Having a cell phone has become a necessity these days, allowing us to stay connected and access information anywhere. But between the cost of data, talk minutes, and devices, paying your monthly cell phone bill can really add up. Thankfully, there are ways to drastically reduce how much you pay – or even get your cell phone service for free if you qualify. In this article, I’ll explain the different programs and resources that can help you pay little to nothing for your cell phone service.
Lifeline – Up to $9.25/month off cell phone or internet
One great option is Lifeline, a government program that provides up to $9.25 a month in discounts on phone or internet service Lifeline is part of the Universal Service Fund and is administered by the FCC to help make communications services more affordable for low-income Americans
To qualify for Lifeline, you need to show that your household’s overall income is at or below 135% of the Federal Poverty Guidelines. For example, for a family of four in 2022, this would be a household income of $36,620 or less. You can also qualify through certain government assistance programs like SNAP, Medicaid, SSI, and others.
If eligible, you can use your Lifeline discount on either your cell phone bill or your home internet bill – you choose. The discount can be applied to any major cell phone carrier like Verizon T-Mobile AT&T and more. Over 13 million Americans currently benefit from the Lifeline program, saving them nearly $10/month on vital services.
To apply, you can:
- Apply online through the National Verifier website, which will check your eligibility.
- Apply through your cell phone carrier when signing up for service.
- Apply by mail by printing out and completing the Lifeline application form.
Make sure you have proof that you are eligible, like old tax returns, pay stubs, or letters from benefits agencies. Once you’re approved, you can choose a cell phone plan that works with Lifeline and your discount will be applied. Keep in mind that Lifeline recipients can only get one discount per home.
Free Government Cell Phones with Assurance Wireless
For even more significant savings, there are government programs that provide free cellular service and free phones to eligible recipients.
Assurance Wireless, which is owned by Sprint and Virgin Mobile, is the biggest. People who qualify can get a free cell phone from Assurance Wireless with 350 minutes, unlimited texts, and up to 3GB of data per month.
To get this free cell phone service from Assurance Wireless, you need to show that you are at or below 135% of the Federal Poverty Guidelines OR already participate in certain government assistance programs like Medicaid, SNAP, SSI, and others.
Assurance Wireless uses the same eligibility requirements as Lifeline. If you are chosen, you will get a free Android phone in the mail after you fill out the application. You can keep your existing cell phone number too.
Assurance Wireless is great because you don’t have to sign a contract and there are no activation fees. Even if you use all 350 minutes or 3GB of data, rates stay low, like $0, even after that. 06/minute and $0. 05/MB.
Free Cell Phones through State Programs
In addition to federal Lifeline and Assurance Wireless programs, many states also offer free government cell phone programs for low-income residents:
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California: California Lifeline provides free cell phones and service through i-Wireless LLC. Plans include unlimited talk & text + 4GB of data.
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Texas: Texas Lifeline offers a choice of free phone and plan combo ranging from 250 minutes to unlimited. Carriers include Safelink and Assurance Wireless.
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Florida: SafeLink Wireless provides Florida Lifeline recipients with a free phone and up to 350 monthly minutes and unlimited texts.
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New York: The New York Lifeline Program partners with many carriers like Q Link Wireless and Assurance to offer discounted or free cell service and minutes.
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Michigan: The LifeLine cell phone program in Michigan supplies eligible residents with free monthly minutes, texts, and data through Assurance Wireless and more.
To find out about free cell phone programs in your state, contact your state public utility commission or search “[Your State] Lifeline free cell phone”. Meeting income requirements is necessary.
Free Phone & Service through Medicaid Programs
Those enrolled in Medicaid, the government’s health insurance program for low-income individuals, can also get free cell phones with monthly minutes through provider TracFone’s SafeLink program.
SafeLink works with Medicaid in over 40 states to supply a free smartphone and service plan to recipients. Plans include 350 monthly minutes, unlimited texts, and up to 4GB of data. To qualify, you must be currently enrolled in Medicaid – simply show your Medicaid card.
Other Ways to Reduce Your Cell Bill
If you don’t qualify for the above programs, there are still ways to spend less on your cell phone:
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Review usage and plans regularly – Don’t overpay for more data or minutes than you actually use. Adjust your plan if needed.
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Use WiFi when possible – This allows you to use apps and browse without eating into your monthly data.
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Try a family plan – Sharing data on one account can significantly reduce costs per line.
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Pay on time – Set payment reminders and enroll in autopay to avoid late fees.
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Ask about discounts – Carriers offer discounts for veterans, students, first responders and people with disabilities.
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Buy SECOND-HAND PHONES – Used phones in good condition can save you hundreds over new models.
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9 Ways to Save Money on Your Cell Phone Bill
FAQ
How can I pay my phone bill with no money?
Lifeline can help pay for your landline or cell (wireless) phone service. You can also get help with your internet bill. Eligibility for Lifeline is based on your income and household size or if you receive benefits from a federal assistance program.
What can I do if I can’t pay my cell phone bill?
Get Help with Your Money from Check Into Cash If you fall behind on your cell phone bill and need help paying it, you have a few options. The first option is to contact family or friends. In case they can’t help, a short-term Payday Loan might be what you need to keep your phone line,
What app helps you pay your phone bill?
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Does Deferit pay cell phone bills?
Pay any type of bill with Deferit We do Phone bill pay and more! Whether it is a one time payment or regular bill payments!.
How do I pay my bill online for free?
Save time and money when paying your bill by using our free self serve payment options. You can set up Auto Pay, pay online or use our automated phone system. Prepaid Customer? My Account makes it simple to pay your bill online for free. Sign up for automatic payments and never worry about paying your bill on time again.
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How do I Pay my AT&T bill online?
Make a secure payment in four easy steps. Make a bill payment online without signing in! Just provide your account number or active AT&T phone number and easily pay your bill online.
How do I get help for my phone bill?
As noted, each state may have their own rules and regulations, but the assistance is mandated. In addition, cell phone and cable companies also process applications to give help for phone bills. Another option is to contact a non-profit agency in your county.
Who is eligible for free cell phone / financial assistance?
Each state has its own criteria. Families or single people that receive some form of public assistance, including, but not limited to, SNAP food stamps, TANF, Section 8 housing vouchers, Medicaid, or SSI may be qualified for a free cell phone or financial help / discounts.
