Since the day Barack Obama was inaugurated, the term “The Obama Phone” has persisted. People say Obama is redistributing the wealth by starting a program that gives free cell phones – Obama phones – to the poor. Detractors of both President Obama and of the government’s long-standing phone assistance program have fought over this claim since 2009 with each side mudslinging “facts” at each other.
FreeGovernmentCellPhones.net is going to clear this subject up once and for all with the most detailed account of the facts that you will find anywhere. When you next have a discussion on this topic, just give those on the other side the link to this page.
Is the government giving out free cell phones?
Yes. This part is true. They fund low end cell phones plans, and offset some of the cost of landline phones. The programs that authorize the phone distribution program are called Lifeline Assistance and Lifeline Link-Up. Lifeline Assistance helps pay monthly phone bills and Lifeline Link-Up helps pay the initial outlay for the phone and installation. The two programs are often lumped together and simply called Lifeline.
These Lifeline cell phones are delivered through relatively new, government-approved cell phone companies. These companies were spun of off larger prepaid cell phone companies to specialize in the Lifeline program.
Did Obama start the free phones program?
That looks like a big fat NO to us.
The cell phone distribution program did begin in 2008, the year Obama was elected president, but that is a coincidence. Let’s look more closely at the facts.
Notice that earlier we said Link-Up helps fund “installation.” What installation does a cell phone have? None. So why is installation part of Link-Up, which is under the Lifeline program umbrella? Because, the whole thing began back in 1996 when the Federal Communications Commission authorized the programs for landline phones. At that time it provided discounts on landline phones only, for obvious reasons.
To this day the government provides discounts on landline phones for financially disadvantaged people in the United States and U.S. territories. The Link-Up portion helps with the installation and the Lifeline Assistance part helps with the monthly bills, to the tune of roughly ten dollars a month.
So, the subsidization of phones began under President Clinton, and has continued under Presidents Bush, Obama, Trump and Biden.
Over that time, the usage of cell phones rose and the costs came down. Assuming one believes in the Lifeline program in the first place, and remembering that the FCC has mandated the program, it only makes sense to expand the phone assistance program to include cell phones. So, in 2008 the first application of this program for mobile phones began when a company called Tracfone started their Safelink Wireless service in Tennessee.
Aha, some say, that’s the same year Obama was elected! Well, that’s true. But the service in Tennessee was launched three months prior to Obama being elected. And that means the discussion and approval of the extension of the program occurred under President Bush’s watch.
The Bush Phone, anyone? The Trump Phone? The Biden Phone?
Let’s just stick with the Lifeline/ACP free government cell phone.
How did the Obama Phone rumors start?
Just how did this “Obama Phone” rumor get started anyway? Back around early 2009, emails began circulating that called the free cell phone program the Obama Phone. And you know what happens when emails start getting passed around — few people verify them, and just simply forward them to everyone in their contact list. And the people who forward them believe that Barack Obama has socialist tendencies, so there was a willing audience. Here is just one sample email:
FW: Obamaphone… no joke!!
I had a former employee call me earlier today inquiring about a job, and at the end of the conversation he gave me his phone number. I asked the former employee if this was a new cell phone number and he told me yes this was his “Obama phone.” I asked him what an “Obama phone” was and he went on to say that welfare recipients are now eligible to receive (1) a FREE new phone and (2) approx 70 minutes of FREE minutes every month. I was a little skeptical so I Googled it and low and behold he was telling the truth. TAX PAYER MONEY IS BEING REDISTRIBUTED TO WELFARE RECIPIENTS FOR FREE CELL PHONES. This program was started earlier this year. Enough is enough, the ship is sinking and it’s sinking fast. The very foundations that this country was built on are being shaken. The age old concepts of God, family, and hard work have flown out the window and are being replaced with “Hope and Change” and “Change we can believe in.”
Variations of these emails persist to this day. Like President Obama or not, they are simply false.
And then there are videos like this one, that went viral. Videos of these misinformed people don’t help:
Who qualifies?
The free cell phones only go to those who qualify for the program under the exact same eligibility requirements that have been in effect since 1996. An applicant is generally eligible if they are at or below 135-150% of the Federal Poverty Guidelines (depending upon the state in which they live), or if they already participate in one of many public assistance programs such as Medicaid, food stamps, energy assistance, public housing and others.
Nothing about the Lifeline eligibility has changed since President Clinton’s days. Nothing has changed since President Bush’s days.
Who pays for the phones?
There’s another running argument about if the phones are or are not paid for by taxpayers. Yes and no, it depends how you look at it.
The money actually comes from a small fee added to most people’s monthly phone bills, called the Universal Service Fund fee. For a complete discussion of this, please read, “Do Taxpayers Pay for Government Cell Phones for the Poor?”
And it’s important to note that it does not cost any more to provide cell phones to people than it does landline. The government subsidizes both equally. In fact, landlines are often more expensive because the Link-Up portion is not always required for cell phones, depending upon the state.
Spread the Word: The Obama Phone rumor is false!
Now you’ve got all the facts and information you need to rebut anyone who calls this valuable program the The Obama Phone. Set the record straight by giving them the link to this page.
https://www.freegovernmentcellphones.net/obama-phone
And of course, you can share this page with all your friends on Facebook, Twitter and elsewhere with the buttons just a few lines below.
Ray says
I have a question , I thought these lifeline program , allowed you to bring your own phone . MY son bought me a galaxy A 50 for my 55th birthday. I called assurance wireless to change my benefits and phone number over to the galaxy . They told me some crap that my phone is not compatible with their system . Obviously they want me to buy their 0hones from them . Ridiculously liars .
Free Government Cell Phones says
They were telling you the truth, Ray. Here’s an article that explains it all:
https://www.freegovernmentcellphones.net/cdma-gsm-lte-phone-compatible-with-my-free-phone-network
Tania Felix says
Please send me phone n free lifeline text messages n free minutes to taniafelix 308 lawndale st apt 15. Grayling mi 49738
Free Government Cell Phones says
We can’t send you a phone, Tania, because we are not a service provider. This is an independent informational website. Here’s where you can find all the service providers and plans available in your state:
Which provider and plan to choose? You can find all the providers and
plans available in your state here:
https://www.freegovernmentcellphones.net/states
AL TAYLOR says
I WONDER IF THE GRIFTER IN CHIEF, THE BILLIONAIRE BIGOT IN THE ALL WHITE HOUSE WITH HIS 750 DOLLAR TAX BILL ALSO GOT AN OBAMA PHONE. THE RICH PIG ELITE ARE THE WORST WELFARE CHEATS IN THIS COUNTRY, LED BY DONALD J TRUMP
Free Government Cell Phones says
Maybe he can redistribute his money and you can redistribute your hate, Al.
John McMaster says
What money to redistribute? He’s broke, owes more than he has. Trump is a grifter, con man and tax fraud. I happy the Southern District of New York is well funded. As for the “rich pig elite” Al Taylor dislikes, well, they’ll all die one day.
Free Government Cell Phones says
You’re a moron, Johnnyboy. Most people owe more than they have. Your understanding of economics is limited, but your hate is unlimited.
Kathy Kelley says
Speaking of President Trump ..I’m curious, did you keep the $ 1200.00 stimulus check or did you Send it back? (I’m guessing that you kept it!) . President Trump is the best President we’ve had running our country since John F. Kennedy. If you don’t like the man I suggest you keep Your Opinion to yourself or Move to a country that you’d be happier with.
Marvin Zinn says
Including food stamps I often wonder why poor people (Including those not even trying to find a job) can get twice as much free than I can afford to buy.
Bee Cee says
I’m gonna guess it’s because you act like a jerk and the universe hates you.
Mighty Phenom!! says
Regan actually started the National Life line program back in 1985
Alex Paul says
I have been using Assist wireless ( https://www.assistwireless.com/lifeline-plans/ ) for the last 6 months.
Diane Seither says
Hi I am doing this for someone I know he is homeless and has no income he does do little errands for people to get a little bit of money to survive he does have an access cared for food an emergencys.he has no computer for emails so it’s hard for me to fill out some of the questions you ask can you give me a phone number we can call.if so can you email me on my computer.i appreciate any help any help you could give me so I can help him
Free Government Cell Phones says
Here’s where you can find all the companies and plans available in your state. First click on your state, then click on each of the companies listed. We give you contact info on each of the service provider’s pages.
https://www.freegovernmentcellphones.net/states
Steven Schaeneman says
The rich feel gillty so they pass laws that help the poor, however, they don’t want to help. They want me and you to pay for there gilltyness. It’s the rich that pass these laws its the rich that should pay for them.
ray says
i have been all over these webpage and can not find the free phone
Free Government Cell Phones says
Seriously, Ray. Everything on this website is about free government cell phones.
Sally Mae says
Yeah…so who gives a flyin flip who’s who started it…! Unless you have clout and money to be in the upper cliche in today’s 🌎 ya need to be figuring it quick, “GO WITH FRICKIK FLOW” stay under the Rader don’t make no waves AND DON’T GET CAUGHT IN THEIR SYSTEM. AND THEN THEY HAVE YA UNDER THEIR THUMB…IT’S CALLED OPPRESSED…to burden harshly, unjustly, to weigh heavily upon one’s mind and spirit…TYRANNICALLY. AND that is what they are after YOUR SPIRIT which is how THEY THEN take your FREEDOM.
SO I AM GOING TO quietly do what l need to do to survive w/Integrity and morals. This is what the younger generation needs to comprehend…real frickin quick & they will survive instead of being conquered & divided!!! So when ya play the games of life, play so you both when!😄😃😀😊☺🌠⭐☀🌁🎁🗝🗝🗝…A Key of Wisdom To Life! And absolutely there is nothing fair for no-one except upper-class..If us 2 lower-classes stick together & find empathy compassion for our Brother’s & Sister’s…truly care for one another you will overcome THEIR swallow ugliness and rise above it,letting them foot the bill!!!
Free Government Cell Phones says
We couldn’t disagree more. This is the land of opportunity and anyone can make it. That’s why millions of people from around the world risk their lives to get here.
scot says
NOW i see why you made this page ata all regarding the term “obamaphone”
You dislike the idea that the black guy is being attached to the program. No other big player site is doing this. You cant go to at&t for example, and find a page that has them pushing back from any term like “obamaphone”
I worked for them, when the discounted lan line service was offered…yes, under Clinton’s presidency..But they dont care about making it a point.
Your wild claim that “millions are risking their lives to come here”
is brainwashed “rah rah america” stupidity…
then you promoted yourself on youtube? that youtube user pushes https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Breitbart_News breitbart news, a notoriously racist website.
Listen, if you are low income, you are blind by supporting the GOP who constantly want to do away with services that assist them..
those people “risking their lives to get here” legally or not, are HATED by the GOP, and especially if they are in need of financial assistance. So cut the racist side of you for 5 minutes to see that these rich fat cats dont give a rats ass about you… and never had. Just becdause you are desperate to spew hate for a black guy who was president, you are willing to hurt people who are your OWN customers!?!?! the low income??!?~?~
If you welcome the rhetoric of the GOP, please GET OFF WELFARE BECAUSE YOURE HURTING OUR TAX DOLLARS…If you dont like what I am saying “GO TO ANOTHER COUNTRY.
now..how do YOU like it?
Free Government Cell Phones says
Well, this is a first. In the ten year history of this website this is the first time we’ve ever been accused of being racists.
You are a moron. We wrote this article to address the common usage of the term ObamaPhone. We didn’t make it up, but that’s what a large percentage of people call it. The article accurately states that the program started under Clinton, expanded under Bush, and exploded in public awareness under Obama. We didn’t create that video you reference. It was a viral video that was on every newscast across the country.
Finally, anyone who denies that “millions are risking their lives to come here” is completely ignorant of history AND current events. One of the great proofs of the greatness of this country is that millions of people risk their lives to get here.
Sounds to us like your overheated rhetoric makes you, not us, the hater.
Cole says
I’ve read through a lot of these replies to see what kind of people freak out about free cell phones and though it’s funny, I also realize it’s kinda sad how much people embrace the “us vs. them” mentality
Thank you for doing what you do to dispel fiction and shed light on truth; and thanks for putting up with these commenters, your responses are great lol.
Free Government Cell Phones says
We do what we can. Thanks.
Scott says
Ya know. First let me say that I agree that those who sincerely need assistance should get it. But why do folks who strive hard everyday, who get their A$$ outta bed and go to work and make just enough to scrape by, but not enough to get Any assistance suffer? Shouldn’t these be the ones that get help based on the fact that they’re at least trying? Just a thought
ray says
i have work hard for 30 or more and that i am on disable after paying all my bill i can not afford a damn cellphone
Free Government Cell Phones says
You’ve come to the right place, Ray. Just click around this website (starting with the home page) and you’ll find all the info you need to change that situation.
Patty morris says
I have had to use the free phone service because of severe sickness ..At times the service was a nightmare .Being unable to call Doctors Family Transportation .Being monitored .Shutting phone down ..Freezing phone..cannot use it like this there has been some improvement after years of filing complaints
Free Government Cell Phones says
Impossible to answer your question because there are so many variables, Patty. Sorry. You should try reading the comments on each service provider’s page to get some indication of the relative service of the various providers.
Gilbert says
I can understand help for those who are really in need, BUT when these young people try to push phones on people do they can get their “points” . They tell people even if you don’t need it but you qualify give it to your kids or a friend. This is sickening when the monies could go for helping people who really need it.
Natalie Garcia says
I need a phone
Free Government Cell Phones says
God helps those who help themselves, Natalie. You can find out everything you need to know right here on this website. Click around and then enroll with the company of your choice.
Luisa says
I have been all over this sites but I have not been able to find HOW TO APPLY for this free phone, I do not have internet at all. I am at the library. HELP I am 90 years old
Free Government Cell Phones says
We provide contact information for each service provider, Luisa. Here’s what we’d suggest. First, go to the list of providers and plans in your state. You can find that here:
https://www.freegovernmentcellphones.net/states
Click on each of the service providers to find the plan that fits your needs best. Then go back and click on the service provider you prefer and you’ll find its contact info.
Valerie says
The Free Obama Phone: Real or Urban Legend?
You need to go back before Clinton to discover where the free phone service came from. President Reagan started the program after the AT&T monopoly was broken up.
Free Government Cell Phones says
Did you bother to read the article, Valerie? It spells out the history of the program in great detail, including the correct version of what your comment alleges.
Fake News says
The cell phone distribution program did begin in 2008, the year Obama was elected president, but that is a coincidence. Holy shit what an attempt to spin lol
Free Government Cell Phones says
You won’t find any Obama fans here at FreeGovernmentCellPhones.net, but you can’t blame him for starting a program that began six months before he took office. You can blame him for expanding the program, but not for starting it.
RICHARD A JANICS says
i need a free phone please.
Free Government Cell Phones says
You need to enroll with one of the service providers offering plans in your state, Richard. Here’s where you can find them:
https://www.freegovernmentcellphones.net/states
Your mother says
Did only democratic afro-Americans write this article?
JMAC says
Lifeline has been around before 1996, at least for landlines in California. I had it in the late eighties, when I was attending university.
Cell phones didn’t become widespread until advances in SMT, rechargeable battery energy demsity, and economy of scale dropped hardware prices.
As cell phone use massively expended, public pay phones became a nostalgic memory. Low income households regularly relied on these services in conducting their day-to-day affairs. Mobile phones then were still out of reach for most low income famalies because the plans were too expensive, required usury contracts, and required credit approval or large prepayment sums with high airtime fees.
However, current lifeline providers are a bunch of crooks, and regularly defraud the gpvernment, light years beyond what any poor families could accomplish.
Ken says
I got mine in 2015 and have several health issues so I am lucky I got one. But I don’t know why they give them out to anyone who doesn’t need the help.
Donald. Graves says
I think that giving free phones to our american citizens was, and, is a very good idea in helping people maintain order in their lives. I myself, had an Obama phone, however, it was stolen. That”s been over a year ago. Todate, I”m without a phone,..which is rather odd because I”m much in need of one. If, possible, I’d truly appreciate someone from your office sending me another wherefore I can go about taking care of some business ideas that I’m sure to be a success not only for myself, but, for a many other people that are in need of work. Therefore, I”d like to ask you to please contact me concerning these ideas as soon as possible! I’d also appreciate it if you were to send me another Cell Phone. But most of all, I”d like for you to contact me regarding these new ideas I have in mind! They”re sure to provide new jobs as well as they”re sure to beautify the neighborhood! Please contact me as soon as possible! You won”t be disappointed! Donald. Graves, Elijahwan!
Free Government Cell Phones says
This is an independent informational website, Donald, NOT your free government cell phone service provider. You need to contact that company directly.
Mike Stevenson says
As a mailman who delivers to the
Welfare office I see the street vendors
From Safelink and Assurance outside
The Welfare office every day. What really pisses me off is when I see
People signing up for their free Android with an IPhone 6 or 7 in their
Hand. I’m paying 200 dollars a month
For 3 IPhone 5’s. Actually someone stole my 5, so I have a cracked IPhone 4.still paying off the 5.
Cathy says
Kudos and Thanks for all the info and facts, glad you wrote the article and gave links showing how to get one.
People will still call it an (Obama phone) though
Bush phone nickname wont stick
(Side note it will never be called a ~Trump phone~ ┌( ಠ_ಠ)┘.
Unless it starts spitting out angry texts and gives you pouty angry emoji faces.
Yeah, they still do offer assurance and lifeline phones to the poor.
I qualified, but I like my independence and something a little unnerving about government controlling your (cell phone). So I said thanks (but no thanks).
Bought myself a cheapy prepaid phone that I reload every month.
Some months I have service sometimes I dont (crossing fingers).
Reading all the readers comments below I’m very suprised at all the angry commentors.
We shouldnt knock down our government for helping-out the poor.
We shouldnt beat-up the poor for needing a phone.
Everyone cant all be rich and alot of us poor are just hardworking poor like me. Uncle Sam takes a big chunk out of my paycheck every month. Arrgghhh.
People become poor though disaster tragedy, illness so we shouldnt judge them.
As for the companies who takes advantage of the poor and this program. That will eventually wind up shutting the program down …which will be sad but we cant do much about that.
I’m thankful for “Obama-Bush-Clinton -Reagan Phone program.
Glad for all the people who needed help and could get it. Because in 2019 you need a cell phone/email /internet/ just to look for jobs, to call 911, keep track of your kids. Social Networking was made popular by cellphones.
Im so old I can remember the days when a phone was only used for talking.And partylines when your phone call overlapped someone elses phone call.
.Times has changed.LOL.
~Pay phones booths~ no longer exist now….Except in England maybe?
Phone cards for phone booths nowadays are almost useless.
Every job employer wants you to have a cell phone. So a cell phone in hand is like a mini job search computer in your pocket. ¯\_(ツ)_/¯ Be Happy.
Free Government Cell Phones says
Right back atcha, Cathy.
Elliott says
I was in between jobs, on unemployment and basically homeless among other things when my sister signed me up for one of these phones. Within a month of getting the phone, just a simple no frills TracFone I was able to get my resume out and find a job. I would have had no way for an employer to reach me without a phone, it is a necessity these days, as no pay phones exist anymore and what’s more is now everything is done on the internet so it’s no question that I am for universal basic wifi, if you want to pay for better service fine but it is a must that everybody access the web in 2017. With the government spending a trillion on the military each yr and bailing out financiers to the tune of the same can you even imagine the infrastructure that could be built and maintained for that? What services would be available to put everyone into work or the proper care and if you disagree for others think about how this would help grown family and don’t forget there is many out here with little or no family to fall back on, that being said the people who complain about the tax dollars being spent to help others do not realize how little is actually spent on the problem, a solution would be wiser.
Free Government Cell Phones says
Well said, Elliott. We hope many more of our readers are able to use their phones to get jobs like you did.
Jody Steiger-Leese says
How do u report someone abusing the free cell phone option out their, by them having someone else’s they kept “basically stoled” and ordered another one?
Free Government Cell Phones says
Here’s an article that tells you exactly how to do it, Jody. Give ‘em hell.
https://www.freegovernmentcellphones.net/faq/report-lifeline-assistance-fraud-abuse-waste
Heal freq says
Do the taxpayers pay yes or no? That’s a definite yes. Everybody the owns a phone pays for their phone obviously… WTF do you mean yes and no LOL
ODonnell says
I love how this is supposed to be an official position the all omnipotent word about the subsidize cell phone services for poor people. The question about does the taxpayer pay for the cell phones was totally circumvented and not answer. The answer is yes taxpayers do you pay for these free phones for the poor. The taxpayers that have phone bills are footing the bill for people who can’t foot their own bills.
No I’d like to add something that was hugely avoided. That all conservatives and Republicans totally agree with. This program was put in place so that shut-ins for whatever reason ( elderly, and health reasons physical and mental ) would have a telephone for convenience of life and emergency reasons. The start of the program of course was well intended. But as with many programs started with good intentions the services are leached upon by the greedy. By the good for nothing leaches on our society that will take whatever they can get regardless of the fact that somebody else has to pay for it. The woman in the video is a perfect example. And she wasn’t lying when she said everybody has a free Obama phone. There is so much fraud in that program. There are people that don’t deserve to have the phone subsidy. And from what I’ve heard there are people that have more than one phone.
No good deed ever goes unpunished. Unfortunately the governing body of this country has lost its way. They have no idea what the original intention was when our founding fathers put together a government for this country. The foolS on the hill now are just that, fools. Unfortunately they have missed lead much of the American population into thinking that they are deserving of things like these free cell phones. That they have a right to demand other Americans pay for their ability to exist at a certain level of comfort without putting forth any effort. Are examples are free cell phones healthcare services food stamps College and tuition assistance and grants. Don’t get me started on the college money. I work my rear off since junior high school and my reward was my children qualified for nothing. I paid through the nose for them to go to school as a reward for my hard work all these years. And like I said no good deed goes unpunished.
GM says
This program should revert to landlines only, as it was designed. No problem then of stolen phones, or multiple fraud phones to same “household” or phones to children “free breakfast & lunch program qualifies you ! ” Or phones to criminals, ie, a rapist gets parole to a half way house here in Calif, that alone qualifies him/her for Medicaid, and that qualifies now for a free Obama cell phone. Unbelievable to me. but true. In Calif. that Universal fee was raised three times in one year, (to us payers of it) because of the extent of the free give away. I only have a pre-pay, pay by the minute,have to talk very little, no data, no pictures, no web, no google maps, BUT I have to pay to give these benefits to the free loaders. Look what a lie it is, it’s called “Lifeline” . like to save a dying person. It shouldn’t be wireless at all. I’ve had my pre-plan/phone for years, and now I have to pay 9 dollars extra,(Not a small fee), same minutes I get, for the Universal fee/freeloaders. Go back to landlines only. And forget about giving free internet, that’s next, if not already. Go to the library. Something else I pay for on property tax bill, FCC please read this plea for sanity in government.
Heal freq says
Yes and you have less microwave pollution that the cell phones give off
Ray says
Stealing from taxpayers is criminal. I’m sure President Trump would like to know!
Anna Johnson says
I’ve been trying weeks to get through on here. i’m in need of a free phone. please HELP
Free Government Cell Phones says
Who have you been trying to get through to, Anna? Please be aware that if you’re having trouble enrolling with one company, there are plenty of other choices for you. Take a look at all the companies and plans available in your state here:
https://www.freegovernmentcellphones.net/states
Check each of the options carefully, Anna, because you may find a much better plan (more minutes, more texts, more data, a smartphone, etc).
Kathie Kuehn says
Why exactly r we so lucky to b given these free phones? Is it so they can keep tabs on us?
Free Government Cell Phones says
We don’t know about you, Kathie, but there’s nothing interesting enough in our lives that anyone would want to keep tabs on us.
TJ says
When I found out I was being taxed on my cell phone bill to pay for free phones for others, I cancelled my plan and went to a prepaid company. I now get 10g of internet, unlimited talk and text for $55 per month. And the service is great. As far as I can tell, I’m now paying just sales tax. I won’t begrudge people their free cell phones but I shouldn’t be denied my right not to have to provide for others. I take care of my own first then give to others if I’m able to. That’s the problem with the public aid system. I was raised that family takes care of family in tough times. That’s not possible when multiple generations of the family are living on welfare. So the cycle continues. For me it all comes down to dignity and self-respect. I have it and so do my daughter and son. Because I taught them, as a struggling single mom with no help of any kind. And no college education, just in case someone was going there.
Heal freq says
What company did you go with?
Jason says
How can you say that is a valuable program? 70 minutes a month is roughly 2.3 minutes a day. It seems like it is more free stuff for people who are not earning it.
James Boag says
How would your normally communicate with the state ?
Don’t know about you but here in Scotland we use phones !
70 minutes a month, you’d get about 40 minutes of canned music
then told it’s the wrong line, we’ll transfer you.
Free Government Cell Phones says
Well, welcome to our Scottish readers. We didn’t know we had any.
kenneth hennefer says
how can i report a scam by AT&T ? they said if i paid full price for phone service eventually they would refund everything but the amount for lifeline service, but they never did
Free Government Cell Phones says
Do you have that in writing, Kenneth? If not, there’s really not much you can do. Maybe file a complaint with your local Better Business Bureau.
christie gillotti says
I would like to get a free cell phone
Free Government Cell Phones says
Then you need to apply for a free cell phone, christie. You can find all the service providers in your state here:
https://www.freegovernmentcellphones.net/states
Heal freq says
I think all of America would like a free phone but I don’t f***ing want nor do I expect somebody else paying for it WTF? Why do you feel you’re so privileged?
Tom Anderson says
OK, I did my research- The Universal Service Fund, one of the more hefty fees on my phone bill, assists with internet and phone costs to schools and libraries, and for phones to poor folk. It started about late 1995, was implemented thereafter, and was oriented for landlines. (Another Obama fallacy) Since inception, cell phones have become less expensive than landlines, hence the switch to cellphones by the gov. Cell phones supplied usually are not internet compatible, but as this becomes cheaper too, you can expect it someday. California already has it. You are qualified if you are poor, something like 28K for a family of four.
My cousin can’t stop complaining about the lazy folks in Trenton sitting on their porches chatting all day on free cell phones paid for by you and I. Looking deeper, I believe he is annoyed that his dollars help make other people who are lazy and won’t help themselves, happy. My response (to my belief)?: People will make themselves happy in almost any circumstance and you can’t force them to be unhappy. Will you only be happy if someone else is not (I would ask)? Living on a meager income with loads of public assistance is not where I want to be. But for some, that’s as good as it’s going to get. Until government starts to encourage birth control, to control the growth of an idle population, we should not expect a change in the number of people who “work” the system. If one is going to make it out of that morass, exposure to technology is necessary along with a whole lot of other stuff or removal of other stuff, that you and I were not so unlikely to have to go through. Born into that situation, we would act the same. Also, when welfare or a potential boss calls, a phone number is needed.
Be happy, life was good to you.
Ebelio Navarro says
I would like to get a phone but how
Free Government Cell Phones says
Here’s a good place to start, Ebelio. Read this article that tells you “How to Get one.”
https://www.freegovernmentcellphones.net/basics/how-do-i-get-a-free-phone
Jim says
Clinton? Congress first enacted the Lifeline program in 1985. Who was President in 1985? The free phones should appropriately be called Reagan/BushPhones.
Jon says
Typical liberal response. Since Obama let the program continue after he was elected he is responsible for the cell phones. Rather than stop the costly use of cell phones and save money by giving the poor land use help he CHOOSE to let the program, so give all the details. But just like the rest of you lying liberals you bend the facts to meet aggressive liberal agenda.
Alex says
That doesn’t change the fact that the program was started under Reagan and no president has killed it since then. Technology changed and phones became mobile. Among other things, this allows severely disadvantaged like transient/homeless people to have access to a phone after pay phones were killed. Mobile phone use went up and the cost went down and that is the only reason they included mobile phones in the plan. So by your logic, it should be called the Reagan/Bush/Clinton/Bush/Obama phone. Possibly Trump on the end there depending on this term.
Free Government Cell Phones says
Hell, let’s throw in Coolidge and Hoover, too.
John Debreux says
Look up symptoms of a cell phone with spyware. Notice if your free phone exhibits these symptoms. If that doesnt prove to you the ON:Y reason you are handed a free cell phone on a silver platter is because it is LOADED with spyware NOTHING will.Who could be stupid enough to believe ANYONE cares if you have a FREE cell phone ? A non activated cell or home phone can still call 911. The Department Of Justice has ADMITTED more than 1000 people have been arrested on charges from welfare fraud to felony drug charges since the program begin. WAKE UP AMERICA ! Does being poor mean you are also stupid. ? When the PATRIOT ACT was passed after 9/11 your right to privacy was gone forever. Google FUSION CENTERS. Dont think the gov has a endless electronic data file on you and your personal life ? Think again.
Free Government Cell Phones says
Black helicopter alert! Black helicopter alert! Get your tin foil hats on!
Jim C. says
Sure you can trust the government, just ask any Native American.
JB says
If you research smartphones they all have tons of Spyware on them, weather it’s through a paid plan or government program. Either way if your not doing anything illegal then you shouldn’t have anything to worry about! Illegal is illegal either way you look at it!
Neenees1 says
If people would do their research they can learn the truth. If you don’t bother, your an idiot for believing it. Smash!!!!!
Myriam tellado says
Loss my Phone i need a New phone
Free Government Cell Phones says
Here’s an article that tells you how to do it, Myriam.
https://www.freegovernmentcellphones.net/faq/i-lost-my-phone-how-do-i-get-a-replacement
George Plungis says
About 3 years ago anyone who went to the VA clinic at Daytona Beach could sign up for a free basic cell phone. All you had to do was show your drivers licence, fill out the paper work & the phone was sent to your house. I think the people who signed people up were paid by the # of those who wanted a phone. We were lead to believe just having served in the military was enough for you to be eligible for the phone. To be eligable to get free phone sevice you need to be on some kind of assistnce, being a vet is not enough. Now I’m getting messages to call & tell them if I’m actually eligable for the free phone service & I no I’m not & I’m ignoring their messages becuse if I do call them that’s the end of my free phone service that I’ve gotten so used to.
David says
So basically you just want to continue being a fraud and a leech because it’s more convenient than actually paying for your own stuff.
Tom says
Great article! Concise, clear, and very informative, with pleasing notes of irreverence–do you perhaps write for Men’s Health magazine?!?
Some of the Comments were frightening. Some of your responses were priceless. Touché–keep up the good work!
Suzanna says
Very deceitful site. I search from a particular search engine for a legitimate government free cell phone service as my son and myself cannot afford Tv, a landline or cell phone service , cable or internet.
( I am using a friends smart phone to search for help.)
I went to this site because I thought it was a “government ” site to help those I need to have access to a phone in case if an emergency. All this site provided me was the bashing of President Obama. Who cares who initiated the plan. Is it really that important? What matters is low income families can have access to emergency providers by having use and availability of a phons service and device. Nothing elaborate but just the security of being able to make that call if an emergency arises.
Shame on you for luring unspecious people into your opportunity to voice an opinion that DOES NOT matter.
Free Government Cell Phones says
We usually let this kind of crap slide, but you’ve pissed us off, Suzanna. Screw you. No, seriously, you are a freakin’ moron if you think this website bashes President Obama. And you’re a freakin’ moron again for calling this website deceitful.
The article you read — the article on this page — was an answer to a question our readers ask us EVERY DAY. If you are so stupid that you interpret a logical, clearly-presented answer that is completely unprejudiced in any direction as a deceitful attack on President Obama, your reading comprehension is horribly inadequate.
We would urge you to read more of the articles on this website just to educate yourself, but what good would that do? You’ve already come to a false conclusion and any attempt to educate you would be a complete waste of our time.
Leave. Go away. Never again darken our website with your ignorant presence again.
Gwee Doe says
You proofed the critics position. The “fee” or “tax” wouldn’t exist if people who couldn’t afford it didn’t have their phone paid for by others through the above mentioned means. This IS socialism … wealth distribution. Try not ‘contributing’ to the program. Its mandated.
Temi akeju says
My name is temi I have been dreaming of an iPhone 6 for a long time I have always wanted it as bad as I have ever wanted anything in my life but I never had the money to buy it
Free Government Cell Phones says
We have not yet found any Lifeline companies offering an iPhone 6. The latest version we’ve seen is the iPhone 4.
Hey, readers, have you seen anything newer than an iPhone 4 being offered?
julie saavedra says
HI! I APPLY FOR A FREE PHONE YESTERDAY AT THE BRONX THE AGENT TOLD ME THAT THERE WAS A PROBLEM WITH MY APPLICATION . TODAY I WENT AGAIN TO ASK HIM IF I QUALIFY HE TOLD YES
AND HE LEFT MY PHONE AT HIS HOUSE UMM! HE TOLD ME THAT HE WAS GOING TO CALL ME AT 3:30PM AND HE LIE HE NEVER CALL ME .. CAN YOU TELL ME WHAT TO DO MANY PEOPLE APPLY AND THEY GOT THE CELL
Free Government Cell Phones says
Your story is a perfect example of why we do not recommend enrolling at a street tent or booth, Julie. We’ve just heard too many stories of fraud and abuse of the system. It certainly sounds as if you’ve been scammed. Contact your local police immediately.
