How To Enjoy Free Government Phones

Jul 15
08:10

2013

Ramon Allen

Ramon Allen

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Since these types of services could get costly, the federal government has come up with the Lifeline Program, a project that aims to provide free government cell phones and up to 250 minutes worth of airtime to less privileged Americans.

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Almost all individuals in the 21st century need access to telecommunication services. Since these kinds of services could get costly,How To Enjoy Free Government Phones Articles the federal government has come up with the Lifeline Program, a project that aims to provide free government cell phones and up to 250 minutes worth of airtime to less privileged Americans. This post serves as a guide on how to avail of these benefits.

Look for telecommunication companies that can serve your needs. You can do this by going to Lifeline’s main website, clicking on your state, and entering your zip code. You will be provided with a list of participating telecommunication companies in your locality.

Go to the links of the different companies and check out their websites. Browse their plan options and pick the plan that suits your needs.

Read more about your preferred plans. Check the kind of government phones that they provide, the number of airtime minutes that you can enjoy, and the free text messages provided. Large companies often allow you to have up to 250 minutes free per month while smaller providers offer up to 68 free call minutes. Also see to it that you read about other phone features that are offered for an extra charge, such as international calls, roaming, and caller ID.

Know about your state’s eligibility criteria. The two main qualifying factors are:

Being a part of an existing government assistance program such as Medicaid, Supplemental Security Income, National School Lunch Program, Low Income Home Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP), Federal Housing or Section 8 Assistance, Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP), Temporary Assistance for Needy Families (TANF), Traffic Aid to Families with Dependent Children (TAFDC), or Emergency Aid to the Elderly, Disabled and Children (EAEDC).

Having a total household income that falls under the Federal Poverty Guidelines in your state.

After seeing that you are qualified, you will now need to present proof of your qualifications. Before anything else, secure a copy of the application form or fill out the online application.

Submit the required documents to support your application. You can upload electronic copies of these forms, present them personally at Lifeline’s office, or submit them through mail. You may be asked to prepare file copies of your tax return forms, income statements or pay stubs, and statement of benefits to the associated government program.

After submitting all requirements, all you have to do is to wait for approval. Keep in mind that only one free government phone will be given per household. In case you encounter problems or difficulties with your application, you can always call the Lifeline Program’s office in your state.