Torch Wireless Affordable Connectivity Program (ACP) offering is a supported service – a government benefit program. Only eligible consumers may enroll in ACP. ACP service is limited to one per household and is non-transferable. Proof of income or qualified program participation may be required for enrollment to get Torch Wireless Free Government Phone.
Torch Wireless ACP Mobile Broadband Plans require purchasing a Mobile Broadband device discounted to $11.00 or requiring you to bring a compatible or unlocked device. Offers may only be available in some service areas. Torch Wireless Mobile ACP Plans are subject to the Terms and Conditions of Service. In case of a conflict, the Terms and Conditions of Service at torchwireless.com/terms-of-service/ shall apply.
In the following guides, we are going to explore the ways to get free government phones from Torch Wireless through lifeline programs with excellent Mobile Plans.
Qualification for ACP program to get torch wireless free government phone
When applying for the Affordable Connectivity Program (ACP) benefit, some consumers must provide additional information or documentation if USAC cannot confirm their eligibility, identity, or address. As of February 7, 2024, the Affordable Connectivity Program stopped accepting new applications or enrollments.
How to apply for the ACP Program
The ACP Is No Longer Accepting Applications
The Affordable Connectivity Program stopped accepting new applications and enrollments on February 8. Barring additional funding from Congress, April is expected to be the last month enrolled households will receive the full benefit. To obtain the ACP benefit, consumers had to be approved and registered with a service provider by 11:59 p.m. ET on February 7.
- All ACP households enrolled at the time of the enrollment freeze, February 7, 2024, at 11:59 p.m. ET, can remain registered through the final month of ACP service if they are not required to be de-enrolled under FCC rules.
- Households de-enrolled from the program, such as for failure to use their ACP-supported service, will not be able to re-apply or re-enroll in the ACP during the enrollment freeze.
ACP-enrolled households are encouraged to carefully review written notices from their internet company and the Universal Service Administrative Company (USAC), the ACP administrator, about the ACP wind-down.
Households are also encouraged to consult their internet company to learn more about how the end of the ACP will impact their internet service and bill.
Alternative ways to get Torch Wireless free phone from the government
Lifeline Program
Lifeline provides up to a $9.25 monthly discount on service for eligible low-income subscribers and up to $34.25 per month for eligible subscribers on Tribal lands. Subscribers may receive a Lifeline discount on either a wireline or a wireless service, but they may not simultaneously receive a discount on both services. Lifeline also supports broadband Internet service and broadband-voice bundles. FCC rules prohibit more than one Lifeline service per household.
Lifeline is available to eligible low-income consumers in every state, commonwealth, territory, and Tribal lands. The Lifeline program is administered by the Universal Service Administrative Company (USAC). USAC is responsible for helping consumers apply for the program, understand eligibility requirements, and keep their benefits current through an annual recertification process. USAC’s website provides additional information regarding the program, including program requirements.
To participate in the Lifeline program, consumers must either have an income that is at or below 135% of the Federal Poverty Guidelines or participate in specific federal assistance programs, such as:
- the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP),
- Medicaid,
- Federal Public Housing Assistance,
- Supplemental Security Income,
- the Veterans and Survivors Pension Benefit,
- or specific Tribal Programs.
Based on Your Income
You can get a Lifeline if your income is 135% or less than the Federal Poverty Guidelines (see the table below). The guideline is based on your household size and state.
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 pay stubs, when you apply for Lifeline.
Read More : Get a Free Lifeline iPhone | Apply Now
National Verifier for Lifeline Eligibility
To apply for Lifeline, a consumer must generally use the National Verifier application system, which they can access through USAC or a phone or internet company participating in Lifeline. The National Verifier is a centralized system established by the FCC and operated by USAC that verifies Lifeline applicants’ eligibility and recertifies subscriber eligibility annually. Consumers who would like assistance from a service provider when applying can use the “Companies Near Me” tool to locate a Lifeline program service provider in their area.
Please note that consumers in California (except broadband-only consumers), Texas, and Oregon will continue to apply for the federal Lifeline benefit through the state’s existing application process as they do today. For broadband-only consumers in California, consumers will need to use the National Verifier application system, and the National Verifier will check the consumer’s eligibility. For specific directions on applying for Lifeline in all three states, visit the National Verifier, select the relevant state from the drop-down menu, and press “Get Started.”
