During the pandemic, the necessity of affordable internet services became glaringly apparent. Many individuals and families encountered challenges in accessing essential broadband services for staying connected with loved ones, working remotely, attending virtual classrooms, and accessing critical healthcare and emergency services. To tackle this issue, the Federal Communications Commission (FCC) introduced the Emergency Broadband Benefit (EBB) program as a temporary relief measure, which later evolved into the permanent Affordable Connectivity Program (ACP) due to its significant impact. ACP provided discounts on monthly broadband services and connected devices. In this article, we’ll explore the availability of an ACP free phone amidst the program’s winding down.
Are ACP Free Phones Still Available?
During its inception amid the pandemic, the Affordable Connectivity Program (ACP) emerged as a vital resource, originally stemming from the Emergency Broadband Benefit (EBB). It aimed to furnish free internet services and afford discounts of up to $100 on various internet-connected devices like tablets, phones, and computers.
However, as the ACP reaches its conclusion, with April 2024 marking its final fully funded month following the cessation of new enrollments in February 2024, the availability of ACP free phones has diminished. The program’s winding down has rendered the acquisition of ACP free phones no longer feasible.
Nevertheless, despite the conclusion of the ACP, former ACP and Lifeline companies are pledging continued benefits, ensuring ongoing support even post-ACP. Notably, while ACP free phones may no longer be an option, Lifeline still provides avenues for accessing free phones and other benefits. Given Lifeline’s similarity in eligibility criteria to ACP, many individuals eligible for ACP can potentially apply for Lifeline and avail themselves of free phone offerings through this alternative program.
Which Smartphone Devices Does Lifeline Offer?
Instead of trying to get an ACP free phone (as the program is currently winding down and it’s unclear if the funding for the program will reemerge), you should focus your energy on getting a Lifeline free phone. That’s right! Lifeline is the other government assistance program that also offers free phones. It has a much longer history (it’s been around since the 1980s) and it doesn’t look like it’s going anywhere anytime soon. As such, you can count on Lifeline benefits to stick around for a longer while, and getting a Lifeline free phone (if you qualify, that is) should be a breeze!
Lifeline providers (many of them are former ACP providers as well) offer discounts on monthly wireless services, which tend to include free monthly talk minutes, texts, and data. In addition, many of them also offer free government phones.
The phone Lifeline-eligible customers may be able to receive depends on the provider, state, and availability. Most Lifeline providers offer entry-level to mid-range smartphones (mostly Android, but certain companies also offer older iPhones). Unfortunately, as the free phone depends on so many factors, it’s impossible to know in advance which phone model you will receive.
Nevertheless, many Lifeline providers offer mobile devices such as the following.
Top 5 Lifeline Free Phone Models in 2024
Apple iPhone 6 Plus
The Apple iPhone 6 Plus stands out as a reliable smartphone choice. It offers varying storage capacities of 16GB, 64GB, and 128GB, catering to diverse user needs. With its 5.5-inch IPS LCD display boasting a resolution of 1080×1920 pixels, users can enjoy vibrant visuals. The iPhone 6 Plus features an 8MP primary camera, capable of capturing detailed photos and recording 1080p videos, while its 1.2MP front-facing camera ensures decent selfies and video calls. Equipped with a Li-Po 2915mAh non-removable battery, the device delivers a substantial standby time of up to 384 hours and talk time of up to 24 hours. Notable features include a front-mounted fingerprint sensor for secure unlocking, support for Apple Pay, and stereo speakers for immersive audio experiences. Overall, the Apple iPhone 6 Plus offers dependable performance, satisfactory camera capabilities, and a range of features suitable for everyday use.
Samsung Galaxy S8 Active
The Samsung Galaxy S8 Active is a robust smartphone offering durability and impressive features. With storage options of 64GB and 4GB of RAM, it provides ample space for storage and smooth multitasking. Featuring a 5.8-inch Super AMOLED display with HDR10 support, the Galaxy S8 Active delivers stunning visuals with a resolution of 1440×2960 pixels. The device boasts a powerful 12MP rear camera, ideal for capturing high-quality photos in various lighting conditions. For selfies and video calls, it features an 8MP front-facing camera with autofocus. Equipped with a Li-Ion 4000mAh non-removable battery, the Galaxy S8 Active ensures long-lasting usage and supports fast charging for added convenience. Notable features include an IP68 rating for dust and water resistance, MIL-STD-810G compliance for durability, and Samsung Pay for secure mobile payments. Overall, the Samsung Galaxy S8 Active offers a compelling combination of durability, powerful specifications, and useful features, making it an excellent choice for users seeking a rugged smartphone.
