With the way the world is changing, landline phones are becoming obsolete. People are using new forms of communication instead of outdated telephones. To enable those who cannot afford phones to obtain them, the free touch screen government phones. The government dubbed these programs the Lifeline Assistance programs.
Free government phones are interesting because they are all smartphones. You will never receive a keypad touch phone or a flip phone. As the government aims to adopt technology, providing you with a flip phone would be a significant disadvantage. While not available in every state, the service providers authorized to offer these free phones and plans operate nationwide.
The goal of the Federal Communications Commission’s (FCC) Lifeline Assistance program is to lower the cost of phone and internet service. Since 1985, the program has offered cheap landline home phones. Prepaid cellular plans were added to the program in 2005 to improve participants’ access to resources for education, employment, healthcare, and other areas.
Lifeline offers a $9.25 monthly discount on internet or phone service. Certain Lifeline carriers, such as Assurance Wireless, even give qualifying consumers free smartphones and monthly subscriptions.
In order to give Americans who are struggling financially the mobile connectivity they want for modern living, Lifeline is still concentrating on wireless plans and free smartphones in 2025.
You can determine how you qualify for your state’s lifeline assistance program. Each month, the service provides you with reasonably priced phone services. In addition to wireless plans, the government offers free touchscreen phones that you may use for social media applications, such as WhatsApp, and browsing.
How do I Eligible for a Free Touchscreen Phone with Lifeline Program
To be eligible for Lifeline benefits and a free smartphone in 2024, you need to earn 135% or below the federal poverty guidelines OR be enrolled in specific assistance programs.
You qualify for this if you are getting any of the listed benefits:
- Government subsidized healthcare program.
- Program for Additional Nutrition Assistance (PANA)
- SSI stands for Supplemental Security Income.
- The federal government provides assistance for public housing.
- Pension benefits for veterans and survivors
- Medicaid
- WIC
- SNAP
- Food Stamps
- EBT
- TNAF
You typically need to show evidence that you are involved in one of the mentioned programs, such as a letter of recognition, to join Lifeline in many states.
You may also be eligible by submitting pay stubs or other documents demonstrating household income if it falls below a certain threshold. Your family size determines whether your household income falls within 135% of the federal poverty guidelines.
The table below reflects 135% of the 2024 Federal Poverty Guidelines.
Household Size | 48 Contiguous States, D.C., and Territories | Alaska | Hawaii |
---|---|---|---|
1 | $20,331 | $25,394 | $23,369 |
2 | $27,594 | $34,479 | $31,725 |
3 | $34,857 | $43,565 | $40,082 |
4 | $42,120 | $52,650 | $48,438 |
5 | $49,383 | $61,736 | $56,795 |
6 | $56,646 | $70,821 | $65,151 |
7 | $63,909 | $79,907 | $73,508 |
8 | $71,172 | $88,992 | $81,864 |
For each additional person, add: | $7,263 | $9,086 | $8,357 |
You may have to show proof of income, like a tax return or three consecutive pays stubs, when you apply for Lifeline.
Lifeline Assistance benefits can only be received from one phone provider per household, and one Lifeline discount is allowed per household.
Moreover, according to the Safe Connections Act (SCA), individuals who are survivors of domestic violence, human trafficking, or related crimes and are facing financial difficulties can be eligible for emergency Lifeline assistance for a period of six months.
READ MORE: 15 Best Free Lifeline Phone Service Providers Now
Survivors who qualify can get a discount of up to $9.25 on phone, internet, or bundled services. After half a year, they are eligible to request the basic Lifeline benefit of $9.25 for qualifying internet or bundled services or $5.25 per month for voice-only service.
Individuals who have gone through a divorce and are facing financial difficulties may be eligible to join the Lifeline program. Survivors can verify their financial difficulties by enrolling in the current Lifeline qualification programs or using the methods below:
- With their income being equal to or less than 200% of the Federal Poverty Guidelines.
- Participation in the Special Supplemental Nutrition Program for Women, Infants, and Children (WIC)
- Participation in the Free and Reduced-Price School Lunch or Breakfast program, including enrollment in a Community Eligibility Provision (CEP) school or district
- Receiving a Federal Pell Grant in the present academic year.