If you have questions about your application or would like an application mailed to you, contact Lifeline at (800) 234-9473 or LifelineSupport@usac.org.
Documents Needed for Torch-free government smartphone
If we cannot confirm your Lifeline eligibility, identity, or address, you may need to show proof. We will contact you to let you know if you need to submit evidence.
Program Participation
If you participate in one of the qualifying programs, provide a letter or official document as proof.
Documentation must include:
- Your name or dependent’s name
- The program name, such as SNAP
- The name of the government or Tribal agency that issued the document
- An issue date within the last 12 months or a future expiration date
Document Examples
- Benefit award letter
- Approval letter
- Statement of benefits
- Benefit verification letter
Household Income
If you qualify through your income, you must provide a document showing your annual income.
Documentation must include:
- Your first and last name or dependent’s name
- Your annual income
- To show documentation of income that does not cover an entire year, such as current pay stubs, the documentation must cover three months in a row within the past twelve months.
Document Examples
- Prior year’s state, federal, or Tribal tax return
- Current income statement from your employer or a paycheck stub
- Veterans Administration statement of benefits
- Unemployment or Workers’ Compensation statement of benefits
- Federal or Tribal notice letter of participation in General Assistance
- Divorce decree, child support award, or other official document containing income information
Date of Birth
Documentation must include:
- Your first and last name
- Your date of birth
Document Examples
- Government, military, state, or Tribal ID
- Birth Certificate
- Driver’s license
- Government assistance program document
- Certificate of U.S. Citizenship or Naturalization
- Permanent Resident Card or Green Card
Social Security Number or Tribal ID Number
Documentation must include:
- Your first and last name
- The Last four digits of your social security number or complete Tribal ID
Document Examples
- Social Security Card
- Most recent W-2 or tax return
- Government, military, state, or Tribal ID
- Government assistance program document
- Military discharge documentation
- Unemployment/Workers’ compensation benefits
Address
Documentation must include:
- Your first and last name
- Shows your physical address
Document Examples and Tips
- If you are resolving this error using the online application, you will use the mapping tool in the application to help USAC find your address.
- If you are resolving this error by mailing in information to USAC, you may show a map that clearly shows your physical address or location, including latitude and longitude coordinates (coordinates are required if you are on Tribal lands)
- Other options include:
- Utility bill
- Mortgage or lease statement
- Most recent W-2 or tax return
- Driver’s license or other valid government, state, or Tribal ID
Duplicate Address
If you live with another adult who gets Lifeline, you must answer a few questions to determine if your household qualifies for more than one benefit.
Document Requirements:
Complete a Lifeline Household Worksheet if someone else at your address already gets Lifeline.
Document Examples and Tips
- If you are resolving this error using the online application, the worksheet will appear in the application to complete
- If you are resolving this error by mailing information to USAC, you must complete the paper form and send it to the Lifeline Support Center.
How to apply for the Lifeline Program
What is the Torch Wireless application process?
Make copies or take pictures of your documents using a scanner, copy machine, camera, or smartphone. Avoid sending any dark or blurry copies or photographs. Never submit original copies of your documents.
Submit your proof documentation using any of the options below:
Online
Log in or create a new account and upload copies of your proof documentation.
Complete the cover sheet and send copies of your proof documentation to the address below.
Lifeline Support Center
PO Box 9100
Wilkes-Barre, PA 18773
Contact your phone or internet company
Ask your company for assistance with submitting your proof documentation.
Torch Wireless Plans
1. UNLIMITED 1GB
STARTING AT:
$20.00/MO.
- Unlimited Minutes
- Unlimited Text Messages
- 1 GB of Data
- Caller ID
- Call Waiting
- Call Forwarding
- 3-Way Calling
- Voicemail
- Top Ups Available
2. UNLIMITED 3GB
STARTING AT:
$30.00/MO.
- Unlimited Minutes
- Unlimited Text Messages
- 3GB of Data
- Caller ID
- Call Waiting
- Call Forwarding
- 3-Way Calling
- Voicemail
- Top Ups Available
3. UNLIMITED 5GB
STARTING AT:
$40.00/MO.
- Unlimited Minutes
- Unlimited Text Messages
- 5 GB of Data
- Caller ID
- Call Waiting
- Call Forwarding
- 3-Way Calling
- Voicemail
- Top Ups Available
Why did I receive a Torch Wireless SIM card?
