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Being the “backbone of a country’s independence”, veterans wholeheartedly serve their nation and protect the freedom with their own lives. Therefore, they deserve the best veterans benefits that assist them in their daily life and any other endeavors. Do you know that there is free cell phone service for veterans?
In the US, the government launched an initiative that helps multiple groups of people access affordable broadband and internet access. Find out more through our sharing below!
1. Free Government Phones Program for Veterans
The aforementioned program is Lifeline. Administered by the Universal Service Administrative Company (USAC), the assistance program provides discounted phone plans and internet services for low-income consumers. Lifeline’s aim is also to bridge the digital divide and connect individuals to job opportunities, healthcare, education, etc.
For those who have not been informed, Lifeline is also known as Obama Phone program, although the former president wasn’t the torchbearer of this initiative.
Besides, Lifeline used to run parallel with ACP, another subsidized phone program. However, ACP winded down in mid-2024, leaving Lifeline the optimal choice if you struggle financially and need broadband internet connection.
Did you know that there are free government phones for veterans?
2. How To Get Free Cell Phone Service for Veterans
How do veterans qualify for free phone service?
Firstly, who qualifies for military veterans benefits? In case you are already participating in these government assistance programs, you are eligible for Lifeline:
- Veterans and Survivors Pension Benefit
- Medicaid
- Federal Public Housing Assistance
- Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (Food Stamps or SNAP)
- Supplemental Security Income
Another case is if your household income is at or under 135% based on the Federal Poverty Guidelines, you can also qualify for Lifeline.
| Your Household Size | **48 Contiguous States, D.C., and Territories ** | Alaska | Hawaii |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | $20,331 | $25,394 | $23,369 |
| 2 | $27,594 | $34,479 | $31,725 |
| 3 | $34,857 | $43,565 | $40,082 |
| 4 | $42,120 | $52,650 | $48,438 |
| 5 | $49,383 | $61,736 | $56,795 |
| 6 | $56,646 | $70,821 | $65,151 |
| 7 | $63,909 | $79,907 | $73,508 |
| 8 | $71,172 | $88,992 | $81,864 |
| For each additional person, add: | $7,263 | $9,086 | $8,357 |
Step 4: Upload essential documents
When applying for Lifeline, you will be required to provide proof of identification, proof of program participation, or proof of income. So make sure you have copies of these documents in hand.
Frequently Asked Questions
Who is considered a veteran?
In the US, a veteran is a person who served in the military, naval, or air service and was released or discharged under honorable conditions. How long do you have to be in the military to be a veteran? Service members must have served a minimum of 24 months of active duty to be considered a veteran.