Free Government Phone Minnesota: Apply For Minnesota Lifeline

“How can I get a free cell phone in Minnesota?”. If this question is puzzling you, the answer is you can rely on a government assistance program called Lifeline. The initiative is launched to bring affordable phone and internet services to various groups of individuals. To find out how to get a free government phone MN, you should dig right in our guide.

1. What Is the Best Free Government Phone Program in Minnesota?

There are a few government phone programs in Minnesota, including Lifeline and MN ACT:

• Lifeline offers free or discounted cell phone service to eligible customers. To lower the cost of participants’ phone service, they provide a $9.25 discount on their monthly phone, internet, or bundled services. If customers reside in qualifying Tribal lands, the discount can be up to $34.25 per month.
• MN ACT (Minnesota Access to Communication Technology), formerly known as TED Program, offers free telecommunications equipment for people who are deaf, hard of hearing, speech disabled, deafblind, or physically disabled. In case participants don’t qualify, MN ACT can grant a directory of vendors that sell equipment.

While the MN ACT primarily focuses on individuals with disabilities, Lifeline provides services to a broader range of households, including seniors, veterans, and low-income individuals.

Previously, ACP (Affordable Connectivity Program) also equipped participants with discounted phone plans. However, it was winded down in July due to lack of funding.

2. How Can I Get a Free Cell Phone in Minnesota?

Take a look to see whether you’re eligible for best free government phone MN and how to apply below.

Eligibility requirements

You may be eligible if your income is at or below 135% of the federal poverty level.

In another scenario, if you or a member of your home participate in certain federal programs, your household is also eligible for Lifeline. These government assistance programs include:

• SNAP
• Medicaid
• SSI
• FPHA
• Veterans’ Pension and Survivors Benefit
• Tribal assistance programs such as the Bureau of Indian Affairs General Assistance, Head Start (if you qualify by income), Tribal TANF, or Food Distribution Programme on Indian Reservations

Application process

For instance, those who are searching for “Where can I get a free government phone near Minneapolis, MN?” can insert Minneapolis zip code such as 55112 or 55416.

Check Lifeline availability by inserting zip codes.

Step 4: Submit documents

Next, upload the necessary documents to verify your eligibility. For example, if you are enrolled in Food Stamps/SNAP, you’ll need to provide proof of participation. Make sure to check the specific documentation required based on your eligibility.

3. Best Free Government Phone MN

Related SenGov Guides

• How to Get a Free Government Phone MN (Minnesota)
• Minnesota’s Free Government Tablet
• $10 Internet with Food Stamps – Accessible Connectivity Options for Low-Income Families