Government Phone Eligibility
Determine if you qualify for free iPhones and discounted wireless service through federal assistance programs. Multiple pathways to eligibility available.
Eligibility Pathways
There are two main ways to qualify for government phone assistance programs: income-based eligibility and program-based eligibility. You only need to qualify under one pathway.
Income-Based Eligibility
Households with income at or below specific Federal Poverty Guidelines qualify for assistance. This is the most common pathway for many applicants.
- Lifeline: Up to 135% of Federal Poverty Level
- ACP: Up to 80% of Federal Poverty Level
- Based on household size and gross income
- Annual recertification required
Program-Based Eligibility
Participation in certain public assistance programs automatically qualifies you for benefits, regardless of income level.
- SNAP (Food Stamps)
- Medicaid, Medicare, SSI
- TANF, WIC, Federal Public Housing
- Pell Grant recipients
Check Your Eligibility
Use our interactive eligibility checker to determine if you qualify for government phone assistance.
Understanding Household Size
Household size is a key factor in determining eligibility. Include all people who live in your home and share income and expenses.
Include In Household:
- Yourself
- Spouse/Partner
- Children under 18
- Dependent adults
- Parents (if you provide support)
Do Not Include:
- Children who don't live with you
- Adult children who are self-supporting
- Roommates who pay their own expenses
- Temporary guests
Examples:
- Single person: Household of 1
- Couple with 2 kids: Household of 4
- Single parent with 3 kids: Household of 4
- Adult child living at home: Include if dependent
What Counts as Income?
Counted Income
- Wages and salaries (before taxes)
- Self-employment income
- Social Security benefits
- Pension and retirement income
- Unemployment benefits
- Workers' compensation
- Alimony and child support received
- Rental income
Not Counted Income
- SNAP/Food Stamp benefits
- Medicaid benefits
- School lunches (free/reduced)
- Disability payments (SSI)
- TANF benefits
- Energy assistance (LIHEAP)
- Child care assistance
- Most tax refunds
Special Eligibility Situations
College Students
Students may qualify for ACP benefits if they receive Pell Grants for the 2021-2022 academic year. Contact your school's financial aid office to confirm eligibility.
Seniors (65+)
Seniors can qualify based on income or participation in programs like Medicare, Social Security, or SSI. No upper age limit for eligibility.
Veterans
Veterans may qualify through VA benefits, disability payments, or low income. Some veterans receive automatic eligibility through VA programs.
Tribal Lands
Residents of tribal lands may have additional eligibility options through tribal sovereignty programs. Contact tribal government for specific requirements.
Ready to Apply?
Once you confirm eligibility, you can apply for benefits through participating providers. The application process takes just a few minutes and can be done online or by phone.