Samsung Galaxy A11
Elevate your smartphone experience with the Samsung Galaxy A11. Featuring a spacious 6.4-inch PLS LCD display, you’ll enjoy clear visuals on its expansive screen. The device boasts a triple rear camera setup, including a wide lens for versatile photography options. With options ranging from 2GB to 4GB of RAM and storage capacities of 32GB or 64GB, you can seamlessly multitask and store your files. The Galaxy A11 is powered by a 4000mAh battery, providing ample power for extended usage. With features like a rear-mounted fingerprint sensor and support for Android 10 with upgradability to Android 12, the Galaxy A11 offers a reliable and modern smartphone experience.
OnePlus 6
The OnePlus 6 is a premium smartphone that combines a sleek design with powerful performance. With storage options ranging from 64GB to 256GB and 6GB or 8GB of RAM, it offers ample space for all your apps and smooth multitasking. Featuring a 6.28-inch Optic AMOLED display with a resolution of 1080 x 2280 pixels, the OnePlus 6 delivers crisp visuals and vibrant colors. The device boasts a powerful dual-camera system with a 16MP main lens and a 20MP secondary lens, ideal for capturing stunning photos with depth and clarity. For selfies and video calls, it features a 16MP front-facing camera with Auto-HDR. Powered by a 3300mAh non-removable battery, the OnePlus 6 ensures long-lasting usage and supports fast charging for quick refills. Notable features include a rear-mounted fingerprint sensor for added security, Dirac HD sound for immersive audio, and NFC for easy wireless payments. With its premium design and top-notch specifications, the OnePlus 6 is an excellent choice for users seeking a high-performance smartphone experience.
Motorola Moto Z4
Elevate your mobile experience with the Motorola Moto Z4. Its 6.4-inch OLED display delivers vibrant visuals, while the 48MP main camera captures stunning photos and records 4K videos. With 128GB of storage and 4GB of RAM, you’ll have ample space and smooth performance. The Moto Z4 supports Moto Mods, snap-on accessories that enhance functionality. Enjoy the convenience of a fingerprint sensor under the display and a 3600mAh battery that keeps you powered throughout the day. Upgrade to the Moto Z4 for a feature-rich smartphone experience.
List of Other Lifeline Free Phones:
- Nokia C300
- Samsung Galaxy A02s
- Motorola Moto G Pure
- Apple iPhone 6
- Coolpad Belleza
- ATT Calypso
- OnePlus 6T
- Google Pixel 3 XL
- Alcatel Go Flip 3
- LG K10
- Motorola G8 Power
- Google Pixel 3
- CAT S62
- LG V35 ThinQ
- LG V20
- Samsung Galaxy S7 Edge
- Motorola Moto G6 Play
List of Providers That Offer Lifeline Free Phones
As mentioned before, all Lifeline providers offer discounts on monthly wireless services, however, many of them also offer free government phones.
Lifeline providers that offer Lifeline free phones include:
- AirTalk Wireless
- Assurance Wireless
- Cintex Wireless
- Easy Wireless
- enTouch Wireless
- NewPhone Wireless
- SafeLink Wireless
- StandUp Wireless
- TruConnect
How to Choose a Lifeline Free Phone Provider?
Given the fact that nowadays, you have plenty of options when it comes to choosing a Lifeline free phone provider, you may be wondering how to go about it. To choose the company you qualify for and that best suits your needs follow these steps:
- Visit https://cnm.universalservice.org/.
- Enter your location and choose the Lifeline program. Press Search.
- You will then see a list of all the Lifeline providers in your area.
- Visit each company’s website to see what kinds of benefits they offer.
- Choose the company that offers Lifeline free phones along with benefits that best fit your needs (perhaps you need unlimited international calls, the largest amount of high-speed data, or an extra discounted tablet).
- You can also see if any of the above-mentioned companies operate in your area, as they all offer amazing benefits.
What Other Benefits Does the Lifeline Program Offer?
The Lifeline program offers lots of benefits for eligible low-income households. As we have discussed above, many Lifeline providers offer free government phones.
