When you’re trying to make ends meet and pay your bills, it can be challenging to handle with a limited budget. In this situation, paying for extras, like a smartphone, is eliminated. Fortunately, the FCC has developed a program if you’re in this position. It can allow you to receive a government cell phone and use it inexpensively. In some cases, for free when you are eligible for Lifeline service.
Qualifying for Lifeline Service
The Lifeline Assistance Program lets you obtain free or discounted wireless service. You can receive Lifeline if your income is 135 percent or less than the Federal Poverty Guidelines. You also qualify if you are getting Medicaid, SSI, SNAP or Federal Public Housing Assistance. Combining it with the Affordable Connectivity Program (ACP) gives you the broadband internet needed to access the World Wide Web.
Eligibility for the ACP
The FCC also created ACP, ensuring you can afford broadband service. Eligibility is based on income at or below 200 percent of the Federal poverty guidelines. You also qualify if you are receiving government assistance programs. These include Federal Public Housing Assistance, Lifeline, SSI, WIC, Medicaid or SNAP.
Receiving a Government Cell Phone Via Lifeline and ACP
When You Qualify for the Lifeline service and are eligible for the ACP, it can provide you with unlimited talk, text and a data package. This access should make staying in touch with friends, brothers, sisters and parents easier.
