Tennessee low-income households will receive money to help pay a bill or get free government cell phones in Tennessee. The help is typically provided to older adults, people with disabilities, and low-income households that receive public assistance. Apply below to receive financial assistance or a free cell phone service through the Tennessee Lifeline and Linkup programs.
Those who fit the low-income requirements or get public assistance—such as Medicaid, EBT, or food stamps—are eligible for the support. Residents can sign up for the Lifeline program, which offers free wireless devices, tablets, or internet access in addition to reductions on phone service. The government provides free Samsung Galaxy, iPad, and iPhone devices in TN.
Free government phones program offered for Tennessee inhabitants
In following terms are offered by the government assistance program:
Program Includes
- Free Smartphone
- FREE Minutes
- Unlimited Talk / Text / Data — Plus 10GB of Hot Spot Data
Free Every Month
- Unlimited Data
- Unlimited Texts
- Unlimited Voice Minutes!
- Caller ID/ Voicemail/3-Way Calling
- Nationwide Coverage on America’s Best Networks
- 911 Access
- 411 Directory Assistance at No Additional Cost
- Voice Minutes & Unlimited Texts!
- Voicemail/Caller ID/3-Way Calling
Tennessee Lifeline program for low-income families
Seniors, low-income families, and those without money can all benefit from the Lifeline programs differently. In addition, there can be monthly savings to help establish new services. One of the most significant limitations of Lifeline is that a household may only have one phone plan enrolled, regardless of whether it is a home unit or a cellular free phone.
The Federal Communications Commission and phone companies collaborate on this initiative in addition to the Tennessee Regulatory Authority. Tennessee low-income households can receive assistance from AT&T, Verizon, T Mobile, TracFhone, and other businesses. The majority of people’s accounts have monthly surcharges that cover the cost. These surcharges are utilized to give customers discounts, emphasizing older folks.
Two primary requirements must be fulfilled to sign up for TN Lifeline. These include minimum income requirements and/or the household’s need to receive government assistance or benefits. Annual variations in the income threshold may be observed; nonetheless, applicants typically must meet 150% of the government’s poverty levels, considering the size of their family. Alternatively, a resident of the Tennessee House may be eligible for any of the following public assistance programs:
- Food programs: A family may be eligible for Lifeline if a family member is enrolled in free school lunches or receives SNAP benefits. For families with an EBT card, this includes a free phone or tablet.
- Energy programs: Applicants may be those who get weatherization or LIHEAP grants.
- Medical care: Lifeline discounts households with a member enrolled in Medicaid (TennCare) or receiving SSI disability benefits.
- Tribal Program: TANF and many other benefits could also be eligible.
You can be eligible for a free cell phone in one of two ways: Either You make at least 135% of what the Federal Poverty Guidelines require, or You are already enrolled in one of the numerous government assistance programmes.
Program-Based Qualification
If you are a beneficiary of any of the following free smartphone Tennessee programmes, you are qualified for free cell phones:
- food stamps, or the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Programme (SNAP),
- Supplemental Security Income (SSI) for Medicaid
- Assistance for Federal Public Housing (FPHA)
- Bureau of Indian Affairs General Assistance Veterans Pension and Survivors Benefit (BIA)
- Native American Head Start If you satisfy the requirements for qualified income
- Food Distribution Programme on Indian Reservations Run by Tribal Authorities: Temporary Assistance for Needy Families (FDPIR)
Income-Based Qualification
If your total household income is at or below 135% of the federal poverty guidelines, you can also be eligible for free cell phones. Thirty-five percent of Tennessee’s 2023 Federal Poverty Guidelines are represented in the table below:
The table below reflects 135% of the 2023 Federal Poverty Guidelines.
| Household Size | 48 Contiguous States, D.C., and Territories | Alaska | Hawaii |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | $19,683 | $24,584 | $22,640 |
| 2 | $26,622 | $33,264 | $30,618 |
| 3 | $33,561 | $41,945 | $38,597 |
| 4 | $40,500 | $50,625 | $46,575 |
| 5 | $47,439 | $59,306 | $54,554 |
| 6 | $54,378 | $67,986 | $62,532 |
| 7 | $61,317 | $76,667 | $70,511 |
| 8 | $68,256 | $85,347 | $78,489 |
| For each additional person, add: | $6,939 | $8,681 | $7,979 |
You may have to show proof of income, like a tax return or three consecutive pays stubs, when you apply for Lifeline free smartphone.
Documentation for getting free government phone TN
The Lifeline program, administered by the Federal Communications Commission (FCC) in the United States, provides discounted phone services to qualifying low-income households. To enroll in the Lifeline program, you must provide certain documents to verify your eligibility. These documents may vary slightly depending on the state and the specific requirements of the service provider but generally include:
- Proof of identity: This could be a valid government-issued photo ID such as a driver’s license, state ID card, passport, or tribal identification card.