Sonia Rodriguez says
I heard that I could get a paying job qualifying people for this phone?
Free Government Cell Phones says
It’s probably true. However, most of the people you find in the street tents and booths work for companies hired by the free government cell phone companies specifically for this purpose. In other words, they are independent contractors, not employees of the cell phone companies. That means that, in most cases, you need to apply with those subcontracting companies, not the phone companies. Good luck, Sonia.
Litl frier liar says
You wan to talk aboutut waist? After three weeks my wifes free phone was stolen. So she got another free phone when after three weeks they shut her phone off saying she cant have two free phones. She called the “Lifeline Administrator reporting her first phone stolen so they turned it OFF, telling her she has to wait ninety days andt then she can get another phone. She cant turn her phone on untill ninety days . Her new phine is worthless (locked),to basically throw it away. That Our Govmnt for you…waist waist waist…
Free Government Cell Phones says
We are against waste, but in favor of waists.
Kathy Kelley says
Looks to me that your wife isn’t responsible enough to own a phone. Lost one after 3 weeks? Then orders another and bitches cause she has to wait 90 days to have it turned on?? Maybe she shouldn’t have been so careless with the first phone…Your spelling is atrocious. Instead of worrying about a free phone , maybe you ought to go back to school and learn how to spell….
Carmen says
Hi Obama I do not want you to take USA a way from us
mustbenice says
@yo while those who are suffering like myself with severe back problems get stuck with the pos safe link phone congrats cant call doctors and or physicians cause the service bombs and or calls drop yet its suppose to be one of the good ones out there sorry but its service is falsified tryn to make calls is really hard and to be honest frustrated over the service.
Free Government Cell Phones says
Sorry to hear about your problems, Mustbenice. It really is unacceptable, especially for someone with your issues. Call your service provider and ask to speak to customer service. If you do not get satisfaction, demand to speak to a supervisor.
Marijo says
Jennifer K.Pessagno: You deserve an award for excellence in communication skills, and educating folks with limited common sense! I also admire your ability to overcome
your life challenges–
Good work.
Jeanmarie pauley says
I’m a retiree, living on SS and some retirement savings, I don’t have a cell phone, don’t need a cell phone….why in the world do they need this phone…. Or any phone…..they certainly don’t need to call into work when they need a day off!,, It’s a joke!!
Free Government Cell Phones says
Would any of our readers care to respond to Jeanmarie?
David g says
Maybe moms lookingvfirvwork or studemts might want a phone or smartphone ? What kan I do withbsmartphone u.s.b cable and printer scan copier from Walgreens ?
Write things at home save on job service trips.
Paul Budak says
MY UNDERSTANDING IS THAT ANY NEW GOVT EXPENDITURE HAS TO HAVE A CORRESPONDING FUNDING SOURCE. THE FUNDS FOR THIS PROGRAM WERE MADE AVAILABLE BY SKIPPING AN ANNUAL INCREASE IN SOCIAL SECURITY. SINCE THAT ONE YEAR INCREASE INCREASE IS SKIPPED IN FUTURE YEARS THE PROGRAM HAS ONGOING FUNDING COURTESY OF THE SENIORS. SO YES,M THE GOVERNMENT IS PAYING FOR IT BUT WITH FUNDS TAKEN FROM SOCIAL SECURITY RECIPIENTS. I GUESS THE AUTHOR FORGOT TO MENTION WHERE THE GOVERNMENT GOT THE MONEY.
Free Government Cell Phones says
You’ve been misinformed, Paul. The Lifeline Assistance program is funded with a small fee added to every telephone bill in the country. You can find it on your own phone bill by looking for a line item called “Universal Service Fee.”
Noe says
I believe that fee should be an option for people to elect to be removed from their bill. I have at times called my phone provider to drop some services to try and save every penny I can. But I find it strange that I can drop service that I could find beneficial to me, after all it’s my bill, yet I can not drop that service which I don’t benefit from and forced to pay. I believe generosity should be left up to a person and not forced on a person. I also, sometimes, find myself in circumstances when I cannot afford to be generous but yet there seems to bea lack of assistance the the middle class when we find ourselves in a jam. I wouldn’t so bad if I wouldn’t, personally, witness the abuse.
Noe says
Meant to say “I wouldn’t feel so bad if I wouldn’t, personally, witness the abuse of the system that is meant to help people.” I see it daily and so does my wife just because of where we work. Can’t mention where cause of our jobs, but it has to do with social services. It’s frustrating at times to see the people we help cause they are considered low income, yet they live a life dependent on the system when we have come close to loosing our home. Yet we can’t get a brake cause we are considered middle class. The system doesn’t consider that we too need a break once in a while. We don’t believe anyone should become dependant in the system. Should be a help to get people back on their feet and not become dependent on the system. By the way, I do understand the elder would probably need continuous help. But the abusers should be weeded out some how off of the system.
David Y, CA says
Noe, I completely understand and sympathize with your anger about “forced generosity”.
Being middle class, as you pointed out, is not easy.
We are essentially forced to pay our entire cellphone bills of $50 to $100 dollars a month, which includes perhaps $20 to $30/month of pure profit, which goes to CEO’s, stockholders, political contributions, etc.
If I have to give out $20 to $30 a month to be split up by families with yachts and mansions, I’m certainly not gonna get too upset about giving out $2 to $3 a month to be split up by people with next to nothing.
I agree that cheaters and abusers should be cut out. I take the attitude that there are both cheaters and deserving people at both ends.
Free Government Cell Phones says
Good point, David. Here’s an article we hope everyone reads and pays attention to. It tells how to report someone who is defrauding or abusing the system. Those people should be reported immediately.
https://www.freegovernmentcellphones.net/faq/report-lifeline-assistance-fraud-abuse-waste
Gwee Doe says
Or in other words a direct obligatory, non-opt out FEE or tax. We the tax payers ARE paying for it for others
Lily says
Actually, Social Security is the “communist ponzi scheme” that what passes for conservative today has been trying to kill for decades. Same with Medicare and Medicaid, which are tied to the Social Security Act. They don’t need a lifeline program to kill SSA and derivative programs. They are doing that just fine by dragging their asses on managing the shortfall. In fact, if the conservatives have it their way, they’ll take SSA, throw it into a Government-backed private IRA program for those who have any of their tax money into it, and let the volatile and unpredictable stock market do whatever it decides to do to it. There will be few winners and alot of losers and no one born after this change will have any such protection. This is the position of the rising tide of libertarianism in the Right.
As for Medicare, the entire program will be privatized and not much less expensive than commercial insurance, which means seniors and the disabled will effectively be priced out of the necessary healthcare they need to keep living with any shred of dignity. Being unable to fund it due to SSA being privatized and having lost everything they had after the first time the market tanks after the SSA privatization, they won’t be able to work with a doctor to compromise on an affordable provider fee. In pricing out the poor, you also price out the elderly and the invalid.
And for what? To pour any and all funding left from taxpayers into defense only? many hardcore conservative think that’s the right way to go. Everything is privatized and the only taxation is barely noticeable by comparison, but only pays for the military. Government becomes so small it cannot regulate the economy, so corporations effectively replace government in every day life…. and corporations you cannot hold accountability over the same way. Can’t vote for corporate policy without shares and the ones running the show will have shares too expensive for the average person to afford to any voting degree. Welcome to fedualism in the 21st Century. it’s just what you wanted. Wouldn’t it be just peachy?
I think we’re better off leaving things alone for now until we can figure out a reasonable solution for getting more jobs to appear in places where poverty is a problem and have those jobs pay too much to qualify for welfare.
Free Government Cell Phones says
You have some very strange political opinions, Lily. Very strange indeed.
Yo says
I got a touch screen smart phone free from safelink
Free Government Cell Phones says
Excellent news. Encouraging for others.
nina says
While I am against a socialist form of society, I do believe they helping others in time of immediate need is a good thing. People should never stay on the system because it teaches people how to be dependent on it.
What I want to know is if someone gets one of these phones and wants to use it for a home based business to get put of the situation they’re in, can they? Or, are they forced to remain poor because it is against the rules to use for tech support or other phone work?
Free Government Cell Phones says
There are no rules prohibiting using the phone for business purposes. In fact, it’s a great idea. The problem you face, Nina, is that the number of monthly minutes is limited (most plans offer 250 minutes/texts per month) unless you live in California, Oklahoma, or Alaska, where you can get plans that offer unlimited talk and text.
Joel says
Government subsidized programs like welfare, free phones, etc are complete crap. Nothing is free in life and someone somewhere pays for it. The system that was meant to help people temporarily is massively abused, and has spoiled the recipients of government subsidies to the point where it’s absolutely disgusting. Our global gene pool has become so poluted with people who should have not survived if it was still survival of the fittest. If we continue having government subsidies that people are allowed to keep permanently abusing we are all doomed as a species…and it’s all started with taking care of the weak.
Free Government Cell Phones says
Yeah, Joel, you’re right. We should just let the weak starve. Then those who cling to life can be given jobs picking up their cold, dead bodies in the street.
Noe says
I work at a senior center where we give them, basically, free lunch. The rule is they can contribute a small fee if they can. But I have found the most don’t. Not because they dont have, but because they want to spend their money on other things. Some even get their electricity paid for. I am not against helping them, but when I heir they went to Vegas to the casinos or even the small locate casinos, that bothers me. And it bothers me more when the same program keeps me, or the position that I hold regardlees who it may be, as part time and no benefits and keep cutting the hours to bare minimum at $8 / hour. Some seniors have parties several people over. One senior like raising pigs to throw a party and several people. And the abuse just goes on. But they claim the don’t have money for bill. There is a problem with the system.
Davjohn says
It’s like everything else in this administration, Obama wants to take credit for any apparently good thing whether he created it or not just like Lenin, Stalin and Khrushchev. Obama took credit for lifeline service which was written in 1999 under Clinton, health care which was written in 2006, lifeline phone service which was enacted in 2008 under Bush.
DJ says
So now it’s a good thing to credit for? So when it’s a bad federal expense it Obama’s fault and when it’s a good thing, Obama takes ‘credit’ for it? Typical, typical, typical Republican double speak.
Reginal Tucker says
Obama did not take credit for the lifeline program the GOP/Tparty tried to make it look like it was him giving away their money in the form of free EXPENSIVE cell phones. When it actually started under Clinton and the phones are the cheapest that tracfone sells. Mines broke and I bought me a better tracfone and transferred my number and minutes to it.
Roxxm says
Hm, Republicans sure like to give Obama a lot of credit. Giving people on welfare the resources they need to get employment and start paying back into the system? How can this possibly be a negative?
Build-a-wall says
Obama gets to claim it as his now, I guess this socialist/communist page will have to update its bias facts page.: Obama giving smart phones to illegal immigrant 2/14/16:
http://www.breitbart.com/big-government/2016/02/12/obama-administration-lending-some-illegal-immigrant-families-smartphones/
Terri says
lol Breitbart is not a valid news source.
Marcus Argro says
Looking for job, giving out free cell phones.
ken says
I applied for the Obama phone on 12/19/15 and have still not received my phone. I am on social security, get medicare, food stamps and am on section 8.. My status is still pending and Q Link is the only cellphone provider for my state that participates in the program.. However, I have a complaint against them for being discriminatory about who they send phones too. I received a denial notice from Q Link saying they had to wait on mine because my state is building their own database, however that is false!! I checked with my state and they do not know anything about the story I was told.. My daughter and a friend applied and got a phone from Q Link within 10 days!! I also checked with the area on aging and they have been trying to help people also but were not having any luck either… This sounds like Q Link is picking and choosing who they want to have phones and younger people get one with no problem and hardly any elderly people get one.. I have sent the FCC a complaint about Q Link’s actions and am hoping they will check it out.. If anyone else has any problems you should do the same on start a class action suit
James Dean says
someone just said their child just received the phone(under 18 years of age…)
Free Government Cell Phones says
That would be against the rules of the Lifeline Assistance program. Of course, there’s no way to police a phone recipient after they’ve received the phone.
Wendy Beaudry says
Actually it’s an elderly person writing, so their “child” would be an adult well beyond the age 18.
Lucille Lakosky says
My son, Eric Jurva, had a phone thru low-income (Obama-phone) but it was stolen several months ago. Since then he has not had a phone and no one can communicate with him. He lives in poverty. Can he possibly get another free cell phone so that we can at least know if he is surviving? He is hearing impaired and I am his mother, that is why I am trying to help him get the phone.
Get a job bums. says
Hearing impaired and he needs a phone? wtf.
Matt says
Bahahahahaha…..right I mean seriously WTF
A true real AMERICAN says
Just bc your hearing impaired doesn’t mean your completely deaf you dumb f***s. Look it up read about. Educate yourselves a little before throwing off on disabled ppl. He might have lost his hearing in war saving low life’s like you giving you freedom, who knows but I be dampened if I’ll let disabled ppl get made fun of. Maybe one day something happens to you all and I hope ppl make fun of you
kyle field says
You’re clearly grammar impaired!
Jennifer K. Pessagno says
Really? You’re making fun of someone who is hearing impaired? Even if he isn’t able to completely hear, he can still text his family & that DOESN’T require him to be able to hear, does it? Those of you who make fun of people with any disability should be ASHAMED of yourselves! I really hope you if you have small children, you AREN’T teaching them to behave so disrespectful of others like you do! I have disabilities that are invisible to others but I’ve graduated from college & I’ve survived a violent marriage & sent that scumbag to prison. His abuse has caused emotional trauma that include triggers such as someone verbally abusing others, others going through domestic violence & child abuse as well as any crime that is sexually related. You have NO right passing judgment on this young man or anyone else for that matter & you need to APOLOGIZE for being IGNORANT to others’ feelings! By the way, I’ve used perfect grammar in this comment so DON’T even think about INSULTING my intelligence because I’m sure someone like you will NEVER learn anything!
Lakeisha martin says
I had an umx, phone and on dec 5 2015, my and my children was robbed at gun point at 5:40a.m. in the morning they was looking for the wrong apartment kick my door in took all my belongings in my bag as well the bag. i have try to email the people that give me the phone and the phone still acticvte, and me my self don’t have it. My children has a phone and by me riding the bus i can’t reach out to them before I leave work
whatever says
you left out the reason for the socalled free phone bs. could it be that is the only way government can track everyone and see and hear everything they do. just another privacy invasion disguised as a so called good deed, look at what it costs for a normal person to buy a cell phone now, what happened, i have the answer and yes it will probably be the hurting truth so hold your skirt down. the government since snowden revelations has lost a lot of it credability and ability to hide its massive plan on spying on everyone in the world primarily in us. they have either partially quit paying or entirely quit paying the cell phone providers for pushing the spy riddled devices to us, now we just take it upon ourselves to be spied on, like it is just another day. once you let them into your live they dont leave they only spread and take away more of your rights and ability to live like america was set out to be free. sure there are them pesky terrorist idiots, which to my recollection was the reason for all of this in this spying in first place, but wait, is using the same data and ability to acquire it, against your local non terrorist situation illegal. of course it is, but it is being done now and will continue to be done until someone with the know how and knowledge puts them in their place, i am all for getting rid of terrorism, i am alse equally for getting rid of government overreach and misuse. think about this, how does it make you feel to know that some pervert official at the fbi or nsa or dea can sit in their office and watch your 13 year old daughter take a bath or use bathroom, they can and they do, sick and sad that we have let this happen and for what so they can possibly catch a terrorist planning an attack, if that were what it did, would it be worth it, maybe, but the fact that some of the terrorists are communicating without being noticed is what bothers me, it is ok to spy on us, our rights are non issue, but if you are a muslim terrorist you have more rights than we do, go figure, once they deal with the big and real issues, the maybe i will be more about allowing them to abuse my rights as a citizen
whatever says
i dont expect or want you to approve my comments, just wanted to vent and tell the truth, something that is not available in real world anymore. i am a retired government employee that has seen everything and knows a lot more about what is happening than i should, trust me what snowden has already revealed is not even a chip off the block, you will never know the real truth, maybe it does not need to be known, but playing around with us citizens should bother everyone and if it don’t then we are on a fast ride to communism, which is exactly what most carrer politicians think they want, and are quickly producing more and more problems with the current welfare programs and handouts, which is only gonna create more problems, look at the freddy gray thing and the other blacks that were killed by a cop, the fact that they were a criminal and performing criminal activities are totally thrown out the window when this issue is brought up, the fact that they were breaking the law is what started the unfortunate death of them, certainly some possible abuse of power there, but the fact remains that if they were not criminal in first place performing criminal bs at the time of their death, sure plays a big role on what happened. for any cop to be accused of first degree murder for killing someone that was breaking the law when it happened, is a miscarriage of justice and if convicted for that we are in very sad state
Mongo says
Yeah. The Federal government has nothing better to do than distribute free lifeline phones to poor inbreds who spell “credibility” as “credability”, so that they can spy on you and your inbred pals…. because clearly you have so many secrets that the government wants to know about. (roll eyes here).
Michelle says
You need to see someone about your extreme paranoia and stop reading things from the John Birch society as well as other right wing extremists. You made such a rant you sound completely insane and thusly how could anyone believe anything you say? Wow unbelievable what people believe and try and pass off as truth.
Emily says
Uhm no. To everything you posted. The phone is a subsidy replacing payphones which phone companies no longer supply. Get a grip. No one is listening or watching. No one cares!! Obama is the president- he may have signed off on legislation to provide them, but it him being responsible is absurd. The president doesn’t submit bills to Congress. Get educated and get your own phone and stop spreading lies!!
Ann says
I totally agree. People are not really informed and believe all the hog wash belched out by paranoid uneducated people who only listen to fox News or some other messed right wing propaganda. In case people don’t understand or look around, there are no phone booths around for people with no cell phone to make a call or have an emergency. Alot of people don’t have a phone in their homes either. The government free phones are good for folks that are low income and cannot afford to get one for what ever reason. Give people a break please
Bert says
There is no debate on the subject of government surveillance and ease-dropping of all US citizens. It is not paranoia but a known fact that all communications are monitored and archived. Your internet searches, purchases, comments and associations are incorporated into building your psychological profile. Why do you think Facebook constantly wants to know who you know and what you have to say? What could be more ideal than to have everyone carry around a camera and microphone? Even if they have to give the phones away to reach the undocumented people who don’t have a laptop or use Facebook. Did you know the Xbox One uses facial recognition, voice analysis, thermal and night-vision imaging? Or that your Samsung Smart TV is listening to and recording all of your personal conversations taking place in your living room? I suggest you read the documentation that was provided along with the appliance. Oh, and do you really think after 14 years they are still only concerned with finding and combatting terrorists?
Amber says
Hello sir m girl Pakistani and Muslims help me sir please love u sir
whatever says
if you are here my guess is you have a lot more help than the rest of us. good luck and dont take no wooden nickels
whatever says
if you are here my guess is you have a lot more help than the rest of us. good luck and dont take no wooden nickelsany
by the way i am no sir, just a concerned citizen of the us that has a realization that anyone other than a us citizen has special right above and beyond us citizen, something wrong with that, but i suppose under current president not really a suprise, just a reality,
i have nothing against muslims, i have 2 cousins that were born in seria, their dad is serian, i worked with a person for years at my government job with a guy from iran. all good people, all muslim,
Jan says
Does it really matter who started it? What really matters is who pays for it and who receives the FREE phones. As a hard working American I find it appalling that I should have a hire bill to pay for the lazy to have phones. Now when the government Denies the lazy and can differentiate between needy and lazy that’s another story. I know several people who get FREEPhones very few are needy they just don’t want to work and I find it againsypt MY civil liberties to have to pay other people’s bills. I gave a hard enough time paying fir my win bills. I raised two girls completely on my own with no child support or welfare. I know if I can do it others can too. Though I must say we didn’t walk around in $200.00 shoes or coats but we had both. Let’s stop this FrREE stuff and u will find people will step up to the plate and do what us best fir their family too. STOP being every bodies momma big gov.
Travis Woodhouse says
Well said Jan. Welfare needs to be temporary assistance. Individuals need to take more responsibility for themselves and their families. It’s wrong that the Democrat party uses freebies to garner votes. It’s wrong for those of us who have to pay for it, and it’s a disservice to those whom are kept in perpetual poverty.
Jennifer K. Pessagno says
I’d like to defend many who have been or on Welfare right now because they may not have a choice, like myself. I wasn’t raised to sit on Welfare & be “lazy.” Both of my parents worked hard for everything we had & then some. My father was also in the US Army as well for 3 yrs. & approximately 1 1/2 yrs. later my parents broke up because of something he was doing to me. My grandmother flew down to Arlington, TX from our hometown of Binghamton, NY (Upstate NY…NOT NYC) & with my mom, my brother, & I left TX & drove to my aunt & uncle’s in CA so we could start a new life begin healing from the pain our father had caused us. After 4 mos. in Sacramento, my mom, brother, & I came back home to NY & until my mom could get a job, she had to go on Welfare to support us kids (I was 13 at the time we came home and my brother was 8 1/2 yrs. old). She wasn’t raised to live that way either & neither was my father. We didn’t have a choice in the matter. She was able to find a good paying job with benefits after a few short months and that was the last time we as a family were on the system as some of us call it. It’s there if we need it. I had to go on Welfare when I was 18 because my husband left me while I was pregnant for our son for another woman & again, it was embarrassing having to pay for food with Food Stamps, a.k.a. SNAP. Unless you’ve been in a situation you cannot control, don’t judge anyone. I’m very aware of the stigma & stereotype that people place on people like myself. I’ve actually worked my way off Welfare several times & this time won’t be any different. This is hopefully the last time I’ve been on Welfare because I’m currently working hard with a Job Coach to get a job in the office setting due to my education and work experience. I’m only on Welfare right now because of my last marriage turning into domestic violence. There are many people out there who end up going on Welfare due to job layoffs or because they are severely ill & cannot work, but are in the process of applying for SSI/SSD or in the process of waiting for approval, denial, or even waiting for the appeals process to take its course. I know that people don’t want to accept that as reality or truth but that is the reality we live in today. I have several mental health diagnoses due to what my father did (NO, my mom and family NEVER knew he was abusing me–I told a guidance counselor in 7th grade & NO, it WASN’T my fault) or what both of my ex-husbands did to me. I have worked very hard to be a good person despite my past that shall never ever be my fault. Maybe one day you could spend a day in the life of someone homeless and mentally ill or maybe go to a domestic violence shelter to meet the terrified women and children who seek safety there because Welfare actually pays for their stay there, at least where I live they do. If you took the time to get to know the people in your community who are less fortunate, you would be a more humble & pleasant person to associate with & less judgmental of others who have less than you. Think about how you were raised and how much your parents did their best to provide for you before you judge anyone on Welfare. Granted, there are many other there who abuse the Welfare system. However, they don’t any different because they were probably born and raised on the same system. Remember when you hear of a teenage girl getting pregnant, think of the fact that she’s a victim of a crime due to her age, especially if she’s under 17 or 18. In NY, the age of consent to have sex is 17 years old. However, it’s still a crime if someone says “NO!” and the other person keeps going!! If the girl or boy is under 17, DEFINITE VICTIM even if they consent! You need to consider different situations before judging people. I’ve had to go on Medicaid and SNAP after getting laid off from a job without notice. It messed me up financially & emotionally because I turned to a relative for help & he won’t associate me ever again because I lost a job & I wasn’t at fault. Even with Unemployment Benefits, you still cannot survive. Take a look in the mirror before you judge others again because only God has the right to judge us. Just so everyone knows, I do have a college degree & I’m also on medications for the depression & PTSD due to the trauma I’ve suffered, but I also do volunteer work with an organization that provides peer support to adult survivors of childhood sexual abuse as well like myself. I’m NOT crazy or nuts. I’m as normal as anyone else & I have a loving family and lots of friends who support my goals and my volunteer work as I look for a paying job in the office setting. Accepting any job isn’t an option due to my back issues & I’m not willing to sell myself short because of a low-paying job without benefits. I know I deserve better than being on Welfare & having very little cash as it is.
Jeramy says
Look here Jan,
I am a Regional Manager for the Lifeline Program here in California and it benefits more than just the “lazy” bums you so ignorantly attacked.
People actually also qualify for this phone if they also make less than $25,000 per year, receive SSI, unemployment, Veteran’s Benefits, WIC, Free Lunch, LIHEAP, Medi-Cal, Supplemental Security, and a few more. People who are perfectly working and ABLE individuals are able to take advantage of this program and dave themselves $50+ per month.
So you’re crying that your tax dollars are also benefits those who have retires and served in our military? Well done.
Next up let us look at the “tax” you’re paying. On average it’s about .20 – .70 (it can be slightly more, but nothing to cry about) per month. Would you comaplain that you also pay a similar fee which contributes to the 911 emergency services? Or the taxes you pay for gas which go to road reconstruction? Probably not.
I also utilize this program to assist people solidify a number in which they can receive phone calls for job interviews. I’ve gotten many people jobs and even a few homeless people OFF THE STREETS due to resume creation -> job employment -> housing. This program has benefited and changed people’s lives and I can personally testify to that. Are we still complaining Jan?
If you are please leave a brilliant comment so I can again destroy every point you make.
I’ve also given people jobs and can currently hire ANYONE in California to give these phones out… So I’m also providing job opportunities with this program in a time of much needed employment.
I look forward to your response.
whatever says
slap this one if your thinking cap, why was the plan put in place?, sure you can say to help the needy, but on the other side of the coin, a lot of plans are put in place that initially were setup to help not hurt or enable. this one has many other reasons to be that you even have clue to, how about spying on people, knowing where they are all the time, trust me as a retire government employee, now private business owner, i know the original reasons or excuses used to implement certain overreaching programs, unfortunately all have what you would nievely consider unintended consequences, which are not really that it is just the real side of the plan, regardless of the reason for all of these plans set up, one thing that really bugs me more than others is the lack of incentive to work or produce income, we think backward or is it that way for a reason, the government is able to operate because of tax paying citizens, we are quickly reducing the amount of tax paying citizens and pushing the burden over on the working class and owners of big companies, how bout a bernie sanders who wants the rich to pay over 90% of their income to taxes. how would you like to pay that much of your check to the government to subsidize all of this crap, look at the bigger picture and quit living by your heart strings
Mongo says
A “retire” government employee? Where did you work? The “sannittattionn” department?
StW says
Where do you get your news? Big companies pay little to no taxes and bernie sanders isn’t asking anyone to pay 90% taxes. That’s just complete lunacy. Almost every comment on here sounds like a certified NUT except for the person who worked for Lifelink. Everyone else needs medication, therapy and/or a better education
Endliberalism says
Sanders…YES he does plan to RAISE TAXES. Please do some actual research.
Govt. SUCKS…. The bigger this govt has become, the more FREEDOMS we have lost. The poster is 100% accurate about what the govt. is doing with tracking software….. You will all see soon enough.
Kori says
I want to offer these phones to people? How can I get hired? My background is clean, my credit not so great…?
Get a job bums. says
Having a cell phone is a LUXURY! When i was a kid, i’m 32 btw we didn’t have cellphones, and you what? Everything was FINE! I expect you to disagree as this impede on your market, paycheck etc. I slave my arse off to have the gov take 25% of my income. Taxes should not be used on this nonsense.
Arty says
Why does it matter to you if people call it the Obama Phone? If these are such a good thing you ought to consider it a compliment!! Touchy, aren’t we!?! Tells me there must be a bit of truth to the ‘rumor’! Get a life!!!!
Julia Torres says
No e tendon uno y lo necesito coho cup ones de alimentos y segura medico
turk716 says
never seen so much dancing to say, yes, the taxpayer and the user of phones pay for this program. the fcc has the power to create a program like this? that is bad news, if true.
mike says
How long does the service last on the phone and I hate all these people who can work and get a job mooch off the government and get free everything really sickeing does the phone plan last there bum lives
Jeramy says
The phones are activate for 1 full year and a renewal certification is required to extend the activation. It requires the individual to have VALID and current benefits.
And as I’ve stated before it is not just bums who qualify for these phones. As a manager I have given phones to Veteran’s, retired folk, and those injured on the job receiving SSI or Supplemental SI. It is NOT just the degenerates who qualify and benefit from this service.
Please people do more research on the topics before you go judging those who’s lives I’ve changed dramatically by getting them off the streets using this program.
And, as previous stated – I can offer job opportunities in practically any state which supports this program as a major manager.
Thanks for reading!
ken atwood says
Hi Jeramy,
I like your post. I am on SS disability, live in Vermont and it takes a long time to get free phones here. Q Link gives them out here and they are very slow!! I wish there were more providers here but unfortunately they are the one that handle our state, Vermont. I also wish they were open on the weekend unlike other providers. If you have any ideas you can get me at Hotmail (gigrape)
Have a good night
Earl says
Some of this is for Obama-Phones. Throughout the south side of Chicago where I have a shop, I frequently see minorities, under a 10’X10′ canopy calling people to get their “free Obama Phone”. Sometimes they go to the passing cars to solicit giving away a phone. When someone says they already have a phone, I have heard them say – “Oh, come over here, we’ll give you another one for free.” How can we report such abuse??? It’s not right. That’s the same as theft or stealing.
LHeyne says
I have no problem with actually giving seniors and the disabled a phone. A cheap flip phone. But I know too many people on this program with the latest greatest smart phones with no limits on their service. Many working stiffs cannot even afford them and settle for a lesser model. Please put a conservative into the White House and not Trump.
Bbaca says
Amen Lheyne. I see people on food stamps and government assistance in line at the grocery store buying name brand items, tritip steak, etc…. they’re living high on the hog. Wearing designer clothing and talking on their iPhone 6 . It makes me sick. After the cashier rings them up I always say “your welcome”.
Andrea says
You do realize they might have credit cards for all those “nice things” you are talking about. Don’t be so quick to judge. You can also get name brand clothing at thrift stores that are like new. That is where we shop, and we look nice. Credit cards can buy anything, even iphones.
Kimmer smith says
The presedent isn’t going to give a away a few cell phone for free unless it’s to his benefit, no one in this would does anything unless is about them and their motives! So that phone benefits Obama! Just like the rest of the work everything here is just trying to take our earned money for every thing out there! Mr president you need to give away cost of livid like rent! That should be a giving!
Angel says
The Lifeline program has NOTHING to do with President Obama. It was actually started under Reagan. The cell phone companies wanted in on the money that was being provided to help people have landline phones and was approved by president Bush. Obama became president in 2008 when cellphones started to become more common that landlines. If you do the research you’ll see that under the Obama administration he has actually tightened regulations on the Lifeline program (ie enforcing the 1 per household law).
whatever says
already does in form of government housing, the more kids you have they may even be paying you to live there
Shirley Bell says
I am interested in low cost internet service. I currently net 1500.00 per month and need help. Any suggestions would be most helpful.
Thank-you
Shirley Bell
Jay says
Obama didn’t start many/most of the social and welfare programs either. HOWEVER…
Obama has overly aggressively expanded welfare and entitlement programs. That is why it is called the Obama phone.
Obama is a socialist and thinks the government should take care of people that can’t take care of themselves. His key piece of legislation is unconstitutional (no matter what the SC says) and is get another example of redistribution of wealth and trying to influence votes and voters by making them dependent on government assistance.
Judy says
I have tried to apply repeatly for a free cwll phone the application of safelink always says my address is not valid
Donald O'Laughlin says
Damn the facts , run with the rumors
hayleigh says
you should give iPhone away to people as a Obama iPhone i would prefer a iPhone 5s that would be cool and probably you would get more votes and put free minutes on it. if you did i would be happy and tell everyone to vote for you.
josiah says
I was asking could I have a free phone
mytorpor says
The article fails to mention how much this program has been expanded by the Obama administration. Yes, a program similar to the current program did exist, but when Obama took office the program ate up about $800 million in taxpayer dollars. Since Obama took office the program has been expanded to the point where we are now spending $3.6 BILLION dollars a year on free phone services and that is going to expand again very soon as the Obama administration is now pushing a free cable services to the poor under the same program. So the article is technically correct, while being 100% wrong!
Angel says
Actually it was the providers that abused the system giving out phones and charging the government for the service fees. Under the Obama administration the FCC has actually tightened the program to prevent fraud by consumers and carriers.
sandra hamm says
the concept is fine but some of the results. i have seen 6, 7 and 8 yr olds with them because even though their parents are on welfare they wouldn’t be caught dead with one. they will sell their “food stamps” to finance a better one. one girl i knew and her boy friend gave theirs to her mother who didn’t qualify for one. i know one guy who made his drug deals on his even though he had an expensive one and on and on. i guess that is what hurts us. that and all the other abuses and misuses of welfare programs. why don’t people who are on welfare have to provide proof that they are actively looking for a job like i always had to when i was drawing unemployment. what is unfair about that?
N.Grant says
My phone was stolen at the Giants store, I called safelink to report it
letting them know that I called the number and was informed,that the person on the line didn’t speak english.I asked safelink to send me another phone and PLEASE allow me to have My minutes that was on the stolen phone, I was told that I could only have 10 minutes.What is the rule on this situation??? what does safelink loose by giving back lost minutes
to the customers…
Bob says
It’s a free phone and you are a loser that I am paying forand expect good customer service..!!
