Verizon Wireless Free Government Phone in 2024
Getting a free government phone through Verizon Wireless can help lower income individuals and families stay connected. Verizon offers their Lifeline program in select states, providing discounted or free cell phone service to qualifying customers. Here’s what to know about getting a free Verizon Wireless phone in 2024.
What is Lifeline?
Lifeline is a federal program that provides discounted or free cell phone service to low-income consumers. It was started in the 1980s to ensure all Americans have access to telephone service. Today, Lifeline provides a monthly discount on cell phone service provided by major carriers like Verizon, as well as smaller wireless companies.
The Lifeline program is administered by the Universal Service Administrative Company (USAC) under the direction of the Federal Communications Commission (FCC). Funding for Lifeline comes from the Universal Service Fund, which collects fees from telecommunications providers to subsidize service for low-income customers.
Verizon Wireless Lifeline Program
Verizon Wireless participates in the Lifeline program in select states. The Verizon Lifeline plan provides the following at no cost to qualifying subscribers:
- Free smartphone
- Free phone service with unlimited talk & text
- Discounted internet with unlimited 4G LTE data
Verizon typically offers an entry-level 4G LTE smartphone for Lifeline customers. Data speeds are uncapped but may be slowed after exceeding 35GB of usage per month.
Verizon Lifeline Plan Availability
Verizon currently offers Lifeline benefits in parts of:
- Arkansas
- California
- Indiana
- Kansas
- Kentucky
- Maine
- Massachusetts
- Mississippi
- New Mexico
- New York
- Ohio
- Oklahoma
- Rhode Island
- Texas
- West Virginia
- Wisconsin
Availability can vary even within these states, so be sure to check Verizon’s Lifeline coverage map to see if you qualify by location. Some areas may only have 3G service available.
Applying for Verizon Lifeline
To get Lifeline benefits from Verizon Wireless, you must meet eligibility requirements and apply for the program. The main Lifeline requirements are:
- Your household income is at or below 135% of the Federal Poverty Guidelines for your family size and state.
- You receive Medicaid, SNAP (food stamps), SSI, Section 8, or other government assistance programs.
- You live on federally recognized Tribal lands.
You must provide proof that you qualify for Lifeline when applying. This usually involves submitting documentation that shows you participate in one of the above programs or that your household meets the income requirements.
There are a few ways to apply for Verizon Lifeline service:
- Apply online: Through Verizon Lifeline enrollment website. You’ll need to provide your personal information and eligibility documentation.
- Apply by phone: Call 1–800-VERIZON (1–800–837–4966) to reach the Verizon Lifeline support line. Speak with a representative to verify your eligibility and complete the Lifeline application over the phone.
- Apply through a Verizon store: Bring proof of eligibility to a Verizon corporate store or authorized retailer. Employees can assist you with submitting the Lifeline application using their computer system.
- Mail-in application: Print and fill out the Lifeline application. Mail the completed form and eligibility documentation to: Verizon Lifeline Program, PO Box 55126, Boston, MA 02205–5126.
Once approved, Verizon will contact you to set up your free Lifeline cell phone and service. Be sure to cancel any current cell phone plan to avoid getting charged.
Using Your Verizon Lifeline Service
Once enrolled, Verizon will provide instructions on activating your Lifeline smartphone and service plan. Here are some key things to know about making the most of the free phone and monthly plan:
- Activating your phone: Verizon Lifeline phones need to be activated online or through customer support before use. Follow the included directions to get your phone up and running.
- Coverage area: Since Verizon doesn’t offer Lifeline in all areas, be sure to check your coverage map for voice and data service. Don’t assume nationwide coverage.
- Plan usage: Your unlimited talk & text can only be used for standard voice calls and SMS messages. Data usage on your Lifeline plan is unlimited but speeds may be slowed after 35GB.
- Recertifying benefits: To keep your Verizon Lifeline benefits, you must recertify your eligibility each year. Verizon will provide instructions for this process.
- Reporting changes: If you no longer qualify for Lifeline due to increased income or other reasons, you must contact Verizon to de-enroll within 30 days.
Following these tips will help you stay qualified for the program and get the most value from your Verizon Wireless Lifeline service.