How to get free Touch Screen Government Phones
Despite their claims to the contrary, no American is eligible for the lifeline aid program. Only the underprivileged are eligible, such as the elderly, people with disabilities, those without jobs, and low-income households that cannot afford phone service.
Furthermore, several rules and regulations determine the type of phone you should get. Therefore, if you want to take full advantage of the cheap service, you may still want to purchase another phone.
In any case, there are four methods to be eligible for a free government phone with a touch screen:
Engage in Federal Assistance Programs
This is the easiest way to qualify for a free wireless plan and touchscreen gadget. It involves using any of the government-sponsored welfare programs, including Federal Public Housing Assistance, Tribal Head Start, Supplemental Security Income, Food Stamps, and the Veteran Survivors Pension.
READ MORE: 7 Best Total Wireless Samsung Phones
Low income for the entire household
If your household income is below at 135% of the federal poverty level (FPL), you may also be eligible for a free phone plan and smartphone. The total number of individuals living under one roof, such as a family, is called the household. After that, the money could come from various sources, including wages, rental income, spousal support, etc.
Please be aware that the FPL criteria vary throughout lifeline providers, notably the minimal buffer. Many of them, however, will demand that it be at or below 135%.
Eligibility Based on Disability
Do you get disability benefits from the Social Security Administration, the Veterans Administration, or any other federal program for people with disabilities? If so, qualifying for a lifeline service is also relatively easy. Those without a monthly income can get these benefits, which are substantially comparable to the main federal assistance programs. An automatic qualifying follows.
Through programs for senior assistance
Similarly, the requirement relates to government financial assistance programs for older people. These programs often target those 62 years of age or older, have no pension, or make less than $2,000 per month. These programs include the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program, Medicaid, and LIHEAP (Low Income Home Energy Assistance Program).
READ MORE: Get Free Government Phone Kansas | Apply Now
National Verifier to determine if one is eligible for Lifeline services
In order to request Lifeline assistance, an individual typically needs to utilize the National Verifier application platform, which can be reached through USAC or a Lifeline-partnered phone or internet provider.
The FCC established the National Verifier, operated by USAC, to confirm Lifeline applicants’ eligibility and annually reconfirm subscriber eligibility. Customers seeking help from a service provider during their application process can utilize the “Companies Near Me” tool to find a Lifeline program service provider nearby.
Consumers in California (excluding broadband-only consumers), Texas, and Oregon need to use the state’s current application process to apply for the federal Lifeline benefit. Broadband-only consumers in California must apply through the National Verifier application system, which will then assess their eligibility.
To get detailed instructions on applying for Lifeline in all three states, go to the National Verifier, choose the state from the menu, and click on “Get Started.”
Crucial Information:
The Federal Communications Commission is extremely stringent about its lifeline program. The regulations may become even more stringent for both the provider and the recipients in the wake of recent revelations of fraud and misuse of lifeline programs by certain carriers.
Documentation for free touch screen government smartphone
When you apply for your phone, all Lifeline MVNOs ask that you have all the required paperwork. Among the documents are:
Birth certificate (copy): You must provide a copy of your birth certificate to demonstrate your age when enrolling in the Lifeline program as a senior.
Present physical address: You must supply the supplier with your residence address so they may verify household information. The home address is also very important when shipping items like your SIM card kit or smartphone.
Social Security number: Since the benefit is also for Americans, your number will help demonstrate that you are a legitimate American citizen. If you do not have it, you can use your national identity photo.
State agency letter: A state agency letter is required to verify that you have been receiving federal benefits from the government.
Bank Account Information: to demonstrate that your household’s total income is within the poverty threshold
Federal government program letter: Similar to a State agency letter, a federal government program letter identifies the government-funded assistance program you are enrolled in.
Income records from tax returns: an alternate method of demonstrating that your income is at or below the poverty threshold.
Tax return income documents: If you’re wondering, registering for lifeline assistance only requires some of these documents. Your local Lifeline agency will provide specific instructions based on the area and qualifying resources.