Candice says
Shame on you for feeling so entitled you feel you have the right to look down on another human being. Remember most of us are not too far from a illness., a death or layoff that can be where we need help
randy Garrett says
Starting January 1st 2016 life line is going away. There will be a $25.00 activation fee and the bill will be going up from 4.95 to 40.00 a month. The $34.00 subsidy for customer is going away also.they government doesnt pay for your phone bill. The government pays the company that is dispersing the phones for each customer that signs up. Also all obama phones are tapped by the Federal communications department. That how how they are cracking down on drugs. With the DEA.
FreeGovernmentCellPhones.net says
Could we have a link to the information you have provided about Lifeline being discontinued?
As for the phones being tapped, there is no proof of that.
john Doe says
I have proof. Will be posting on youtube in the near future.
Also, I find people who gripe about people having found a way to attain something in life (such as a phone) complete simpletons -Does it really bothers some of you to see people in this world benefit? …Just because you had to “work” to attain something?
I once heard an officer in a jail I was working at tell a Junior (perhaps impressionable) Deputy that it “killed” him to see the inmates receiving more food on ThanksGiving Day. It litterally “KILLED” this man who society and this system has entrusted with badge and a gun to help maintain a certain “order” over other people.
People still have issues over people receiving phones? -It must be nice being able to stress over such unimportant things.
FreeGovernmentCellPhones.net says
Can’t wait to see your proof, John Doe. Let us know.
Ellen HODGES says
LATINOS ARE THE ONES WHO ARE SAYING THE FREE PHONE WAS STARTED BY OBAMA THEY NEED THE FACTS THE FORMER President Regan started this years ago before he die
Mike says
This is one of the best examples of the kind of disinformation campaign movement conservatives run. Unfortunately, even when confronted with the facts, people who want to believe the lie will continue to believe the lie and will pass it along in emails and conversation.
whatever says
all programs are started for a reason, usually good intended, but ones like the patriot act and others are quickly abused by other agencies and organizations to their advantage, if you ever see an arrest mentioned in the paper about a drug bust on the highway or something similar, maybe the lawyer of the accused should look into how and what initiated the arrest in the first place, sure get the drugs off the streets, arrest criminals but not illegally by abusing our rights, my guess is well over half of the similar arrests are initiated illegally, because we don;t know any better, does 2 wrongs make a right, no,
whatever says
what i am saying is without the ability of the government to listen in on your cell phone calls, etc.. a lot of the local arrests that happen would not have happened, and if a lawyer gets to snooping around as to why it happend, the case is quickly dismissed and no further action happens. look into it , i speak the truth, this illegal shit is going on in our own sheriffs offices by using the same data and info used or implemented initily to get terrorists. is it ok, illegal or whatever
Billy says
Thank you very much for this information. For a long time I have wondered a little bit about this question. Thankfully, I had a general idea that this program was similar to the one described above. Except that the real program is better than my initial thoughts. I love it when the government creates programs that work and it seems as a decent low cost. Keep up the good work!
Ava says
Now they are giving out free Android phones with unlimited text and minutes. People are everywhere on the street in Los Angeles giving out these phones.
DEBORAH HAYNES says
How do I get a free Obama phone
FreeGovernmentCellPhones.net says
https://www.freegovernmentcellphones.net/
russ says
no way, I don’t even have a cell phone work 60 hours a week…. and I have to pay for someone sitting on there ars to have one… why America is f up!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
Ava says
If you work 60 hours a week and don’t even afford a cell phone something’s wrong with you.
berto says
I think he said ‘dont have’ as opposed to ‘cant afford’
mimi says
In response to Ava’s comment, I feel that was a very ignorant and rude thing to say. Im curious as to whom exactly do you live with? Parents? Partner? Roommates??? You dont know this persons scenario or life situation. Maybe he lives alone. Rent. Utilities. Car payment. Maybe he has children and has court ordered support. Do you know how much a judge can order be taken from someones paycheck??? Maybe he doesnt have insurance and has a medical condition that requires alot of “out of pocket” payments. Or maybe hes from another country and really wants to get his wife and children to the United States ( are you aware of the THOUSANDS of dollars people are forced to pay to do this??? ) lets do some math, say he makes minimum wage ( which varies by states but we will use the federal amount of $7.25 and most people that work in the real world know employers do not like paying more than they have to ) and works that 60 hours a week. So he roughly grosses $435 a week or roughly $1800 a month BEFORE taxes, etc. I know where I live the average rent is around $1000 a month even for a small crappy apartment. I also will educate you on the cost if you do not have a vehicle, I personally have had to pay $27 one way for a cab just to take my daughter to daycare and only did that in inclement weather ( oh and daycare is NOT cheap sweetie $185 a week plus other charges supply fees $50 registration fee $150 late payment fee $25 etc ) my electric bill averages between $150 to $200. I also gave AT&T $200 to $400 a month, and for what? I also have a rapidly growing toddler that requires ALOT of food. Would you care to buy my monthly groceries?? I also have to buy clothes, shoes, hygiene products, so on so forth. Im a single parent where child support is non existent and took almost 4 years to receive($12 here $65 there, never consistant, never weekly or monthly ) Im a very hard working person with years of experience in my field but in actuality companies really could care less. It seems they are all about more work and less pay with NO benefits. If you have a decent job that pays high with benefits you are one of the fortunate.
There are way too many people that abuse assistance programs. I have seen this myself people that are fully capable of working get food stamps then sell them for beer and drugs. Get free medical. Get on SSI and brag that they are at home drinking or smoking crack all day. I myself, like you, was very naive to the real world until I dated my childs biological father and after working with a local program that ‘helps the homeless’
I will say that there are many people that deserve these programs and do not receive anything. Some refuse them or have serious mental or learning disabilities, they may not be aware or understand. Awareness and education are fundamental. Please try to be more understanding. Thanks
Kristen says
My cousin is homeless and he uses my address to receive his mail. He can’t live with me for probation violation reasons. He prefers to live on the streets anyway. I received a box in the mail a month or two ago. It was what he called an “Obama phone”. He says all his homeless buddies have them. He also has free medical and free food stamps, doesn’t look for work. He and his buddies like their phones and their free minutes and talk and texting just fine. Better than I have. I have a go phone. The phone did break down though and this week he got another and I had to take it to him. He even posts on Facebook from it if I’m not mistaken. See he posts a bunch. Life is rough.
Don Jacobs says
I don’t think any caring American has a problem with offering these types of things to the poor – conservative or liberal. I think the problem is that it has escalated tremendously in the past 6-8 years and, yes, it IS paid for by tax payers in the form of higher cell phone bills. It’s AMAZING what the cost of cell service has done in that same time period. Mine has gone up tremendously. Look at your bill and look at the USF charge and you’ll see what it is. It’s something like 16% of the groww bill – up from less than 6% in 2000. So, make no mistake, it IS a tax payer funded program – one way or another. The focus should be on how to get people OFF of this program rather than expanding the coverage and the cost. WE NEED JOBS, NOT HANDOUTS! Handouts just piss off the people who keep see them increase every year and breeds resentment! it’s not the media who’s the problem. it’s the economy!
james says
What is wrong with you people!!!!This is a blessing to some people.Yes maybe tax payers do pay taxes and some of it goes to these phone,but taxes pays for a lot of crap that you don’t like.Why poor people??And there is a lot going on everywhere in the world!This company is only trying to help.
Bob says
So tired of supporting the lazy.
Crystal says
This is complete BS Your telling me that in order to qualify I should quit my job and just sign up for every kind of assistance my state orders? Ridiculous. I work everyday at min. Wage I HAVE BILLS TO PAY barely enough to buy food sometimes definitely can’t afford a phone and get punished for working WRONG
WTF says
ADDRESS IS ALREADY BEING USED BY ANOTHER ACTIVE CUSTOMER?
Okay so today I decided to sign up for this free phone service and it turns out my address is already in USE!
WTF
No one at my residence is enrolled in any LifeLine services. I contacted customer service and they said they couldn’t tell me who it was because of confidentiality reasons and that I would have to prove that this is my residence. So now, because of these people’s incompetence I have to jump through a bunch of hoops to get this worthless piece of junk phone that probably has a worse coverage zone than Ghetro(metro) PSC. Calls be dropping like flies out’ch here y’all.
Not only that, but they’re kind of just asking for people to abuse this service by allowing you to enter a SEPARATE SHIPPING ADDRESS. That’s right, somebody used my address for the services but had the phone and plan information sent to their address. Little rodent bastards.
Roy says
I’m so sorry that you are so upset, I happen to be physically disabled, bringing in less than $900 a month, keeping up with the bills is very difficult, and there are many like me, I’ve had my electric wheelchair breakdown and me on the street and had to have someone call 911 for me from their cell phone, having this Bush Phone is a real relief. And I know that there are other’s including elderly and disabled who could not keep up their phone bills and had them shut off, sometimes it’s choosing to buy food or medications or to pay your telephone bill.
And you talk about qualifications, even though I drive up to inquire about this in my wheelchair, and there is no mistaking I really look disabled, they said I needed income verification that I am on SSI disability from the so security office.
And as far as I know President Bush and every president signs the budget for the 1st year of the next president, so even the expansion of this program might have been set in motion by President Bush.
As a disabled Republican I’m not ashamed to use the programs that are available.
mytorpor says
In most cases, the previous president DOES sign the budget for the first SIX MONTHS of the next president’s term, but in the case of Bush’s last year in office, Democrats had control of the House and Senate and Bush was forced to veto their last budget because it was stuffed full of pork. Instead of passing a clean budget, they went around Bush and passed a six month spending resolution to fund the last six months of Bush’s term. Then once Obama was sworn in, Democrats (who now had veto proof control of both the House and Senate) stuffed even MORE pork into a second six months spending resolution to cover the first six months of Obama’s term and Obama signed it and blamed it on Bush…saying that the first six months of his spending was part of Bush’s last budget….the budget that Bush had previously vetoed! And THAT folks, is the way things work in DC!
douglas ortega says
i would like to get the phone, and i have one question ? can my daughers qualife to get a phone to ? thank you.
FreeGovernmentCellPhones.net says
Only one phone per household is allowed.
brian says
A household is not defined as all members in the same dwelling. There are a number of factors in which more than one household could be present at the same dwelling.
rod says
2015, they still give out these phones. If you make under $100,000 a year, you qualify. Supply an State ID card and utility bill. $100,000 is a SUPER high income, no one makes that.. They wanted to make sure EVERYONE had the chance to apply for these phones. They are basic handsets with push buttons and mini screen. Free talk and text for 1 year, Reapply the following years. Make at least 1 call a month to keep free service. It’ll be free for the next 10 years, until providers update the agreement to continue for more than 10 years.
They may be worth it, your phone provider already spies on you.. might as well take advantage of it.
FreeGovernmentCellPhones.net says
You are incorrect about the $100,000 a year. By a longshot. Here is information on eligibility:
https://www.freegovernmentcellphones.net/basics/qualify
brian says
eligibility is typically 133% of your states poverty level. You’d need to be living in California or New york, and half a family of 20 members to be anywhere near that with 100,000
Ronald reagan says
This is one condescending smart ass liberal smelling piece of dog doo article.
Nelson Ortiz says
I read a posting on factcheck.org and it has more background on this matter.
Gary Engstrom says
“There’s another running argument about if the phones are or are not paid for by taxpayers. Yes and no, it depends how you look at it.”
So the government requires a company to charge its customers a “fee” which is remitted to the government to fund a subsidized phone program. In what universe is this process not a tax? It’s the same process whereby a store charges a sales tax, subsequently remitted to the local government, whenever a purchase is made. There’s no “yes and no” about it. It’s a tax, and the person who pays it is a taxpayer.
Hugh Chardon says
Are you on the payroll of the DNC? You are so way over the top here, how can you expect anyone take this serious – besides the blind, the sheep, the left-wing brown shirts and the communist party of America?
Pok Dot says
Forgot to mention. People please don’t think you are getting a smart phone. it’s just cheap flip phone you can call out & receive calls 🙂 I guess if you can’t afford one it’s better than nothing at all LOL
Good Luck
Pok Dot says
Just wanted to say becareful when signing up. They get alot of elderly ignorant people to sign up. If you already universal line on your landline you can not get a discount of this free government phone. I happen to know a lady that they discontinued her universal line discount because she had it on her landline & the person that signed her up for the free phone also added her to a universal line. so now she doesn’t have a discount.
Mary Protsman says
I would like a free cell phone I,m 66 and live alone.
Casey Walker says
The problem here is that it is made available for people who are under public assistance. I understand there are legitamate people who need public assistance. My argument that abuse of the system has been going on long enough. Not everyone qualifies for medicaid, welfare, and disability, but it is being granted to the unqualified every day on a large scale. We have to make a hard line, do investigations and weed out the truly unqualified and take that assistance away. Sure its not gonna be the popular vote, but its a necessity to cure our country of laziness. I am sorry but it does not matter me how long this program has been going on. We can’t keep sacrificing the security of our citizens because we keep supporting the people who abuse our system. There needs to be that investigation into that fraud instead of just continuing to increase the number of people who qualify and placing the burden on the rest all the while cutting our protection by cutting our military. This is definitely not the time to jeopardize our safety.
Ginni says
How can you be so hateful? Just because someone may look like they’re ok, does not mean they are not disabled and undeserving of a little help. I got an Assurance wireless phone almost 4 years ago. I got 250 free minutes, and 1,000 free texts a month on a little bitty Nokia type phone. (Not an android, in fact, I had never used an android until a year ago, and the more expensive phones, I haven’t even touched) That free phone helped me escape my ex husband who tried to kill me and our children. Not only that, but it helped me be able to get a good job and stand up on my own two feet. So the next time you’re pissed off because you can’t get to your Starbuck’s on time, remember to grow up. Who are you to judge? I may not be on government assistance anymore, but people like you make me sick. Fall off your high horse and shut the hell up.
Robert Martyr says
HOW DO I GET STARTED & SIGN UP????
Robert.Wayne.Martyr@gmail.com
diana keurajian says
how I got the phone .I get ssi checks .food stamps.a month.
patty sheaffer says
As this program began, it was meant to be useful for people that need help in finding work, medical needs and ect. But this program , as many others, has been abused with peoples minutes being used for trival matters than intended. People tend to use up their minutes on futile things causing doctors or employers to not be able to reach them when they need to talk. Many tend to use the term “Obama phones”… The Republican party calls anything that does not work well… Obama’s fault”….When actually he had nothing to do with it. They love to use the term “Obama” in a negative way any chance they can,,,, I do not understand why they just won’t behave like …a decent citizen of the U.S.
Ibrahem Imasahm says
Shall I count the number of times Obama himself has blamed BUSH for anything and everything? Sorry, I am not sure I can count that high – public schooling and all. What comes after a trillion?
Jaquansaxon says
I realy need it
trevanian says
When has it become fashionable to take money from people working their assess off struggling to pay their cell phone bill, put bread on the table and give it to people who refuse to make minimum wage? Old people and children with special needs should be the only ones with obama phones period.
Ibrahem Imasahm says
Yes, and notice how the author tried to gloss right over who actually DOES pay for these free phones, calling it a “small fee – universal service fee?” Our cell phone bill alone is almost $5/mo for the involuntary welfare contribution (universal service fee). Try adding up your landline fees, water bill fees, gas bill fees, electric bill fees. I challenge all working people to look at ALL your utility bills. You will notice a universal service fee on EACH UTILITY. And the fees just continue to grow. Of course, we’re about to add another 5-6 MILLION welfare recipients – so get ready.
Bill says
I have always been able to find employment and always worked. I find these programs to Robbery from the working person for those that choose not to work. There is absolutely no need for everyone to have a cell phone. Yes help those that truly need a home phone. 911 can not find d you on a cell.phone so that argument is not valid. I know where I live every single person on welfare has a free cell phone and each of their children also, yet the people who pay for this can only afford a home phone, or one cell phone for the who k e family because they choose to make ends meet. These programs are started not to help these so called low income people, but the companies. Check into it you will find that these companies are making some of the highest profits,and are all owned by friends of the politicians. Don’t by this outfits bull every worker pays for these programs via taxes, and even if you don’t pay taxes you pay for it in cost of all purchases. Every business puts all expenses into sale prices, so you pay. That’s why this outfit wants you to sign up so they can pocket more and more for their mansions yachts and big parties, don’t use any of this carp, and the poor will start coming back up. Yes they do use these free programs to keep you dependant upon them. That way they can control everything you do.
john says
The man just wants to keeps us down an spy on us I have a phone but the piece of crap barely works that’s the only reason we have them
Free Government Cell Phones says
Watch out for those black helicopters John.
Karen says
Well John throw out the free piece of crap phone and go buy one then!
Drslot says
I worked all my life and eventually became disabled. Even then, I started my own little businesses and did well. Then came Obama and the downfall of the economy. The democrat socialists and communists are enslaving the citizens with free stuff. It’s ok to have programs for those that really need help and are willing to work. But too many people won’t work regardless. I am taking the free phone because I really need it and paying taxes all my life, I earned it. The problem with socialism is that sooner or later, you run out of other peoples money.
Bey says
Did u not read that Obama didn’t start this cell phone program? Stop being so Prejudiced
Jane Teague-Urbach says
I hate to burst your bubble – but the economy tanked BEFORE Obama took office and has been slowly recovering ever since. And I can’t believe you slam everyone else who gets help with a phone, but its ok for you because you paide taxes..and you assume no-one else on the program has! OMG.
Casey Walker says
The economy is not doing better. Do you see how much money we are losing everyday.
Ibrahem Imasahm says
The economy tanked because the DSC Party (democrat/socialist/communist party) took the House and Senate in 2006 with veto-proof margins during the last two years of Bush’s final term. They REFUSED to reign in Fannie Mae and Freddie Mac, and sure enough, all those “poor people” who had a “right” to own a home were not able to pay for those homes and down the whole house of cards came. So technically, you are correct – the economy tanked during the last two years of Bush’s term UNDER COMPLETE VETO-PROOF MARGIN DSC PARTY (democrat/socialist/communist party) CONTROL!
Marla Martin says
I as senior, would rather see people get help when they need it, rather than this money going to fake farm subsidies that are being paid to rich republican congressmen. I wish people would get a brain and care about the poor rather than giving more to the rich.
Marla Martin
Bill says
It’s not republicans wake up check your democrat representatives almost all of t 🙂 emerald have become millionaires while in Washington, who do you think they get that money from
James Duffy says
Why??
Matt says
C’mon, there is no justification to give out cell phones for free. What else iMacs, TVs and Xboxes? To say is not a tax is BS.
Casey Walker says
Well said!!
ruben says
I was under the impression that these cell phone companies were passed the bill…. in return they passed the bill to us cellphone customers for the fee?
mytorpor says
Yes Ruben, everyone who pays for their own phone line, whether it is a cell phone or a land line, pays a fee. And you pay that fee on every single phone, not just the primary phone line! So if you have a land line, you and your spouse have a cell phone and say three of your children have cell phones, you are paying that ‘little’ fee six times every single month!
Lul B Haji says
I get obama phone before three years Ago bat my number is disconnected i want if I can get second CH and thank you Obama and Any one Help Me.
Mike Aaron says
I wish the country was one big village. that the companies who provided did the best they could to enrich the lives of all, that they were paid fairly for their efforts, and treated their workers fairly. I wish we raised our children to love each other not look for differences. That we sent all our children to school and it wasn’t a small elite few who could afford a good education. When will we realize that if we sent every capable student to college we would have a nation of intelligent workers, instead of masses of laborers who are losing their jobs to lower wages overseas, we shouldn’t want those low paying jobs anyways. How about a tribal council of leaders who actually worked together to govern the villagers justly. to make sure they weren’t abused by corporate interests? No, we have to be concerned with some free cell phones.
Casey Walker says
Our problem is laziness. These days almost anyone can get financial aid and get a degree. Some people continue to make excuses.
Nat Cia says
I believe most people are angry at the wrong crowd. There are people that will take advantage of just about anything and everything that comes their way.
I believe it all starts at home, the system is messed up. I was once without a job and having had stayed at home with my child for a few years until he started pre-school I was lacking “work history” so many of the places I was applying for would not hire me because of it, not because of lack of experience. Prior to finally landing a job way below “my standards”, I had gone to the county office to see about getting job leads and this is what transpire.
-Hi, I’m here to see if you can give me some job leads.
-Ok, you have to sign up for cash aid, if you qualify, you have to do 40 hours of training, you will get money and job leads
-I don’t want money from you, I want to get a job, I just want some job leads that’s it.
-Well it doesn’t work that way!!! You HAVE to apply for cash aid, once you qualify, you will get the job leads.
I left with nothing and kept looking for work until I found it. While working there for two years, I kept looking for something better and finally gave myself a $5 raise when I found my current job.
While working at that one place, I saw a LOT of people come in that had food stamps and cash aid, some people (I would peek at their receipt) would have up to $1000 in food stamps and after getting to know the customers, I realized how MANY of them where job less, doing drugs and drinking while begging for money on the streets. It made me angry, there I was, working nights, risking my life and busting my ass paying taxes while they are begging on the streets, making more money then me doing so and still getting assistance from the government. It makes me sick and to put the cherry on top I would have to be nice to them because I was being watched 24/7 by surveillance cameras,
One time a well known customer offered a job to one of these homeless drunks, the homeless guy was in his late 30s, well spoken and had really good manners (I knew him because at night, people that came in would tell me their stories) this guy came from a family that had money, he had had an argument with his brother and had come to California, he became an alcoholic here when he couldn’t find a job and started begging on the streets. Any how, the known customer, offered him a job and he said this…. “”No thank you my friend, I make about $3000 a month begging on the streets, why would I want to work? I live in the empty field, with a tent under a tree, have a little stove and use the gas station bath room. I’m good to go. Thank you anyway.”” This is what society has become!!!
The system is so flawed it’s not even funny, you can go and apply for any kind of assistance and nothing gets checked, they take your word for it. So lets keep enabling the drunks, pot heads and addicts by giving them money on the streets and providing cash aid and food assistance.
Sheila says
That is so true. Very well said. I think its crazy how any one can get any kind of aid without providing proof or evidence. And the homeless people on the streets, when I see them I feel really sorry for them but something tells me they are fake. The way they dress and look does not even look like a homeless. They say they are hungry but when offered food, they refuse and ask for money. So obviously they don’t need the money for food, they use it to buy drugs or whatever. Some of them even sit on the streets with their kids. Omg, how can you take the poor kids and have them stay on the street the whole day and beg for money. What a shame!
Ibrahem Imasahm says
Not all are fake. I was leaving a donut store one morning while on my way to work and a man approached me and said he was hungry and asked for money. I honestly did NOT have any cash. So I offered to take him into the donut store and get him coffee, donuts and kolaches – something besides sugary donuts. He was very grateful and we parted ways as “friends.” I’m sure that most of them are fake, but for the sake of that ONE who may not be, offer FOOD, not money. If they’re for real, they’ll take you up on the food.
C.W. says
Well said!!
Bryon says
I know some people that milk the system, food stamps, free medical, free dental and now a free cell phone. They work and get paid cash under the table. I hope the government uses the free cell phones to track and follow the ones that work for cash and lock them up for fraud. Maybe they can listen in on the phone calls and hear some of the deadbeats making drug deals.
Bill says
So report them. There must be a finders fee for reporting one of those things.
dianna says
Free cell phones? Free for who. Somebody pays the price. Nothing is free. Seems there was a time when the only phones were land lines in your home, there were no cell phones. How did we ever survive without them. Now everybody has one attached to there hip. My income bracket is too high for a free phone, wouldn’t take one even if I could. Though my income bracket is too high for a free phone, still live paycheck to paycheck. I don’t feel as though my tax dollars should support a cell phone habit for those who cannot afford it. We are a one cell phone family. Hubby has one for his work, we use it as OUR phone. It is non contract and when we can’t afford minutes it is off until we can. Nobody should have to pay for my phone use, and I shouldn’t have to pay for anybody elses either. Too many people taking handouts instead of helping themselves, doing what they have to…..It is called survival. True there are those that need help, but how many don’t and just find ways to take advantage of a system working class america can no longer afford to take care of. I make twice as much as I did 20 years ago and still find it hard to survive. I have no problem with people who need help, I have a problem with those who are too lazy to help themselves, but kiniving enough to help themselves to what I bust my ass for everyday of the week, and have no shame about it. In a country where there are more people unemployed then working, how much more “free” can we continue to bare the burden of? The government is not independently wealthy. The money comes from the taxpayers. I think it is time to put a tighter fitting lid on the cookie jar and start slapping some hands.
Brian says
The problem you’re describing originates from corporate welfare, which sucks far more money out of people’s pockets than the mythical hordes of welfare slackers. You’re angry at the wrong group of people.
dAVE hARRIS says
Im not sure exactly what corporate welfare is although I see the term thrown around a lot. Are we talkiing about Solyndra? Or is that sort of thing ‘good” corporate welfare. I do know that we have an ever increasing number of parasites in our society. Mythical? Come to my office any day of the week and see all of the mythical recipients spending their day on the streets. We spent over a trillion on entitlement programs last year. How much on corporate welfare?
Mike Aaron says
these cell phone companies are making money hand over fist, they have successfully lobied our government into giving them subsidies, but we are not concerned about that? we are enraged that someone gets to make free phone calls? Really I can’t understand this type of thinking. These corporations should not be getting handouts, our government should not be owned by the people making political contributions. Some free cell phones is trivial and distracts the focus of the masses, we need to fix our government, hold corporations accountable, and empower the poor and impoverished. Every person we train or educate, the ones we help out for a period and then they become contributing members of society, they are the ones who will make this country great again. We need to come together, to help restore our people to dignity and our government to it’s role of defending the constitution and bill of rights.
cheute79 says
Replace “corporations” with “government at all levels”. Corporations have oversight, from shareholders and government. Government is supposed to have oversight: the voters. But most voters are ignorant, and will vote for anyone who will give them a handout, so their oversight is much worse than “corporations”.
No one can “empower” another; they can only disempower. The government, media and education system do most of the disempowering. If one feels empowered, or has the attitude of being empowered, he is. Few people are, either by dispostion or because they don’t care.
If “we” (the people, as in government) educate someone (pay for it), we should limit the areas of study to something where the recipient can actually help. “we” need to produce more electricians, more welders, more millwrights, and more chemical plant operators, and fewer lawyers (huge numbers have no job when they graduate), no graduates with degrees in “[fill in the blank] studies”, communications, Medieval Russian Literature, etc. That only increases national debt, decreases self esteem, causes anger, and devalues a High School diploma.
maurine says
My friend still has an “Obama phone” even though she does not qualify for Food Stamps anymore.
No one has ever taken it back and she still gets the free minutes. This is her back up phone.
She should never have gotten Food Stamps to begin with. She lied and said her husband left her and she
didn’t know where he was. No one ever checked.
What a gig if you can get it.
I have MS and still work even with my extreme fatigue.Have never gotten a dime from the government.
My mother was only approved for $10 a month in food stamps when she was old, in declining healh and paying a supplement to the government so she could get a home aide who did nothing but her homework while “helping’ my mother.
My father was a WW2 Veteran, died young and my mother never got anything from this great country who gives everything away to people who never did anything for this county.
Terry says
The Founding Fathers warned that Democracies have a shelf-life. One of the contributing factors to the demise is the size of the population willing to vote itself a paycheck. It starts small, then the burden placed on the backs of producers is overwhelmed. There is nothing more mobile than rich people and money. The “one size trophy for all participants” mentality is killing the American Competitive Edge. Giving money for nothing never made a person stronger; to believe otherwise is naive at best, and at worst criminal.
If you want to incentivize self-growth, we must demand that all recipients of any subsidy work. Even if it’s community service, fabricated gradeschool papers to critique, silverware and napkins to fold (then unfold), or a ditch to dig that was filled in the day prior, recipients must work. When being on welfare is as bad as, or worse than work, recipients will be more willing to stay in school and seek employment in the private sector.
For parents that would otherwise use their children as an excuse: vouchers–to be used by government approved, regulated, and inspected daycare centers.
It is true that I might find myself asking for welfare. And I’ll be the first to pick up the rake and drag it across the City Hall lawn until such time that one of my applications for a job is accepted. If God should find it in His plan to take my legs between now and then, I’ll do my best to read at local hospitals to children. I am an American, and I can earn my way in life….
Prof Mo says
Terry, I agree with you wholeheartedly. What you describe isn’t hard to implement, but it is too out-of-the norm for politicians to want to do it.
M Hooper says
Slavery in all but name is no vice, right?
Dickens describes well the sort of society you advocate and we are sliding into.
If we have democracy today, I don’t see much of it, when the strings are pulled by the people who get the most government welfare. Companies like GE, pay no taxes because they have lobbied successfully to have the tax code written so that the government gives them a bonus from your tax money, in addition to them NOT paying any taxes on April 15.
Perhaps you need to widen your focus to see who your real enemies are?
Mike says
Earn your own way in life? Your hypothetical scenario sounds like charity to me, bub. Pssh, whatever, not on my City Lawn, freeloader….
dick steele says
My son ,like others is disabled. The mental health and lack of care in the USA is horrible.1 out of 4 are involved . Would you deny them help. This service is paid for by a small universal tax in.your phone bill.
mike says
First of all, I’m sorry about your child. However it should not be my money that I (work) for going to supply a phone to a no good sorry ass that won’t look for work. There are available jobs, granted not the best of jobs, but these particular people I refer to don’t think they should have to work. They feel entitled to get everything for nothing, they think their owed something. Well I don’t owe them shit. They need to get off the couch, sidewalks and food lines and take whatever job they can get and become a contribution to the country. If I had my way everyone not willing to work for food would starve. Have a great day.
M Hooper says
mike
You suffer– as do millions of both jobless and working people– under the corporate rule of this country. But if it were your elderly or infirm mother or son or, indeed, yourself, who was unable to work due to illness or age, and you wouldn’t or couldn’t help out– with the money that you have worked so hard for and resent giving a jot of to the indigent– wouldn’t you sleep better knowing that in a medical emergency your family members could call 911? Or give a phone number to a potential employer in case of a job offer? Or if your house was burning down and you were not home that someone you might not even know could call the fire apartment on your behalf? Since pay phones have disappeared from our streets, the cell phone has been a necessity for so many people.
Corporate welfare became government policy beginning with Ronnie’s administration. Your resentment–so common now– of those who have fared badly under corporatism has replaced any consideration of the common good, and your anger will eventually kill you.
[this part removed due to lack of civility]
Perhaps the log in your eye is too large for you to remove without professional help?
Karin says
Do people not realize even if you do not have landline phone service you can still call 911 from your landline? In all the steas. Also these Obama phones are a joke. My drug addict brother and sister in law ( who choose to be homeless most of the time cuz they don’t want to work) they each have 3 Obama phones. Yes I said 3.. OBAMA PHONES ARE A JOKE..
Grace says
Did you not read the article, or are you incapable of understanding what it was you thought you read? The program came into existence in 1996 under Clinton, and then 8 years under Bush. Obama was elected in November of 2008, but didn’t take office until January of 2009. So, call it an Obamaphone if you want, but the guy wasn’t even in office.
Patty says
Don’t take a worthy program that has helped many, and given families with those aging adult members and disabled living alone some peace of mind over their safety – or does shafting them make YOU get even more kicks? Believe me, your overall tax dollars benefit many MUCH wealthier than you (individuals, politicians, “corporate welfare”) far more. .. but you don’t mind your money subsidizing THEM (and getting richer at your expense) ??? The fact is, those who will take advantage in some manner and at any level, will do so, whatever their life is – whether its your bum who wants a bottle of wine and a phone too (OH NO!), or the unpoor vacationers who always steal those hotel bathmats etc. Greedy thieves are everywhere from THE TOP on down, they hide how they do it and the perks they get (mass tax evasion as only the top can do), and more cunning (could this be you in some way?) . Our culture actually rewards that more than we will take the time to raise children with good self esteem and well-earned and developed pride. Sit on it and ponder for awhile 😀
esther clearwaters says
I know someone who has an obama phone and over 200,000 in the bank
Doug N. says
I still try reminding myself ,Doug the next RIGHT THING,
My folks are and were as close as norm can get ;every family is a bit loppy at times and as parents learned from experience in my own deceiving ways that we must but diligent, not giving in when we are strongly confident in our parental judgements….I connived my loving folks blindly and the remorse I deal with daily or so.teens will do what it takes to be accepted by their peers.
we are not to be their best friends , maybe when they reach adulthood but we are to be tough loving as painfully as it might be. Our children will not hate us, they may state this loudly, repeatedly but they will someday thank you hopefully.
Brian says
Good thing nothing you say matters.
Doug N. says
I think mandatory drug testing is the answer to sort out a lot of the system milkers;not all but many.
My wife and I are struggling as I was injured and she is dealing with a surgery coming up so the fact that I have been working since 12 on the books since 16,should my character be judged as a sluggard?
Kathy says
Doug N, I totally agree with you. I think everyone who gets state or federal assistance should be drug tested on an ongoing basis. Most jobs have their employees tested, why not medicaid recipients? I am on disability, I get help with my medicare part b payment, and with medicare part c. I have medicaid as a secondary to medicare. I would be happy to be drug tested every month if needed.
shane says
your handicapped child doesn’t need a cell phone. You don’t need a cell phone. I don’t need a cell phone.
