Is Free Government Phone Service Available in Every State?

Lifeline helps low-income families stay connected. It is a federal program, so it exists in every state. But each phone company only offers it in certain states. What you can get depends on where you live.

StandUp Wireless gives eligible customers talk, text, and data each month. We do this in states where StandUp Wireless is authorized. Free government phone service helps families reach a doctor or get help fast.

Mandatory Lifeline Disclosure: Lifeline is a government assistance program. Lifeline-supported service is provided by Global Connection Inc. of America d/b/a StandUp Wireless. The Lifeline benefit is non-transferable and only eligible consumers may enroll. Only one discount is allowed per household.

How Coverage Works by State

The federal program covers the whole country. But companies may operate only in the states where they are approved. A company may offer Lifeline in one state but not in the next.

• Same Rules Everywhere: Lifeline rules are the same in every state. But each phone company needs approval in each state.
• Where We Serve: StandUp Wireless offers Lifeline only in states where StandUp Wireless is authorized.
• Bring Your Own Device: Bring your own compatible phone and activate with a StandUp SIM.

Each state decides which phone companies can offer Lifeline there.

Check your zip code before you apply to save time. StandUp Wireless Lifeline plans include unlimited talk and text, and at least 5 GB of Data. Offers vary by state and territory, and service may not be available in all states or areas. Free government phone service helps you stay in touch with the people and services you count on.

Program Rules and Household Limits

Federal Lifeline rules provide for one discount per household, and you must use your service at least once every 30 days. For full details on income limits, programs, and yearly renewal, read our Lifeline program requirements guide .

• One Discount Per Household: A household is everyone at your address who shares income and bills.
• 30-Day Use Rule: Use your service at least once every 30 days.
• Yearly Renewal: You must show you still qualify once a year .

If two adults live together but do not share income and expenses, they count as two households. Each one can apply.

Following these rules helps you keep your benefit.

Who Qualifies and How to Apply

You can qualify by income or by being in a program like SNAP or Medicaid. People on Tribal lands and survivors of domestic violence also have their own paths to apply.

You qualify if your household income is at or below 135% of the Federal Poverty Guidelines. You also qualify if you get SNAP, Medicaid, or Supplemental Security Income (SSI). Federal Public Housing Assistance counts too. That includes Housing Choice Vouchers (Section 8) and Project-Based Rental Assistance. So do the Veterans Pension and Survivors Benefit.

If you live on Tribal lands, more programs count. These include Bureau of Indian Affairs General Assistance, Tribal TANF, and FDPIR. Tribal Head Start counts too (income-qualifying). Lifeline is the federal program for discounted phone service. The Federal Communications Commission oversees it.

Survivors of domestic violence have their own path under the Safe Connections Act. This is emergency help for up to 6 months. It requires a documented line-separation request. Survivors can qualify at 200% of the Federal Poverty Level. WIC and Federal Pell Grants also count. So does the Free and Reduced-Price School Lunch or Breakfast program.

To apply, you type your name, date of birth, and the last 4 digits of your SSN into the online form. If the system cannot confirm you, you may be asked to upload proof. Knowing how to apply for Lifeline program benefits ahead of time can speed things up.

When you apply for free government phone service, use your current home address. That is how we check if your state is covered.

Getting Connected in Your State

It is easy to find out if Lifeline is offered in your state. If you meet the income limit or are in a program that counts, you may qualify for free phone service.

StandUp Wireless offers Lifeline in states where StandUp Wireless is authorized. Apply for free government phone service and stay in touch with family, work, and help.

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