Free iPhone with EBT Benefits

Learn how your SNAP/EBT benefits can help you qualify for free iPhones and discounted wireless service through government assistance programs.

How EBT Connects to Government Phones

The Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP), commonly known as food stamps or EBT (Electronic Benefits Transfer), is one of the primary programs that automatically qualifies recipients for government phone assistance.

If you receive SNAP benefits, you automatically qualify for Lifeline and ACP programs regardless of your income level, making it easier to get free phones and discounted service.

EBT Benefits Include:

  • Monthly food assistance
  • Electronic benefit cards
  • Automatic Lifeline qualification
  • ACP program eligibility
  • Free phone access
  • Discounted communication services

How EBT Recipients Get Free Phones

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Receive SNAP Benefits

You must be an active SNAP recipient with a valid EBT card.

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Apply for Phone Benefits

Contact a participating provider and mention your SNAP participation.

Get Free Phone

Receive your free iPhone and discounted monthly service.

What Documentation Do You Need?

SNAP/EBT Verification

  • Current EBT card (front and back)
  • SNAP approval letter
  • Recent benefit statements
  • Case number from EBT card
  • Proof of active benefits

Note: Never share your full EBT PIN number

Additional Requirements

  • Government-issued photo ID
  • Proof of address (utility bill, etc.)
  • Social Security Number (last 4 digits)
  • Signature on application
  • Household composition information

All information is kept confidential and secure

Phone Benefits for EBT Recipients

Complete Communication Package

EBT recipients can access comprehensive communication benefits:

Lifeline Benefits

  • $9.25 monthly service discount
  • Free iPhone (iPhone SE, 11, 12 available)
  • Unlimited talk and text
  • Data included (varies by provider)
  • National coverage

ACP Benefits (If Income Eligible)

  • $30 monthly internet discount
  • $75 one-time device discount
  • Additional broadband benefits
  • Combined with Lifeline for maximum savings

Common Questions from EBT Recipients

Yes, active SNAP recipients automatically qualify for Lifeline program benefits regardless of income. You do not need to meet income guidelines if you participate in SNAP.

Contact any participating provider (Verizon, AT&T, T-Mobile, etc.) and inform them you receive SNAP benefits. They'll guide you through the application process and verify your EBT participation.

Yes, SNAP and government phone benefits are separate programs. Receiving one does not affect your eligibility for the other. Many households receive both types of assistance.

Yes, all information is protected under federal privacy laws. Providers only verify your participation in SNAP - they do not access your benefit amounts or transaction details.

Your phone benefits remain active as long as you continue to participate in SNAP. You'll need to recertify your phone benefits annually, but your SNAP participation serves as ongoing proof of eligibility.

State-Specific EBT Programs

Some states offer additional programs that combine EBT benefits with communication assistance:

California - CalFresh LinkUp

  • Combines CalFresh (SNAP) with broadband
  • Additional $4.50 monthly supplement
  • Focus on internet access for EBT recipients
  • Available statewide

Texas - ConnectHome

  • Connects nutrition benefits with internet
  • Expanded eligibility for EBT households
  • Rural broadband focus
  • State-specific funding

Ready to Get Your Free Phone?

If you receive SNAP/EBT benefits, you may already qualify for free phones and discounted service. Take the next step to connect your nutrition assistance with communication benefits.

Find a Provider

Locate participating providers in your area that accept EBT verification.

Find Providers

Prepare Documents

Gather your EBT card and other required identification.

See Requirements

Apply Today

Contact a provider to start your application process.

Get Help

Important Notes for EBT Recipients

  • Separate Programs: EBT and government phone benefits are administered by different agencies
  • No Impact: Applying for phone benefits won't affect your SNAP/EBT benefits
  • Privacy Protected: Your EBT transaction details remain private
  • Free to Apply: There are no costs or fees to apply for phone benefits
  • Annual Renewal: Phone benefits require annual recertification
  • Household Limit: Only one set of benefits per household