You need a job to support YOUR child.
When you are thinking of having a child, you should think “can I afford a kid?” if the answer is yes, then you should think, “what if he is handicapped?” if that answer is no, then what? Take that chance?
Your life, your problem. The gov, nor the people should be forced to support others. Its my money to do with what I want not anyone else’s.
Aaron White says
And how do you get a job without a phone? A Cell phone costs just as much as a landline in most areas and is a lot more useful.
But, maybe we can just ask people to have potential employers offer them jobs via pigeon. I hear they’re still pretty accurate.
Ibrahem Imasahm says
Actually, wasn’t it President Reagan who initiated the assistance with landline phones? Could be wrong. In any event, the government cell phones are VERY limited in minutes – the landline phones are unlimited. Common sense, here, folks! If you’re looking for a job, you will most likely be on the phone A LOT!
Joel says
Wow… the empathy is overwhelming here. Yes, I believe in personal responsibility. But, stuff happens. The guy you are replying to is talking about the lowlife bums. Not the ones who life dealt a bad hand. I would go a step further, and say, I’m not against giving someone a helping hand who is trying to turn their life around after having made poor choices. We have lost our way. Community people. People used to give of their time to help others out. When someone was in trouble, back in the day it wasn’t anything for most of a town (small town, granted) to take off, and pitch in help. What has happened to us??
Johnny says
I was robbed by someone with an Obama phone, and police are not capable of tracking it or pulling information as it’s privately listed.
BS, they are handing out phones to border crossers who are not legal citizens on our dime.
Disgusting!!!
Mike Aaron says
What are you talking about? tracking a robber by their safelink phone? illegal immigrants? where have you found evidence of this? I think that these phones are potential lifelines to the needy, they could be used for emergency or to return a call to potential employers. This country needs to empower its’ impoverished, to educate and train, every person we help makes us stronger as a whole. Imagine we’re upset about low skill jobs being shipped overseas, we could educate the masses and have no use for those jobs in our economy, we should be inventors,scientists, and innovators, not laborers. This country is going down the tubes and we need to start looking out for one and other, stopping the greed hatred, and ignorance.
Bill says
How do you know the robber had an Obama Phone (which I find it amusing people still call it even after the explanation on this page). Did it have a big picture of him on the phone? Did he stop to take a call and say “give me a minute while I take a call on my Obama Phone”? Did it double as a weapon?
BTW are you saying they give them to each person who illegally crosses the border into the US? Does that happen as soon as they get here? Or do they get a coupon that they have to mail in?
ShutUpShane says
Two things. First of all, yes, they DO need phones. Try living without one for a while, being homeless or job hunting. I dare you.
Second, no, it’s not “your” money. It is our money. Taxes are paid by all of us, not just you, in order to fund public projects and programs.
dick steele says
The new President is always inaugurated on Jan. 20. Anything prior to that date in 2009,was on the other guys watch.
Tim says
This doesn’t change the fact that the federal government changed the name of their program to “Obama Phones.” This is known on the street by the most non-political people. The word “Obama Phone” was going around even before Obama Phone lady
yolanda liontas says
I am a part of this program, But I broke my phone and I need to replace it but I can’t seem to find out how? I had to purchase another phone! That I really can’t afford can you please help me I really depended on my cell phone you have provided for me. Please help me.
I also cannot find my assigned pin number that was given to me!
hang do says
how can i get a free phone
Raymond says
I think it’s a good idea to give phones for free not every one can afford it. But everyone needs it. Some one gets hurt. Or needs help of some sort will be able to get it. Because they have a cell phone to do it. Very good idea thank you.
March 8, 2014 says
If you need a phone so “desperately” then go find a job. Since when was a phone a need not a necessity?
I’m only 16 and I pay my own phone bills. I pay $50 a month so I can have a phone. My parents don’t pay for me.
The hard working taxpayers shouldn’t pay for everyone to have a phone. Nothing in life is free, there’s always a catch. The “free” phone idea is ridiculous. To receive a phone you should have to work hard and pay for it yourself. Unfortunately, today’s society is teaching everyone that you can do nothing and receive whatever you want. I call it lazy.
Wzrd1 says
Try again, skippy. I’m 52 years old, retired from the US Army reserve.
Without a phone, I can’t get a call for an interview for a job.
Without internet, I can’t even apply for a job.
So, try listening to those with more experience in life, we’re a great deal wiser to how the world works than you, the schoolkid.
Ibrahem Imasahm says
First off, I thank you for your service to our country, Sir. Now, did you not read that the KID is paying his/her own cell phone bill? That’s impressive, deserves our respect and shows the kid has already attained a level of wisdom that most that age have not. I, for one, agree with the KID.
erricca renee raemono says
Please send a free Obama Cell Phone. To my current address.
[address redacted]
I live in a rural area. Please could not find a form to request the cell phone.
it's a TAX not a fee says
its not a fee, its a tax. if Im forced to pay it and can’t opt out, I call it a tax.
joebox says
Its not the havenots hurting the economy. The freephones are just one more scheme the haves developed to transfer wealth from sheepish americans to ensure wealthy elite continue their life and you work 70hrs a week to pay interest on printed money in hope for the American dream of home ownership. Then its a reverse mortgage because social security it turns out is the worlds biggest Ponzi scheme and they need your house back to control the next sucker. Some schemes taxpayers buy weapons and people die in needless wars. This scheme taxpayers buy phones at least no one gets hurt. Why should the world suffer because sheep need to be fleeced. We are have and havenots don’t get stuck on black and white. If so you will never figure out bush and Obama are front men for the same group. Actors in a production directed by the wealthy elite. Remember if you got wool in your stool your the problem.
Carlos Slim, named the world’s wealthiest man for four consecutive years, is the mastermind entrepreneur behind the U.S. government assistance program Assurance Wireless, The affluent Mexican capitalist, who has an estimated net worth of $73 billion, is headquartered in Mexico City.
Cynthia Moody says
Is this the program you and Peggy were talking about?
Cynthia Moody says
Is this the program you and Caron were talking about?
Cynthia Moody says
Is this the OBAMA PHONE
danielle zimmerman says
i want to aply for an obama cell phone can you help me ?
Free Government Cell Phones says
Start here to see where you can get a phone in your state:
https://www.freegovernmentcellphones.net/states
Jeremy Montoya says
Will it be called the Hillary or Clinton Phone if Hillary is elected President? If Romney were President would it have been called the Romney or Mitt Phone?
James says
Thanks for the free phone! I don’t know how people can live without a phone. I’ve been unemployed for four years, and thank goodness for public programs like this, or I would not have a home, food or spending money. I worked hard for almost 5 years when Bush wrecked the economy, so it’s only fair that I get help now from the government. My only complaint is the time limit of 250 minutes a month. I use that in just over a week, and then I have to sell some of my SNAP debit cards to buy tracphone minutes at the store. We need more minutes. Appreciate all that you do.
Leigh says
Uh..you do know you just admitted to an illegal act of selling snap benefits right? The only reason you only get 250 free minutes is because its just something to HELP you out..not to pay for an entire months worth of service … and I’m sorry 4 years if unemployment… McDonalds is always hiring.
Dave says
James is a story teller and Leigh fell for it.
Ibrahem Imasahm says
Um, Bush inherited a dot.com bubble, which burst four months into his presidency. He inherited Osama bin laden because Clinton refused to accept possession of him when another country offered him to us – thus, 9-11 happened. Yet, through all that, in less than SIX YEARS, the Bush policies had this country back on a financial upswing (yes, check the charts – facts don’t lie) until when? Until the DSC Party (democrat/socialist/communist party) took control of the House and Senate by a veto-proof margin and ran roughshod over Bush, refusing to reign in Fannie Mae and Freddie Mac until finally, all those “poor people” who were given home loans, defaulted and the whole house of cards came tumbling down. Watch the actual CONGRESSIONAL VIDEOS of Chris Dodd/Barney Frank and you’ll see who decimated our economy.
Ibrahem Imasahm says
Wow, I guess stating the facts on the predecessor is not allowed on this site!
FreeGovernmentCellPhones.net says
Comments are moderated to catch a few thousand spam comments a day. All polite comments are welcome here, but since the comments are moderated each one has to be approved. This can take up to a day.
Valerie says
The program actually started in 1985 under the Reagan Administration. Initially it was a phone subsidy that gave a credit of $9.25 a month. Doesn’t seem like much but in those days our phone bills (before long distance calls) were roughly $19.95 a month. This was before the hundreds of phone companies and long distance carriers. It was more simple and cheaper. So giving Clinton the credit for the program is false, it was the Reagan Admin that created the subsidy for telephone service to the low income.
Lynette davis says
How do I get a free government iPhone.
Free Government Cell Phones says
You came to the right place. Start on our home page.
Live & Let Live says
@Ryan
EXACTLY!
@ Austrian Economics Student
I noticed you check this site often. Are you that mean-of-a-person to actually seek out people to put them down? I don’t think you are, so try and be a little kinder…
Have a wonderful day you all!
Btw: here’s my 2¢
I think it’s a good idea to give to others in need. Everyone needs help sometime in their life. EVERYONE. If the people applying for the phone are eligible then by all means let’em have it. Don’t be a hater if you’re someone who don’t “need” a hand out, because someday you just might be that person you’re putting down.
Lisa says
I totally agree. Who cares if us taxpayers are paying for. Its not like each of us is paying an arm and a leg for it. Its a small, tiny portion of it. Where is the American Pride? We’re suppose to be helping each other out. Thats what being an American is all about.
daniel says
I’m 71 years old, have never drawn unemployment even though there have been times when I was unemployed. I didn’t have time to draw unemployment, I was too busy looking for a job. I’ve never received food stamps or welfare, and I don’t have a free cell phone. In fact, I don’t even have a cell phone that I’ve paid for. I have never needed a cell phone and I never want to own one. The only folks that really need cell phones are folks like doctors, real estate people, police and firefighters, and people that do a lot of business traveling. But most people who have cell phones are those idiots that are constantly talking on the phone to their stupid friends about a lot of nothing. If I were President, cell phones would be outlawed unless you have a good reason for having one. Other things I’d outlaw would be tattoos, men wearing earrings, dark car windows, boom boxes in vehicles, trash music like rap, etc.
Jason says
I see you believe in personal freedom, I think you may be happier if you move to a Saudi Arabia you’d have a lot in common with those folks.
JM says
Unemployment is an insurance program run by the government, and while you work, you are paying the premiums on the policy. Bragging that you didn’t collect the unemployment benefits due you when unemployed is as stupid as bragging that you didn’t collect the fire insurance payment when your house burnt down.
And, cell phones are a fact of modern life. Low end cell plans are cheaper than land lines in some parts of the country. In other parts, wired service is even being discontinued. I read that after Hurricane Sandy, many island communities were told that their phone company had decided against rebuilding the wired telephone networks connections to the mainland.
Danny says
Good for you. The truth about the Obama phone is that it is a NSA program set up by the last administration to gather information on all the cell phones in America. Obama phones cover every frequency of the airway. The NSA uses these phones to collect every call on every cell phone in the nation. If you don’t have one the NSA doesn’t know you.
dude says
do you really believe that?
rae says
with all due respect, if your not doing anything wrong or illegal….who cares?
Dave says
with all due respect, are you really that ignorant?
scotty says
Did you actually read the article? because I don’t think you did. It clearly states adding cell phones to the plan was passed 3 months before Obama’s election. But better keep that tin foil hat nearby in case Obama tries to force gay islamic communist thoughts into your head.
Laura says
I started working on a regular basis at age 13. I babysat every weekday from then until the end of my Junior year in high school. I quit because I was selected by a division of General Motors to become an intern, for which I received minimum wage and school credits. I went to college after graduating high school and only took out one PRIVATE loan for $5000; I worked various jobs to pay the rest of my way through college. I held various jobs after college, I lived by myself, and paid all my own bills. There were a few times I was out of work, and I can remember once when I had absolutely nothing to eat but ketchup, salt, dry kidney beans, oatmeal, and vegetable oil. My car broke down at that time, so I walked miles daily looking for work. Eventually in life I got a great job working as a manager in a hospital. Then I got sick. I couldn’t work because of my illness. I lost my job. Eventually I couldn’t afford health insurance. And when I tried to get help with medical coverage and medications, I was turned away. After 6 months without adequate treatment, I developed several other health issues from which I will never be able to be fully recover. If I had received a little bit of medical assistance when I needed it, I would not be disabled now, and it would have cost the taxpayers a tiny fraction in prevention than it is costing them now. But I never gave up. I learned new skills that I could use to work from home (since I can’t be away from home for very long because of my health issuers). I am working towards being able to fully support myself again. I am a recipient of welfare, and I am a good person who is doing their best to get off of welfare. I want to be independent, I want to work. Before I got sick, I spent hundreds of hours doing volunteer work in my community, mostly with homeless and runaway kids, but also doing community clean-ups. I want to do that again, too.
Now to the free cell phones…I have one, but I do not use it to “chat” with friends and family. I do not have a car, so I use the bus (almost exclusively for medical appointments). The bus system in my town does not run on schedules – you must make appointments for rides. Often they tell you to call them when you’re ready for a ride home. Which is what I use my free cell phone for. The only other times I have used it is when my power has gone out (which isn’t a rare thing in the area I live in; sometimes the power goes out for days to a week). And, even though I have never had to use my cell for an emergency, it is comforting to know that I can if needed.
I do have one complaint about the free cell phones. I get minutes every month, whether I need them or not. And since I only use my cell when necessary, I have accumulated over 37 hours of talk time. It just keeps coming, the government keeps paying the cell company for it, and I can’t make it stop. That is a complete waste of money, and there should absolutely be a limit on how much time you can accumulate.
wally cochran says
I’m 81 and agree completely
Mike Hawk says
In this country, we can own a cell phone regardless of profession. Go drink your prune juice cocktail, watch happy days, snd tuck into bed by 730.
agingcynic says
Pretty simple. Count the number of phones under each POTUS and the rate of increase under the respective administrations. The numbers don’t lie. There are 100 cents in a dollar (unless you’re an Obama Voter and believe that Rainbows and unicorns will solve everything.)
scotty says
… Actually it isn’t that simple at all. Technology has gotten more and more popular since this program started so of course more people would be using or needing cell phones. 20 years ago no one had a cell phone, today every single fucking person has one, I wonder if more people have cell phones under Obama than Reagan herpity derpity doooooo
Ron says
Of course more phones have been issued under Obama than Bush. This is a no brainer since the program began in 2008 and Bush left office only a few months since its inception. The fact that the program is so popular has to do with the fact that a phone of some kind is pretty much a necessity to obtain employment and sadly, that so many people are so impoverished that they qualify for them.
Jason says
“The fact that the program is so popular has to do with the fact that a phone of some kind is pretty much a necessity to obtain employment.” Are you kidding with that statement? People don’t want to get off of their asses and “earn” a living, when they get by better on handouts.http://www.nationalreview.com/article/356317/welfare-better-deal-work-michael-tanner
kevin says
I like a free phone & Thank you (Mr.President Obama) for the different programs that the White House has passed. And cheap or free Internet services with the phone is awesome. Thank you all and
Happy New Year 2014!
Mercedes Pagan says
Those phone give you 250 minutes a month not message and no free internet
One who knows says
Actually the 250 “minutes a month” plan ALLOWS texting. In the state of TN. Last I heard it was a rate of 0.30 min per text (allowing 3 texts for less than 1 min of airtime).
Adam says
I live in TN and you’re correct. The Safelink phone is set up just as you described… 0.3 min per text taken from the 250min allotment. I have seen very, very low grade phones that could access the internet as well but it’s not worth the trouble or minutes it eats up. They don’t access well at all and just a couple of actual minutes using the net burns probably 10-15min of your 250 (just an educated guess on conversion). I wouldn’t use it myself because the 250 don’t go as far as one might think to begin with.
The Assurance phone gives you 250 minutes of talk time AND unlimited texting. Assurance seperates the text and voice while Safelink combines the two. With Safelink, when you text, the time comes off the 250 minutes. No internet capabilities with Assurance at all… unless you purchase additional minutes on a phone card, you can access the net then but yet again it really burns up the minutes fast!
Adam Knachel says
read this and you might learn something
htt0p://www.snopes.com/politics/taxes/cellphone.asp
eddie says
Why does it bother anyone that anyone is getting any thing fee from the government and who is the president at that time can’t people just let people get what they can especially if it is legal.Can anyone really know how your taxes are spent, would you complain if your taxes thou pay not anyone else’s but yours was going to help keep the usa safe or if it was going to help some poor vet. Stay in a hospital ….think about it I dont know where my tax money is going to but I know that is a fact of life just like death so why complain if it helps out your fellow american or should we be giving the free phones to the poor people in Afghanistan….
Now how do you feel?
Andrea Sharpley says
I would like to try the phone out
William M Durham says
[rewrite your comment in a more courteous manner and we’ll allow it – admin]
YaHeard!!! says
The free phone is BS plain and simple. I’ll leave the technicalities out because for one I don’t give a rats ass and two I’ll use a thing called common sense to make my point. I had got this phone and used it but then I decided f this and threw it in the trash. I’m a father and husband in his late twenties that instead of going to college or straight into the workforce after high school chose to serve in the military and got out to pursue other interests, go to college, etc. I have been struggling and yes I’ve worked jobs like construction and things like that but those jobs tend to lay you off when work runs dry. I’ve been trying my ass off to step up to the plate and be a man and take responsibility and do the things the old fashioned way. Work hard, do whats expected of me, you know the values of an American. Its been really hard, and I had to resort to food stamps to feed my family because my pay was shit. A 26 year old making $10 hr is a ****** joke, I made that raking neighbors leaves when I was 8 years old. Anyway, even though I’m in a financial hard place I will not take this “handout” and make other people pay my way it is not a necessity its a want. To keep up with a status quo sort of speak. I won’t do it. To the taxpayers out there who fund the welfare for people that really need it thank you from the bottom of my heart. I need the food stamps, that is a necessity right now. I’m not lazy and if anyone can attest to being the military it isn’t a place for the lazy (although they do exist) and construction and such jobs are not lazy mans work. So either way I’ll use what I can when the chips are down and I am doing my best to move forward. I will not be on food stamps for long and will not leech from the hardworking taxpaying American. Sorry that goes against my ethos and I’m already not proud of myself for resorting to food stamps I want to do better than that. I have it in me to do better. The thing is if people can’t scrounge up 20 or 30 dollars for a tracfone from dollar general or family dollar or Walmart, etc. and get only the minutes they need to keep in contact with employers say and not to text all day and call your pals all day then it is doable for the most disenfranchised of people. If they smoke, drink, for drugs, or eat out, or if they like spending money on frivolous nonsense than why should the pity be from those that are responsible and do what they must for their families or themselves? I’m sorry I use taxpayers money to eat and this will end as soon as possible. One thing though is wages need to increase all across the board. I don’t know much about economics but I will say greed is ****** a lot of people and jobs that were once here are gone and we are a nation of services. I once heard that you have to make “things” to have a good economy, well where is industry and manufacturing and all that? Urban sprawl that is littered with corporate franchises that pay minimum wage, strip malls of privately owned business that are family owned and that won’t hire you or pay such dire wages its pointless altogether. Why in the hell are we doing business with communist China? Makes no sense. Oh yes it does, greed and slave labor, ludicrous profits that are hoarded and CEOs that make ludicrous salaries. What the fuck do they do that’s so special and important that they need that kind of money especially at the expense of the workers that allow that those profits to be realized? I say, ” Why are we meddling in the effects of social,political,and economic issues, when we should be trying to eradicate the cause altogether.”
YaHeard!!! says
The free phone is BS plain and simple. I’ll leave the technicalities out because for one I don’t give a rats ass and two I’ll use a thing called common sense to make my point. I had got this phone and used it but then I decided f this and threw it in the trash. I’m a father and husband in his late twenties that instead of going to college or straight into the workforce after high school chose to serve in the military and got out to pursue other interests, go to college, etc. I have been struggling and yes I’ve worked jobs like construction and things like that but those jobs tend to lay you off when work runs dry. I’ve been trying my ass off to step up to the plate and be a man and take responsibility and do the things the old fashioned way. Work hard, do whats expected of me, you know the values of an American. Its been really hard, and I had to resort to food stamps to feed my family because my pay was horrible. A 26 year old making $10 hr is a ****** joke, I made that raking neighbors leaves when I was 8 years old. Anyway, even though I’m in a financial hard place I will not take this “handout” and make other people pay my way it is not a necessity its a want. To keep up with a status quo sort of speak. I won’t do it. To the taxpayers out there who fund the welfare for people that really need it thank you from the bottom of my heart. I need the food stamps, that is a necessity right now. I’m not lazy and if anyone can attest to being the military it isn’t a place for the lazy (although they do exist) and construction and such jobs are not lazy mans work. So either way I’ll use what I can when the chips are down and I am doing my best to move forward. I will not be on food stamps for long and will not leech from the hardworking taxpaying American. Sorry that goes against my ethos and I’m already not proud of myself for resorting to food stamps I want to do better than that. I have it in me to do better. The thing is if people can’t scrounge up 20 or 30 dollars for a tracfone from dollar general or family dollar or Walmart, etc. and get only the minutes they need to keep in contact with employers say and not to text all day and call your pals all day then it is doable for the most disenfranchised of people. If they smoke, drink, for drugs, or eat out, or if they like spending money on frivolous nonsense than why should the pity be from those that are responsible and do what they must for their families or themselves? I’m sorry I use taxpayers money to eat and this will end as soon as possible. One thing though is wages need to increase all across the board. I don’t know much about economics but I will say greed is ****** a lot of people and jobs that were once here are gone and we are a nation of services. I once heard that you have to make “things” to have a good economy, well where is industry and manufacturing and all that? Urban sprawl that is littered with corporate franchises that pay minimum wage, strip malls of privately owned business that are family owned and that won’t hire you or pay such dire wages its pointless altogether. Why in the hell are we doing business with communist China? Makes no sense. Oh yes it does, greed and slave labor, ludicrous profits that are hoarded and CEOs that make ludicrous salaries. What the **** do they do that’s so special and important that they need that kind of money especially at the expense of the workers that allow that those profits to be realized? I say, ” Why are we meddling in the effects of social,political,and economic issues, when we should be trying to eradicate the cause altogether.”
Mike says
You lefties are so dumb. I’m poor but I’m not greedy. Money doesn’t grow on trees. It has to come from somewhere and you can say its a tax or not. Doesn’t matter it came from someone else’s pocket not yours. That’s just how it works with all government. They create a job in government and it takes one from the private sector. And you pay double for a slower worker and a bureaucrat to go with him and they lose money and you wonder why. You think it’s the nice thing to do to create government job but it’s still wrong. Look at California where I’m from. Most government jobs and we have more poor here than anywhere. The lazy workers and bureaucrats get there money from these poor and middle and upper class. Average American pays 40-45% of there income in taxes. How’s that help poor people. It starves the middle class from creating you a good job at a small business. Instead of greedy corporations. And if you don’t like your job then leave or go to school. Stop complaining your poor it’s your fault. Invest your money. You don’t even realize that when the government prints money for your hand outs it just raises prices on the things you buy making you more poor. I feel sorry for the elderly on a fixed income. We’ve traveled farther and farther left for a long time. Do you really think it’s better now than in the 50s. You can’t even tax the richest 1% enough to fix the deficit. This idea that government helps you is so dumb. We are the most generous nation in the world. I think we’d be willing to donate to help our own. But we don’t cause government does it for us. The fact is we will go bankrupt it we keep spending. Think about it. If democrats get votes from poor people what drives them to make you rich. They want you to be dependent on government or work for government so they get votes. No one votes to lose what they have given to them by government. This is a free country. Have we forgotten that. If you want handouts go to Greece. There doing great over there with all there nice people. You might think I’m a crazy republican but I’m libertarian. We need to cut all programs back including military. Legalize marijuana & prostitution everywhere. And tax it. It’s obvious prohibition doesn’t work. It just makes a black market and creates more crime and turf wars. If someone wants it’s someone is selling it period. If it’s legal it’s safer and harder for kids to get like alcohol. The only people we should help with taxes are people with disabilities. But they make only 850 a month because you want free medicare cause you don’t take care of yourself, food stamps for lobster dinners, unemployment for 99 weeks of not looking for work. Cash aid for your drug dealer. Etc Etc. wake up can’t you see how this actually hurts us all.
r says
“I’m libertarian”
ie an Idiot. Your posts speaks volumes on your idiocy. No sources cited. And it’s all written as one huge unending paragraph.
Libertarian= a way for sociopaths with no empathy for others to acceptably be a$$holes in society.
Austrian Economics Student says
Your communist and wrong. I don’t see any sources cited, and you want to live off of the backs of others. Oh, and Red Herring alert, the unending paragraph argument is inconsequential. Why don’t you actually look up how huge the taxes are for people who have them, then, since you obviously won’t be convinced, maybe look at the constitution for the first time in your life. I don’t agree with making Marijuana legal, but with a 60,000 page tax code, over 10,000 regulations on the private sector, and the top 10% paying over 50% of the taxes (which is punishing the hardworking). I understand that people can have tough lives, but they need to stop accepting the lie that they can have whatever they want, and they will never have to pay for it, oh, and not punishing hardworking people would help. Really, it all boils down to ethics, the inflation, corruption, and debt that is created by a lack of honesty in politicians, people who know how to act and win an election, not run a country.
Call me a tool, but you are really the tool.
Mike says
Do I really have to quote everything I write. Get your head out your butt and do some research. I’m not saying all poor people should slave for me. I’m a hvac tech so I am one of those slaves. The fact is that you can’t help people who can work by giving them handouts. That’s for people who can’t work. A small safety net is needed to help people when they lose a job and are finding another. But the net we have now is to much. To help poor people you have to give them a job. And yes some jobs pay crappy wages. But that’s why you should fight for better wages not handouts. The fact that people blame the rich for all there problems is stupid. They are the job creators. There greediness actually helps us all. Buy wanting more money they are always investing it and creating more jobs. Capatalism is a beautiful thing and works great. But what we have isn’t capatalism. Corporate welfare and regulations are what help big business and kills the competitors from taking business back from government brown nosers. Example. In my trade we switched from R22 to R410A refrigerant. They said R22 destroys the ozone because of the evil chemical Chlorine. So they had to stop making it and only can recycle it. Prices are out of control because of its scarcity so they get to sell tons of new AC units that are R410A even though R22 was a better refrigerant and the R410A units break down more. This provided ton of more work in my trade which helps me and the distributors. But it really hurts consumers. And we are all consumers. All because of that evil chlorine. I ask you if chlorine is bad for the ozone. Why don’t they ban pools. Does the chlorine not evaporate into the ozone too???
Mike says
By the way I watched stossel the other day. I guess billionaire Carlos Slim of Tracfone. Got to make billions on the Obama phone. And the poor people think there getting the help. It’s corporate welfare like always. Your all so blind.
rick says
Why do half of you care as i see it your arguing on an online post over welfare having this much time on your hands says alot the majority of you probably jobless and on assistance i dont qualify for any im free white over 18 able bodied male that has worked my butt off helped those in need instead of blaming each other blame yourself and the officials YOU elected to represent u
girgis says
The address is 46 XXXXXX street #22 get the phone with camera and unlimited minutes
vanessa davis says
plz help me find a gd free cell phone
LEGION says
http://www.weeklystandard.com/blogs/fcc-lifeline-program-fraud-and-abuse-surpasses-two-million-subscribers_766312.html
Thor Leslie says
By the way, for all you conservative assclowns that say this program comes from taxpayers… that’s not really accurate. It actually comes out of a fund paid for by phone companies, collected as one of the service fees at the end of your phone bill. It’s an extension of the Lifeline program, which was started during the Reagan years and got upgraded to cell phones under Clinton and was expanded by Bush.
Have a nice day.
Thor Leslie says
Also, the program does NOT require phone companies to give out free phones or pay for free minutes, only that they offer service for a reduced fee. The companies CHOOSE to give out the free phones and minutes themselves.
Thor Leslie says
From the FCC website, which I’m sure every Republican idiot will claim is all lies:
http://www.fcc.gov/guides/lifeline-and-link-affordable-telephone-service-income-eligible-consumers
LEGION says
You are a piece of garbage Leslie- you are SO STUPID! DIE – but read this first– http://www.weeklystandard.com/blogs/fcc-lifeline-program-fraud-and-abuse-surpasses-two-million-subscribers_766312.html
Nathan says
Call it a fee if it is on your phone bill and you have to pay for it and it goes to the government Its a TAX!!! Extension or no Whoever started it why not stop it! I think it is a sad that my tax dollars pay for someone’s cell phone!
The right one says
It’s corporate welfare to the richest man in the world
Carlos Slim, World’s Richest Man, Profiting Off ‘Obamaphones’ Aimed At Helping The Poor
Oct 10, 2012
The world’s richest man is apparently making a lot of money off a government program aimed at helping the poor Americans.
Every time someone gets a phone through Lifeline, a government program that gives phones to low-income Americans, TracPhone, a company in which Mexican telecom mogul Carlos Slim has a controlling stake, nets $10, Fox News reports. The company’s CEO, Frederick “F.J.” Pollak, who is a major Obama donor, also makes a profit from the data plans and minutes beneficiaries of the Lifeline program buy.
The Lifeline program has been pushed into the spotlight recently after a video surfaced of an Obama supporter saying she would be voting for the president because he gave her a free phone. Though the woman credited Obama for her phone, the president didn’t start Lifeline; it began in 1984 — Ronald Reagan was president then, for your information — as a landline-only program, and President Clinton expanded it to include cell phones in 1996, according to the Atlantic Wire.
After the “Obamaphone Lady” video was posted on The Drudge Report, some alleged that the video’s widespread circulation was fueled by racism, according to The Wall Street Journal.
Regardless of the controversy over the phone itself, the allegations that Slim is benefiting off a program aimed at helping the poor may only fuel characterizations of the $69 billion man as a super-rich mogul who capitalizes on the woes of others. Slim’s son noted in an interview with Bloomberg in May that his father was taking advantage of the “opportunities” provided by the European Debt Crisis.
Critics, including hundreds of protesters at George Washington University in May, have also accused Slim of making his money off the backs of the Mexican people, as well as off of stifling the country’s economic development. Slim has additionally urged us normals to continue working until we’re at least 70, arguing that it would help to boost the world’s struggling economies.
alejandra munoz says
How do I aply for the government phone
Rl says
Obama phones are just another drain on the tax payer. Cell phones are a luxury item and are not needed to get a job. I’m all for helping someone down and out TEMPORARILY! What this obvious socialist writer doesn’t explain is how much the program has exploded along with the deficit. The gov is spending money they don’t have. Absolutely ridiculous.
Dee says
The deficit today has nothing to do with welfare programs. They’re a drop in the bucket compared to what you pay for the military. Your deficit is exploding due to the overspending during the Bush administration. That didn’t suddenly disappear in Jan 2009. He wasted trillions on an unnecessary war that will continue to cost you trillions in veteran care and interest. Nothing Obama can do about that.
What he has done is spend less than any president since the 50s. Go google it and see the FACTS.
Oh wait, you’re blinded by your right wing ideology. All that matters is what you WANT to see, not the FACTS.
Disgraceful.
Thor Leslie says
Dee is absolutely right. Six to twelve times as much of your taxes go to the military budget than what goes to welfare.
LEGION says
Thor Leslie and Dee- you are kool aide drinking turds. Google? Spying for the odumbo administration. Chopping on the military? How passe. Borrrinnggg The budget keeps getting destroyed every year- the Russians and the Chinese are ramping up on the interest money we send them for borrowing for garbage programs like this phone. Your left wing nazi commie socialist marxist ideology has made you SICK! Search for the real FACTS- 3 yrs and half a billion on a web site that doesn’t work? By a company that has an employee that went to school with the Wookie- Michelle? Socialism never worked ANYWHERE it was tried. LOSER- like you two.
r says
“Socialism never worked ANYWHERE it was tried”
Last time I checked Canada, Germany, France, The Netherlands, Sweden etc. were doing fine with Socialism. And most of those countries are ranked among the happiest people on the planet: http://www.huffingtonpost.com/2013/09/09/world-happiness-report-happiest-countries_n_3894041.html The US didn’t even make the top 15- Mexico ranks above the US.
Crony capitalism make work, but it certainly doesn’t make for happiness. When was the last time you felt happy after buying something over $200?
The right one says
Carlos Slim, World’s Richest Man, Profiting Off ‘Obamaphones’ Aimed At Helping The Poor
Oct 10, 2012
The world’s richest man is apparently making a lot of money off a government program aimed at helping the poor Americans.
Every time someone gets a phone through Lifeline, a government program that gives phones to low-income Americans, TracPhone, a company in which Mexican telecom mogul Carlos Slim has a controlling stake, nets $10, Fox News reports. The company’s CEO, Frederick “F.J.” Pollak, who is a major Obama donor, also makes a profit from the data plans and minutes beneficiaries of the Lifeline program buy.