- Proof of income: You may need to provide documentation of your household income to demonstrate that you meet the program’s income eligibility requirements. This could include recent pay stubs, a copy of your most recent tax return, or documentation of participation in a qualifying government assistance program such as Medicaid, Supplemental Security Income (SSI), Federal Public Housing Assistance (FPHA), Veterans Pension and Survivor’s Benefit, or Tribal-specific programs like Tribal Temporary Assistance for Needy Families (Tribal TANF).
- Proof of participation in a qualifying assistance program: If you qualify based on your involvement in a government assistance program, you may need to provide documentation of your enrollment or participation in that program. This could include a benefit statement or enrollment letter from the program’s agency.
- Proof of address: You may need to provide documentation showing your current residential address, such as a utility bill, lease agreement, or official government correspondence.
- Social Security Number (SSN) or Tribal Identification Number (TIN): You will likely need to provide your SSN or TIN for identity verification.
- Lifeline Program application form: You must complete an application form provided by your chosen Lifeline service provider. This form typically includes basic personal information and questions about your eligibility for the program.
It’s important to check with your chosen Lifeline service provider for specific documentation requirements and to confirm eligibility criteria before applying for the program. Additionally, remember that eligibility requirements and documentation may change over time, so it’s a good idea to stay informed about any updates to the program guidelines.
Applying for free phones in Tennessee
To apply for the Lifeline program in the United States, follow these general steps:
- Check your eligibility: Ensure that you meet the eligibility criteria for the Lifeline program. Generally, you must have a household income at or below 135% of the federal poverty guidelines or participate in certain qualifying government assistance programs such as Medicaid, Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP), Supplemental Security Income (SSI), Federal Public Housing Assistance (FPHA), Veterans Pension and Survivor’s Benefit, or Tribal-specific programs like Tribal Temporary Assistance for Needy Families (Tribal TANF).
- Choose a Lifeline service provider: Select a participating Lifeline service provider in your area. You can find a list of approved providers on the Lifeline Support website or by contacting the Universal Service Administrative Company (USAC), which administers the program.
- Gather required documents: Collect the necessary documents to prove your eligibility for the Lifeline program. These may include proof of identity, income or participation in a qualifying assistance program, proof of address, and your Social Security Number (SSN) or Tribal Identification Number (TIN).
- Complete the application: Obtain an application form from your Lifeline service provider. You can often find these forms on the provider’s website or by contacting their customer service. Fill out the application form completely and accurately, providing all required information and attaching copies of the necessary documents.
- Submit your application: Once you have completed the application form and gathered all required documents, submit your application to your chosen Lifeline service provider. Depending on the provider’s procedures, you can apply online, by mail, or in person at a local office.
- Wait for approval: After you submit your application, wait for the Lifeline service provider to review your application and verify your eligibility. This process may take some time, so be patient.
- Receive confirmation: Once your application is approved, you will receive confirmation from the Lifeline service provider. You will then be enrolled in the Lifeline program and can begin receiving discounted phone services.
- Renew your eligibility annually: Remember to renew your eligibility for the Lifeline program annually to continue receiving discounted phone services. You will need to recertify your eligibility and provide updated documentation as your Lifeline service provider requires.
Following these steps, you can successfully apply for and enrol in the Lifeline program to receive discounted phone services. If you have any questions or need assistance during the application process, don’t hesitate to contact your chosen Lifeline service provider for help.
READ MORE: Get a Free iPhone Government Phone Michigan – 5 Best Providers
7 Best Providers that offer Free Government Cell Phones in Tennessee
1. Assurance Wireless
There are two ways to qualify for a free cell phone: Your income is at or below 135% of the Federal Poverty Guidelines, or You already participate in one of these government aid programs. To get a free government phone tn, you need to contact:
- PO. Box 686, Parsippany, NJ 07054
- 888-321-5880
- Email: ourteam@assurancewireless.com
- Official Website
Assurance Lifeline free smartphone offer:
- Free smartphone
- Unlimited texts
- 1000 talk
- 4.5GB data
2. Access Wireless
To take part in the program, subscribers must either qualify with an income that equals or falls below 135% of the Federal Poverty Guidelines or be enrolled in certain programs mentioned above. To get a free government phone tn, you need to contact:
- 24 Westerville Sq, Westerville, OH 43081-2919
- 888-900-5899
- Email: accesswirelesssales@q1w.net
- Official Website
The minutes can be used for local or domestic long-distance calling and text messaging. There are a variety of plans based upon your state and what you are looking for.
