Having a smartphone can prove to be a very valuable tool not just for making phone calls to family and friends but remaining in connection with the world around you. A smartphone is a direct link to the internet, providing people with a tool to communicate, learn, get resources, and live a higher quality of life. Yet, they are typically expensive. Yet, it may be possible to obtain a free smartphone if you qualify for certain programs.
What Do You Need to Do to Qualify?
It’s important to note that not everyone can obtain a free smartphone. However, there are programs such as the Lifeline Program in the US that was designed for low-income families to have access to a cell phone in order to communicate with family, friends, work and/or school. There are specific Lifeline Program cell phone providers that offer these free cell phones to individuals that qualify.
To check if you’re eligible, one of the easiest ways is to go online to one of the primary Lifeline Program cell phone providers’ websites and apply. You can also check their eligibility pages to see the qualifications. If you’re already a part of a government assistance program, such as Medicaid, SNAP, Federal Public Housing Assistance (Section 8), SSI, on Veteran pension, Survivors Benefit Program or other various government programs, then you may be eligible.
Also, most Lifeline Program providers also offer the new EBB program (Emergency Broadband program), which in tandem with the Lifeline Program offers free unlimited talk, text and data along with your free smartphone. This means that you can have unlimited access to the app store, the internet, and free communication with friends, family and work. For many people, this type of opportunity can give them access to the help they need on a consistent basis.