To help you as much as possible, we have decided to write the steps you must follow to apply for Lifeline help. The process is no different, whether you are applying on the basis of low income cell phone service Kentucky or participation in one of the government support programs mentioned above (this only affects the documents (copies of documents) you must submit).
Broadly speaking, the Lifeline application process consists of three steps:
Step 1#: Qualify
As we have described above, you may be able to get Lifeline help through a government assistance program or based on your household’s low income. We have already discussed the documents needed to prove your eligibility.
Step 2: Choose a company
In order to use the Lifeline discount, you must find a free cell phone company (a wireless service provider) that has endorsed the Lifeline assistance program and offers you a discounted or free plan and maybe even a free government phone.
Step 3: Enroll
The easiest way, by far, is to apply online. Most wireless carriers that offer Lifeline plans allow you to apply through their website: visit the carrier’s website and search for “Lifeline” then click the “Apply” button, “Enroll », «Start» or any other of that type.
If you prefer to apply by regular mail or in person, ask the company to choose a Lifeline application.
Whichever form you choose, you will need to enter your full legal name, your date of birth, the last 4 digits of your Social Security number (or tribal identification number), and your address.
In addition, you will have to present or attach copies of the supporting documents according to the previous section.
Once your application is approved, you will be able to enjoy its benefits.
What are the advantages of free mobile phones from the Government for people with low income?
The Lifeline Assistance program promises a discount of $9.25 per month on your telecommunications bill. This is the basic benefit to which you are always entitled. However, as we told you above, many wireless carriers in your state offer their generous Lifeline deals and some even give free government phones to those who are eligible.
Therefore, it is always smart to do a little research to find out which provider will offer you the best deal. To help you further, we’ve done extensive research for each state ourselves so you don’t have to. Simply check our reports and select the provider that best suits your needs.
Once your Lifeline assistance is approved, you have certain rights and benefits that you should know about and make sure that the chosen provider fulfills its obligations.
This is the list of your rights as a Lifeline beneficiary:
- The minimum service standard: all companies are required to meet these standards:
- For mobile phones: At least 1000 minutes
- For mobile internet (a data plan): Speed of 3G or higher and usage of at least 2 GB per month
- For Internet at home: Speed of 18/2 Mbps and use of at least 1000 GB per month
- For bundled service offers: At least one of the services (voice or Internet) must meet minimum service standards to be eligible for a Lifeline discount.
- You must be able to choose a hotspot-enabled device. Your provider must have at least one device with hotspot functionality available for data plans.
- Ability to choose which service Lifeline uses. If you buy a package, you have the right to apply Lifeline to voice or Internet service.
- You have the right to change providers at any time.
You are entitled to full customer support. If your provider is unresponsive or refuses to help you, contact your state utility regulator, the USAC, or the FCC to complain.
Wireless carriers that offer free phones to the government DO NOT give you the option of choosing a device yourself. They give you a device that is currently available and within the value range of your Lifeline program. Many carriers also give you the option to bring your own phone if it is compatible with their system.
The best Lifeline FREE deals typically include 1,000 talk minutes, unlimited texting, up to 3GB of data per month, and a free smartphone. So be sure to check out all the available options and see which one provides you with the most benefit value.
Low income cell phone service Oklahoma benefits or government supported program participant benefits both have the same advantages as they are essentially two different entrances into the same Lifeline assistance program.
We hope that you will be able to use the information provided here to your advantage and obtain the help to which you are entitled. If you choose the best deal, you’ll get a free monthly plan and a free government phone, giving you the opportunity to stay connected and in touch with your co-workers, family and friends.
What happens if I don’t meet the requirements and I don’t meet other standards?
Different Lifeline providers may have slightly different eligibility requirements, although basically, the requirements are almost the same. If you don’t qualify for any Lifeline provider in your state, you won’t be able to receive a free phone or wireless service.
Luckily, there are still plenty of other ways to get a free phone, or at least a very affordable one.