Lifeline Program Changes in 2024
The Lifeline program could see some changes in 2024 under the direction of the FCC. Here are some potential updates that could impact Verizon Lifeline benefits:
- Minimum service standards: The FCC may establish minimum service standards for Lifeline plans. This could mean requiring providers like Verizon to offer unlimited talk & text, minimum 4G LTE data speeds, and hotspot capabilities.
- National verifier system: A new national verifier system will take over eligibility determinations from providers like Verizon. This could standardize and streamline the application process.
- $25 subsidy cap: Lifeline subsidies could potentially be capped at $25 per month, which could impact the free service offerings from Verizon. More details will emerge in 2024.
- Tribal Lands support: Additional support is expected for expanding Lifeline subsidies and service on Tribal lands. More providers may offer enhanced Tribal Lifeline programs.
- Program audits: Stricter program audits could be implemented to verify subscriber eligibility and prevent fraud or abuse of Lifeline benefits.
Anyone interested in the Lifeline program through Verizon or other carriers should keep up-to-date on these changes expected for 2024. Some may impact your eligibility or plan benefits.
Pros & Cons of Verizon Lifeline Service
Lifeline service from Verizon has advantages and disadvantages to consider:
Pros
- Large Verizon network with LTE service (in coverage areas)
- No cost for a smartphone and cell service
- Unlimited talk & text keeps you connected
- Avoid paying full price for cell service each month
Cons
- Lifeline limited to select states and areas on Verizon
- Slowed data speeds after 35GB of usage
- Must re-certify eligibility yearly to maintain service
- Only basic phones offered, no flagship models
Verizon Lifeline provides a great opportunity to get free cell service each month to those who qualify. But the plan has limits on data and availability that may not work for everyone.
Other Lifeline Providers to Consider
Verizon isn’t your only option for taking advantage of the Lifeline program. Many other wireless carriers participate and offer free or discounted plans to low-income Americans. Here are some other major Lifeline providers available in most states:
- Assurance Wireless: Provides a free Android phone and service with 1GB of data through the Sprint network.
- Safelink Wireless: Offers a free smartphone and monthly service with 1GB of 4G LTE data. Runs on T-Mobile network.
- Q Link Wireless: Gives a free phone and service with 1GB of data monthly. Uses T-Mobile, Sprint and Verizon networks.
- Access Wireless: Lifeline plans with a free phone and unlimited talk & text. Bring your own approved phone or purchase one.
Each Lifeline carrier has its own eligibility requirements, coverage maps, and plan details that are important to research thoroughly before signing up. Having more choices helps ensure you can find the right free or discounted Lifeline cell phone plan.
Getting Help with Verizon Lifeline
Getting approved for Verizon Lifeline can take some time and effort. If you need assistance applying or have any questions about the program, here are some resources:
- Call the Verizon Lifeline support line at 1–800-VERIZON (1–800–837–4966)
- Visit a Verizon store and speak to a sales representative
- Contact your local government assistance office — they often have experience helping people apply
- Search online Lifeline community forums for answers to common questions
Don’t hesitate to reach out for help to ensure you get signed up for a free or discounted cell phone plan. Having reliable phone service can be vital for staying connected to family, work, schools, and emergency services.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Who qualifies for a Verizon Lifeline phone?
A: Those with low household incomes at or below 135% of the federal poverty level or who participate in government assistance programs like Medicaid or SNAP can qualify for Verizon Lifeline.
Q: Is a Verizon Lifeline phone completely free?
A: Yes, Verizon provides a free smartphone with unlimited talk & text, along with discounted data to Lifeline customers at no charge. No monthly bill.
Q: Can I bring my own phone?
A: Typically not. Verizon Lifeline provides specific phone models to use on their network. You must use the free smartphone they send you.
Q: How many free Lifeline phones can I get per household?
A: Only one Lifeline phone is allowed per household. You cannot get multiple free phones from Verizon Lifeline.
Q: Does Verizon Lifeline have Unlimited data?
A: No exact data limit, but speeds slow after 35GB of usage per month. For unlimited high-speed data, you’ll need a standard Verizon plan.
Q: What network does Verizon Lifeline use?
A: Verizon Lifeline phones use Verizon’s nationwide 4G LTE network. But check coverage maps for availability in your area.