There could be several reasons why you received a Torch Wireless SIM card:
- New Phone or Plan: If you recently purchased a new phone or subscribed to a new wireless plan, the Torch Wireless SIM card might be included as part of that package.
- Upgrade or Renewal: If you upgraded your existing phone or renewed your wireless plan, the provider might have sent you a new SIM card as part of the process.
- Promotion or Offer: Torch Wireless might be running a promotion or offer, and you received the SIM card as part of that promotion.
- Replacement: It’s possible that your previous SIM card was damaged, lost, or malfunctioning, and Torch Wireless sent you a replacement SIM card.
- Network Migration: Torch Wireless could be migrating its network or making changes to its services, requiring customers to switch to a new SIM card.
- Error or Mistake: Sometimes, companies might send out SIM cards to customers by mistake or due to an administrative error.
If you’re unsure why you received the Torch Wireless SIM card, it’s best to contact Torch Wireless customer service for clarification. They can provide you with specific information about your account and why the SIM card was sent to you.
FAQs ( Frequently Asked Questions)
How to get Torch Wireless customer service?
To reach Torch Wireless customer service, you can:
- Check their official website for contact information, such as a customer service phone number or email.
- Look for customer service contact details on your Torch Wireless SIM card packaging or documentation.
- Reach out to Torch Wireless through their official social media channels if available.
Is Torch Wireless legit?
To determine its legitimacy, you should:
- Conduct online research to find reviews, customer experiences, and official information about the company.
- Check for any red flags or complaints regarding its legitimacy.
- Contact their customer service to gauge their professionalism and reliability.
How do you activate a Torch Wireless SIM card?
To activate a Torch Wireless SIM card:
- Insert the SIM card into your device.
- Follow the instructions provided with the SIM card packaging or documentation.
- This may involve calling a designated number or accessing an online portal to complete the activation process.
- Ensure you have the necessary information or documentation, such as personal details or the SIM card’s unique identifier.
How do I qualify for a torch wireless free government phone?
To be eligible for a torch wireless free government phone, you typically need to meet specific eligibility criteria set by the government. These criteria often include participation in government assistance programs such as Medicaid, Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP), Federal Public Housing Assistance (FPHA), or income below a certain threshold. Each state may have specific requirements, so it’s essential to check with the torch wireless provider in your area for precise eligibility guidelines.
Can I keep my current phone number when switching to Torch Wireless?
Yes, in most cases, you can keep your current phone number when switching to a torch wireless free government phone. This process is known as “porting” your number, allowing you to transfer your existing phone number from your current carrier to your new Torch wireless phone. To initiate the porting process, you’ll need to provide your current phone number, account number, and any other relevant information requested by the Torch wireless provider.
Are there any hidden fees associated with Torch Wireless’s free government phones?
No, Torch wireless free government phones are designed to be accessible to eligible individuals. No hidden fees or charges are associated with obtaining or using a Torch wireless phone. However, it’s essential to review the terms and conditions provided by the Torch wireless provider to fully understand any potential charges that may apply to additional services or features beyond the basic phone service.
What do I do if my TorchTorch wireless phone is lost or stolen?
If your Torch wireless phone is lost or stolen, protecting your personal information and preventing unauthorized device use immediately is essential. First, contact your Torch wireless provider to report the loss or theft and request that they suspend service on the device. If possible, you should also consider remotely wiping the phone’s data and filing a police report to document the incident. Additionally, depending on their policies, your Torch wireless provider may offer options for replacing the lost or stolen phone.
Can I use my Torch wireless phone outside of the United States?
Generally, Torch wireless free government phones are intended for use within the United States and may not work internationally. However, some Torch wireless providers may offer international roaming services for an additional fee. You must check with your Torch wireless provider for details regarding international usage options and associated charges.
How do I prevent my Torch wireless data usage?
To prevent Torch wireless data usage, you can access this information through your phone’s settings or online by logging into your Torch wireless account. Depending on your Torch wireless provider, you can check your data usage by dialing a specific code or contacting customer service. Monitoring your data usage regularly can help you avoid exceeding usage limits and incurring additional charges.
Bottom Line
In conclusion, Torch Wireless’s free government phones offer a lifeline to individuals facing financial constraints, providing essential communication services at no cost. By leveraging the information and resources outlined in this guide, you can harness the full potential of torch wireless phones and stay connected to what matters most.