While discounts on devices are only offered by some Lifeline providers, all of them also provide a discount on monthly internet services. Eligible households can get a discount of up to $9.25 a month on phone or internet services, eligible households on Tribal lands, on the other hand, can get a discount of up to $34.25 a month toward such services.
The Lifeline program is limited to one monthly service discount and one device discount per household.
Ways to Get a Lifeline Free Phone in 2024
In addition to other ways to get a free phone, such as getting a carrier deal, from an employee, as a reviewer, from a giveaway contest, etc., eligible people can also get a free phone from the government.
Lifeline Free Phone
Ever since the 1980s when the government has acknowledged the fact that having a phone and phone service is a necessity rather than a luxury, low-income people can get a free service and mobile device from the Lifeline Assistance program.
Participating Lifeline providers offer monthly cell phone service with free calls, texts, and data, as well as free mobile devices. They generally offer free entry-level to mid-range Android smartphones, however, some providers also offer free iPhones.
In order to receive a Lifeline free phone, you must qualify, provide certain documentation, and apply for the program. Find out how to do all that in the next sections.
Process of Getting a Lifeline Free Phone in 2024
Now, let’s move on to the big question – How to get a Lifeline free phone? To receive a Lifeline free phone, you must follow a strict yet relatively simple process. The steps are outlined below and you can see exactly how to execute those steps in the following sections.
- First, you must check whether or not you qualify for a Lifeline free phone. See the eligibility criteria below.
- Check if you can prove your eligibility, which is something that you will have to do during the application process. See the acceptable documents below.
- Finally, apply for a Lifeline free phone. To do so, you must first find a suitable provider in your area and then apply. Learn more below.
Who Is Eligible for the Lifeline Free Phone in 2024
To receive a Lifeline free phone, you must be Lifeline-eligible. You are Lifeline-eligible if you or another member of your household meets at least one of the following criteria:
- Your annual household income is at or below 135% of the Federal Poverty Guidelines.
- You or another member of your household participates in a qualifying government assistance program, such as:
- Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program or SNAP
- SSI
- Medicaid
- Federal Housing Assistance
- Veterans Pension and Survivors Benefit
- You or another member of your household participates in a qualifying Tribal specific program, such as:
- Bureau of Indian Affairs General Assistance
- Tribal TANF
- Food Distribution Program on Indian Reservations
- Head Start
Documents Required to Apply for a Lifeline Free Phone
When you apply for the Lifeline program from any provider, the provider will do its best to verify your information and eligibility automatically. If, however, they fail to do so, they may ask you to provide some documents that may do so.
Depending on your eligibility criteria, you may be required to provide some of the following documents:
- An official document that includes your full name, date of birth, and address to verify your identity and address. For example, a passport, a government, military, state, or Tribal ID, a birth certificate, a U.S. Driver’s license, a certificate of U.S. citizenship or naturalization, a permanent resident card or Green Card, and so on.
- An official document proving that your household’s annual income is at or below 135% of the Federal Poverty Guidelines. For example, a prior year’s state, federal, or Tribal tax return, a current income statement from your employer or a paycheck stub, a Social Security statement of benefits, or a similar official document showing your income, or a retirement/pension statement of benefits.
- An official document proving your participation in a qualifying assistance program. For example, a benefit award letter, approval letter, statement of benefits, or benefit verification letter.
Only customers who are 18 years old or more and emancipated minors can enroll. Therefore, emancipated minors must also provide an official document that proves their emancipated minor status, such as an official court document or a certificate.
Most Lifeline providers enable you to attach supporting documents to your online application. However, you can also send the documentation via mail to the provider’s address. Make sure to only submit copies of the documents, not originals.
Application Process for a Lifeline Free Phone in 2024
To apply for a Lifeline free phone, simply follow the easy steps below:
- Step 1: Make sure you are Lifeline-eligible. You can check out the Lifeline eligibility criteria above.
- Step 2: Find a Lifeline provider that offers services and benefits in your state of residence. You can see the full list of Lifeline providers by state at https://cnm.universalservice.org/. Note: Some Lifeline providers only offer discounts on monthly wireless services.
- Step 3: When you find a Lifeline provider that offers free phones in your state of residence, visit its website. There, you will be able to find their Lifeline online application form. Fill it out by providing your personal information and attaching supporting documents.