- 1,000 Minutes of Talk
- Unlimited Text
- 4.5 GB Data
3. Safelink Wireless
There are two ways to qualify for a free cell phone: 1) Your income is at or below 135% of the Federal Poverty Guidelines, or 2) You already participate in one of these government aid programs. To get a free government phone tn, you need to contact:
- PO Box 160490 Hialeah, FL 33016-9997
- 800-723-3546
- Official Website
The minutes can be used for local or domestic long-distance calling and text messaging. There are a variety of plans, based upon your state and what you are looking for.
Safelink Lifeline Plan
- Free SIM card
- 350 voice minutes
- Unlimited texts
- 4.5GB data
4. US Cellular
To be eligible for the program, subscribers must meet either of the requirements: 1) have an income at or lower than 135% of the Federal Poverty Guidelines; 2) be enrolled in these programs:
To get a free government phone tn, you need to contact:
UScellular Dept. 0205 Palatine, IL 60055-0205
- 888-944-9400
- Official Website
5. T-Mobile
To participate in the program, subscribers must either qualify with an income that equals or falls below 135% of the Federal Poverty Guidelines or be enrolled in certain programs. To get a free government phone tn, you need to contact:
- 855-977-5761
- Official Website
Tennessee – You will save $10 per month.
6. Life Wireless
Tennesseeans with modest incomes can receive government-funded wireless services via Life Wireless. Cell phone service is provided for free to qualified consumers. A free cell phone can be available to some residents. If a Tennessee subscriber satisfies specific eligibility requirements—such as receiving government subsidies or having a family income at or below 135% of the Federal Poverty Guidelines—we will give Lifeline savings. You may only receive one FREE Lifeline per home, and you cannot utilize this advantage in conjunction with any other Lifeline promotion.
INCOME GUIDELINES
| Household Size | Annual Household Income |
|---|---|
| 1 | $19,683 |
| 2 | $26,622 |
| 3 | $33,561 |
| 4 | $40,500 |
| 5 | $47,439 |
| 6 | $54,378 |
| 7 | $61,317 |
| 8 | $68,256 |
| For each additional person add | $6,939 |
| Based on 135% of the current Federal Poverty Guideline. | |
WHAT DOES LIFE WIRELESS SERVICE INCLUDE?
- Unlimited Nationwide Calling
- Unlimited Text Messaging
- Unlimited Data**
- Call Waiting
- Three-way calling
- Voicemail
- Caller ID service
- No roaming charges
- No charge for domestic long-distance calls
- Free 911 Service
- Affordable Recharge Plans
- Hotspot
TENNESSEE LIFELINE PLANS
Lifeline Plan
| ONE-TIME FEE | MONTHLY COST | MINUTES | TEXT | DATA * |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| FREE | FREE | Unlimited | Unlimited | 4.5 GB |
7. enTouch Wireless
In search of trustworthy and reasonably priced free government phone service in Tennessee? Take a look at the Tennessee Lifeline programme first!
Millions of qualified consumers can receive free cell phone service* through the government programme Lifeline.
We at enTouch Wireless are pleased to provide Tennessee citizens with free phones as part of the Lifeline programme. Don’t let a lack of funds prevent you from maintaining your connections. Find out if you qualify for a free phone in Tennessee and monthly Lifeline minutes.
FREE PHONE
- New Premium Cell Phones From Brands You Trust
- Large Screen, Android Operating System, Brand New
- We Beat The Competition In Quality
FREE PLAN
- 10GB Data – Limited Time Only
- Unlimited Talk and Text
- No Contract, No Hidden Fees
FAQs (Frequently Asked Questions)
Q: How do I know if I qualify for a free government cell phone in Tennessee?
A: You may qualify based on low income or participation in certain government assistance programs. Check eligibility criteria with authorized Lifeline service providers.
Q: Can I apply for a free government cell phone online?
A: Yes, many Lifeline service providers offer online application options for convenience.
Q: Is there a limit to the number of Lifeline-supported phones per household?
A: Generally, Lifeline allows one free government cell phone per household.
Q: Can I keep my current phone number when switching to a free government cell phone?
A: You can often transfer your existing phone number to your new Lifeline-supported phone.
Q: Are there any fees associated with receiving a free government cell phone?
A: While the cell phone itself is free, there may be fees for additional services or features not covered by the Lifeline program.
Q: What happens if my eligibility status changes after receiving a free government cell phone?
A: If your eligibility status changes, notify your Lifeline service provider to update your information. Please do so to avoid loss of benefits.
Final Thought
Access to reliable communication is essential in today’s interconnected world. For individuals facing financial challenges in Tennessee, free government cell phone programs offer a lifeline to stay connected. By understanding the eligibility criteria and application process outlined in this guide, you can take advantage of these valuable resources and ensure access to essential communication services.
