When looking for affordable phone services to help you stay connected, you should consider looking into the Lifeline program.
The government introduced the Lifeline program to provide accessible phone service and plans for all who need it. Its objective is to provide discounts for monthly phone or broadband plans to eligible individuals.
You can apply for the free phone service if you qualify to enroll in the program. Here are a few important facts you should know about it.
It’s Affordable
You can automatically get phone or broadband plans for discounted rates when accepted into the Lifeline program. You will get $9 to $34 off on your monthly plans when covered under the Lifeline program.
Many Lifeline service providers don’t require that you have a regular contract with them. As a result, you don’t have to pay any cancellation fees if you need to stop the plan.
Applying is Easy
To participate in the Lifeline program, you will have to fulfill specific conditions like being a part of another existing government program like Medicaid, Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program, etc.
Your average income also has to be significantly lower than the Federal Poverty Guidelines. You can check whether you are eligible for the program by directly accessing the Lifeline program portal.
You will need to be a registered user for the National Verifier application system, making it easier for the Universal Service Administrative Company (the administrator of the program) to approve your application and renewal request.
If another member of your family or household is already enrolled for the Lifeline program, you will be automatically disqualified from availing of the program benefits.
If you are confused at any stage of the application process, you can find Lifeline service providers in your area to help you with your application and approval process.
Special COVID-19 Program
Many families and households have had to face unexpected financial problems due to the onset of COVID-19 and mandatory lockdowns in multiple states. The government introduced the Emergency Broadband Benefit program as a temporary measure to help relieve some of the economic stress faced by families.
Under the EBB program, you can get discounts on your monthly internet services and select devices. If you’re eligible for the free phone service program, you qualify to participate in the EBB program too.
If you are already under a Lifeline service provider, many give you the option of opting for the EBB plan simply by informing them. You do not have to apply to be a part of the EBB program.
Free Phone Service
When you sign up for the EBB program, you can get a free smartphone, unlimited calling and texting privileges with free data. Since this is a temporary plan, you will not be able to have unlimited benefits permanently but can switch over to a Lifeline plan after the expiration of the EBB program.
Specific Lifeline and EBB service providers may also give you a choice of phones and tablets to choose from that you can use while you’re availing of your Lifeline program with them.
Customer Service is Available
Lifeline service providers excel at providing optimal customer service for users who have trouble applying for the program or troubleshooting their devices and Lifeline plans.
In order to reach your Lifeline service provider, you can use toll-free numbers or simply head over to their website and look under the FAQ section. Many service providers offer online resources and videos to help you solve common problems with your devices and plan.
Get Lifeline Free Phone Service
Over 6 million text messages are sent every day, showing how connected people are. When it comes to using such services, you have to be aware that if you do not use your Lifeline services at least once a month (calling, texting, or using data), they can expire, and your Lifeline plan will be deactivated.
When you’ve run out of minutes or data prematurely, you can look into topping up your plan with minimal amounts to keep you going for the month. You can see if your area is covered by a service provider and find out the available rates online by simply entering your zip code.
If you already have a phone and are looking to get it covered under the Lifeline program by a service provider, check beforehand if that option is available for you. If it is, a customer care executive will usually take care of it for you.
Even if your eligibility under the Lifeline program expires, many service providers would still be willing to offer affordable plans for their existing customers, making it easier for you to enjoy talking, texting, and browsing the internet.
