You can get free cell phone and internet service through the federal Lifeline program, which provides a monthly discount to eligible low-income households. This discount can be applied to qualifying phone service, broadband internet, or a bundled voice-broadband package from a participating provider.
How to get free cell phone and internet service with Lifeline
Lifeline is the primary federal solution for free or heavily discounted communications services. The program gives eligible subscribers a monthly discount of up to $9.25 on qualifying phone service, broadband internet service, or bundled voice-broadband service from participating providers. This discount can make your service completely free depending on the provider and plan you choose.
Lifeline eligibility and how to apply
Eligibility for Lifeline is based on your household income or participation in certain government assistance programs. You qualify if your income is at or below the federal poverty guidelines or if you participate in programs such as Medicaid, Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP), Federal Public Housing Assistance (FPHA), or others.
To apply online, start at the Lifeline Support site and follow the online application instructions. If you need help by phone, call the Lifeline Support Center at 1-800-234-9473. Press 1 for English or 2 for Spanish. You can also email LifelineSupport@usac.org to request an application be mailed to you. If you need help with an application or want an application mailed to you, contact the Lifeline Support Center at 1-800-234-9473 or LifelineSupport@usac.org.
How to keep your free Lifeline service active
If you receive Lifeline service for free, you must use your service at least once every 30 days to keep the benefit active. If you suspect fraud or identity theft involving a Lifeline subscriber, contact the Lifeline Support Center at LifelineSupport@usac.org or call 1-800-234-9473.
Lifeline support and disability assistance
The Lifeline Support Center is available 7 days a week from 9:00 a.m. to 9:00 p.m. ET. Support is offered in English and Spanish. If you are a person with a disability and need assistance with your Lifeline application, contact the Lifeline Support Center at lifelinesupport.org or call 800-234-9473 for dedicated help.
Free services from providers and community organizations
Verizon’s Lifeline page identifies SafeLink Wireless and Walmart Family Mobile as listed Lifeline providers. Their support numbers are 1-800-723-3546 and 1-800-973-9716 respectively. These providers offer free or discounted services to eligible Lifeline subscribers.
Seattle’s Internet for Nonprofits program provides free internet connections to eligible nonprofit organizations located in the city of Seattle. Eligible applicants include nonprofit organizations or community groups with a fiscal sponsor that are located in Seattle. Application help is available by email at digitalequity@seattle.gov or by calling (206) 233-2751.
ALLO Fiber’s Community Connect for Nonprofits program provides free GIG internet to nonprofits in its community. For managing your wireless service through a major carrier, you can use T-Mobile account management tools to handle your plan details and settings.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the federal free-service program?
The federal program is Lifeline, established by the FCC to help low-income consumers afford communications services.
What services can Lifeline cover?
How much is the federal discount?
The discount is up to $9.25 per month for qualifying broadband or bundled service that meets the broadband minimum service standards.
How do you get help with a Lifeline application?
Call the Lifeline Support Center at 1-800-234-9473 or email LifelineSupport@usac.org. ET.
Can I get free service without Lifeline?
Some providers and community organizations offer free services directly, such as Seattle’s Internet for Nonprofits and ALLO Fiber’s Community Connect, but these are limited to specific locations or organization types.