The Lifeline program has been pushed into the spotlight recently after a video surfaced of an Obama supporter saying she would be voting for the president because he gave her a free phone. Though the woman credited Obama for her phone, the president didn’t start Lifeline; it began in 1984 — Ronald Reagan was president then, for your information — as a landline-only program, and President Clinton expanded it to include cell phones in 1996, according to the Atlantic Wire.
After the “Obamaphone Lady” video was posted on The Drudge Report, some alleged that the video’s widespread circulation was fueled by racism, according to The Wall Street Journal.
Regardless of the controversy over the phone itself, the allegations that Slim is benefiting off a program aimed at helping the poor may only fuel characterizations of the $69 billion man as a super-rich mogul who capitalizes on the woes of others. Slim’s son noted in an interview with Bloomberg in May that his father was taking advantage of the “opportunities” provided by the European Debt Crisis.
Critics, including hundreds of protesters at George Washington University in May, have also accused Slim of making his money off the backs of the Mexican people, as well as off of stifling the country’s economic development. Slim has additionally urged us normals to continue working until we’re at least 70, arguing that it would help to boost the world’s struggling economies.
The right one says
Are you really that stupid Dee.
“what he has done is spend less than any president since the 50’s” are you serious????? He will spend more than every president that has ever been in office before him combined. He’s almost there. How do you think the 17 trillion in national debt got there. It was 10.6 trillion when the day he took office. he’s only just started his second term. Is your computer frozen in time from before he got elected in 2008. When he made all those promises he broke.
bs says
why don’t anybody talk about the billions of dollars thats going to countrys who harbor terroist
it is time we stop that and help our own people free cell phones is not supported by tax payer money
it is by the small amount charged on land lines monthly bill wake up you idiots
The right one says
Who pays that small fee you idiot. It’s just another tax to people who pay there bill
dcrazy1@centurylink.net says
so how do u get a job with no phone/
NONE says
JDUB, what happens is what happened to me and my husband we needed assistance because we where going to lose our home and they would not help us because we do not have kids and we supposedly made to much money but we just worked at call centers. So yea it does suck when it actually does happen to and because we are good taxpaying citizens they wont help us but they will help someone that comes in with 6 kids and does not work. So we ended up losing everything and had to work our asses off to get back on our feet we got no help from anyone or any benefit program.
NONE says
I wouldn’t care about any of this because he is helping the less fortunate but its not like that at all most of these people that get the help are just lazy and wont get jobs and want to use the systems and then us that work our asses off every day get taxed for these people that use the system. I know 3 people that are perfectly fine to work but just are lazy and they hustle every day and go use the systems and pretend they need it and lie on the application so they get the help. Also my sister in law never once has had a job and gets SS and all the benefits but there is nothing wrong with her she can easily go get a job. She got her Bachelors Degree online and never once used it and she saves up her SS money to go get plastic surgery. So I do not think people like this need help or need taxpayers to pay for all these benefits they can get but we can’t just because they don’t want to get off there ass and get a job.
Ryan says
AMEN!!! I love in a “poorer” part of a medium sized southern city and I see the people that get this stuff every day. Majority of them use and abuse the system as soon as they figure out what they can get from it. It is sick. It makes them not want to go to work. Why should they when they get everything they could ever want or need from the government.
Chrigid says
I don’t understand how your sister-in-law, who doesn’t work and has never worked, can afford to save up her SS money for plastic surgery. How does she eat? How does she pay the rent?
M Hooper says
And how does she et SS without having paid into it? Something fishy about this story.
But I did meet woman once who worked n her suntan after she finished gardening, while she collected insurance and govt assistance for a “back injury” in an accident.
But then, if we punished everyone for the sins of the few, how would that help the country?
I’ve noticed that criminals who end up in the newspapers usually are too dumb to succeed as criminals, unless going to prison is success (???)
So, if they are too dumb to figure out how to steal/burgle/mug and not get caught, would you like these people preparing your food? Taking care of your children? Administering your medications? Cleaning your windows? Repairing your car?
JDUB says
CableDog, Jackie, and every other arrogant troll should read this.
Bad things happen to people that are beyond their control. You say you never needed assistance; good for you, but what happens when you do. Perhaps it happens when you are much older, when your relatives have all passed away. Let’s just say you are living in the country, your wife/husband leaves you and takes all the money. then your car dies, leaving you unable to get to work so you lose your job. You can’t afford to fix the car, eat, pay your phone bill, etc. You can’t get a job because there are not many in the country, you are old, you don’t have transportation, and you no longer have a phone for contact. According to your line of thinking nobody should help you, and you should just live on the streets and starve to death.
I hope this happens to you, anybody in your family, and every other arrogant weasel who is just simply too greedy to understand helping those who need help is just the right thing to do.
George Morgan says
Giving you a free phone , isn ;t going to put any food on the table.
Kasey says
hold on… so a phone, whether free or not wont put food on the table??? hmmm last time I checked most employers contact you for a job threw a phone… So having a phone is probably helpful in obtaining a job. So your right a phone doesn’t put food on the table, but it does give the chance to allow a person to obtain a job where they can put food on the table.
John says
kasey, sounds like you’re on foodstamp program. Let me drop some knowledge on you…! “Opportunity is missed by most people because it is dressed in overalls and looks like work” – Thomas Edison
dcrazy1@centurylink.net says
nice
Jackie says
Why must taxpayers pay for cell phones for people who can not hold a job? Since when did cell phones become a necessity? I just can not seem to understand why the US spends taxpayers money recklessly.
yasmin says
Because most of those people have paid their share of taxes and in order to get any legal job you need some form of a guaranteed contact. You must think they are suppose to steal what they need? If you can’t earn a stable livable income then just what do you suppose you need to do to survive legally?
George Morgan says
Those ‘ people don ‘t pay taxes ‘ …….
George Morgan says
So ; a free phone is going to help you out with your bills ‘ ; yeah right
Thor Leslie says
No, it’s supposed to help you get a job.
Mark welker says
You do realize it is impossible to get a job without a phone,and internet,right?companies dont post help wanted ads in newspapers anymore…….and how would they call back without a phone to call?
jeff says
Even when your not looking for one?
Dixie says
This is not just for people without jobs, blah blah blah! I am a Medical Assistant and I have NEVER been without a job for over 10 years! Guess what genius…. I have an Obama phone… DURH HUR! I also have what you call CHILDREN who need help with support due to a dumb dad. So I DO PAY TAXES. Probably more than you. SO DONT JUDGE when you DONT KNOW! Grow up people.
Seriously says
-_- for instance I have no phone (No obama phone) im looking for a job. have to give out #’s that aren’t mine Dont get the messages. I have a 4 year old. sometimes i get stranded and since no phone cant call for a ride forcing me and my YOUNG child to walk a long distance. What if there was an emergency how can you possibly get ahold of help? THe phones arent super nice phones with unlimited minutes. There basic things to help you live
J says
i work 40 hours a week my wife has postpartum depression and can’t work or get disability because “she is seeking help and therefore can make rational decisions and function as normal” and i have one of these phones and we’ll be on medicaid and we get food stamps and we receive WIC benefits and section 8 assistance… should i go get 2 more jobs to be able to afford to cover everything we get in assistance along with the bills we currently have… having a cell allows for emergency contact when you have a newborn and a 1 year old in the car @ 9pm on the way home from the store when the car you can’t afford to keep properly serviced breaks down….not to mention removing another bill when i can leave the phone at home as a main phone for the house when i’m not with my family…
Why be reckless with taxpayer money when it keeps people from stealing the “taxpayers” money straight out of the bank instead?
slave wages are keeping the “taxpayers” from having to work themselves… they don’t hold jobs they hold leashes on men and women in chains…
s says
No J, You just keep showing up to work each day and fighting the good fight, taking care of your family, and seeing that your wife is well again. You have nothing to be ashamed of for any assistance you will need until your family is back on their feet again. I for one, think its a shame that a man can get up and go to work everyday and still not find a way for his wife to be at home taking care of the kids; its evidence of a serious problem in our society. Forget about all the short cut solutions that would put you on the wrong side and hurt others. Stay on the high road and know that you’re finances say nothing about how rich you are with the treasures you have that money cannot buy. Hope your wife is well again soon.
pjohnson says
Is it legal to re-sell this phone? I see people on the internet selling them. Is that legal?
COACHDYER02 says
SHOULD FREE GOVERNMENT PHONES STILL BE ABLE TO WORK WITHOUT FUNDING FROM GOVERNMENT THE FEDERAL ONE LOL!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
Eve says
You have got to be the sorriest person ever! If President Obama is a horrible person and president for supporting welfare, what does that make you?
COACHDYER02 says
CUDOS EVE!!!!!!!!!! YOU SEE IT TO
George Morgan says
Since when is a ” free -phone ” part of welfare ‘ ?
GiveMeDatMone dot com says
Free obamaphone and debit cards paid for with tax payer money
Pat says
Umm,noooo… The program was created under the george bush administration and is paid for by telecommunication companies… Get ur facts straight. http://www.mlive.com/news/detroit/index.ssf/2013/10/free_obama-phone_distribution.html
JAY says
It is not paid for by the Telecommunications Companies. It is paid for by the people who purchase telecommunitcations and pay thier bills. There are surcharges and taxes that pay for this program. That is why the taxes on my cell phone are nearly one third of my total bill.
damon says
no, i am pretty sure it is real and not false, i have one, its sad… he amped up the program a few years ago. i read about it when he did. He also loves to give out welfare, it is sick, he is a horrible person and president, all those that support him are some of the stupidest people Ive seen in my lifetime.giving simple things people SHOULD have for votes from sheeple.
rickystayberg says
Your really a tool! Talking bad about Obama because he is giving them out,, but yet you have one.
trollbuster says
LOL it’s ‘sick’ and ‘welfare’ but you got a phone anyway. Obama really amped up the program? By doing what? Implementing the program the way it was suppose to be implemented?
The FCC is an independent agency (like the FAA and CIA). It is run by a panel of bipartisan commissioners. The chairman was a Republican when the program started. Blaming Obama for this is ridiculous.
Really says
There is no such thing as an independent agency. The Chairman was Michael Powel…a Democrat.
Dick vB says
According to http://www.fcc.gov, the chairman from 2005 to 2009 was Kevin J. Martin, Republican from North Carolina.
M Hooper says
Great website. Thanks for getting the word out. Too bad that the haters will not read it carefully, think about it, or change their views of a president they have been programmed to despise. So sad. For the whole country, which is falling apart like dominoes in a windstorm.
LEGION says
http://www.weeklystandard.com/blogs/fcc-lifeline-program-fraud-and-abuse-surpasses-two-million-subscribers_766312.html
chris says
Yeah its really sick that the government helps these poor people. I bet you go to soup kitchens and look at look at the volunteers as horrible people for helping the less fortunate.
Simon says
I strongly suspect that Damon’s post is a total fabrication.
Brad says
I tried to get one. There are tents on every block here. A person has to be receiving food stamps ect to receive one. Then they pay 2.00 for service.
Rev. Ratliff says
If people would only take time to check information giving to them, we could stop a lot of misinformed information from going out.
Wontoo says
http://www.nationalreview.com/article/354867/me-and-my-obamaphones-jillian-kay-melchior/page/0/1
Big Ron says
Actually there’s a lot of incorrect information in this article. The lifeline program was initiated by the FCC in 1985 during the Reagan administration. It was not a Reagan initiative but he did approve the program. Leave it to the Democrats to take credit for some government program that was started during a Republican administration. The program was started as a subsidy, not free, on landline telephones. Like all government run projects it grew to cover cell phones. Under Obama it became a free service and phones were being handed out like candy at Halloween. Many people have as many as 20 phones. They don’t even bother to recharge them. They just go get another phone since there are always trucks from various providers parked in their neighborhoods handing them out daily.
eric says
I spend $120/yr on this phone program. It is charged per line one your phone plan.
I have 3 lines so it’s nearly $10/month. When I saw the exposes on how easy it was to get these phones even if you were not qualified I became extremely outraged. I called AT&T and demand they reimburse me for this fee that they had been charging. I threaten to move my account to another provider if they did not. You know what, they gave me back my money, $120. Admittedly the charge is still on my account but I will demand this refund every year until this program is cleaned up and the abuse, fraud, and waist has been eliminated.
I’m all for helping out people in need but not when something is being abused.
Middlegrounder says
Lefty48197, I see you like calling it a Bush phone cause it makes you feel better I guess but get it right its a Clinton phone. People need help and we should help them but you are blind if you don’t see the abuse going on in all the GOV. programs. A cell phone is a luxury. I have gone without a cell phone in the past when things were tight in my household,and I’m still alive and well. Everyone should try this on for size Luxury, something that is expensive or hard to obtain, that provides comfort,pleasure, or enjoyment BUT IS NOT ABSOLUTELY ESSENTIAL!!! Essential, being of essence. NECESSARY!!!!! not my definition but Webster’s. Think on that you freeloaders!!
Rick says
What you fail to see is that cell phones are often the ONLY communication device people have, i am sure you still had a land line when you “made do” without a cell phone. Sad part is that people like you can’t understand that giving cell phones is actually cheaper option then providing landlines.
Lefty48197 says
You poor guy. Bearing such a burden for others.
Willie says
I do not have a problem helping people in time of need, but I have a huge problem supporting a life style. For a LOT of people this has become just that a life style. The tax payers are paying this, it is called the Universal Service Fund fee. Listed right on your phone bill every month ever phone line. You have no choice you have to pay it because our elected, they know better then you and put it there. Hands down that’s a tax.
Not only does the tax payer pay Rent, Food, Gas, Electric, Cable, Satellite, and because they will not get up in the morning. To feed their kids or pack a lunch, even tho we already buy their food. We have to feed the kids breakfast and lunch at school too. Try this on, at the tire store filling the check to pay the tires just put on the car. Guy walks in I know who is 2nd maybe 3rd generation welfare tells the salesman he needs 4 new tires. Then put a payment voucher on the counter from the welfare office, can not help but see it.
This has become a life style for to many to long. Again I have NO problem people in times of need. I have and will. But there has to be a limit. Yes I know there are some who will never be able to take care of themselves. However I see and know way to many who are able bodied, just like the guy at the tire store.
I am tired that my family has to do without because of all the taxes and hidden taxes like the Universal Service Fund fee. More money is spent on give away programs like this then anything else government pays for. Spend just few minutes you have the internet look it up for yourself. Then look at your pay stub, the line that says gross. That’s your money you work for it. Now look at what the government TAKES, that’s your money too.
Once the government Takes all the money and there is no more to take, then what?? Do you really think BHO is going to dig into his own pocket? Stop looking to the government for a way of life. The time is coming your government check is going to bounce! We are no longer the wealthiest nation in the world. We are broke!!! Just look at the national debt. We are WAY over our line of credit.
People it is time to take our nation back. This Big government crap does not work, never has, never will. We do not need a government that is involved in every area of our life. We need to be responsible and accountable for ourselves.
Mrhycannon says
Several government programs waste more money than is spent to help our needy: Pentagon, money that to ex-politicians for life and aid to other countries to name a few..
Spring says
For one thing, the President already took a cut in pay and contributes a good amount to charities. For another, where have you been?!! Stay current, the welfare laws have changed, with Clinton. There’s a 5 year, lifetime limit! I hardly think people are trying to make this a way of life, when it’s not even possible! if you really want to go after welfare, try the corporations, with their subsidies, tax breaks, off shore businesses! our tax dollars need to go somewhere, I’d prefer to help the citizens in this country who really need our help. It seems the Christian thing to do, but most people are so busy judging, they could care less!!
karen says
Quit wasting my money!! Buy your own phones freeloaders!
European says
>Why does the goverment provide phones to anyone?
To track them.
Jim says
The question is, Why does the goverment provide phones to anyone?
A phone is a luxury one achieves thru hard work, aka the american dream.
Lefty48197 says
So are refridgerators or so said one of your right wing heroes.
Mrhycannon says
Telephones are the only way many folks have to get emergency help.. Without Lifeline people would die for lack of help in an emergency..
Spring says
A phone is not a luxury if you’re looking for work or have a medical emergency, it could mean your life!! I think smoke signals don’t work so well when you need immediate care or are trying to contact a potential employer!!
Billy Bob Houghton says
I am a Republican and I think this is a wonderful opportunity for
Everyone trying to get a cell phone. Way to go President.
Joe Vasold Sr. says
I want to get my phone for my husband.
Carol says
What a bunch of nonsense….Obama took the cell phone tax program and changed it to HIS and IS giving free phones and services to anyone. Fox news, Greta Van Susteren, interviewed Jillian Kay Melchior of the National Review. She got 3 free phones and that was after she told the outlets she has a high end cell phone already. http://nation.foxnews.com/2013/08/02/obama-phone-fraud-exposed-reporter-gets-3-free-phones This is a fact.
It just occurred to me that the reason Obama wants everyone to have a phone is his plan to keep track of all people in this country! If everyone has a cell phone the government is and will keep track of us; it is not new news that the government is already watching u. This new tax he wants to add on top of the tax that we are paying (called a Universal tax) every month on our cell bill. http://www.dailyfinance.com/2013/07/10/cell-phone-bill-hidden-taxes/ He wants the tax in order to advance his plan that all Americans WILL have cell phones and not land lines. After reading what Urban Legend wrote about this subject I can no longer believe anything they tell us, they are twisting the subject according to what they want you to think; is all political! Beware of the sites that give us the facts; find out for yourself by doing your own research.
I am sick about what our government is doing to our country. Obama Care is not health care it is full of controls that take affect now and will be ongoing….included in Obama Care is pork, however it is much more. It is a tool HE is using to destroy our country. Watch 2016, a movie that will show you just what Obama and his group of thugs are doing and why. His own brother was interviewed. Those people who think Obama is doing great deeds are either for “free things”, want our country to be socialistic, or unfortunately those that just don’t care one way or the other until it hurts their pocket book or touches them personally. We need to stand up together and tell our elected officials we want our country back….all of it.
Leon says
Carol, if you’re going to cite a source, please don’t use Fox News or MSNBC. They’re both pushing their own political goals and will lie to you in order to get that goal met. And if you are pushing their agenda dishonestly. To be frank, landline phones will be obsolete within the next 15 years, and it’s only sensible the next phone technology should be supported. I read the actual article from Jillian at http://www.nationalreview.com/article/354867/me-and-my-obamaphones-jillian-kay-melchior and it focuses mostly on how salespeople push the lifeline product. Isn’t it obvious the three companies want to get money? And if they get people to sign up for lifeline services, the Govt. will pay THEM. They don’t care who gives the money. Besides, all lifeline cell phone sales people work not only on commission, but quota as well. If they don’t “sell” 300 phones a month, they’re fired. Besides, the lifeline phones are very limited and refurbished; nobody wants to buy them on the free market and they are one step away from being trashed. Corporate greed is screwing over the lifeline service.
Jeremy says
Another fox news watching idiot who throws facts aside…. This is what is wrong with our country
jayson says
Another FOX News echo-chamber. Yay
Lefty48197 says
So some right winger who doesn’t need assistance applies for a whole bunch of Bush Phones and actually receives three and you’re blaming OBAMA? Why not blame the lady that fraudulently claimed she needed help???
Also, you link tells the story of the existing phone bill taxes. It doesn’t reference this mythical Obama tax increase you seem to believe exists in spite of your own link.
Spring says
uhuh! Let’s rely on Fox to give an unbiased assessment of things!! it’s the “hate Obama 24/7” station. Please site a reliable source if you wish to entertain a debate on the subject!! Can we leave out all the states and people who wanted to secede, the day after we elected the president, from taking our country back?!! Not very patriotic, so maybe they shouldn’t be part of the dialogue!
re waters says
Some of you seem to have too much free time on your hands if you are able to know all about what people do in their personal lives based on them having a “obamaphone” seriously you see them selling drugs and only using their obamaphone to call the welfare office or use for business purposes? You see people who scam the govt out of ssdi? You see them with their welfare phone in one hand and a iphone in the other? You see what cars they drive and see the tags on their clothes that are name brand? Seems like your the bums since you have the time to observe all that, no way you have jobs, homes and families to tend to if your so involved in others business. Ever think some people worked for years then one day their laid off or have health issues and are out of a job but they have to swallow their pride and ask for help because otherwise their kids dont eat or have health insurance, and when they did work they paid taxes too so its not just your taxes that are helping the poor. Think about that before being so judgmental.
boeski says
That is the smartest comment I have.heard in a long time its not about fox news or msnbc they ar talking for tv ratings not because they care.thanks
Lefty48197 says
Well said.
Reverend Willy says
The obama phones all have trackers inside so that the gummint can keep track of these bums and dopers, so it ain’t really thet bad an idee.
Rick says
News flash Einstein, ALL Cell Phones are required to GPS chips installed, even yours, better get out your tinfoil hat.
TheAmerican says
Jerry .. ” This says it all ” ??? Not at all …. “Those convinced against their will are of the same opinion still” That means you and that means me. You unfounded arguments probably have not changed even one persons opinion.
My comment will run off your mind like water of a ducks back as will any response you give run off mine.
I am not a Democrat and soon I will not be a Republican .. I am looking closely at the “Constitution Party”
That does not “say it all” …. I am quite willing to listen to any way to stop the Republicans an Democrats from the wholesale destruction of our CONSTITUTION and our BILL of RIGHTS .
Mrhycannon says
AMEN !
Ivan says
Some of these comments just go to show that most people that tend toward political extremes will refuse to listen to facts, especially if they run contrary to the talking points being spoon fed to them. This sentiment applies to both liberals and conservatives, though clearly this topic is more of a hot button for the latter.
Costs go up for ALL government programs, including this one. The eligibility requirements for the current program were implemented in 1996, and have survived through eight years of a conservative Bush administration, not to mention the circa 1996 ‘Contract for America’ revolt in the House and Senate. Seriously folks, start looking at facts and not the horse**** that rolls out of Fox News and MSNBC. Believe it or not, you ARE capable of thinking for yourself.
Did you ever stop to think that the same idiotic, fear-mongering spam emails sent out during the campaigns, designed to paint Obama as a socialist, actually helped to publicize these phones? That’s how I found about them, at least. In which case the very people bit**ing the loudest have actually served to drive up the taxpayer cost of the same thing they are complaining about. Nice job, morons.
Amanda says
I see people that have “Obama Phones” also have smart phones. They use the “Obama Phones” for business related calls (appointments, welfare, etc.) They sign up for government assistance, and have more money than most people working two jobs! They sell drugs on the streets or work under-the-table jobs and collect assistance (welfare funds, food stamps, medical coverage, etc.). Not only that, but they flaunt it like they are proud they “worked the system”. Don’t even get me started on the people that have NO BUSINESS being on Disability, but have swindled their way to live on “they system”. Amazing how blind everyone is. I see this stuff every day.
Lefty48197 says
Why are you hanging around street drug dealers with “Bush Phones”?
Mrhycannon says
> You are correct about the people you describe but they are in the minority..
> The vast majority of folks receiving government benefits are truly needy: children who’s parents can’t earn enough to support them, seniors who had no pension plan or children who can support them, others are genuinely disabled physically/mentally and we still have needy folks who get nothing.. All of these truly need our help..
> Our government wastes enough money and sends enough over seas to more than equal what it uses to care for our own needy.. Lets not forget the immigrants and invaders (‘illegal aliens’)who get ‘help’ from our government..
> It’s time we elected new legislators who listen to and do what we, the voters, want..
Spring says
How wonderful that you are so medically knowledgeable that you can tell if people are disabled just by looking at them?!! Guess we can do away with modern diagnostic equipment which is driving up the cost of health care. And apparently you’ve bought into Reagan’s lie about the welfare queen. Seriously, you need to fact check your lame, biased knowledge of assistance, in this country. While you’re at it, you might want to edify yourself on the cost of corporate welfare in this country!!
Jerry says
Seriously??! Your asserting that and increase in spending of 207% in 3 years was the result of inflation.
Jerry says
And it seems we’re up over $2.2 billion for 2012, that’s an increase of 284% in 4 years. Again, this says it all.
Trinkle says
The number of people qualifying have gone up. Not surprisingly since the economy took a sizable downturn in 2008. Inflation costs plus higher numbers qualifying easily equals the increase in the program costs. It’s surprising it is not far more.
polydynamix says
Yeah, Einstein… gasoline went up 400% in 4 years, electricity nearly 200% so yeah…
Jerry says
Program costs more than doubled under Obama; $1.6 billion in 2011, compared with $772 million in 2008. This says it all.
eileen lezotte says
And what prices haven’t gone up?
Trinkle says
The number of people qualifying have gone up. Not surprisingly since the economy took a sizable downturn in 2008. Inflation costs plus higher numbers qualifying easily equals the increase in the program costs. It’s surprising it is not far more.
Lefty48197 says
“This says it all” Just what the heck does THAT mean? You’re blaming OBAMA for the increase? Apparently, you missed the economic depression that started in 2007 and caused unemployment to skyrocket which led to big increase in all the social safety net programs. Didn’t you hear about the bail out of the banks? The auto manufacturers’ bankruptcies? Hadn’t you heard that unemployment had skyrocketed? Before you go blaming Obama for that too, you may want to look at the graphs showing the loss of jobs in America. They certainly don’t correlate with Obama’s Presidency.
callmechaz says
You pose the question asking if “the phones are or are not paid for by taxpayers”, and then say “it depends on how you look at it.” Oh, really? That “small fee added to most people’s monthly phone bills” is a TAX! It’s imposed by the Federal Government, and paid for by taxpayers.
Who do you think taxpayers are? They are people that WORK for a living, and are then forced to provide what they worked for to others who don’t work. The OP is trying to pose a serious argument by nit-picking with semantics. Those of us articulate enough to figure that out call it “BS!”
RDS says
So, this is such a good program that only the disadvantaged get the phones, right? So today it is reported that a journalist, who does not qualify for the “Obama Phone”, was able to get three free phones. You see the problem is that there is no over sight to this program and the suppliers of the phones are signing up everyone and his cousin because they get paid by the Government no matter who they sign up. No one checks to see if the people applying for the phone are qualified. And yes it is the people who actually pay for their cell phones who have to pay this “TAX” on their phone bill each month to fund this bull$hit operation.
Really says
The concept here is great for handicapped and disadvantaged but I cannot help but wonder how many of my neighbourhood drug dealers are sporting one of these.
Free Government Cell Phones says
Of course some do. But they also are able to buy phones cheap these days, why would they rely on a 250 minute a month phone? I would think their best bet would be to get a prepaid, disposable phone that would not have their name attached to it.
Dave says
Any self respecting drug dealer wouldn’t be caught with anything less the latest smartphone! (sarcasm) LOL
Willie says
I do not have a problem helping people in time of need, but I have a huge problem supporting a life style. For a LOT of people this has become just that a life style. The tax payers are paying this, it is called the Universal Service Fund fee. Listed right on your phone bill every month ever phone line. You have no choice you have to pay it because our elected, they know better then you and put it there. Hands down that’s a tax.
Not only does the tax payer pay Rent, Food, Gas, Electric, Cable, Satellite, and because they will not get up in the morning. To feed their kids or pack a lunch, even tho we already buy their food. We have to feed the kids breakfast and lunch at school too. Try this on, at the tire store filling the check to pay the tires just put on the car. Guy walks in I know who is 2nd maybe 3rd generation welfare tells the salesman he needs 4 new tires. Then put a payment voucher on the counter from the welfare office, can not help but see it.
This has become a life style for to many to long. Again I have NO problem people in times of need. I have and will. But there has to be a limit. Yes I know there are some who will never be able to take care of themselves. However I see and know way to many who are able bodied, just like the guy at the tire store.
I am tired that my family has to do without because of all the taxes and hidden taxes like the Universal Service Fund fee. More money is spent on give away programs like this then anything else government pays for. Spend just few minutes you have the internet look it up for yourself. Then look at your pay stub, the line that says gross. That’s your money you work for it. Now look at what the government TAKES, that’s your money too.
Once the government Takes all the money and there is no more to take, then what?? Do you really think BHO is going to dig into his own pocket? Stop looking to the government for a way of life. The time is coming your government check is going to bounce! We are no longer the wealthiest nation in the world. We are broke!!! Just look at the national debt. We are WAY over our line of credit.
People it is time to take our nation back. This Big government crap does not work, never has, never will. We do not need a government that is involved in every area of our life. We need to be responsible and accountable for ourselves.
Beebee Proser says
Sorry, but taking care of the poor and less fortunate does not incluce giveing away free phones, providing “earned (actually unearned) tax credits” that are then used for the flat screens and the $300 running shoes. I work hard, My husband was ladid off 11 months ago and can’t get a job because no on will hre full time for fear of obama care. Our Cobra insurance just increased another $100 a month to over $500 for one person. I am not even covered. We have gone through all of our savings and what little retirement we had started to build. My husband is now 51 and we have no idea what we are going to do, there is no more unemployment (six month not the two years people talked about) and because of the sequester it was reduced by 15%. Yet obama can spend millions and millions and millions and no one cares. I have ALWAYS helped the less fortunate, I have always given, I am just sick of it being taken and being thrown away to those who would not hit a lick at a snake and now we are facing the lose of everything we have spent a lifetime working hard for while the masses sit on their a**es getting every hand out the government can dream up.
karen says
How do I get free phone
Free Government Cell Phones says
https://www.freegovernmentcellphones.net/
violette early says
Hi,
I would like to know can you have ca. lifeline landline and a free cell phone, I have the landline and sure could use the free cell phone as well. If so how do I apply for both.
Thank you,
Violette
Free Government Cell Phones says
No, you can only get one.
Candy says
I am all for helping people and I do help people and give to people all the time. However, I am not in agreement with giving free money to people who do not work! The bible states, “Blessed is he that considereth the poor: the Lord will deliver him in the time of trouble. The Lord will preserve hi and keep him alive.” Unless you srd a vegetable, you can do SOMETHING to contribute to an income. Everyone does not abuse the system, but too many people do!!!! I sacrificed, got my BSN, did not have children until afterward and I feel like I have been punished for this. I have 3 children and it would be nice to at least get assistance with childcare because I sacrificed and made smart choices. However, I know people (some are family) that are allergic to any work, would look at you crazy, and probably curse you out if you mentioned eork. These same people, get better health insurance, no copays, free meds, free or very low cost childcare, free rent, help with utilities, and a free phone. I know this is true because the person is my sister and the most she hS wrked is probably 2 years in her48 years of living. Her husband has worked on and off, but has not worked consistantly ever and has been irresponsible on jobs and purposefully lost jobs. They have had 8 children and the tax payers have paid for them! Let me mentioned they have not been “abusive”, but party and let childen be out while they party. Yet they always need a brake and blames everyone when something goez wrong, never looking at self. All thier children excepg 1 have been to jail. Many of thtif associates have similar lifestyles. Yet the eldrerly (like my parents) sho have worked all thier lives cannot get anything! Thdy cannot afford medications! The assistance should be go teach some to make responsible choices. Didtribhtion of assistance should be equally given to those that put something into the system. You should
recieve according to what you have put in. You should get out of the system, what you pug into it.
Julie says
Maybe the hypocrites will get knocked off their soap boxes one day and need some help, and when rude ass people are looking down on you and degrading you, let us know how it feels. Get a freikin life. If you’re so well off, get your ass off the computer, stop creeping free phone sites and go do something to help someone. I was researching free phones for an elderly friend in need and found your condescending ridiculous comments. Go get a life…….
erin lynch says
i’m applying for this free phone because my mother needs a phone she has no phone and i need a way to contact her. she 65 years old and she needs if something happens i’d would genuinely appreciate it .
Wowwed in GA says
What happened to helping the elderly, the widowed, the sick and the poor? Has it ever really existed in this country? So long ago it seems to have become an Urban Legend. My upbringing taught me to look after one another. Your neighbors. We just choose to ignore the heartbreak all around us. Bow our heads and pass by like we don’t see the ones in need. The elderly used to be placed in high regard for their wisdom, knowledge, compassion… Now we place them to the side and forget what they did in their youth for this country and our very own families. We no longer “need” them so why acknowledge them, right? The handicapped? What about them? Did not God give them life, a free will, a chance? Who are we to ignore them. This is a sad time for America. We are too busy sending our young folks to war for something we had NOTHING to do with! We have become divided. Not united at all. God bless our troops and the ones that still believe in the foundation of this country. Not many do. Very sad. God bless us!!!! We need HIM to! Always someone wanting to bash a helping hand. I guess that goes back to the beginning of good and evil. Something’s never change…….
austin romo says
these phones are good but they make them so they can hear every thing every body is saying
the government wants to spy on use from his house your a freak there is only one government that runs use all and he is still unknown to who it is . if you want to hear some stuff about one Canada’s government disclosing info about life form on other planets go to you tube and look up Canada’s government speech 2013 and he tells it all.
Todd says
What?
Dave says
Austin, double up on the tin foil on your hat.
JD says
I’m not sure what’s more concerning…the fact that we continue to subsidize the lazy and uninitiaited or that there continue to be idiots who can justify it…likely they are the same people who have their hand out for their own free-bees.
Life is full of choices. You choose to have 7 kids out of wedlock with no hope of paying for them on your own…you get no phone. You choose a path of self destruction through drug use or ignorance by dropping out of school…no phone fo you. These should be unarguable consequences of laziness and bad judgement.
