Frequently Asked Questions
Find answers to common questions about our free government phone and tablet programs. We’re here to help you stay connected.
Eligibility & Qualifications
We understand how important connectivity is, and we’re here to help you access it. You may qualify if:
- You participate in assistance programs like SNAP, Medicaid, SSI, or federal housing assistance
- Your household income is at or below 135-200% of federal poverty guidelines
- You qualify for programs like free school lunch or Pell Grants
- You live on Tribal lands with qualifying programs
Don’t worry if you’re not sure – our eligibility checker makes it easy to find out in just 2 minutes.
We try to make this as simple as possible for you. Depending on how you qualify, you might need:
- For program participation: A current benefit award letter, approval notice, or program ID card
- For income qualification: Last year’s tax return, recent pay stubs, or unemployment statement
- For identity: Driver’s license, state ID, passport, or birth certificate
- For address: Utility bill, lease agreement, or mortgage statement
If you’re having trouble finding documents, give us a call – we can often help you find alternatives.
We know how valuable these services are, and we want to make sure you get all the benefits you qualify for. Here’s what you should know:
- You can have only one Lifeline service per household
- If you already have Lifeline phone service, you can switch to our program
- You can add the Affordable Connectivity Program (ACP) benefit for internet even if you have Lifeline
- If you’re not happy with your current provider, we can help you transfer your benefit
Our team can help you navigate these rules – just contact us for personalized assistance.
Application Process
We’ve designed our process to get you connected as quickly as possible:
- Completing the form: Most people finish in 10-15 minutes
- Review time: Our team typically processes applications within 24-48 hours
- Approval notification: You’ll receive an email or text once approved
- Shipping: Devices usually ship within 3-5 business days
We know waiting can be stressful – if it’s been more than 3 business days, feel free to contact us for an update.
Here’s what you can expect after you hit “submit”:
- You’ll receive an email confirmation with your application ID
- Our verification team reviews your documents (we’ll contact you if we need anything else)
- Once approved, we’ll notify you and process your device order
- You’ll receive shipping information via email or text
- Your device arrives ready to activate with simple instructions
We’ll keep you informed at every step – no wondering where things stand.
We know you’ll be eager to hear back, so we make sure to communicate clearly:
- You’ll receive an email notification the moment your application is approved
- We’ll also send a text message to the phone number you provided
- You can check your application status anytime through our online portal
- If we need more information, we’ll call or email you directly
Most applicants hear back within 48 hours. If it’s been longer, please give us a call – we’re here to help.
Devices & Services
We offer quality devices to help you stay connected:
- Smartphones: Modern Android devices from brands like Samsung, Motorola, and NUU. Some areas offer iPhones too!
- Tablets: 10-inch Android tablets with 32GB storage and cameras (small co-pay may apply)
- Internet devices: Mobile hotspots for internet access anywhere
Specific models vary by location and availability. We always try to provide the best available device for your needs.
Your free phone comes with a complete service plan:
- Unlimited talk: Call anyone in the US anytime
- Unlimited text: Standard SMS and MMS messaging
- Data: At least 10GB of high-speed data each month
- Hotspot: Share your data with other devices
- No contracts: Service continues as long as you remain eligible
We believe you deserve reliable service without hidden fees or surprises.
Absolutely! We understand your number is important to you:
- During the application, select “I want to keep my number”
- Provide your current account information when prompted
- We’ll handle the transfer process for you
- Your service will switch seamlessly once your new device arrives
There’s no cost for number transfer, and we’ll make sure there’s no interruption in your service.
Support & Troubleshooting
Activating your device is simple – we’ve made it as easy as possible:
- Turn on your new device
- Follow the on-screen setup instructions
- When prompted, enter the activation code we emailed you
- Make a test call to confirm service is active
If you run into any issues, our activation team is available 7 days a week to walk you through the process step-by-step.
We’re here to help if you lose your device:
- Contact us immediately: Call 1-888-555-0198 so we can suspend service
- Check location services: If you had them enabled, we can help locate it
- Replacement option: You may qualify for a replacement device after 90 days
- Temporary solution: We can transfer service to another device temporarily
We understand how disruptive losing a phone can be – we’ll work with you to find the best solution.
Keeping your service active is simple:
- We’ll send renewal reminders 60, 30, and 15 days before your deadline
- Complete the short online recertification form (takes less than 5 minutes)
- If your situation hasn’t changed, just confirm your information
- If you need to update documents, you can upload them through our secure portal
Our team is always available if you need help with renewal – just give us a call.
Most Popular Questions
Do I need a credit check?
No, we never perform credit checks. Your eligibility is based solely on program participation or income qualifications.
Are there any hidden fees?
Absolutely not. The program provides completely free service. Tablets may have a small co-pay ($10-$15) but never more than $50.
Can I get both a phone and tablet?
You can receive one Lifeline device per household, but you may qualify for both Lifeline and ACP benefits for different devices.
How long does shipping take?
Devices typically ship within 3-5 business days after approval via USPS Priority Mail (2-3 day delivery).
What if I live in a rural area?
We serve all areas equally! We work with providers that offer coverage through nationwide networks and satellite options.
Can I upgrade my device later?
Yes! After 12 months of service, you may qualify for a device upgrade. We’ll notify you when you’re eligible.
Still Need Help? We’re Here For You
Our friendly U.S.-based support team is ready to answer your questions and guide you through the process.
Ready to Get Connected?
Apply for your free government phone or tablet today and join thousands of Americans who’ve found
affordable connectivity through our program.