10 Free government touch screen phone providers
As you can see, many low-income households are unable to purchase smartphones. They search for free government touchscreen phone suppliers to apply for and receive a free phone.
People will apply for government-free mobile or touchscreen phones if they qualify for the Lifeline, ACP, or other programs. Even yet, individuals can only apply to phone firms or providers qualified to collaborate with the government and give citizens free phones and phone services.
Businesses that assist consumers through the Lifeline Assistance Program include Q Link Wireless, Safelink Wireless, Easy Wireless, and many more. Additionally, they provide their new clients with complimentary phone service.
Customers can switch to a new touchscreen smartphone for free, even if they carry an outdated phone. However, everything depends on the providers and the phones they give for the upgrade.
Users with wireless connectivity can even upgrade to free Android phones from Assurance Wireless. This is because consumers no longer desire or want to utilize flip phones. They desire smartphones to connect to the new technological world and stay updated with new telecom services.
This is a list of businesses that provide government touch screen smartphones for free.
You can read about it if you’re seeking free government smartphones since you’ll find a comprehensive list of businesses collaborating with the government and providing free government cell phones to qualified individuals.
Many people ask, “Who has the best free government phones?” This is why this list of businesses is provided. As a result, you can discover that these businesses are also present in your immediate vicinity. Let’s move on and examine those businesses, which are as follows:
Q Link Wireless
Q Link Wireless is the company that provides free government smartphones to new customers and those who qualify for the Lifeline program. On the other hand, Q Link Wireless offers free smartphone replacements for those who wish to upgrade their outdated phones.
In addition, Q Link Wireless has several monthly options, including unlimited texting, 1000 minutes per month, and 1GB of free data. Therefore, it will be helpful for you if you want assistance with Q Link Wireless for a free government smartphone. You may learn more about Q Link Wireless and its offerings by visiting the website.
Safelink Wireless
Another provider of free cell phones that collaborates with the government to assist those in need and those qualified for the Lifeline program is Safelink Wireless. Additionally, they provide a free phone update, so if someone has an outdated phone, they can replace it with the new government touchscreen phone for free. You can upgrade for as little as $39 if you desire a unique phone.
For an upgrade, you can bring your phone, though, or pick from the dozen phones they have on sale. The company’s official website provides additional information about its offerings.
Access Wireless
Access Wireless is another business that offers qualified individuals free smartphones. Nonetheless, this business assists new signups for the government phone service, which is free. In addition to helping people use the latest technology and stay informed about developments in the community and the wider globe, this company provides free touchscreen government phones.
Additionally, this business offers its clients incredible deals. The business provides 50MB of data, 1000 minutes of voice time, and unlimited texting through the agreement.
However, the company offers fantastic paid-plan options for those who are not eligible for the Lifeline Program and cannot receive free phone service or services. That includes $20 for no data, unlimited talk and text, and wifi; $35 for a 3 GB plan with unlimited text and voice; and $50 for a 10 GB data plan with unlimited talk and text.
In addition to these exclusive discounts, they also provide upgrades and the option to bring your phone (BYOP). You can learn more about this company by visiting its website if you want to apply for your accessible touchscreen government phone.
Assurance Wireless
People are familiar with the cellphone provider Assurance Wireless. It is one of the country’s largest 4G LTE network companies and provides new users with free Android cell phones.
However, this business, a division of Virgin Mobile, offers new cell phones to consumers for free as part of the government’s free phone initiative. You must learn more about Assurance Wireless and its promotions if you also wish to receive a free smartphone from the firm.
TruConnect
As you can see, there are many well-known and significant cellular firms in the market for cell phones, and TruConnect is one such company. Despite not being a primary cellular service, this company has expanded from a regional to a nationwide provider. As you can see, despite years of name changes, this business continues to operate in the sector and provide dependable community service.
For those who qualify for Lifeline, TruConnect provides free touchscreen government phones. Additionally, this company offers a fantastic plan for its users, including unlimited speaking and texting, up to 3 GB of monthly data, and a complimentary 5-inch smartphone for qualified customers. For additional information, you can go to its website.
