Free Phone Service Through Lifeline Program

Cell phones are a necessity. Living without a cell phone is not only inconvenient, but it can also be dangerous. Criminal activity is going on everywhere, so you need a cell phone to keep yourself and loved ones safe. Unfortunately, many people are not able to afford a monthly cell phone bill. People were hit hard by the economic recession. That is why some people chose to go without a cell phone so that they could afford their other bills.

What is Lifeline Assistance?

You may have heard about this program and not know much about it. Many people who have limited income are able to get a cell phone thanks to Lifeline Assistance. The Federal Communications Commission, or FCC, started the Lifeline Program. People who qualify Lifeline are able to get a phone with 250 minutes. Some people are also able to get a plan with data and text messaging.

The Assurance Wireless plan has partnered with the California Lifeline program in order to give people the best service possible. They can provide some people with unlimited talk and text.

Lifeline Assistance is Continuing to Grow

The American economy is starting to get stronger, but many families are still struggling to make ends meet. Many families are using all of their money to pay bills and get back on their feet. That is why some people are starting to turn to Lifeline. This program has grown in popularity over the past six years. It is estimated that 12 to 15 million people use Lifeline.

How did Lifeline get Started?

Lifeline first got started in the 1990s. The Universal Service Fund created a project to help people who were struggling with their late telephone bills. Some people were able to get their phone bill paid in full thanks to the Universal Service Fund. Although the Lifeline Program is often referred to as the Obama Phones, this program was started during the Bush Administration. Both mobile phones and landlines are covered under the Lifeline Program.

What is a Lifeline Device Like?

Lifeline phones do not have the latest features. They are not designed to be impressive. They are designed to be usable. Lifeline phones are refurbished, which means that it has been used before and renovated. People cannot choose the type of phone they receive. The phones are randomly-selected. Lifeline phones often have limited storage space, abilities and power. If someone is expecting to get the latest phone, then they will be disappointed with the one that they get from Lifeline.

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Do I Qualify for the Lifeline Program?

People who live in 49 states, Puerto Rico and D.C. qualify for the Lifeline Program if they meet certain requirements. Safeline Wireless, Budget Mobile and Assurance Wireless are examples of some of the programs that offer phones. You may not be familiar with those programs, but they are likely in your area.

Even though Lifeline carriers are probably in your area, you may not necessarily qualify for this program. Your income is one of the things that affects your eligibility for this program. You will likely qualify for this program if you get SSI, Medicaid or food stamps. Even if you do not get government assistance, you can still qualify for the Lifeline Program if you have a low income. Keep in mind that your income does not have to be below the poverty line in order to qualify.

You can visit the Lifeline website in order to see whether you qualify. You can also find the application online.

An Overview of Lifeline

Lifeline is a wonderful program because it helps people who are needy get a free phone. These devices may not be the best, but they work. The Lifeline program is ideal for people who cannot afford a phone on their own. There are many reasons that people need a phone. They need to have a phone so that they can keep in touch with their family members and friends.

People also need a cell phone in order to make doctor and dentist appointments. A cell phone can come in handy when one is dealing with an emergency. Additionally, people need cell phones so that they can apply for job interviews.