There aren’t 20 million illegal aliens in this country because there’s no opportunity. It’s just that so many Americans have become lazy, ignorant cows whose only ambition is to free-graze on the hard work of others. Personally, I’d rather subsidize the life of an illegal who is trying to do for himself vs. continue to have my taxes jacked up to pay for the poor choices of a bunch of lazy free-loaders.
Unfortunately, the left has bought their base with the pillaged loot from the hard-working . It’s really genius in it’s simple evil. Take a group of lazy unengaged citizens, prey on their ignorance and lack of ambition by getting them hopped up on government assistance, and then threaten that if they don’t continue to vote left that those things go away…wha la….instant base.
Survey the Obama phone user base and without a doubt you’ll find a majority of able-bodied people who are perfectly happy stealing from those who work and have no shame in taking from you and your family.
The sad thing is…they’re ungreatful. If there were an ounce of gratitude returned, I might see this differently. But if you pay taxes, serve your country, look for work and go every day when you get it, and make your own way through this life, make no mistake….the folks who are stealing this country’s future hate you, resent your hard work, and are scheming even now on how they can work with Obama to take whatever is left.
Stop taking care of the poor and less fortunate…and I guess they either revert to stealing from us directly as Darrel glibly suggests…or maybe they get off the phone and go find a job.
Cronessa says
@JD — “Survey the Obama phone user base ………” After reading the complete article on when the phones got started, you STILL called it an ‘Obama phone’. Are you just a stupid Fox parrot or can’t you READ?
Kenny says
I know people with those government issued phones. They are the shittiest phones out there. It’s a year 2000 phone with no other features besides phone calls, no touch screen. Are we saying people shouldn’t be able to make phone calls now?
sheryl bourque says
I want a touch screen cell phone from the government because I have trouble with my finger I have to work wth my fingers
sheryl bourque says
i want a touch screen phone
TaxPayer says
Thanks for confirming that the rumors are All TRUE.
Dale says
Go be an idiot someplace else.
Bill N. says
I already have an entry-level Tracfone that I bought at my local CVS for $10. I like having it as an emergency backup phone to my regular T-Mobile service. I only refill it when absolutely necessary. I purchased a double-minutes-for-life card for $20. I called operator. He said that most Tracfone calls go out over AT&T network. That’s fine by me. I’m eligible for Lifeline phone, but wouldn’t even bother.
Allen says
darrell: It’s not the “taking care of the poor” that most Americans are pissed off about… It’s the fact that we can’t throw a rock in this country anymore without it hitting 3 new idiotic tax initiatives some idiot politicians are pushing for, while claiming how it is going to “help” someone in need! Furthermore, we’re tired of the government trying to “take care of” the rest of us, playing this nanny state garbage all the time, telling us what’s best for us and why they are going deiced just how big a soda we can or can’t buy or sell because too many of us are FAT! THAT is a choice we grown ups are apparently not mature enough to be trusted to make for ourselves anymore in this country, but our teen aged daughters can now go get an abortion without our knowledge or consent, for crying out loud!?! And we’re not supposed to be FED UP with the government’s usurpation of power mixed with this complete LACK of common sense?!? It’s a breaking point Americans have reached where we are simply SICK TO DEATH of the government sticking it’s nose where it don’t belong while sticking it’s over-reaching hand into our pockets ever deeper to pay for “programs” supporting this ever present nonsense!! For ages we’ve been fed up with them playing world police, and now in the last decade they have done their best to turn that mindset on us as citizens and begin policing US on levels never before seen, often ignoring our Constitutionally protected RIGHTS in the doing of it!! Between this administration and today’s media “together we stand” is a long forgotten saying for most! We are a people heavily divided by political party, financial class, and the age old rift of race, although today it is quiet often the white people who are the victims, and are not permitted to speak out about it due to what previous generations did to the races hating on us today. If you are a white guy and you shoot a black man who is trying to rob you with a knife at your ribs these days, you are immediately labeled a red neck racist gun nut!! We have not achieved any form of “equality”. We have simply laid down and let the descendants of our grandparents victims in turn victimize us in the name of being “politically correct”, and it’s wearing damned thin on the people of this country. When was the last time you read about a non-Caucasian being tried for “hate crimes”? There has certainly been no shortage of them! They just don’t CALL it that unless it’s a white guy committing the crime!! And now we have a POTUS sending jet fighters to the Muslim Brotherhood only weeks before Christians and the secular majority of Egypt rise up against them and their puppet, Morsi, and he’s telling THEM to stand down and stop protesting, while he cheered on the Muslims when THEY were the ones protesting?? And there is a LOT MORE secular citizens who don’t want Islam crammed down their throat any more than they wanted the military regime they’d had before this crap! But we see who Obama supports, and we’re supposed to be OK with this??? There is no division being created in the people of the US by THAT?? And at every turn the media is there spinning stories to create more and more of that same party line “hate”, so if you want to tout “together we stand”, then preach it to the heads of the media and the politicians who are determined to keep us at odds with each other so they can better control us!
Mike says
Dead on Allen!!
tim says
Dead on! You probably ARE fat! Go drink some more soda
Todd says
Great points
Lara says
EXCUSSSSEEEE ME ALLEN & JD….. Um. I hardly know where 2 start. Let me first say to you, and those out there that share your narrow mindset. Ok… I do agree that the US enabling the lazy to remain lazy is not beneficial to the “welfare recipient” nor does it make very much sense for our country, that doesn’t seem to have a plan to lower our debt anytime soon. However, I do not find it at all in the American spirit to stand on your soapbox , (if you will), and kick those who are truley in need when they are down. I believe it is a direct effect of this very way of thinking that prevents the people of our great nation from finding a way to stand tall and hold our heads high once again. If you will think back not so long ago to morning much like many others that preceeded it, a hurry up and get to work, skip breakfast, drop the kids at school, no time for messing about kind of morning. If you have not guessed, I am referring to September 11, 2001. If u were alive on that day, which I am going to assume you e
darrell says
stop taking care of the poor or helping the less fortunate and just see how crime increases this is America for god sake let’s not forget united we stand divided we fall
Kristie says
How do you preach “united we stand” when you don’t want to help the less fortunate?
Trysh says
Kristie, you misread. He means that IF you do those things, then crime will increase. He then goes on to remind us that this is America and we should stick together and help one another.
Dave says
That’s such a load of BS. All that phone does is allow them to call each other to be sure where the cops are. If the lazy ***** would go get a job, they could afford their own phone.
cristy says
The phone I got for free, I just found out my grand parents have that they are paying for.( they are 85 and 87) It’s not ancient old but damned near it. Their land line was out and it was going to be about four days for the phone company would out to fix it. My aunt asked them if they had unlimited minutes so any family could call the cell instead of the landline until it was fixed. My grandfather’s reply, ( I pay $42 a month I better have unlimited minutes).
happy says
qlinkwireless.com is where i got my phone. 250 minutes a month free+texting 🙂
Jazz Tazz says
oh geez……………….what is that? actual facts????? oh no, what shall we do now?
cristy says
Jazz Tazz I agree with everything you have said. The comment made by Leo the law enforcement officer is definitely true and does happen regardless of what the the guidelines sate. After my husband got laid off and my hours were cut down to 20, I signed up for a free phone through reachout wireless( before that I only had a prepaid tracfone for emergencies). I was qualified because we couldn’t afford the kids school lunch any longer and signed up for reduced/free lunch program. This was in 2011. All I did was check a box on the website and they asked for no verification in return. Nope, I don’t believe they verified it on their own. I know people that have a phone they pay for and also have a free phone. I know people that are in the same household and that household has two free phones. As far as annual verification goes, all that is asked is are you still in the program that qualified you for the free phone. This is done by pressing 1 for yes on the phone( like I did) or checking yes in a box on a computer. I was never asked for any paperwork as proof.
Jazz Tazz says
Why did Reagan start the Lifeline program to distribute free phone service in 1985?
Since 1985, the Lifeline program has provided a discount on phone service for qualifying low-income consumers to ensure that all Americans have the opportunities and security that phone service brings, including being able to connect to jobs, family and emergency services. In 2005, Lifeline discounts were made available to qualifying low-income consumers on pre-paid wireless service plans in addition to traditional landline service. Lifeline is part of the Universal Service Fund.
The Lifeline program is available to eligible low-income consumers in every state, territory, commonwealth, and on Tribal lands. Consumers with proper proof of eligibility may be qualified to enroll. To participate in the program, consumers must have an income that is at or below 135% of the federal Poverty Guidelines or participate in a qualifying state, federal or Tribal assistance program.
To participate in the program, consumers must either have an income that is at or below 135% of the federal Poverty Guidelines or participate in one of the following assistance programs:
•Medicaid;
•Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (Food Stamps or SNAP);
•Supplemental Security Income (SSI);
•Federal Public House Assistance (Section 8);
•Low-Income Home Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP);
•Temporary Assistance to Needy Families (TANF);
•National School Lunch Program’s Free Lunch Program;
•Bureau of Indian Affairs General Assistance;
•Tribally-Administrered Temporary Assistance for Needy Families (TTANF);
•Food Distribution Program on Indian Reservations (FDPIR);
•Head Start (if income eligibility criteria are met); or
•State assistance programs (if applicable).
Federal rules prohibit eligible low-income consumers from receiving more than one Lifeline discount per household. An eligible consumer may receive a discount on either a wireline or wireless service, but not both. A consumer whose household currently is receiving more than one Lifeline service must select a single Lifeline provider and contact the other provider to de-enroll from their program. Consumers violating this rule may also be subject to criminal and/or civil penalties.
The Lifeline program is administered by the Universal Service Administrative Company (USAC). USAC is responsible for data collection and maintenance, support calculation, and disbursement for the low-income program. USAC’s website provides information regarding administrative aspects of the low-income program, as well as program requirements.
On January 31, 2012, the Commission adopted comprehensive reform and modernization of the Lifeline program. As a universal service program that fulfills Congress’s mandate to ensure the availability of communications to all Americans, Lifeline for the past 25 years has helped tens of millions of low-income Americans afford basic phone service. Access to telephone service is essential for finding a job, connecting with family, or getting help in an emergency, and the percentage of low-income households with phone service has increased from 80% in 1985, when Lifeline began, to nearly 92% last year
LEO says
I work in law enforcement and the so called Obama phone is becoming more and more known and abused. One call the other night a lady said her ex stole her Obama phone. She finally states she has three phones, a straight talk phone she pays for, a Obama phone from Kentucky and a Obama phone from Illinois. As if this didn’t irritate me enough for misusing the system her boyfriend just got out of jail in April after serving felony time and he too has an government free phone and one he pay for.
Jazz Tazz says
you are lying! making up stories won’t make you any more important than you are now. that is the problem today. people like you lie and get others all stirred up and you cause more hate and pain in this world. get a life and grow up. you don’t work in law enforcement either because if you did, you would KNOW that what you are saying is not even possible.
Terry Thiessen says
What happens when obama has taken all the money from workers and given it to the non workers? Where will the money come from to support all his give away programs? Sounds a lot like Rome before the fall.
Kait Skyler says
How many more times, ways,etc. etc do you have to be told that this is NOT about Obama???? When will people quit blaming everything on Obama just because they dislike him?? Where did the money come from to support the Bushes wars, or Haliburton, or Reagan going into Central America, or LBJ in Vietnam? What about bail outs of large corporations that nobody bats an eye at or bridges like the one in Alaska that was an expensive boondoggle and goes nowhere, That Rep. Stevens (R) pitched a hissy fit about until Congress gave him his money and backed down on giving money to New Orleans for one that actually would have done some good? GET YOUR FACTS FOLKS!!!! And don’t just assume it’s all This one man or one woman or one party. And also, don’t start assuming that every program that helps someone is (1) bad, (2) a threat to your way of life (3) Unneeded, or (4) wrong. Remember, folks, bailouts happen at lots of levels: farmers get paid not to grow crops that could feed lots of hungry people, Corporations have gotten government bailouts from both parties since time eternal and local governments and states routinely offer tax incentives to large businesses to lure them to their area (a form of bailout in my opinion), banks and Wall Street get bailouts consistently, and Rich people have more loop holes than golf courses. That is just to name a few. Let’s consider for a moment that there are actually people who are disabled, low income, etc. that have no other means of owning a phone and need one to make doctor’s appointments, talk to family, stay alive etc. and that these people actually (gasp!) plan to use them for honest purposes and NOT sell them for drugs, use them to commit crimes, or rip off the government or steal from tax payers. What a novel concept, huh? Maybe, we could try thinking that way fro a change and give this a rest. After, all, we don’t assume that everyone who buys a car is going to use it to transport stolen goods, or run over someone in revenge do we?
What says
It should be the familiy responsibility to care for sick/injured or otherwise “useless” people. It is not societys problem to care for every little thing that goes wrong with someones life. I spent 10 years serving this country and no one gave me a free meal, or a pat on a back even. All you useless dem’s and republicans need to remove head from anal opening and wake up. This country is falling apart fastly and its people like you Kaite Skyler, that are contributing. Instead of owning up and taking care of something you expect everyone to handle it for you. Its not Obama or Bush, they are just the point of focus but the real problem is each and everyone of you.
Jazz Tazz says
so YOU have no benefits as a Veteran? Tax payer dollars never supported you EVER? you don’t go to the VA hospital ever? RIGHT!!!!! we believe every word you say. Just because you say it. you sound like a Myth Romney follower or Paul Rand, the defender of all the dirty, rotten lazy people in the US. People and one who doesn’t believe in Soc Sec although FACTS show how many less people have died of starvation because they have their soc money to fall back on and make no mistake about it, soc sec IS paid by the people who contribute. It is not, let me repeat this, it is NOT money paid by federal funds but WE pay it ourselves. See I am one one of those lazy dems that has worked for 40 years and I happen to know what I have paid into it. Katie stated facts, something you seem to be void of and while it doesn’t sit well with you, too bad. Facts are facts . You are entitled to your own opinion but NOT your own facts. When was the last time you paid homage to Reagan. Bet has not been too long ago.
military fireman says
This phone plan started in the 90’s and was given more funding in 2008. Obama took office in 2009 not 2008. Re-elected in 2012 which started in 2013. A relative had a phone you get 250 minutes a month & little text, if you go over you get billed a huge amount, and with non payment its taken away.
todd wiseman OSU says
they only started this tracking phone to record everyones conversations for the government illuminati fat cats, do NOT forget every world you say is recorded by the CIA and others
Jazz Tazz says
OMG!!! please get real, educated, something besides ignorant!!!
Rich says
Why is it necessary that we have a cell phone? What did we do before cell phones?
Stan says
landlines.
Stan says
And it was near impossible to find the person you wanted to talk to. So they invented pagers. That was great for the payphone people, but still slow and inconvenient. Then came the cell phone. Commerce and wealth accelerate on the wings of communication and transportation. True for all markets, even the illicit ones.
BoB says
When do we start to get the ObamaHookers? Y’know, the little cuties that are subsidized by the govt so I would not have to pay ’em for nookie? Anyone? Got a date on that one yet?
Maybe the ObamaAmmo? Seems like unless you work for the DHS or IRS you cannot buy ammo anywhere. He ought to fix this too.
ObanaGas anyone? He took office at $1.88/gal. We’re knocking on $4.00 today. Hope that Change don’t get any worse.
Jazz Tazz says
how about real gas price facts BoB? do you know how to google anything but a conservative site? gas prices went to almost 4.00 while bush was in office ($3.64 in fact, nationally but 3.85 here where I live) and came down his last year in office to just below 2.00 because THAT is what people remember. They(that would mean foxbots Bob, like you) think Bush took office after 9/11 and they think he delivered us a secure country when in FACT it was under his watch we were attacked; under his watch gas prices skyrocketed; under his watch we lost thousands of men and women under false pretense of wmd. But hey, it is much more fun to talk about something that is not even true. That is what we do here. We make up shit that entertains us and we spread it. Good going BoB. Spreaded of bullshit. Great trait to be noted for.
joey54 says
I got assistance when I became disabled from an on the job injury the Workers Comp did not pay for THEN spent a life savings and went broke in 2000 long before President Obama.
I did not vote for him but like some of his programs but do not like any nonsense rhumors and they sure have gone to town with this president which hurts the US in the eyes of foreign people as we look so silly with such talk.
maybelle says
It was great to get obama cell phone, but it has been 8 months that mine hasn’t been, and I can’t even talk to the opperters on the inter net, to see why is the reason, and I don’t like on how you get your mintues, when it comes to your alpht. name, just like welfare does to you when you get your link card, or even when you get your s.s.i. checks the same thing happens! Who wants to pay that extra money out 60.00 bucks, when I wireless charge you the same about of money for there phones! Whens its high robber when it comes to obama phones, after you have used all of your mintues up, then you have to wait untill the next month to get your phone back on! It stinks the whole systems does!!!!!!!
curtis says
Huh?
Kait Skyler says
It’s not an Obama phone dear. Started long before him.
What says
YOu are complaining about a free phone? Get real.
Ron Prince says
I wonder why the writer omitted mentioning the fact that the program, even though it was started years prior, it has exploded under the Obama administration. Just conveniently didn’t mention it.
captainentropy says
It wasn’t mentioned…BECAUSE IT’S NOT TRUE!
The abuses of the program, and the program itself, is being curtailed by the Obama administration, the FCC, and Congress, and not the other way around.
http://www.politico.com/story/2013/04/obama-phone-facts-still-a-hang-up-in-washington-90606_Page2.html
Jazz Tazz says
AHHH! The prince of no knowledge, it isn’t mentioned because that would be a lie. get facts, education or stop talking please. life is wonderful if you take your head out of the sand.
Rob S says
Free cell phone, free land phone, free food, free housing, free spending money. WTF is wrong with the US government???? I know you are capturing my comments Obama, so I demand an answer. Is it not enough that I have to pay for my own family? Now you steal from me and I help support 150 million worthless deadbeats??
captainentropy says
How about “What’s wrong with the people in the US who believe whatever shit they are forwarded in an email or what they read on Drudge or hear on Fox News (or the rest of the vast right-wing lie machine)?”
THAT is a much more important question. If you bothered to check sources and apply a dash of critical thinking you wouldn’t be so quick to blame everything on Obama.
http://www.politico.com/story/2013/04/obama-phone-facts-still-a-hang-up-in-washington-90606_Page2.html
Rick V. says
Amen to that, the IQ in the average citizen in this country has drastically diminished sadly enough. And or people don’t tend to make it a habit of actually thinking before they speak & or take time to do the proper research
Tracie says
This isnt about deadbeats. Im a single mother and was in a car accident and broke my neck. While recovering I couldn’t afford many things. Without this program I wouldn’t have had a phone, which was needed to reach drs and for my child to reach me. These cellphones are the old basic flip phones that dont have internet access. I would be more concerned with bailing out the banks then have them make it almost impossible for anyone but the top 1% to get loans, or genecticly engineered food or any of the other crap congress is doing. Now that I’m in a better place I have no problem helping someone else in need but when people pass judgement without finding out the facts..thats whats destroying this country. as stated above this isnt an Obama program…this has been in effect for many many years
Cat says
Rob,
You (and others who work) support 150 million deadbeats? That’s exactly what’s happening!
Anyone who DOES NOT WORK gets a little tiny cellphone that is obviously used by those
who are on welfare, SSI, etc. We know that ALOT of the recipients are single, drug addicted,
and like you said, worthless deadbeats.
I would like to see a change. Require those ‘deadbeats’ to ‘register’ for testing to see if
they really can’t work!
Sincerely, Cat
Jacob says
There is a huge problem in America right now. I’m sure you’ve heard about it. It’s called a huge unemployment rate. A large percentage of these people can work. Want to work, and are searching for work. However the jobs aren’t there or for one reason or another they are being passed over in the hiring process. These programs don’t just provide for people who ‘refuse’ to work. They also assist those who can’t find work. It’s documented left and right about people doing everything in their power to get a job, and working 2-3 jobs just to cover basic needs due to the new job climate.
Make jobs for American people so those that want jobs can have them, and you won’t need to whine over people who are ‘deadbeats’ and ‘refusing’ to work.
Jacob says
This liberal puke website is completely full of sh!t.
goofball says
elegantly stated, Jacob. And a meaningful contribution.
Sam says
So when they sell it, do they go back and get another one? Anyone keeping track of this?
WolfMan says
Obama Phones are “plain jane” phones from 2002, and are so low on Minutes & features that its really not worth selling it or buying it. Virgin Mobile phones are like $20. There is no real profit in selling it. so what would be the point?
BigJS says
Do taxpayers pay for the phone? “Yes and no, its just added to your phone bill”. Thats a yes? What other way is their to look at it, if I have to spend money that funds something else I am paying for it.
uto says
taxes pay for welfare, the whole point of society is to take care of the less fortunate. Why is this all of a sudden a hard thing to comprehend. People were not burning congress when they bailed out the banks…but harping on Obama for …actually for nothing… it wasn’t even him that started this
Jimmyblister says
You state; “The whole point of society is to take care of the less fortunate”. The American society was NOT founded on the principle of taking care of others. There is no such language in the US constitution, the Declaration of Independence, the Bill of Rights, or indeed ANY of the writings and philosophies that were used to frame our “society”. You promoting was is called “collectivism”, a pardigm that has shown itself to be completely inadequate and woefully ineffective as a general rule for ruling a society. Ignorance of our history and the philosophy under which this country was founded is, in great part, responsible for the mess we are now in. The idea that giving the “less fortunate” a cell phone will assist them in finding work and/or make them a more useful member of society is balderdash. The phones are being sold for drugs and the only people making money are likely the ones who created this web page.
Bob From District 9 says
“You state; “The whole point of society is to take care of the less fortunate”. The American society was NOT founded on the principle of taking care of others. There is no such language in the US constitution, the Declaration of Independence, the Bill of Rights, or indeed ANY of the writings and philosophies that were used to frame our “society”.
The Constitution, the Bill of Rights, the Declaration of Independence etc established our government, not our society. Taking care of the less fortunate is an integral part of our founding principles, Christianity.”
“The phones are being sold for drugs and the only people making money are likely the ones who created this web page.”
What pure absurdity. Do you have any idea how little a used cell phone, esp on that level of tech, is worth? Wouldn’t get you high more than once, if that much. Try to trade in a cell phone that has no web access, just a phone keyboard. Sell one at a garage sale, maybe $5, if it’s in real good shape. Maybe.
You promoting was is called “collectivism”, a pardigm that has shown itself to be completely inadequate and woefully ineffective as a general rule for ruling a society.
sickofit says
less fortunate is just another word for lazy. There is no motivation for people to get up and try harder any more because the less you try the more you are rewarded.
Jazz Tazz says
don’t hear any griping about subsidizing oil companies billions of dollars a year? Afraid you cannot gt your gas fix? did you even read the article? please TRY to make sense.
Jackie Isaac says
would like information on government cellphone programs.
todd brown says
check out my above comment
Mike says
Facts are facts and political views are often based on what Anderson Cooper or Rush Limbaugh have to say. Republican or Dem doesn’t matter, truth is we’re generally mislead by our parties few generalized opinions and we see them as our saving grace. Nonsense… These phones have been around for quite some time and no party can blame the other. Our government is failing us because they cannot relate to the average American and they do not want to because the average American is struggling due to our governments lack of sense to act on education and job creation. It’s a shame that a good day on the market is set off because McDonald’s is hiring 500k full time employees at minimum wage.
Sam says
Only going to get worse with Obummercare. Jobs already being lost and/or hours cut back. “Free” is never free. Someone has to pay for it.
Bob From District 9 says
OTOH, think how many more jobs there are when the uninsured die early.
Kait Skyler says
Sam, hopefully you have healthcare, and your children and loved ones do too. Now, put yourself in the shoes of some hardworking individual with a low wage job that offers no health insurance who if he/she cannot afford a doctor, does not/ cannot get a condition treated and winds up in the ER with a major problem and because it is now MAJOR, the cost of treating it is passed on to you in the form of higher insurance rates etc. Or imagine, you have no insurance because you got laid off (because some wealthy corporation that does receive bailouts and pays little or no taxes, including the wealthy CEO, has just shipped their jobs overseas) and even though you have been pounding the pavement earnestly, willing to do anything, you are either overqualified, or under qualified and so still have not landed a job. Now imagine, your precious three year old daughter starts having headaches and vomiting and is diagnosed with a brain tumor. Should she have to die because you have no insurance for her? Or what if your beloved wife got breast cancer that is treatable if treatment is started right away, but will kill her if not, or what if you get Diabetes that needs daily insulin? Should we just say tough luck to you? If we can pay for war, Wall Street bailouts…maybe it’s time to let them pay their own way.
Ceaser says
These phones are commonly used to commit crimes and they not surprisingly are found at many crime scenes.
topher says
So if the criminal didn’t have a phone it would prevent them from committing a crime? I fail to follow this logic.
goofball says
Ceaser … please site your source for that comment.
Jazz Tazz says
you are not real bright are you? phones commit crimes now? guns don’t but phones do? please find the nearest school and enroll! OR just stop talking!!!
donna says
I love you Jazz Tazz,
you made my day with your reply about how phones commit crimes. You are truly brilliant….too funny.
Thanks for the laugh… oh and by the way……I AGREE
Helen says
The obamaphone started with reagan as in the form of lifelne assistance.Bush started the free cell phone.The Obama administration kept it going.
Lonell echols says
I would love to have a obama phone
Denise Jefferson says
I would like a obama phone , for low income recipeint. ***4707493
amanda sigala says
How do I recieve free Obama Phone
bill says
call obama
JJ says
yes “free” phones for persons on disability or food stamps ect do exist. No the phones arent your 600 dollar iphones, they are usually 20 dollar tracphones with no internet access no camera no games no extra ring tones ect. I use mine (yes i do have one and i find it extremely usefull) for calling cabs, making doctors appointments, and occasionally calling my mother. i get 70 minutes a month which for those of you who use phones daily.. really isnt all that many minutes. there are currently two programs that i am aware of, although you can only belong to one at a time, they do actually look to make sure you dont belong to the other program before sending you your phone. – where you can go to sign up is
Safelink (tracphone) – iihave this – before i learned about the virgin mobil version. – phone is just a cheap 20 dollar model kinda hard to hear if your partially deaf- but if you are hard of hearing, and have proof they will give you a phone for hearing impaired.
https://www.safelinkwireless.com/Enrollment/Safelink/en/Public/NewHome.html
Assurance Wireless (Virgin Mobil phone)- in all honesty id go here first if they have coverage in your area. they have a bigger network, and from what i saw a better basic phone+ more potential minutes based on family size, chosen plan ect.
http://www.assurancewireless.com/Public/Welcome.aspx
Hope this helps those in need. and to those who are helping cover the costs of my phone with their “tax” or extra fee on their bills, thank you. it has literally saved my life to have this phone to call 911, as well as help me get to the doctors when needed. Huggs..
Joe says
I am always amazed to the extent of craziness the Obama-haters stoop!
Joni says
Oh…if you need a reference go to gawker.com and search for ‘Obama phone”.
Joni says
If you’re upset that Obama is giving “freeloaders” cell phones paid for with your tax money, don’t be. Firstly, Obama had nothing to do with the program: the “Obama phone” narrative is a myth that both liberals and conservatives have fallen for since 2009. Secondly, it isn’t paid for with tax revenues. Rather, it is funded with a pool of money, called the Universal Service Fund, which is paid for with revenue donations from telecommunications providers. Some of those providers—like Verizon, for instance—pass off that cost to their customers with a Universal Service fee, but the government doesn’t mandate that the money come from citizens, meaning it’s technically not a tax.”
Me says
Really….. It’s only a tax if it is paid by an individual? So companies don’t have to file tax returns? I’m not debating if they pay taxes, just pointing out that they do have to file tax returns. So companies do pay taxes. “Revenue Donations” is another funny concept. They are donations like my FICA tax is a donation. And I have yet to find a company that donates money without a direct benefit to themselves. They pass the cost of these ‘donations’ unto us.
Obama, and Bush both have something to do with the program in that they didn’t reduce or eliminate it. The President is responsible for their role when in office. Granted they have to work with Congress but they are the face of the government, fair or not.
lisa says
how do i sign up for Obama free phone? is there an application i need to submit??
ace727 says
What has obammer done to end the program??
betsie huntington says
Why was someone on the TV bragging about and showing the 38 free cell phones given to her recently under Obama.. Why was one of our senators (female) solicited for a free phone in her gated community condo?
Chris says
RIdiculous to call these very basic service phones ‘Obama Phones’ it just sounds ignorant. Obviously President Obama detractors have an agenda that is not to help better America, just tear it down.
Backwards Chris says
No Chris. They are trying to keep it from being torn down. 🙂
Dyer says
I deal with an impecunious population on a daily basis as I work for a hospital that managed 176 and 202 million dollars in charitable write offs in 2011 and 2012 respectively. I am on the front lines of this institution and I can easily say that over half of the patients I encounter having much nicer and more expensive phones than me. My bill for just one monty is almost $100 monthly. How can we afford this?
John says
Did Obama perform the proof reading for this article…..hilarious
Culprit says
“The money actually comes from a small fee added to most people’s monthly phone bills, called the Universal Service Fund fee.”
Any involuntary taking of monies of from a person is A TAX!! Plain and simple.
Rick says
Usually, involuntary taking of monies of from a person is called robbery.
michelle says
what kind of free phone are they
Free Government Cell Phones says
Cheap ones.
John says
I came to your website looking for the truth about Obamaphones. My question was this:
Has the program just about tripled in size during the first Obama administration?
I didn’t find an answer at your site.
Now that I’ve been to your site to learn ‘the truth’: You say that, “Back around early 2009, emails began circulating that called the free cell phone program the Obama Phone.”
OK. Why does the video with the hardcore Obama voter shouting the benefits of the Obama Phone come from the fall of 2012? She must know something you people putting this on the web don’t know. By the way, the video which I’ve seen only and for the first time on your site, makes the Obamaphone Lady look and sound A LOT more rational and credible than she comes off in audio only.
So back to basics: What does the Lifeline program cost again (historically and right now?) Are you saying that a tax on phone service for ratepayers to subsidize phone service for the poor is not a tax? Is the program being promoted as a giveaway to ‘minorities’ as a gift from the Obama administration such that they come to call the benefit ‘Obama Phone’?
By the way, I credit your site with being the first I’ve found to present the video that magically spawned the Obamaphone myth three years before it was made. By watching and listening to the woman I am confident that she is saying, “anybody in Cleveland who a’ minority get Obama phone . . .” Before I came to your site and saw the video I have read transcriptions at other websites reporting that she said, “anybody in Cleveland who a low minority get Obama phone.” Those other sites, like yours, seemed motivated only to DEBUNK the MYTH of Obamaphone. It’s funny how the leftist guardians of truth just assume someone in America could use the latter phrase, ‘low minority’, and include themselves in that group. The colloquial speech in an ethnic dialect is not the issue AT ALL. The woman is clearly expressing her views. Anyone who enjoys listening to the broad variety of American speech can understand exactly what she is saying. She believes that the Obama administration gave her a free phone—and she likes that.
colby says
phone
colby says
i love phones
colby says
obama phones are good phones
colby says
i love obama phones
shila sellman says
I know people that got this plan and I have tried but it won’t let me because of my address.. what can I do??
vlad says
I think Obama is simply pandering to hs peoples. Quite frankly I am shocked such a proram exists. Perhaps a toothbrush would be a better use of public money for the peoples so medicaid doesnt have topay for dentures when the peoples teeth rot out from kool-aid. I paid into Medicare it is not an entitlement as is the non SSI social security so it is misleading to tell the peoples that the 7% I paid every month and matched by my employer in affect an annuity for retrtement is an entitlement
Send the Barney Big Ear phone to the peoples so that they can simply call 911 should a legitmate emergrency develope or if they want to fight each other and call the po-lice on the winner.
As in any socialist country politicans live well -Barney Big Ears never had a student loan to pay back and certainly his homely wife the former Ms. Robinson would leave her little snokums if they were at 150% of the poverty level or if he took a vow of poverty Hey if you want to sell your soul for welfare benefits go for it -but let Big Ears and Harry Reid pay for your non 911 miutes out of their own pocket
Willie says
I do not have a problem helping people in time of need, but I have a huge problem supporting a life style. For a LOT of people this has become just that a life style. The tax payers are paying this, it is called the Universal Service Fund fee. Listed right on your phone bill every month ever phone line. You have no choice you have to pay it because our elected, they know better then you and put it there. Hands down that’s a tax.
Not only does the tax payer pay Rent, Food, Gas, Electric, Cable, Satellite, and because they will not get up in the morning. To feed their kids or pack a lunch, even tho we already buy their food. We have to feed the kids breakfast and lunch at school too. Try this on, at the tire store filling the check to pay the tires just put on the car. Guy walks in I know who is 2nd maybe 3rd generation welfare tells the salesman he needs 4 new tires. Then put a payment voucher on the counter from the welfare office, can not help but see it.
This has become a life style for to many to long. Again I have NO problem people in times of need. I have and will. But there has to be a limit. Yes I know there are some who will never be able to take care of themselves. However I see and know way to many who are able bodied, just like the guy at the tire store.
