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There are several good options for getting free phone service and a free smartphone with EBT. Through government assistance, depending on what’s available and the state, eligible residents can receive a free smartphone. This is a simple and convenient way for low-income individuals to stay connected.
1. How to Get a Free Phone Service and Free Smartphone for SNAP Recipients?
Recipients of SNAP can qualify for a free phone service and a free or discounted smartphone through another federal benefit program called Lifeline.
Lifeline is a federal communications assistance program managed by the FCC and run by the USAC. Its goal is to ensure that all Americans have access to basic communication services, such as calling, texting, and internet access.
Lifeline offers eligible low-income households a monthly discount on phone or internet service. Often, certain authorized providers also give a** free government phone **when you sign up for Lifeline with them.
You can qualify for Lifeline in one of two ways:
**Based on Income: **Your household income is at or below 135% of the Federal Poverty Guidelines.
**Based on Program Participation: **You participate in certain federal assistance programs, such as:
- SNAP/food stamps/CalFresh (California)
- Medicaid
- Supplemental Security Income (SSI)
- Federal Public Housing Assistance (Section 8)
- Veterans Pension and Survivors Benefit
- Tribal-specific programs (e.g., Tribal TANF)
Through this eligibility, you can receive a free smartphone with EBT/SNAP benefits.
Lifeline is the pathway for SNAP recipients to get a free phone and service. It is a separate program from SNAP, but eligibility for SNAP can automatically qualify you for the Lifeline program.
If you are currently receiving SNAP benefits, you are automatically eligible for Lifeline. (Image by Pexels)
2. How to Sign Up for a Free Smartphone with EBT/SNAP Benefits
**Step 2: Choose a Lifeline Plan **
- Lifeline Basic/Standard Plan: A free phone is included.
- Lifeline Plus, Premium, or Unlimited Plans: Includes a free smartphone and higher data limits for a small monthly fee.
- Lifeline Data Boost Plan:** **Ideal for users with their own device. There is no free phone, but it offers more data for streaming and browsing.
**Step 3: Pick Your Free Smartphone **
(Note*:* Offers shown may vary depending on availability, location, and time of application)
Device prices may vary depending on availability, location, and time of application.
**Step 4: Verify Your Eligibility with Documents (If Required) **
In most cases, your eligibility can be automatically verified. However, if it cannot be confirmed automatically, you’ll need to upload proof of eligibility, such as:
- Notices of Action
- Notices of Approval
- Verification of Benefits Letters
(Note: EBT card is no longer accepted as valid proof of eligibility)
**Step 5: Complete and Submit Your Application **
Review all information carefully before submitting. After you submit your application, they will process your request and notify you of the approval status.
**Step 6: Receive Your Free Smartphone **
3. Available Free Smartphones in Your State
In California:
| Phone Model | Features | Current Offer |
|---|---|---|
| iPhone 7 | Easy-to-use | Free |
| Samsung Galaxy S20 FE 5G | Bright display and 4,500mAh battery | Free |
| Motorola One 5G ACE | Up to 5,000mAh battery life and easy navigation | Free |
| Samsung Galaxy A51 5G | Good photos and reliable performance | Free |
| Motorola Moto G 5G 2023 | Durable and easy to use | Free |
| Samsung Galaxy A42 5G | Smooth performance, long battery life, and a large screen | Free |
In Kentucky:
In other states:
To find out which specific smartphones are available in your area, visit the website and check their device offerings.
4. Things to Know Before Applying
Here are some of the most important things:
**One Discount Per Household: **
Only eligible consumers can enroll in the Lifeline program, and each household is limited to one Lifeline discount.
There are more than 5 million SNAP recipients in California, but even if several people in the same household are SNAP recipients, only one person can apply for and receive the Lifeline benefit for that household.
**Annual recertification: **
You must recertify (re-verify your eligibility) annually to maintain your benefit. It’s not too complicated, but it’s necessary.
**Be prepared: **
The online application usually takes 10 to 15 minutes to finish. Gather all necessary documents before you begin.
**Beware of scams: **
Apply only through the official National Verifier website or a legitimate service provider to avoid scams. Customers who knowingly provide false information to get the benefit may face criminal or civil penalties.
**Device status: **
Research the provider and their phone or internet options before signing up to make sure you are satisfied with the equipment they offer.
Conclusion
Lifeline is a valuable benefit available to low-income individuals and families through federal assistance programs, such as SNAP/food stamps.
Eligible participants can access reliable nationwide coverage, talk, text, and data, all at no cost. Additionally, you can often pick from free, high-quality smartphones that have modern features and 4G or 5G connectivity.