- Step 4: Once you submit an online application, wait a couple of days for the provider to contact you and let you know if you qualify for a Lifeline free phone.
In case your provider will require you to apply through the National Verifier yourself (instead of them running your application through the national system), you can do so online or via mail:
- To apply through the National Verifier online, visit https://getinternet.gov/apply?id=nv_home. Log in or create a new account if prompted. Fill out the application form by providing all the required information and digital proof documentation. Submit the form and wait for approval.
- To apply via mail, print out an application at https://www.lifelinesupport.org/wp-content/uploads/documents/get-lifeline/LI_Application_NVstates.pdf, complete the form, add physical proof documentation copies, and send the papers to Lifeline Support Center, PO Box 9100, Wilkes-Barre, PA 18773.
How Do Lifeline Free Phones Help Low-Income People?
Lifeline free phones, which are funded by the government and provided by wireless companies can help low-income people in several ways:
- Communication Access: Lifeline free phones enable low-income individuals to stay connected with their families, friends, employers, and emergency services. Having a reliable means of communication is crucial for personal safety, job opportunities, and accessing essential services.
- Job Search and Employment: With access to a free phone, individuals can actively search for employment opportunities, respond to job offers, and communicate with potential employers. This can enhance their chances of securing stable employment and improving their financial situation.
- Access to Emergency Services: Lifeline free phones ensure that low-income individuals have the means to reach emergency services, such as calling 911 in case of accidents, health emergencies, or other dangerous situations. This access to emergency services can be vital in times of crisis.
- Educational Opportunities: Access to a phone can help low-income individuals engage in educational opportunities, such as online courses, distance learning, and educational resources. It allows them to access educational materials, communicate with instructors and fellow students, and broaden their knowledge and skills.
- Bridging the Digital Divide: Lifeline free phones help bridge the digital divide by providing low-income individuals with a device that enables them to access the internet, stay informed, and engage in online activities. This can promote digital inclusion and empower individuals who may otherwise lack access to digital resources.
By providing free phones, the Lifeline program aims to reduce the barriers faced by low-income individuals and enhance their connectivity, access to vital services, and overall quality of life.
Have There Been Recent Important ACP Updates?
As mentioned before, the Affordable Connectivity Program (ACP) is in the process of winding down. New applications and enrollments ceased on February 7, 2024. The program’s last fully funded month is April 2024. Existing ACP households enrolled before February 7, 2024, will continue to receive service until the program’s end unless they are required to be de-enrolled according to FCC rules. De-enrolled households, such as those not utilizing their ACP-supported service, cannot reapply or re-enroll during this period. ACP households should carefully review notices from their internet company and the Universal Service Administrative Company (USAC), the ACP administrator, regarding the wind-down. They are also advised to consult their internet provider for details on how the ACP’s conclusion will affect their service and bill. For further updates on the ACP Wind Down, visit https://www.affordableconnectivity.gov/.
Due to the ending of the ACP program, your best chance to receive a free government phone is through Lifeline. See the details in the sections above.
There are Some More Important Things to Know About Lifeline/ACP Free Phone
When Will I Receive My Free Phone and Free Service After I Sign Up?
Once your application is approved, the provider will usually begin shipping your order within 7 to 10 business days. The free service may be applied next month.
How Long Will It Take to Receive Approval?
Generally, it only takes about 30 minutes for an application to be approved. However, in some cases, you may have to wait up to 4 days for approval. This usually happens if the documents need to be reconfirmed. Anyhow, most providers allow you to check your application status by logging into your account.
Will the ACP Program Resume?
The Affordable Connectivity Program (ACP) is concluding due to the depletion of funds. Initially launched in 2021, Congress designated $14.2 billion to cover its expenses; however, these funds have been exhausted. Although efforts, such as the Biden administration’s request for a budget supplement and a bipartisan bill in Congress, have been made to secure additional funding, no definitive outcomes have been achieved. Nevertheless, there remains optimism regarding the program’s potential revival. Both the FCC and numerous advocates are advocating for more funding to sustain the program, especially considering its significant user base of over 23 million subscribers, highlighting the evident demand. The ACP’s return hinges on Congressional approval for further funding. For updates, individuals can visit the FCC website at https://www.fcc.gov/acp or stay informed through news articles covering the program.