I am tired that my family has to do without because of all the taxes and hidden taxes like the Universal Service Fund fee. More money is spent on give away programs like this then anything else government pays for. Spend just few minutes you have the internet look it up for yourself. Then look at your pay stub, the line that says gross. That’s your money you work for it. Now look at what the government TAKES, that’s your money too.
So hows that hope and change working for you now? For those who have the so-called free phone. When the government has taken all the money from people who had it, but now have none. Where are they going to get it,,, to pay for all you get?
ida southern says
i am only 19 and i am homeless and i am possibly pregnant. i have no phone and i am homeless. i get foodstamps but they wont give me cash aid. do i qualify? if not can you please help me with any resources that you can….. i have my husband with me and he is 23.
Free Government Cell Phones says
It’s all explained here on the website. Food Stamps qualify you.
rochelle s. day says
Mr. President. I am 72 years old living on a small pension from my deceased husband who died of emphysema in 2002. From time to time I would enjoy contacting my four children and four grandsons through the Obama Care cell phone. I cannot afford a cell phone and the high rates of owning/ calling on one, to ‘stay in touch.’ I am very lonely. I am hoping being on medicare I will qualify for this free phone and service. Please help me be a more considerate/ caring mother/grandmother to my wonderful family.
mike says
Since Obama has been in office, the price has “slightly” increased. This year, for instance, its projected to cost $2.2 BILLION dollars. Next year? A wonderful $3.2 BILLION dollars. But of course,according to our President, who has spent more in his term than all other presidents up to bush COMBINED, Bush “wiped away a budget surplus” and “crashed the economy”. Yeah. Sure. No wonder the voice of the left is on comedy central. Stay blind, people, its a lot easier than having to think for yourself.
mike says
that’s a lie, when no one knows the truth, it’s easy to get away with lying. Oboma put the $3 trillion Bush borrowed from China to invade Iraq on the books to pay back, Oboma did not invade Iraq, he pulled the troops out & ended that mistake with trillions of $$$$$$ to be paid in Veterans disabilities for the next 60 years.
Pathfinder says
Well said. Bravo
rico says
How common is it for people to have more then one phone. I see them giving them away like hot cakes with no checking to see if the person is giving there correct information. I could change what I say my last 4 of my soc is and get another phone everyday. Government spending at its best…..
Antwione says
Poor or not, soda “Kracker” owes me, so give me the free stuff…
Pathfinder says
Son. NO ONE owes you a thing. Nothing. You sound like a leech and you should be treated as such. Who is soda Kracker and why do you believe he owes you anything, or are you refering to whites in general? In either case you continue to sound like an uneducated, lazy individual, probably living in your mothers basement and boy, I owe you nothing and thats what you will get. Go get a job and contribute to society. Otherwise you are merely a wast of space.
JIM DUVERGE says
i got my assurance wireless phone but my time is expire how do i get my phone back on please can some one help me please my facebook is jim robles
Jerome says
I am poor so I want obamaphone becauz I cant make money for phone I want iphone to make facechat with my sister I am finansialy dissagvantaged do I should get free obamaphone
Lou says
I find it interesting how people here need a phone for free because they are poor yadayada, and have no money yadayada, what I’m sick of is paying for these lazy asses, that are where here on the INTERNET, asking for handouts!!! yup this will bring up the boohooos poor me people.
Ian says
You’re not taking into account the countless people that use free wifi (i.e. Starbucks, McDonald’s, neighbors, etc) on computers that are shared (family, friends, roommates, libraries, etc) or on smartphones/tables from the aforementioned parties.
seamus hughes says
Wow….that lady in the video shows obamas true supporters…uneducated minorities…who know nothing more than how to find the free things a not work for anything..i feel like im a minority now. Im a 20 year old white male…what benefits do i get? Nothing..why? Because my dad worked his ass of shoveling horse shit for years and did landscaping and ended up finding a decent job. Now i attend a university..i get no grants or loans because i cant qualify for them even though i personally make less than $1,500 a year. I owed the government $45 dollars in taxes this year…how the hell did that happen? And my tax money taken from me goes to help pay for that crackhead ladys groceries or social security..seriously what benefit is she providing our country by living? While im going to university to better our country. Im majoring in public health, occupational and environmental safety…trying to help everyone live healthy…please stop stealing my money..its nice to have gas in my tank.even though im young and can walk places, i do have tendinitis in my onees and its nice to give them a break once in a while.
Lowellhb says
You people, and you know who are, fight like hell to keep certain people uneducated, unemployed, unhealthy, then scream like mad when you see the results!!
Steve says
I’m a Vietnam Vet living on the money I put into Social Security. Sequestration by our government is going after social security! This is the money that has been (by mandate), taken from every paycheck issued to me since I began working in 1965. This money (called Social Security contributions) is owed to me and now they are calling it an “entitlement” such as Welfare or food assistance or HUD or any of those kind of programs that are not owed.
I’m almost 70 years old and it looks as though I’m going to have to struggle just to “exist” for a few more years. I used my GI benefits to get an education (Bachelor’s Degree) and now I’m unemployed because I can no longer handle the stresses associated with earning a decent living. Nowadays, I am forced to rely on my social security benefits just to exist and I use it only because “I’ve earned it”.
Our present economic woes are the consequence of Congress passing the Federal Reserve Act of 1914, then “borrowing” money against the Social Security account established during the Roosevelt administration. It is interesting to learn that the Social Security Act was passed via a secret ballot on December 24th 1913, when, except for a few “selected Congressman”, everyone else was on Christmas break. The Fed Act is illegal as is printing fiat currency.
Because of what is now known as Quantitative Easing (printing dollars at a rate of 85 billion a month or 600 million dollars and hour) to pay for government activities such as funding military basis all over the world and welfare and food-stamps and medicare and lifetime medical/dental benefits for our elected officials and their retirement programs and on and on, we are now faced with a deficit that is mathematically impossible to pay off. The only solution (as Ron Paul has explained so many times) is just to let ourselves go over the fiscal cliff now instead of delaying the inevitable with Quantitative Easing. Now, it is not a question of “if”, it is a question of “when” we fall over the fiscal cliff into hyper-inflation.
Every American has been systematically “ripped off” ever since we allowed Congress to vote in the centralized banking system which is called the Federal Reserve Act of 1914 (Google it!). Since then, our dollar’s value has been in a steady state of decline. Gold was valued at $20 per oz in 1914 and has since climbed to over $1400 per oz in today’s fiat currency.
The cost of goods isn’t going up, it’s the value of the dollar that is dropping. In 1914, $20 dollars could buy you a new 3 piece suit with several ties, a new pair of shoes and several pairs of socks, a hat and new pocket-watch. Today, $20 won’t even buy one tie of the same quality. However, if you have an ounce of gold, that would buy everything you could have bought in 1914. My point is that it is not gold that is so expensive, it is how much less in value the dollar has become. And finally, where do you think the value of our money is being transferred too? It’s going to the same people who print it… the banks. So, instead of blaming people who are taking advantage of what the banks have done to our economy/currency and what they still have to do in order for them to preserve the illusion of a strong economy so they can continue to transfer what little value remains in our dollar, buy silver and gold ASAP!
Without questioning our government, I joined the military in 1964 to fight for what I thought was a noble and righteous cause. Now that I’ve seen what is really going on, I feel betrayed. The American Eagle is a bird of pray that needs two wings to fly. The right wing is called Republican and the left is called Democratic. Our bird of pray “attacks” its victims and is also called the US Industrial Military Complex. Our government wants you to believe that one wing keeps the other in check. In reality, our bird of pray cannot fly with just one wing. My point here is that regardless of who is elected as its head, the bird (Industrial Military Complex) needs both wings to fly in order to stay alive. Is this what America is supposed to be about? Most other countries fear and are repulsed by our presence. Would you stand for Iran or any Islamic country maintaining a military presence in our country? I don’t think so.
mary coffee says
Single mom with a disabled child at home
Chelbe Ewing says
I would just like some information on the qualifications of the free phone. Do u have to be on the Medical card or Receive Ebt? And does being on Unemployment qualify you?
Free Government Cell Phones says
https://www.freegovernmentcellphones.net/basics/qualify
Jermaine says
We are a bunch of volunteers and opening a new scheme
in our community. Your site provided us with valuable information to work on.
You have done an impressive process and our entire
group shall be thankful to you.
Free Government Cell Phones says
Tell us what we can do to help. What kind of information do groups like yours need most?
hesham says
i want this phone bacause i dont have phone
allan taute says
I would really like it if someone could tell me if I’m Elig able for a free phone or is there a partially paid phone plan I’d really like to get the free phone since I’m on social security disability and my wife is also on disability and it’s the only income we have . Could someone please give me info on this matter Thank you.
Diane says
Allan, yes you are eligible to get the free phone since are getting disability. I do believe though that they say only one per household so only one of you can get one of the free phones.
tina jackson says
hi my name is tina jackson i am looking to sign up for a free phone i here is so easy now i am excited to see what you all can offer me thanks…..
kit bel says
I pay for a Verizon home phone & internet service. I am low-income & receive heating assistance. Not free heat but a low-income discount on my National Grid bill. I have an Assurance Wireless cellphone. I bring it with me when I go to work at night. It’s reassuring to know that I have it in case of an emergency. I don’t talk & text on this phone! It’s cheap & very basic. I hate cellphones. Emergency use ONLY!!
Bob says
So much more absolute BS being purchased and financed by our govt. that these ratty old cell phones being given out should hardly generate outrage. I’d recommend that we choose our battles wisely after much consideration and the weighing of many points of view rather than rude blanket statements based on rumor or hearsay being vomited out over everyone. Clearly, the point has been confirmed that Obama neither started the program nor requires tax payers to fund it. Phone companies do that through a fee system. The poor will never bankrupt America. They do not have the political power nor do they have the money to purchase it. The bulk of American wealth is being hoarded at the top, in foreign accounts and investments that will never see the light of the American economy again. If the cell phone program were immediately shut down do you think the rest of us would be appreciably more wealthy? I’d bet a trillion dollars that you wouldn’t know the difference. So take your rage elsewhere.
ken says
I suppose I’m happy that my phone bill is more expensive so that someone else’s bill is less. Nah, I’m pissed as hell about it and I vote!
I don’t give a F who started the program or who expanded it. I want it shut down now.
Skip Driver says
AT T could not go as low as the free cell phone I had no choice not working due to back surgery but to let my cell go to collections, first time ever and I hate that.
Skip Driver says
And its not true they do a very extensive check for example I was trying to help a person who was homeless get a phone. So he could get a job. It never showed, later found out why, he moved in with a gal who already had a phone in her name and low income so he was denied a phone. So they do check out the information.
Skip Driver says
oops. they only allow one pr household.
The Phone Guy says
That sounds like a lazy agent that processed that request. Although the rules are very specific, two people at the same address may receive this service under “Multiple Heads of Household”. I am a field agent for one of the providers, and much of what is being said here is nonsense.
Ignorance is bliss
Skip Driver says
I have had two major back surgeries. I am not on welfare those who are on welfare never paid taxes. I am on disability. My rent takes almost my entire check each month. I could not afford to keep my cell phone with AT T, so I am grateful for my safelink not Obama cell phone.I use it only for doctors, ambulance, or if I have to travel away from my town to go to specialists. I do not give the number out to friends. I have a home phone for that. I have the right to be able to call for help for an ambulance or an emergency my surgeon that operated on my back. I imagine most of the rude comments are from those who have no compassion for the poor. Shame on you. Have you donated your old cell phones to battered womens shetlers? Or are you one of the abusers? This service has been a God send for me. Skip
Jefferson says
they are gelas republicans becus they cant get the free stuff like us. Democrats rule the socety.
Jules says
Seriously, learn to spell if you don’t want to sound illerate and support their claims. Geeze.
patsy mitchell says
I heard about this from friends and family and told me i should checck this out and would help me cause based on my income and to help me out
Gary says
best free gov phone program is assurancewireless.com if in ur coverage area you get 250 free talk and 250 free text minnutes can’t beat it
Gregory Smith says
Hi i am Gregory Smith and I am on SSDI and do have the money to have the nessesitys for my needs. Could you please make it possible for me to recieve a oboma phone. Thank you.
Free Government Cell Phones says
Read the site.
Brian says
I still believe they are Obama Phones
Free Government Cell Phones says
Believe what you wish, but facts are facts.
fran wilson says
I would like a free phone. I am on soc.sec.
grant says
I could use one two, but unfort. I am on s/s have saved money and worked my whole life, so I have to pay for whatever I get and pay for people who are scabs on our society. Whant to bet your ass that the new people in Michigan all get free phones.
Toni says
Please let me no what i have to do
Alex says
Know…..not no…know means you knew something….no means yes/no
Nice Guy says
No the politicians are not in the pockets of the welfare recipient. Governmental programs are created to “assist” the poor. The poor then become dependent upon the government. Our society is a victim of its own created circumstance. Instead of allowing charitable organizations to take care of the poor or enticing them to better themselves, the government socializes the programs. I grew up in a poor family that received welfare benefits. I have vowed to not allow myself to fall into that situation no matter the cost. I am willing to work two or three minimum wage jobs to make ends meet if it ever comes to that.
The bottom line is that our government continues to make our nation dependent upon them. Take a moment and look up “Cycle of Democracy” and ask yourself honestly which phase you believe we are currently in. Scary times for this nation are upon us.
Elle Wells says
My question is why do the telecom global corporations get by with charging us the most money while delivering the least amount of services. We let our legislatures reverse the glasteagle act so we’re really dealing with monopolies and not a competitive market.Only in this country can the richest rip us off while we complain that the poor are taking all the money. How much do you really believe chase bank, goldman sachs etc. cares about our welfare after they’ve taken a huge chunk of our hard earned well deserved little bit of money we have. Get real, do you think corporate media is owned by the poor? Do you really beleive that politicians are in the pocket of the welfare recipient? Look up the facts on credible non bias resources, and keep learning the truth.
Greenwick says
Haha, that’s a laugh – the lobbyists for the poor would be badly paid indeed.
Lisa Willing says
These phones were distributed in the parking lot of Sav-a-lot here in Aiken, SC, not a place that could verify the persons financial need.
vacman says
Can you prove what you say?
Free Government Cell Phones says
We can verify that cell phones are handed out in parking lots and out of vans in the streets, all over America.
HerseyK says
I just helped a friend apply online. It appears that the phone company will wait to approve the application after reviewing proof of eligibility. However, I was surprised at the lack of specific proof they were looking for. IE NO specific documents named ! Quite unlike most government programs; SS, Medicaid, unemployement, IRS etc
grant says
can you not prove it vacman, or are you just making up lies as your grouop usually do.
colt says
Government programs don’t give out free phones in parking lots. Telecom companies do. It’s their dime not the Governments. You have to apply to get to the program and be accepted to get the phone to work.
TWLS says
I could carel ess who started it, DEM Clinton or NEO CON Bush, they were both wrong. Here is a fact, we are spending 1.6 BIL on these things while forcing agencies vital to our national security to make huge cuts. CBP (Customs and Border Patrol folks) alone is being cut by $750 million through se’castration’. Who’s running the show over there? Secure our borders or hand a free cell phone to someone who’s going to use it to get a booty call, not a job? No brainer really. One stupid welfare program like this could be cut and save the entirety of Border Secuirty for the country. I think common sense was deported from the USA by mistake!
Greenwick says
No it couldn’t. The cost of a program like this is vastly cheaper than defense.
Jules says
Seriously, negative people, relax. I am a mother of two, married, in school, and my husband is a Union Journeyman… Because of the depression, yes, I said it, DEPRESSION, economically, he has been out of work for 3 years. Both of us are hard working, literate and intelligent people, by the by. So, if I need to avail myself of a “free, or discounted phone” to benefit my family, then I must be getting “bootie calls”? Poo on you, and by the way spell check your crap talk before you go off an tangent, dipstick.
Tony Mcguire says
Just another example of the Republicans blaming everything on Obama and spreading lies. They are to gutless to except their part of the blame. It’s easier to blame Obama because they know that most people to pay enough attention to know the difference.
HerseyK says
The D’s started to ramp it up via Acorn and all the other groups preceding the 2008 election and has blossomed as a freebie associated with Obama’s largesse to the unknowing and majority urban blacks.
Alex says
It’s easier to blame Obama because they know that most people to pay enough attention to know the difference….HUH? makes no sense whatsoever. Why not throw facts instead of piles of dung…are we human or monkeys?
colt says
A human would’ve known what Tony meant.
JJameson says
The article is misleading. The telecom companies have a choice in charging the fee to their customers. So if you have an issue with people having free phones, talk to AT&T.
Lannie Ferrell says
I have tried several times to get a free phone, so far I have nor received it, can you help me. It tells me that it is on order, but that has been 5 months ago. My address is xxxxxxxxxxxxx, so far I do not have a phone, my wife and I both have serios health problems. We desperately need help. Please help pus.
Lannie Ferrell
Skip Driver says
If you already have one in your home you will not be allowed a second one.
I would fill out application, make a copy, fax it in, mail orginal. And follow up to see if they received the application.
God bless.
PWR says
While the history of this program is understood and I beleive that $10 per month to subsidize a LANDLINE is reasonable to assure that all have access to emergency services and Job avoiding, expanding it to cell phones, providing free phones, 250 free minutes/month, expandable to UNLIMITED for $25 additional under Obama makes it EXACTLY what it has been labeled….OBAMA PHONE! You can’t text, play games or cruise porn sites on a landline. You can call 911, talk to health services, the welfare office or avoid a job on a landline, which is the intent of the program. OBAMA PHONE is yet another program in keeping with LBJ’s initiation of programs in the late 60’s to “keep people voting Democrate for the next 100 years”. And, they keep falling for it….
Kelly says
No one is handing out free smart phones, Einstein. They are cheapo cell phones that only make phone calls. You guys believe everything you read! (By the way, Clinton started the program and GW Bush added cell phones to the plan to keep up with modern technology. Just because grandma is old and poor, doesn’t mean she can’t use a cell phone!)
Ben Dover says
Grandma can’t operate the microwave, but by God she can use a free cell phone!
Alex says
You are wrong. They are giving out blackberry’s and MANY to even dead people…some have 20-30 phones for one person.
richard kent says
thanks Alex
sam says
Obviously you can’t READ, PWR. It statred on bush’s watch….THREE months before President Obama was elected. I assume you can’t count either!
grant says
Obviously you can’t read either sam, the addition of these phones was with a democratic congress and senate lead by polosi and reed. They then sent letters out to everyone who voted democrat and then the even gave out phones when the signed up to vote. Maybe you should read what is happening and dont say bush did it, it was a political trick.
Ruth Tucci says
Maybe you should apply for one of the cell phones so you could call someone that could possibly teach you how to read.And if you want to really give it a name, that would be the ‘Bush phone’.
Alex says
Does it really matter who started it? Lets stop the name calling and acting like we are 2 on either side this is just ignorant. Solves nothing to bicker about something like this or in this manner.
Greenwick says
Assurance wireless gives people phones that Virgin Mobile used to just give away for free. These are phones whose model is so old no one is willing to pay for them. They can’t take pictures, and while they can search the internet, you have to pay extra for that. There is at most two games preloaded onto the phones, and they are really low quality. I wouldn’t play them unless I was locked in an elevator and was slowly losing my mind – amd even then, I’d want to preserve my battery.
If you only have a landline phone, you may miss calls for job opportunities – and in this job market, those missed calls can lead to not getting a job. If you work at a job where extra shifts are offered on a first called, first served basis, you won’t get shifts if you are out running errands. Also, if you are homeless, you probably have no place for a landline.
Kat says
The increase in public assistance and the amount of those on the toll increased under the Obama’s rule. Of course it would when you have radio advertising food stamps under a new name. The fraud that goes along with getting something for nothing is widespread and even the little old ladies in the assitive living centers know the ropes and get several phones in order to collect multiple allotments of free time. It is so sad how many people are collecting assistance because they can get it so easy they think why not wait to get a job till my unemployment runs out instead of look for work while they are on it. I am sick of the people who run out of unemployment and then switch over to disability. Obama got elected again because of promotion of all these free perks given to all of the lazy bums he bussed over to the poll to vote for him. I don’t care if Bush was involved in establishing the free phones, it was never his intention to allow half our population to become lazy and not want to work for a living. Obama is promoting his agenda and is stealing from the rich to give to the poor. No good can come from this.
Johnny Whitcomb says
Can you say ‘jealous?’ People need help, you buffoon. If you can afford to help, then that’s what you need to do. I’m glad that taxes exist to make sure that you’re not hoarding all the cash for yourself.
Andrew says
You do a decent job of clearing up the misconceptions, but still leave a few facts out, or unclear. First of all the originations of this program really began in the 1980’s under a program started by the Reagan administration. Clinton expanded it, as you pointed out. I do think you need to be a little more clear about the events of 2008 though. The cell phone program began in 2008, which by coincidence was the year Obama was elected. But the program began in October 2008, even before the elections. Secondly, as obvious as it is to many, there are enough ignorant people who think Obama became President in 2008 because that was the year he was elected. The reality was he became President on January 20, 2009. So the cell phone program did not start the year Obama became President and started in 2008 even before he was elected. So guess who started the “Obama Phone” program? Bush.
Belle says
And that’s just on my DSL. I also pay $2.27 for my cell phone so make that another $30/year or $80 a year for a “small” fee!
Belle says
$4.02 per month (plus 7.375% sales tax on top of that!) is a “small fee”? That’s what I pay, over $50 a year!
lex says
Hmm to anybody that cares according to the FCC website the program actually started in 1985, so I highly doubt much of the information in this “article” can be trusted to be factual. Here is a link to the information regarding the program. http://www.fcc.gov/lifeline If you look it goes into further detail about the specific guidelines of the program such as you cannot have both a cell-phone and home service under the program and only one per household is supposed to be given. Meaning even if there are ten people living a family they are only supposed to get one. It is to give people with low-income a basic communication tool which is not a luxury anymore it is a necessity. And if you think they are just giving them out to anybody I can attest to the fact that poverty levels are way below what you can survive on. I once tried to get into a program for low income people and they told me two people had to make below 12,000 a year in New York city, that is not even enough for rent for a year for one person. So you tell me that those people dont need some kind of help. And at least one form of communication is not a luxury, plus they don’t give a ton of minutes. Also while yes some people will probably take advantage and lie and cheat there way into getting it the overwhelming majority of people with it are not. (then again even if they do I kind of dont blame them as the requirement are so low you pretty much have to be starving on the streets to qualify)
Waynebo says
Obviously biased writing in this article. Facts are facts, you cannot get away from them.
Sara says
Our country is in shambles. I get the whole usage on the cell phone part. Why they should be able to do it BUT I do not feel it is right to take 10 phones.. You should be allowed one.. and one only.
There are pro’s and con’s to this. Shoot had I known about when I was divorced raising two kinds, three part time jobs and college full time, sure I would have had one too.
Collin- I must say how honored I am to know the crap you post is hilarious. Just hilarious!! 🙂
Colin Sabo says
I don’t understand why the government is putting a limit on how many minutes I get each month. I spend a lot of time on the phone, and could seriously use unlimited minutes. One thing I really can’t stand is the lack of a camera on the phone. It would be nice to be able to take family photos when we go on trips, but I guess that’s how it goes, for now anyway. Hopefully, there could be some sort of tax increase for these well-to-do types who won’t give to the program!
amazed says
really…?????
all i hear is “gimme, gimme, gimme,,,,,more, more, more” you need more minutes and a camera on a phone you’re given for free (and still not grateful for) and that’s NOT enough….well as a contributing taxpayer, let me just say….GO F**K YOURSELF…you freeloading arrogant bastard!!!
Waynebo says
Umm…..Colin…..what the heck are you ranting about, and how in God’s name are you taking “Trips” if you cannot afford a cell phone?
This has to be a joke right? PLEASE TELL ME THIS IS A JOKE!!!
Johnny Whitcomb says
I agree with Colin. These phones run out of minutes before you know it. It is very depressing when the minutes are gone, and they really do need a camera or better yet a video camera feature because that isn’t on their either.
Adriana says
To me owning a cell phone is a luxury. I’m sorry you guys can’t afford a cell but some kids are starving here in the US! And what do they do with my tax money?? Pay for you to have a cell? What’s next? You want a car too? Is that why gas is so freaken high? Is that it?. I’m a 25y/o woman.My parents were immigrants and thought me the value of hard work. And I feel if they raised kids and got them through collage without any assistance. I am now a RN. and my brothwr works for Pixar. If my parents did it then you have damn excuse. Get off your lazy ass, over your depressed state of mind cause we owe you nothing. Get a job and have some pride!!!
lateasha Davis says
Thanks.
Eric says
I have been approached in super markets for a free phone if I pay for a contract. Anyone who has been exposed to this dark propaganda instantly jumps to the conclusion it’s a free GOV phone. We all know what propaganda is but yet we are suckered into believing it because we are mentally lazy.
It’s easy to be-leave a propagandize lie because it is actively promoted by its propagators on a highly organized scale. The more extreme the group the more they rely on dark propaganda to incite the public. They become highly efficient, effective and more organized in producing and propagating manipulative messages. Western Conservative Plutocracies has reached that point: power can only be maintain through deception.
The author like me sees some of the comments above are propagandize. (They did read the article). A poor person asking for even more and then using the propagandized name is a classic mix of small truths with underlying sarcasm reinforced with the featured propaganda fraise. A propagandized fraise or word used over and over no matter what context is poison and achieves its intended purpose.
Conservative think tanks are very good at labeling social things with negative names. Paid for by the elites, there mandate is to come up with strategies to use dark propaganda to fulfill their agenda of power at any cost. By keeping us fighting amongst ourselves over trivial things we give them more power and control.
History has shown us that political organizations that use the tools of dark propaganda to gain power are always fanatic who take away rights instead of preserving them. A perfect example is Middle Eastern Social Conservative counties that are preoccupied with controlling social interaction using laws based on religious text interpreted by the state.
In closing anyone who produces and distribute or redistribute dark propaganda that they know or may suspect misrepresents the truth is nothing less than a traitor to their country and the principles of a free informed society.
bwe-wildered says
What???
amazed says
1st….it’s ‘believe’….not “be-leave”
2nd……you’re an idiot !!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
Waynebo says
Eric, you really need to stop writing like an educated person, because it’s obvious you are just the opposite.
Call me on your Obama phone playa!!
Absolutely sickening.
Dale says
Again, how many of you READ THE DANG ARTICLE? This is not a forum to thank or complain to President Obama. This is an article debunking the myth spread by the far right that President Obama somehow, I guess by royal edict since they all think he’s a dictator, unilaterally created a program to give free cell phones to “undeserving” welfare recipients. PRESIDENT OBAMA HAD NOTHING TO DO WITH THE PROGRAM!!!! READ THE ARTICLE!!!!
Colin Sabo says
THANK YOU MR. OBAMA! We were doing alright until my family went broke. Your phone has literally been a Godsend. I also want to thank you for giving us the means to eat 3 square meals a day and get our rent and utilities paid. I don’t understand all of these angry, jealous people with no Obamaphone…maybe they are paying for bad service, but that’s not my fault. I do wish that the government would start to provide internet to people who cant afford it and a laptop to go with it. It makes it very hard to have to take a bus to the library to use their computers, but at least I get free bus tokens.
BLUES1956 says
GET A JOB AND STOP USING THE WELFARE SYSTEM TO PROMOTE YOUR LAZINESS
Colin Sabo says
It’s considered rude to write in all capital letters.
bwe-wildered says
Colin Sabo… I’m picking up your “tongue in cheek.” Very funny!
Joe Mama says
I saw this in front of the Supermarket a while back–there were people approaching customers as they got out of their cars, pushing the damn things as if they’re incentivized to sign as many people up as possible. At the local 7-11, they have a banner advertising free cell phones. I don’t know who came up with this program, but they sure are pimping it pretty hard.
Colin Sabo says
Low income people got to 7-Eleven for their cigarettes and beer because they have depression over having no money. You need to look in the mirror and pray that you won’t be the next victim of poverty. At least these poor people now have a phone to order pizza or other food to stay full and not starve on the street.
Ethan says
There you go you!! They can spend what money they have and Beer And Cigarettes. but not food. All because they are DEPRESSED. Well seems to me they on Medicare any way get meds from it for DEPRESSION use what money you do have to help get you back on your feet. Take your free bus tokens and go put in applications does it matter where you work weather you are shoveling crap or sitting in a office. Get off your lazy but and my tax dollars. Need weekly drug and alcohol test for people getting government help thats what id like to see my tax dollars go to DRUG TEST.
pda says
Order a pizza???? I don’t think that is what the phones are meant to be used for.
Colin Sabo says
Mine has a speed dial function where the pizza place’s number can be stored. It makes life much easier to order food than to ride the bus to pick up a pizza.
bwe-wildered says
Joe… I suppose it would be to the phone company’s advantage to pay someone minimum wage to “push” these free phones. After all… they are the ones getting our money to pay for them. So “pushing” the phones helps the phone company, the recipient and Obama (cuz he gets the credit.) The only one it hurts is “US” because we have to pay them! Everybody wins! almost! 😉
Brittany says
Yea I’m using my man Obama free cell phone and I’m not understanding y I have 1.80 on it now
emily says
still doesnt change the fact that people are getting free phones at my expense haha
Colin Sabo says
You can afford it…we can not. Be thankful.
JayH says
Get a job… then you can afford it.
pda says
And just curious, if you can’t afford a phone why/how are you on the internet?
Colin Sabo says
I had some bus tokens left over and rode to the library. The computers here are VERY slow and annoying, but at least I can get online.
Jack says
So why does a guy who has worked at my company making over $50K a year still have his “Obama Phone”? He was once on welfare but hasn’t been for over a year now!!
bwe-wildered says
Just some rambling thoughts – I must say that, 70 minutes a month MIGHT work for me, I prefer my land-line. But for the average person, (these days,) it just wouldn’t do. Can they pay for more minutes with their welfare money? I wondered what “Universal Service Fund fee” meant on my bill! Do I pay that on my land-line AND my cell phone bill? Hmmm! I’m so thrilled to know that I’m providing a phone for my cousin’s speed freak girlfriend (she told me about her free Obamaphone) so she can “make her deals…” … until her minutes run out… of course. I’m sure she’d readily trade her food stamps for more minutes. (All that’s left, that is, after her “celebration” day. The day she gets her food stamps and calls my cousin to go out for a big, fancy meal!) Yes, it’s true. I will say that I’m glad Tahmina was able to use her “Clinton/Bush/Obama phone to keep in touch with her sick family members. THAT is what it’s for, right? And it’s good for poor, jobless, homeless people to have a phone for future job interviews. It’s socialism and it takes a lot of nerve for the government to make us pay for a plan that they came up with, without asking us. But I’m glad for the people who need them. God bless ’em.
bwe-wildered says
Sorry Jack… I ‘m sorry that my comment ended up being a reply on your post. Answer… It’s sounds like your coworker is not a nice person.
jeff schwersinske says
I got sprint,its paid,Im broke,get free phone before bill comes,I got housing,food card,health troubles,job hunt,Info on phone.thanks Jeff
UnInformed says
Obviously Tahmina didn’t read the article…..
“Spread the Word: The Obama Phone rumor is false!
Now you’ve got all the facts and information you need to rebut anyone who calls this valuable program the The Obama Phone. Set the record straight by giving them the link to this page.”
Jim says
That’s what you call a low information voter. Our country is doomed.
Michelle says
Tahmina sounds low income.
Tahmina says
I love this phone for the fact that everytime I had to go to e hospital t ALWAYS had reception when noone else’s phone did…. It helped me in so many ways having two children and having to stay with a sick one in he hospital and still being able to check up on the other…also was able to check p on my husband just today as he went to the ER and was able to keep contact from home since I couldn’t go without my kids so early … Mr.Obama THANK YOU!!!! I mean it from the bottom of my heart and behalf of my family too who all also are supported by your phone as we are low incomed, live separately but are able to keep in touch. Much love <3
Smeado says
Nice try “Tahmina”. You’re just an old white guy aren’t you?
Jason T says
And why does every so-called informational article leave out how Obama took this program and expanded it far beyond the original plan?
stu says
Because that bit of information was probably invented by the loud-mouthed shitheads at Infowars. I wish I could run a money making media outlet based pure lies.
Andrew Cook says
The sense of American entitlement in this day and age disgusts me.
stu says
Yeah, like how you feel that only your income bracket is entitled to western luxury. Asshole.
Andrew Cook says
Get your own job, make somethin out of yourself, and buy your own dang phone.
stu says
And how do you propose the employer reaches the applicant if that person had no phone line? You can’t get a job without a phone. You’re a short-sighted asshole.
Kwgrid says
Taxes do not pay for these phones. They are subsidized by the telecom industry.
Don says
Oh by the way it’s up to each state to approve it, only 38 states have.
Don says
You people are idiots, if you read the article it tells you the tax payers are not paying for it. Phone users are, it’s a usage tax. You don,t want to pay it do buy a phone. Get VoIP and you will never have to pay it. Just like the cig tax. As far as the social security guy. Well you are actually being subsidized by my tax your benefits run out at about the ten year mark along with Medicaid so get off you but and go back to work but don’ t pretend to be high and mighty because all on social security are living on a welfare socialist program. At least the phone program pays for itself. As far as Obama stopping it you mean congress right. Presidents can only sign laws they can’t raise taxes you idiots. Go back to school.
