance Program requires all qualifying carriers to pay a universal service fee that funds the program. In contrast, the ACP is directly funded by Congress and likely to change terms in providing benefits. The Lifeline program provides a $9.25 per month subsidy for broadband support to low-income households, while the ACP provides $30 per month to eligible households for reliable internet access and a one-time discount of $100 for purchasing a laptop, desktop, or tablet.
The eligibility criteria for Lifeline assistance include an income at or below 135% of the federal poverty guidelines or participation in one of the following programs: Snap, Medicaid, SSI, FPHA, or Veterans Pension and Survivors Benefit. The ACP is more inclusive, extending eligibility to households where at least one member is at or below 200% of the federal poverty guidelines. Those already on government programs automatically qualify for the ACP, and the Lifeline Assistance members can combine both programs for maximum benefits.
Several providers offer government-assisted service, including AT&T, Verizon, and T-Mobile. However, the cheapest and truly free plans come from mobile virtual network operators (MVNOs) specifically designed for government-assisted service. We recommend Assurance Wireless for T-Mobile-based service, AT&T Prepaid for AT&T coverage, and SafeLink Wireless for Verizon-based service. Each provider offers smartphone service, unlimited talk and text, high-speed data, and a free phone. For those who fail to qualify for government programs, FreedomPop and TextNow offer free or low-cost plans.
In conclusion, smartphones and wireless plans are essential yet expensive. Fortunately, the US government offers two primary options for paying little to nothing for phone service: the Affordable Connectivity Program and the Lifeline Assistance Program. Interested applicants can visit the respective program’s website to learn more about eligibility criteria and available benefits.
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Alex Smith is a writer and editor with over 10 years of experience. He has written extensively on a variety of topics, including technology, business, and personal finance. His work has been published in a number of magazines and newspapers, and he is also the author of two books. Alex is passionate about helping people learn and grow, and he believes that writing is a powerful tool for communication and understanding.