Life Wireless
Another company that provides free government smartphones to qualified individuals is Life Wireless. This corporation also offers cheap data plans, cellular services, and free handsets.
Life Wireless offers services in Maryland, Missouri, Puerto Rico, Rhode Island, West Virginia, Georgia, Arkansas, Illinois, Minnesota, and other states. You can obtain comprehensive information by visiting its local office or website.
True Wireless
Oklahoma is home to the regional cell phone provider True Wireless. Users who qualify for LifelinLifeline receive free cell phones or smartphones from this company. Low-income individuals and those eligible for the Lifeline Program can receive subsidized cell phone services from True Wireless. They give away free smartphones to people in Texas, Maryland, Arkansas, and Rhode Island, among other places. You may learn more about this on their website if you want your free smartphone in any of the locations.
Reachout wireless
One of the most significant and prominent businesses on the list of Lifeline members is Reachout Wireless. This company provides Lifeline-eligible individuals with free and subsidized services in addition to free smartphones. As a result, it has maintained its position as a leader in the sector. They provide people with accessible touchscreen government phones, smartphones, and several other free services and perks for their clients.
Even if they provide consumers with the most outstanding smartphones, you should expect something other than a free government iPhone, iPhone 10, or recently released Samsung or Motorola devices from them. However, they do have the best smartphone, which is their best phone out of their older models. Regardless, if you have an outdated phone, you can replace it with a touchscreen or smartphone. You can contact them and take advantage of their additional services and advantages.
Tag Mobile
Tag Mobile also provides free cell phones and services for those who qualify for the Lifeline program. Despite this, it provides services in Louisiana and Arkansas. You can receive your accessible touchscreen government phone through the Lifeline and free government phone programs if you qualify for any federal government programs, whether for one or several programs. However, you will only be eligible for these benefits if you meet the income requirements. You will receive a free smartphone from Tag Mobile if your gross income exceeds the federal poverty threshold. This company offers a lot more services.
These companies provide Lifeline-eligible individuals with free government smartphones or touchscreen phones. Whether they are adults, elderly, crippled, or something else is irrelevant. They can profit from the program by receiving government-free cell phones if they meet its income standards.
StandUp Wireless
In addition to a one-time phone, StandUp Wireless offers a minimum of 1000 call minutes, unlimited texting, and 4.5GB of monthly data to those who qualify. The lifeline rates in California are more generous, offering 6GB of data in addition to unlimited minutes and messages. Depending on which network is accessible where you are, StandUp Wireless can operate on either the Sprint or T-Mobile network.
READ MORE: Get a Free Government iPhone with Food Stamps
How to get Food stamps free touch screen government phone
Before they can receive the free phone, many folks want to know if they qualify for food stamps. However, if you receive food stamps, you can only purchase food with them; you cannot choose between using your food stamps to buy food or a phone. If you qualify for the Lifeline program, you can get free government phones with touch screens, food stamp iPhones, and phone services.
You can apply for the free phone service and Lifeline Assistance if you are eligible for federal government programs such as SNAP, Federal Public Housing Assistance, SSI, Medicaid, Veterans Pension, and Survivors Benefits. You must, however, apply for your free cell phone and free or reduced phone services from the local supplier that provides lifeline benefits to people.
Lifeline’s Free Samsung Touch Screen Phone Distribution
In 2025, keep the following key considerations in mind while applying for free cell phones through Lifeline government aid programs:
The FCC has a long-standing Lifeline program that provides eligible low-income individuals with free or heavily discounted phone service. Some cellular providers give current Lifeline customers free access to the newest Samsung Galaxy handsets.
To demonstrate your eligibility, you must provide documentation of your involvement in programs such as Medicaid, SNAP, or SSI or demonstrate a household income at or below 135% of the federal poverty threshold.
Apply with the Lifeline wireless provider of your choice, present proof of eligibility, enroll in the program, and turn on service. After a successful enrollment, a Samsung gadget will be delivered in one to two weeks.
Users must subscribe to an introductory talk, text, and data plan each month to continue receiving the free smartphone offer from their Lifeline carrier. With 4G LTE data, unlimited talk and text is typical.
