Digital Overload

The Ultimate 2023 Guide on Snagging a Free 5G Phone From the Government

Earl Berg

Photo by Maxim Ilyahov on Unsplash

Did you know that the Federal Communications Commission (FCC) has established a program called the Lifeline Assistance Program, which actually provides low-income households with free 5G phones? Such a thing definitely makes communication services more affordable! Back in 2016, the United Nations Human Rights Council made the decision to recognize Wi-Fi as a fundamental human right, thereby highlighting the significance of maintaining a connection in this day and age. The Lifeline Program provides access to a number of different 5G phone models; however, the specific models that are available vary depending on the service provider, the state, and, of course, the availability.

Learn below how to get a free 5G phone from the government, details about the available programs, and other useful information.

How to Get a 5G Phone?

The Federal Communications Commission’s goal is to reduce the cost of communication services for households with low incomes. On its webpage, the FCC believes individuals deserve a link to the “opportunity and security phone service brings, including being able to connect to jobs, family, and emergency services.” Back in 2021, the program agreed to allow at least 1,000 mobile voice minutes, 4.5 GB of mobile internet, and $5.25 in voice support. The program also gives help for home internet with no less than 25mbps download speed, $9.25 in broadband support, and 3mbps upload speed every month.

It is essential to keep in mind that a household that is eligible for Lifeline insurance is limited to getting one discount. In order to take advantage of the discount, you must be using a conventional wireline or wireless broadband service. 

How to Apply For a 5G Phone From the Government?

For starters, you should be aware that in order to participate in any of the following programs, your household income has to fall below the level of 135% of the federal poverty guidelines:

  1.     Medicaid
  2.     Federal Public Housing Assistance
  3.     Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP)
  4.     Supplemental Security Income (SSI)
  5.     Veterans Pension and Survivors Benefit Programs

There are additional Tribal-specific initiatives that render a household able to apply:

  1.     Food Distribution Program on Indian Reservations (FDPIR)
  2.     Bureau of Indian Affairs General Assistance
  3.     Head Start
  4.     Tribally-Administered Temporary Assistance for Needy Families (TTANF)

If you’re qualified, next, you should pick a service provider that is involved in the Lifeline Program and apply to the program. During the application process, you will need to supply personal information, including your full name, birthdate, the final four digits of your social security or tribal identity number, and, of course, your home address.

IMPORTANT: If it’s required, you will need to provide documentation showing your income level or membership in one of the government aid programs stated above.

If your selected supplier confirms your application, you will get your free 5G phone and up to a month of free minutes and texts. Amazing!

What Free 5G Phones Are Currently Available?

These are the available 5G models:

This is everything you should know about getting a free 5G phone from the government!

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