FREE
Government Supported
Cell Phone Service New York

You may qualify for Lifeline Assistance if you already receive government benefits like Medicaid, CHIP, Food Stamps or if your CURRENT household income while employed or unemployed is below the 135% poverty threshold.

How does it work?

The Lifeline program was established to provide access to affordable, quality telecommunication services to low-income individuals.

In order to participate, you must receive benefits from an accepted assistance program or live in a low-income household.

Bring your own phone or choose a new one to start your services today!

Apply Online

It’s easy to apply! You’ll need to enter in a few personal details and let us know if you’re receiving any governmental assistance.

Upload Documents

You may be asked to verify your eligibility by uploading proof of your identity, benefit information, and income.

Bring Your Phone or Pick a New One

You can keep your GSM-compatible or unlocked smartphone, or choose from a list of new devices.

Start Your Service

Once we approve your enrollment, we’ll ship your SIM card or pre-activated phone in the mail.

Who Qualifies?

You’re eligible if you participate in an approved assistance program or have an income at or below 135% of the federal Poverty Guideline. Medicaid, CHIP, and SNAP automatically qualify!

Medicaid & CHIP

Medicaid and the Children’s Health Insurance Program (CHIP) provide health coverage for low-income children, families, seniors and people with disabilities. Medicare does not qualify.

SNAP

The Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) provides benefits to needy individuals and families to increase their food budget, purchase healthy food, and move towards self-sufficiency.

SSI

The Supplemental Security Income (SSI) program provides monthly benefits to disabled or blind adults and children who have limited income and resources.

Current Income at or below 135% of Federal Poverty Guidelines

Income guidelines vary by the state you live in and the number of people in your household.

Housing Choice Vouchers

The Housing Choice Voucher Program provides access to safe and affordable housing for low-income families, elderly, and disabled individuals.

Veterans and Survivors Pension Benefit

The Veterans Pension program provides monthly payments to eligible wartime Veterans meeting age, disability, and/or income requirements.

Additional Eligibility

Some states have additional eligibility under the following Tribal programs:

BIA

Bureau of Indian Affairs General Assistance

FDPIR

Food Distribution Program on Indian Reservations

Tribal TANF

Tribally Administered Temporary Assistance for Needy Families

Tribal Head Start

Only those meeting income qualifications

Over 0 milions

Americans enrolled and counting!

Ways to Qualify Household Limit

I'm on Medical right now and can't afford $40/mo. on Metro PCS so I decided to try this free govt. phone (Safelink). On 16th and Mission San Francisco a woman agent help me out, I don't need a new phone, I want my Metro number transfer to my unlocked Pixel 3.. She put a new sim and activate (T-Mobile sim). Gave me a number to call for transfer, I call them and provide Metro acct. no., PIN and the IMEI on the new sim, waited for about 10 minutes and my Metro number was transfer, wow. I test the speed, I get 60 mb.

Antonio San Francisco, CA

I have used Safelink for some time now and never had no problems that customer service couldn't resolve on phone. And have service nearly everywhere. Safelink also give its users extra data as well as monthly plan minutes due to coronavirus which is a plus in addition to affordable plans not covered by Lifeline service.

Chad Valdosta, GA

I became familiar with SAFELINK Wireless about 6 years ago. I was in a bind financially and my mother couldn't reach me most times when she called. (Due to me not able to pay bill). She suggested I apply for the free phone and benefits from Safelink. I was hesitant but I applied then qualified and have been using them ever since. I purchase a great plan every month at an awesome price! The quality of service is great and customer service has always been helpful. I would recommend anyone to give them a try.

Jennifer Beech Bluff, TN

I have had Safelink for almost 2 years. Transferring my phone number from another major unsubsidized carrier was tortuous to say the least - time-consuming for both myself and Safelink. Part of the problem was that I brought my own unlocked phone. They were always patient, considerate, and stuck with the process no matter the time or energy and I never have had to wait more than a few minutes to talk with Customer Service.

Keith Seattle, WA

I find Safelink Wireless’ service helps to keep me in contact with my family and friends, as well as lets me check the news and keeps me informed on new and current events.