2025 Lifeline Assistance will be widely used to deliver modern Samsung phones like the Galaxy A13 5G. These devices, which cost more than $200, offer flagship features for free.
Use LifelinLifeline if you are eligible for a complimentary Samsung Galaxy smartphone. With dependable wifi connectivity from the latest gadgets, those in need might be more effectively empowered.
Best Touch Screen Government Phones Reviews
To maximize your free lifeline data, here is a thorough rundown of the top five touchscreen phones.
Overall Best: Key Features of the Samsung Galaxy S20 FE Factory Unlocked 5G Android:
This smartphone is an Upgradeable Manufacturer-unlocked carrier for Android 10.0 OS and 4G, 5G, 3G, and 2G networks system with Unlocking the fingerprint reader, Professional-grade 12MP triple rear camera 6GB of RAM and 128GB of internal memory as well.
In addition to being my top pick, the Galaxy is one of Samsung’s top-selling devices for 2020. Its potent Snapdragon 865 5G Octa-core processor guarantees smooth gaming, sharper photos, and quicker AI processing.
In terms of photography, the smartphone features a triple 12MP camera setup with three motorized zooms. This allows you to capture brilliant details of both close-ups and far-off objects.
Additionally, you can wirelessly charge the Samsung device’s clever non-removable battery.
Advantages:
- Its design is neat and well-made.
- Has a large amount of storage capacity.
- able to connect to networks up to 5G
- It has NFC contactless payment capability and can capture sharper 4K footage at 60 frames per second.
Drawbacks:
- It’s huge.
- The strength of the vibration is relatively mild.
- There is no conventional headphone jack on it.
Best renewal is the Apple iPhone 11 Black 64GB Unlocked US Version.
The bionic chip A13 and Unlocked Integrated NFC chip carrier attract users’ attention with their 4G RAM and 64GB ROM, dual-camera setup with 12MP, IP68 water protection, and reasonable prices.
This item might be ideal if you’d love to switch to an Apple product but can’t afford a brand-new one. It has a straightforward finish, but everything else—including the network connectivity—functions flawlessly. Since the smartphone is already carrier unlocked, it works well with the majority of LifelineMs.
The iPhone model also features a six-core (64-bit) CPU with an A13 Bionic chip, one of the fastest GPUs. This implies you won’t experience any lag when using it to play games, stream videos, and operate other apps.
Advantages:
- It is compatible with the majority of lifeline networks.
- Produces images that are clear and sharp.
- Face ID unlocking makes access simple.
- Both M3 and T4 hearing aids are supported.
- It performs effectively in settings with water and dust.
Drawbacks:
- Local storage cannot be expanded.
- There is no headphone jack on it.
Value-Based Bets: Unlocked 5G Android Smartphone: Google Pixel 5
It has 5G wireless technologies with 8GB RAM and 128GB ROM, and a 12.2MP system with two cameras. Its processor is Snapdragon 765G, Android 11 with A fingerprint reader installed on the back
If you don’t mind spending roughly $760, this phone could help you mark some memorable occasions on your lifeline network. It is compatible with up to 5G networks and may be used with practically any carrier because it comes unlocked. Additionally, there is 128GB of internal storage, which is more than enough to save your office documents, music, and photos.
Additionally, the phone is IP68-protected and features a sturdy unibody design. As a result, you can use it in the pool or on the sandy beach without worrying about water or dust damage.
Advantages:
- Its signal is steady and powerful.
- Fast and wireless charging capabilities
- Adaptable to multiple networks, it captures colorful photos and videos.
- flows fluidly and with profound clarity.
Drawbacks:
- It costs a lot of money.
- Not compatible with MicroSD cards
- The quality of the speaker could be better.
Top Releases: Unlocking the Motorola Moto G Stylus for the US 2024 Edition
This Unlocked factory cell phone has an attractive 6.8-inch Full HD screen, 4GB RAM, and 128GB ROM. It has a fantastic 48MP system with four cameras and a Snapdragon 678 Android 11 processor.
The Moto model is the most recent upgrade (2024), following the 2021 model. This meets the bill if you would like a better lifeline account experience but need more funds for a high-end Samsung or iPhone.
Naturally, the display is rather huge and difficult to use with one hand. However, it also offers a really cinematic gaming and streaming experience. The back camera is also sufficiently capable, with more capacity than you would require (128GB of built-in memory plus 512GB (maximum) external SD card).
Advantages:
- The programs load quickly and smoothly.
- Simple to assemble and run
- A fun and accurate stylus feature
- has a powerful and dependable reception and an amazing battery life.
- Numerous lifeline networks are compatible with it.
Drawbacks:
- Wireless charging is not possible.
- 5G networks cannot be connected to
- Not compatible with contactless payments
Best Value for the Money: 64GB of unlocked memory for the TCL 10L Smartphone running Android
With Snapdragon 665, Android 10, fingerprint reader, and face ID this TCL offers everything you could need in a smartphone yet is the least expensive. When it comes to communication, it is already unlocked and supports up to 4G technology. As a result, using various SIM cards would not present any problems.
The phone’s primary camera can record in 4K at 30 frames per second, and the display is 6.5 inches in size. Although the 64GB of internal storage is small, you can always add a 256GB microSD card to increase it.
The phone’s integrated NFC chip is also noteworthy. It enables contactless payment. Then, using your fingerprint or face ID, you may quickly unlock the screen.
Advantages:
- It’s incredibly reasonably priced.
- Has a prominent display.
- It is simple to assemble and run, can attach to a headphone jack, and has a respectable battery life.
- It features clear call quality and excellent reception.
Drawbacks:
- The loudspeaker could be better.
- Lacks wireless charging capability
- The strength of the vibration is meager.
Which Free Government Phone is the Best?
The “best” free government phone depends on the carrier and the available options in your area. Most Lifeline and Affordable Connectivity Program (ACP) providers offer basic to mid-range Android smartphones. Some of the more popular options include:
- Samsung Galaxy A series (budget-friendly models like Galaxy A10 or A03s)
- Moto G series (e.g., Moto G Power or Moto E)
- Nokia C-series (e.g., Nokia C100)
For those who need a basic device, some providers might offer brands like Blu or Alcatel. Research the providers in your area to see the latest offerings.
How to Get a Free Cell Phone in Indiana?
You can get a free phone in Indiana through Lifeline or the ACP program by following these steps:
- Check Eligibility:
- Qualify by income (at or below 135% of the Federal Poverty Guidelines) or participation in government assistance programs like Medicaid, SNAP, or SSI.
- Some ACP providers may require eligibility through additional broadband-specific criteria.
- Choose a Provider: Popular providers offering free phones in Indiana include:
- Assurance Wireless
- Safelink Wireless
- Q Link Wireless
- Tag Mobile
- Apply Online: Visit the chosen provider’s website and complete the application. Provide proof of eligibility (e.g., income statement, program participation letter).
- Receive Your Phone: Once approved, you will receive a phone and/or service plan with free talk, text, and data.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
- Can multiple members of a household receive free government phones?
Generally, only one phone is allowed per household. Exceptions may apply in cases of separate financial responsibilities. - What happens if I lose my phone?
Most providers offer a replacement policy. Contact your provider to report the loss and request a new device. - Can I upgrade my phone later?
Some providers allow upgrades to more advanced models, often at a discounted price. - What is the renewal process?
Renewal involves confirming your eligibility annually. Follow the provider’s instructions for seamless recertification. - Are these phones limited to basic use?
No, most phones come with internet capabilities, app stores, and other features of modern smartphones. - What if I move to another state?
You may need to transfer your benefits to a provider operating in your new location. Contact your provider for details.
Final Verdict
The cutting-edge gadgets that everyone is vying for are touchscreen phones. People of all ages, including seniors and kids, use these gadgets for banking, entertainment, and money-making, among other purposes. Feel free to visit any carrier that supports lifeline eligibility and ask for information about the free government smartphones discussed in this post if you lack the money to buy one. You can take advantage of the services a touch screen provides at no cost if you meet the requirements.