MS says
http://obamaphone.net/
I like how people on here are asking for it, but have access to a computer and internet…. yeah this program works. Give them a land line for emergency only calls and make the phone companies pay for it
Safelink says
Actually the program strictly implements the “One Phone per Household Rule” If you want to register for the benefit you must give a valid physical address, Now if your application pushed through any other applications using the address you gave will be rejected. Contrary to popular belief we really prioritize elderly,sickly and people who live in nursing homes since they are the ones who really need to be connected to their loved ones. ^_^
John Anderson says
So Tracphone found a loophole in mid-2008. I think Bush had bigger things to deal with at that time, so this was probably waaayyy below the radar, but it has the look of wasteful gov’t spending, unless it’s one per household and if you get a cell, then no landline.
Flayer says
Plus the spending bills and budgets originate in the Congress. Guess who was in charge starting in 2006? Yes, Pelosi and tax-cheat Charlie Rangel. Surely you don’t think they’d limit or eliminate the program?
John Anderson says
I pay $4 in USF charges every month on my cell bill, to help pay for someone to have one for free? Can someone tell me, do these low income folks get their landline and their cell phone subsidized (or is it one or the other)? And if two common law welfare recipients share a household, do they get a landline, and 2 cell phones paid for from my taxes? I think that’s excessive. A cell phone is still a luxury device (yes, you can live without one), it’s not like heat or food. I understand the land line should be able to call 911 or the landlord, or the doctor, etc., but if the cell phone can be in lieu of a landline phone, then only one freebie per household.
Free Government Cell Phones says
You can only get one subsidized phone per physical residence address, either a landline or a cell phone.
Kevin Whorton says
I always wonder just how poor people have to be to resent a reasonable government program that must cost a few tens of millions and cost us 1/1000th of what corporate welfare or excessive defense expenditures do. It’s interesting how we’ve become so selfish and ill-informed at the same time, lashing out at the small, symbolic things and not giving a rat’s ass about the major problems that drain our Treasury at the expense of us all, because those issues are too complicated for us to understand.
billie day says
I am a senior who worked for over 50 years, now live on my SS of less than a 1,000 a month, receive no food stamps, do receive Medicare and Medicaid, as I live in California, and I have my own cell phone, which is with T.Mobile, who has lousy phones, but I pay my bill which is large for my limited income every month, as it is the only phone I have and my life line.
I would not consider taking the Obama Phone or any other free phone, more than I would food stamps. I can manage to live without unnecessary freebies. But I would not hesitate to take food stamps if It became necessary, which with the price of grocery’s it just might~Is food an unnecessary freebie???
How does a family today feed their children with what they have to pay for a frickin loaf of bread.
NOW this is outrageous!!!
Mike says
@ Original atl sno – who cares what the setting is at??? Buy YOUR OWN damn phone so you can control the settings and stop wasting tax payer money!!
original atl sno says
i’m curious why when you get the phone, the location device setting is already set to the “all the time ” setting rather than “911 only”.why do they want to constantly know our whereabouts? i feel it invades our privacy.
Duh says
@ original atl sno — because if you’re stealing from hardworking Americans then we deserve to know where the thieves are.
Flayer says
Actually this allows Obama to contact his “domestic army” when, how and where to vote. Surely you didn’t think this was just for death/illness emergencies, did you?
sickofTAKERS says
This whole article misses the point. Taxpayers should not be paying for free cell phones, period. No one really knew about this program until someone called it “Obama Phone”. Thank god they called it that and brought attention to this. Enough iis enough…STOP GIVING FREEBIES TO THE TAKER CLASS!!!!
digdot says
You must be taliking about Congress.
Oort Cloud says
Does not seem to totally disprove Obama Phones. Seems that some aspects of it are true. Besides, it exists, Obama is in a position to stop it, he hasn’t, he is in favor of giving out free stuff, the name is good. OBAMA PHONE. OBAMA PHONE. OBAMA PHONE.
digdot says
are you eight years old?
Dale says
So by that logic, we should be calling the entire program, landline and cellular, W Phones, because W had 8 years of opportunity to stop the program. Right?
Jason a. Utley says
is there a phone number I can call about the free Obama cell phone
KBM says
Call: 1-800-IMA-LEACH
If you have a phone already, you shouldn’t take advantage of others who are forced to pay for this program and pay for your own phone. In fact, you should get a job and pay for your own phone.
digdot says
spoken like a truly uniformed idiot. Tell me, where are these jobs you speak of? There are miliions of college graduates and soldiers returning from war who would like one one of those. Where did you learn to hate so much.
jason utley says
How do I apply for free Obama cell phone,and how long does it take to get started.
3-j says
Wow. Way to not read the article.
armond says
Way to be a leech of society
jason utley says
I tried to get the free cell phone ,but I never got information in the mail as I was told.
armond says
How about trying to get a job instead
digdot says
I’m retired and I work for free helping people find jobs, they are few and far between. What do you do to try to make this world a better place? Got any leads? I got about 300 people desperately looking for work. It’s so easy to judge and sit on your ass and do nothing but complain, isn’t it.
tax payer says
I pay my taxes so unemployed and retired people can get assistance. It is very easy to judge when our system is broken and people are living on welfare.
Bill Griffin says
Woman has 30 obama phones
http://youtu.be/aTYiKjFnMos
shaquliabrown says
i have you do not work this get it today i hop i get one done work
michael ginsburg says
Interesting conversation, my compliments to most everyone for no name calling with the a few exeptions such as of the person referencing “race”. Remember, “a racist is the first to see racism” “such as the Rev Wright who preached to the President for 20 years. I don’t think there is a person on this site that doesn’t believe a “safety net” is needed for the some people, where we disagree is to what level we help. I believe we have turned this net into a “hammock”. Benjamin Franklin quotes “the more you give the poor, the more poor you will have to give to. These phones are a good example of creating a larger group of dependents. If the statement that voter registrations are taking place, that would then reinforce the argument the president is “buying” votes. Also, is it true you need a photo ID to get a phone? Can anyone prove or disprove this? I hope it isn’t true because it would be the height of hypocrasy after the voter ID accusations of calling me a racist.
Doug says
“The money actually comes from a small fee added to most people’s monthly phone bills, called the Universal Service Fund fee”
Call it what it really is. A TAX! Another TAX!
John Smith says
And taxes are soooooo easily ended. Like the special phone tax to pay for the Spanish American War ended in 2006. Only about a century after the war ended!
Doug says
“Who qualifies?
The free cell phones only go to those who qualify for the program under the exact same eligibility requirements that have been in effect since 1996. An applicant is generally eligible if they are at or below 135-150% of the Federal Poverty Guidelines (depending upon the state in which they live), or if they already participate in one of many public assistance programs such as Medicaid, food stamps, energy assistance, public housing and others.
Nothing about the Lifeline eligibility has changed since President Clinton’s days. Nothing has changed since President Bush’s days”
Yes, things have changed, The “eligible” people (Medicaid, food stamps, energy assistance, public housing) has increased by almost 60% since Obama took office. That is a major increase in 4 years and someone has to foot the bill.
ed says
Do you like “m and m” ‘s? Most of you are Misinformed and Manipulated. The truth in today’s world is an evasive thing. Continue to search for it. It is not complete here so don’t allow yourself to be manipulated. Look ar what has truly happened during whatever administration. You will find a better portion of truth.
Dick says
This sux
debbra jackson says
Since presedent elected twice looks out for people who has a lesser disadvantage because he has been there he knows what its like to have nothing being raised by his grandmother nobody knows what a person feels until you walk a mile in that person shoes.leave mr. Obama alone they can’t find any dirt on him so they try to attack him at any causte can a black man do good and have credit giving where credit is due god bless the obama family
Doug says
If you believe that BS that he came from nothing, than you are delusional and drinking way too much Kool-Aide. You don’t go to the most elite prep school in Hawaii when you have nothing. You don’t go to Harvard or any other elite college when you have nothing. Why do you think those records are sealed? He spent $1.7 million dollars to seal those records.
If you are willing to buy into that crap without learning the truth and the facts, then people like you are part of the MAJOR problem in this country today. Obama doesn’t care about the poor. He cares about Obama. He is currently buying a $35 million dollar estate on Hawaii. Why not just put that money into the government to pay extra taxes. You do know that there is a website that you can go to and just make a payment to the government out of good will and pay extra taxes, don’t you?
jake salerno says
debra, have a clue,,, first off Obama IS HALF WHITE,,,
Obama was raised FAR from poor, where he was born and raised.
There is soooo much dirt about Obama and so much covered up and left off his resume (locked)
that it’s absurd. For example, he’s associated with terrorist, his racists pastor rev white, his association with crooked Chicago thugs and politicians, his lack of voting record, his association with ACORN, etc etc etc
John Smith says
He was so poor, because his grandmother struggled to make ends meet on a bank vice president’s salary after her husband died. And he attended college on the taxpayer’s dime as a poor “Indonesian” student.
jesse lopez says
GOD BLESS THE LEADERS
Malia Schoville says
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radonda says
So what part of “the Obama phone” is incorrect . Just like food stamps that have increased under his watch ,so has the “Obama phone” valuable program for who, OBAMA!!!!
irritated taxpayer says
Chris, you might want to do a little research before you post. 250 free minutes and 250 free texts per month is well in excess of “an hour or so”. Like many government programs this is just abuse waiting to happen, making more people dependent upon a government service instead of upon their own initiative while providing a windfall to the politically connected companies who can get approved to provide the service.
researcher says
pot meet kettle…. the only places that have,250 minutes are state run progams. Actually in red states
chris bifani says
the government phones only give you an hour or so “free” minutes per month and use outdated phones worth almost nothing on the market. After that, users are charged up to 40 cents a minute so every phone is a potential profit machine for the carrier, be it tracfone or whoever. Seventy minutes of airtime is worth about $2.10 per month at current straightalk rates. Well worth it if that Clintobushamaphone saves someone’s life, helps someone get a job, or gets a crime or accident reported.
Free Government Cell Phones says
They give you 250 minutes a month.
John Smith says
My state only gives 70 minutes. I started the process to see if I qualified. My income is low enough, but I own too much. Silly me, I didn’t spend all of my income and lived within my means.
alexare says
Sure you did Mike (rolling eyes here)
jean krausert says
im trying to figure this out i live in a rural area and i dont know which one to use.
Mike says
Every place I saw them giving the people phones, they were also registering the people to vote. Now is that part of the program or just a few libs taking an opportunity to get out the vote?
Wayne Spaulding says
I don’t know the author of this explanation but it is only half right. The half that is right is that it is called an Obama phone because the Obama administration has publicized a little know benefit to the less fortunate. Just like the growth of food stamps since Obama was President. I have heard that this administration advertises the availability of food stamps to Mexican citizens. May be just a rumor but the huge increase in food stamps is certainly a reality. Now the other half. For the millions of cell phone users take a look at your monthly bills. You will notice a “Fed Universal Service Charge” that has increased substantially over the past few years and the increased revenue to the government may be helping fund these “Obama Phones”. So who is really paying for these phones? We are. The Americans who own cell phones. And yes it is just another tax.
KB says
” I have heard that this administration advertises the availability of food stamps to Mexican citizens. May be just a rumor but the huge increase in food stamps is certainly a reality.”
It’s no rumor
http://www.welcometousa.gov/Government_benefits/default.htm
Dale says
Oh by golly, you caught ’em with their pants down this time!
Where exactly do you see that this is specifically aimed at Mexican immigrants? Because a Spanish translation is available? Where do you NOT see that anymore?
Did you read the part where it said, “Depending on your immigration status, length of time in the United States, and income, you may be eligible for some federal benefit programs?”
Did you know that illegal immigrants CANNOT obtain food stamps or any other welfare benefit?
I’d ask if anyone ever verifies anything they see in those stupid chain emails, but even if verified all we’d hear is, “Yeah, but they’re lying about it.”
Goldie says
Bush and Clinton had a chance to say “this is ridiculous”. They didn’t take it. Why are we not calling the phones Clinton-phones or Bush-phones? Why should we heap this all on Obama?
Daz says
Because “Obama phone” has got a nice “ring” to it.
jscottu says
Myth: Obama is a “progressive” and Bush was NOT a “progressive”.
Fact: Both Obama AND Bush are “progressives”. This is easily verifiable if you look at what legislation they supported.
So are we to assume that Bush supported this program and Obama did NOT? I don’t think so. The VAST majority of these free cell phones have been given out since January 2009 when Obama became president. He had a chance to say “this is ridiculous”. He didn’t take it. These are now “Obama phones”.
Dale says
Why weren’t they called “W Phones” (there was landline accommodation) during the eight years that Little Bush was in office? If Bush didn’t support this, why didn’t he just get rid of it? You know, with a , with a unilateral wave of the hand like everyone thinks a President can do.
Raine says
I have found this subject interesting, but in my opinion its just another way for the government to make people DEPENDENT. I worked for the Welfare Department and I have seen A LOT of abuse, in fact the abuse is widespread. OUR government sets up dependency, NOT HELP! there is a big difference. I will give you 2 examples… A woman walks in to the welfare office to apply for the 15th time. She owes over $21,000 to “we the tax payers” due to overpayment because her husband would go back to work and not report it, we would find out about it months later…cut them off …..and he would “surprisingly” be fired AGAIN!!!…they would go back on welfare …..rinse and repeat. This was the way they lived….and even tho they owed this money I still had to put them back on the system and this lady was actually proud of herself. This happens more than you know or would even like to know. My 2nd example, A man moved to my state because of a job promise, he, his wife and young son had nothing because when they arrived his job had been delayed so to survive they sold all they had except for their pickup truck, by the time this man came into my office he had started his job….working full time…but he and his family were going to be thrown out of their hotel room because the rent for the week was due but he wouldn’t have his first paycheck for another week. He had nothing left to sell… This man only wanted a little help, just enough to pay for their hotel room and some food but because he was HONEST with me….he had a job…he was married….therefore there was no deprivation… I tried all avenues but there was nothing I could do….when I told him, his eyes began to tear up and he said…you know I could have lied and you would have helped me. I agreed with him and told him he was right (he was so right) I felt so bad. I happen to have some money in the bank due to my income tax return so I told him I would help him but he could tell no one because if anyone were to find out I would be fired…. He couldn’t believe that I would help him……I did and he paid me back every dime. If our government were really here to HELP people our welfare department would be set up totally different….I would’ve been able to help that man and his family……fact is it’s NOT here to HELP….its here to control through dependency. This phone is just adding one more benefit….. We are making it better to be on our welfare system then to work… If you really think it’s set up to help people I suggest you go work there, maybe that will open your eyes.
Scott says
The United States of America was founded to be a place that all people would be given the same chances, IF THEY WORKED HARD. You can’t sit back and expect success to some how land in your back yard and infuse your life with money. Unfortunately, we have become a society of “Over compensators”, we feel guilty if everyone doesn’t make it. We have to realize that everyone is not going to make it to the top. In the animal kingdom the most fit will survive the weekest get eaten. Now, one of the things that seprates us and allows us to be the dominate the food chain is the fact that we can help our week not to get eaten. The problems come in when people “Fake” be the week and want to use the help we give those who need it. This takes away from the really needy in our society and more importantly takes over our economy. Our founding fathers could never have envisioned a group of people who would actively have children when they had no source of funding to take care of them. In some instances some people have children to create income from the government. We have reached a point now in which an election has been bought and paid for by busing people to election poles who have no idea of how the monitary system works, much less any working knowledge of the Constitution or the functions of the Fedral Government. How much is the office of the presidency worth that the practice of election buying can cause an economic melt down. The programs that are abused cost more than a trillion dollars annually. One of the comments posted to my threads sighted the limits placed on these programs to move people to working. Unfortunately these limits are also abused and cost tax payers hundreds of billions. The enforcement of these limits can often cost almost what the abuse of that program cost. Adding oversight to a program cost money believe it or not. I am not against helping folks to get out of the hole and get a new start, I am against tax money being squandered. The best solution to these issues is to cut much of them and send them back to the states who can have a far better “Hands on” approach to them. Get people back to the values once held by many Americans that promoted people helping their neighbors. The name of our country is the United States for a reason. The founding fathers knew that the central government is in place to protect the union from outside enemies and to set a basic set of laws to govern the citizens with regards to issue that require interstate trade.
Bron Shoffner says
I started to read this comment with hopes that it would help our side out but was quickly turned away because of the spelling errors and incorrect grammar. The points that you made may be true but I just had to assume that they weren’t after how this began. Please clean things up next time so it doesn’t reflect so poorly on the rest of us.
aidy says
I had no trouble reading his article, and his points are valid wether he knows how to spell or not! How does the grammatical correctness of someone’s text have anything to do with it’s factuality?
There are plenty of people who face unfair circumstances when it comes to how they can express themselves. Wether from lack of education, disability or ignorance, their dialog still matters. Dismissing someone’s ideas because their writing skill level is different is wrong.
Would you ‘assume the points made by someone were untrue’ if they spoke with a speech impediment or a stutter? If their first language was not english and their grasp of the language was limited?
Discrimination based on the ability to express oneself is no different than discrimination based on race, gender or sexual orientation. Do you think it was the author’s choice to use bad grammar? No. Just like nobody chooses their race or gender or wether they’re gay. It’s not right to accuse someone of reflecting poorly on you due to something they can’t control.
Scott says
It is obvious that my post have sparked a conversation about whats wrong. This is the best way to solve an issue is to start by saying there is an issue that needs to be addressed. If you agree with the phones being sponsored by those who go to work every day to provide for their families and themselves while others make the decision to stay home, then you would also agree with those that work supporting those that do not. Now, there are many reasons why some one is not working. I am not demeaning any Veterans, handicapped, elderly or others who cannot work, I am talking about the girl I met at the AT&T store buying a phone with 3 kids in tow. She told me that she was getting her Obama phone during a conversation about her children. She mentioned to me that she doesn’t have a job and hasn’t worked in 2 years. Her own admission was she “Knows how to work the system” so she can make it. I have an issue with those that have very opportunity and squander it. Right now in this country, a person that is considered a minority can absolutely “Make it” if they put forth the effort. If you do not have physical issues, mental issues or age issues, you should be a part of the work force, period, no excuses. My parents worked and raised 5 boys on very little income and we children respected work values. By in large, the work values of those who grow up in homes that are predominately funded by Government programs, tend to lean towards continuation of living on those programs. Also, most of these folks have found multiple ways to skirt the rules that remove them from these programs. Many of these folks use programs until they run out and then move to the next available program. Remember I excluded the elderly, Veterans, physically handicapped and others who have earned there participation in taking my tax dollars. The abuse of these programs has grown to more than 40%, thats BILLIONS of wasted tax dollars that could go for our veterans, elderly or handicapped. Even 1% abuse is too much when you are taking tax dollars from people who work everyday as hard as Americans do.
John says
Im not against federal help when it is Help. What I’m against is people that won’t admit to the math. Why provide the phone when, while I’m working selling phones, individuals on programs such as assurance wireless are in there buying 199.00 dollar smart phones from virgin mobile, so they can use their free phone program? Not to mention 549.00 Iphones.
“We have 46 million on food assistance, yet an obesity epidemic in this nation” I know bad food is cheaper than healthier food, but seriously if it’s not a red light, surely you can agree that we have a yellow signal on the road ahead.
Stargazer says
They are entitled to use their funds as THEY wish, not as you want them to spend it. So a girl has fancy sneakers and bought an expensive phone. She probably lives in a room somewhere, has no car, etc. You don’t have a right to tell her where to spend a penny of her money. So next time you’re standing there judging those less fortunate,
The obesity epidemic isn’t from spending money. Its from eating the WRONG foods, especially, but not only processed foods and that darned sugar, white rice, white bread and many other unhealthy foods that America is so used to loving. Loaded with chemicals and additives you can’t even pronounce, much less know how much damage they can do to you. Its none of my business if somebody is fat. What if she is an emotional eater and is eating because she was sexually abused by her family and others when she was a little girl. There are lots of reasons for overeating. Give them a break. You’re not the lord over their lives. Why don’t you do what the “Good Book” says and take the telephone pole out of your own eye before you pull the sliver out of everyone else’s eye.
Shannon says
Stargazer, I’m going to start by saying I am an independent. I read all of your posts and I find them quite interesting; you are clearly passionate about that which you speak. Having said that, I’m confused, if I pay government taxes that help to fund and disperse funds to a girl with fancy sneakers and an expensive phone who lives in a room somewhere, has no car, or a program in which people are given food stamps, etc., is that not me giving to the less fortunate? Or do you expect more above and beyond that. Without sarcasm in my voice, I am genuinely asking how much do you expect others to give? I give money to several different charities, I donate clothes, food, I buy toys every year for the Toys for Tots campaign. Would that be enough for you to deem me as helping others, or do you think I should milk the cow, prepare all the food, actually put the clothes on their backs, and make them feel even more incapable/inadequate than perhaps they already feel?
Additionally, you’ve offered excuse upon excuse why there should essentially be separate set of rules for those less fortunate, and people should “Give them a break.” Are you suggesting that it is the responsiblity of others to consistently “provide” for the group of others that knowingly do not want to help themselves (I am not talking about those that have had a run of bad luck and need help temporarily and want to be productive members of society)? I think it more important that people in general learn to be self sufficient and unfortunately, cutting people off is sometimes the best education there is because they seem to somehow find a way. Yes, things happen, and as a result people get put in tough positions and need help at times. I think what people are referring to more in this thread, (and I could be wrong ) as I read the posts are what is to be done about those that don’t want to help themselves; I didn’t interpret the posts as anyone is making an issue out of those that do help themsleves and occasionally need public assistance. I have to be honest, if any part of my money is going into a fund in which a someone is receiving food stamps and can’t afford to feed the children she does have, and then has more children because she gets more money, I absolutely have a right to speak up and expect her to start being held accountable in the form of no more public aid. I worked in a store where people used food stamps to quite regularly buy $150 worth of crab legs (and this was about 15 years ago so the food stamp programs weren’t giving out what they are giving today). Notwithstanding that foodstamps cover seafood, are you suggesting that that was an appropriate allocation of food stamps for that family for a month? I think it comes down to expecting people to be responsible, productive members of society. As long as people as doing something to help themselves, I think there is an understanding that shit happens sometimes and everyone needs a little help now and then, but not forever or all the time.
Finally, you mention castigation, then you go on to mention people being “a pathetic bunch of whiners,” “conservative right believe more in judging people,” I am assuming you know nothing about the lady who said she doesn’t have a cell phone yet you basically called her a liar, state “you people are so incredibly small-minded,” “You generalize.” I find this curious that you do the exact same thing yet will likely a very good explanation as to why it’s ok for you not to practice what you preach but why others should.
I enjoyed reading your posts.
Scott says
By taking the “I am owed” out of a program, we will discourage abuses that cost Americans billions. Make the program work to encourage people to move a cell phone expense into their own budget. Open ended programs simply create a feeling of “I am owed” by those who receive the benefit. We have proof of this in most of our well established programs such as food stamps, WIC and other abused programs. These programs have now become a “Part of life” for millions of people and is largely generational in some urban areas. Children are actually learning by example how to gain access to these “Free” money programs. The Obama phone program will be entrenched if it is not already in most of these same systemically low income areas. It has been said that these types of programs are a form of slavery due to there inherently addictive nature. Once these groups begin to use these programs and adapt their lives to the limits of these programs, they learn how to manipulate the programs and their own lives to make a long term usage possible. It’s called learning to live with what you have, even if it’s not yours to have.
simona says
Scott, you have carpet-bombed this thread with your wildly incoherent generalizations. I don’t know what circles you run in, but in most places “it has been said” and “it has been estimated” do not pass as argumentation or evidence. I am here to ask you 2 simple questions, and to ponder the conclusions.
1. Why do you persist in calling them “Obama phones” when the purpose of this page’s existence is to debunk that notion? If you read the article above, what is your motivation for continuing to mischaracterize the program?
2. If you close your eyes and imagine these people you call “takers,” what do they look like? These “urban areas” you reference, who lives in them? And those “tax paying citizens” you mentioned, what about them? What do they look like? The most telling post you wrote offered some very symbolic language, including “crack” and “slaves.” In all sincerity, are you certain that your notions of productive citizens and shiftless “takers” are not influenced by unexamined presumptions about race? The language you have used is not neutral and has been explicated numerous times in the body of literature on race.
As a side note, I would like to add that your previous post framing the government as a business and suggesting that we should follow a business model for governance is very common and, I would argue, very problematic. Businessmen are not necessarily suited for government, and the skill sets required by these two realms of human activity (industry and government) often do not overlap. I know most people in this country worship at the altar of the free market, but that doesn’t mean that the business model can and should be applied to government, education, healthcare, or many of the other areas that are being contaminated and undermined by this thinking.
Scott says
As with any government generated program, the scale causes unpredictable outcomes. The oversight that would normally make it possible to understand how many are actually being used to gain employment, is impossible due to the nature of the monitoring system in place, NONE. They should tie the use of the telephone with accountability such as a signed employment search form required to continue the phone operation on a monthly basis. The phones user could simply fax, email or deliver in person the form that is already in use by the Unemployment agencies. Once the form has been turned in say within 10 days of the end of each month, the government would allow the phone to be renewed. Once employment was achieved, the phone would then be deactivated. Further place a time limit on the phones usage such as 6-8 months, then it would have to be re-applied for.
tin marie nigro says
I wonder how many of those phones are actually used for job searching? Now that I know I am getting charge for it on my phone bill….
Scott says
I have access to some statistics, as much as are available, that bare out the complete misuse of these telephones. It is estimated that only 20% of the people using these phones are actually even looking for gainful employment. That means 80% are using them for their personal use. 2% have actually turned up in criminal investigations being used for drug sales. 17 phones were recovered during murder investigations, 9 phones were actually used during the commission of felony stalking. 253 phones have been linked to use during domestic violence attacks. 496 have been used in the commission of misdemeanor prank telephone calls. 768 times these telephones have been used in false 911 calls resulting in a person being charged. Here is a stagering statistic, the government can monitor telephone calls of the average American for “Keywords” regarding terrorist activity, but Obama phones are exempted from this practice because they are part of a government program.
Stargazer says
Estimated by whom? Where are these cell phone studies? If its from right wing hack, I don’t want to hear it. Of course there are going to be a few who abuse their privileges, that happens in anything, unfortunately. With millions getting these phones. Why wouldn’t you use the phones for a domestic call? You’re totally ridiculous. You’re given a certain number of minutes, and YOU have the free will to to use them as you wish. I’m telling you, more and more people on these boards lack any kind of compassion. We should be complaining about YOU, not the poor, who you have put in a box. You generalize and spread lies. Its awfully sad, this company is just going down the tubes.
Scott says
We own the government as I said before, we need to act like shareholders and excersise our rights to “Hire” a person to fix the company. Stop thinking of the President as an ideological figure that looks “Cool” on the view and makes us laugh when he sings on stage at the Apollo. Lets hire people that are known to fix economic issues when we have them and then fire them, when another major issue needs to be solved. millions of people work for companies that do just this and those companies are extremely successful. President may be a nice guy, but is totally lost to fix the economy. It has been said the President doesn’t have to know just have those around him that do, FALSE, he has to have a working knowledge of the mechanism behind the economy or he will not know when he is getting bad advice. Anyway, we went ahead and hired an attorney again to fix an economic issue, because he promised the “Takers” he would not stop giving to there every need and let them continue to sleep through life.
Audrey says
This is not rue, when the President came into office, on e of the laws that were passed by him (with no help from the republican majority senate) was to make everyone who was on welfare and food stamps for over 5 years or more, gt up get put and get a job or some form of job training. Thousands were cutoff because of not complying with this very well deserved push to get employment. This is still going on today, yo have 18 months to receive and benefits and them you will be cutoff. As far as the free government phone, it is not as easy to get one as you think it is, you don’t just get on if you’re welfare and food stamps, you can get one if you are:
SNAP recipient, TANF, LIHEAP, SS Disability, Social Security benefits, 135% below the poverty level in income, Section 8 housing, Veteran’s benefits, or you are on medicaid/medicare. Then you have to show that you are still eligible every 6mos to a year> So not everyone is receiving this phone, and not everyone who is poor even wants one either. Why is is so important who gets one of these phones? By the way this was an information discussion about who was the founder of the program and once that was established that it wasn’t Obama, the conversation shouldn’t even have gone this far with all of the bashing of who’s poor and who isn’t. So just leave it alone because there are more important things to speak of, like the victims of the recent hurricane, they lost everything and are now poor and have no jobs or money, or even a home to go back to are now going to bash them if they decide to get a phone??? This is REAL and worth talking about, not a stupid free cell phone!
Scott says
The “American Dream” has now become, the “American Scheme”. “How can I get whats coming to me from the government” has replaced “Ask not what your country can do for you, but what you can do for your country” ( A very famous speech by a very famous Democrat). The issue will come to a head when the money runs out and these people who relied on the government have no more entitlements because the Chinese want their payback. 16 trillion is no joke, ask Greece what happens when you can’t pay the loan back. We as a people will not be able to continue on this self destructive path of barrow and spend government, we will run out of time. want the answer to the problem?
Scott says
Ok, enough complaining, here is the solution; Sit your kids down and tell them there is no social security, no Medicare, no Medicaid, no food stamps, no welfare, no WIC check, no Obama phone, no pension, no 401K, no safety net what so ever, because the current generation maxed out the credit card with our worst and longest running enemy and this enemy was sold a bond due in less than 8 years, well before they can use any of the benefits the “Takers” enjoyed. Tough words? true words. You can’t spend your way out of trouble like we have, because your children are going to pay the price, not you. If you have no children, guess that is ok, right?
Scott says
Until we as a people are willing to hold a “Real” conversation about fundamental economic education at the high school level, we are going to continue to raise generation after generation of “The world owes me a living” children. Remember, the government is owned by every TAX PAYING citizen, when the government spends more than it takes in, it’s like giving your Visa card to your brother who doesn’t even balance his check book. The balance on the card when he gives it back is yours, even though he spent it. China is “Visa” and they are going to expect us to pay, not the government.
Scott says
Most people that take full advantage of the governments offerings, do so by rationalizing they have a barrier that cannot be scaled. They believe this barrier to have been put in place by the “1% people” as they have been demonized by the Democratic party and President Obama. “They have plenty, they can afford to give me some” is the mentality created by this thought. It is true they have plenty, but so did Jesus, he had fish. The bible (Believe in it or not) has a great statement that is prove correct time and again. “Give them fish they will eat for a day, teach them to fish, they will eat for a lifetime”
Lori Howard says
You have misquoted the Bible. I read the Bible twice, and have never seen that statement. I just checked 18 versions of the bible on my computer and those words are not there. Do you have a book chapter and reference for that statement?
Scott says
You are correct, the exact statement does not exist in the Bible. He spoke to the fishermen in a away they would understand about taking the gospel into the world. He was referencing they should fish for men. The exact passage was eluding to the idea of making fishers of men and as such if you make men believe they would only believe for a short time, but if men profess to men they will believe for a lifetime. The actually bible verse was interpreted later into a proverb that has spread as the literal practical use of what Jesus said.
Rachel says
You should probably never ever try to become a preacher. Your interpretation of “fishers of men” is ridiculous. Sometimes, people need help getting a fishing rod or bait before they can fish.
Jesus did say this, though in Matthew 24:34-36 Then the king will say to those at his right hand, “Come, you that are blessed by my Father, inherit the kingdom prepared for you from the foundation of the world; for I was hungry and you gave me food, I was thirsty and you gave me something to drink, I was a stranger and you welcomed me, I was naked and you gave me clothing, I was sick and you took care of me, I was in prison and you visited me.”
In other words, Jesus and his dad seemed to be liberals.
Brent says
Wow-you are just completely full of it. That proverb is almost certainly has no origin in the bible. While the exact origin is unknown, it is generally considered to be an old Chinese proverb, possibly coming from Confucius. But go ahead and keep talking out of you rear and make some claim linking it to “fishers of men”, which makes no sense at all, instead of taking the time to learn the actual truth. You seam to like making up facts that”sound” right to you, regardless of whether they actually have any validity at all.
Bobo says
Who cares if it was Jesus, Buddha, or even Chuck Norris that originally created the “teach a man to fish” saying?????? Like all ignorant leftists, they get tied up in the minutia and can’t see the forest for the trees.
The fact remains that the saying is 100% completely accurate and it absolutely still as correct today as it was when it was written.
Stargazer says
Not only are you generalizing big time, but you’re absolutely wrong. Why don’t you do some research and come up with real facts and answers about the people you are castigating. I thought the Bible said to help the down and out, the poor and older people??? You just twist the Bible to say anything that is convenient at the time. Not to mention that is was created from a select number of MANY manuscripts and the GOVERNMENT was who mainly chose the books to leave out and what to include. And since you people are so incredibly small-minded, here’s something to ponder. There were gay rites in the Catholic church. Yes, they married gays during regular ceremonies. GASP!
Scott says
To break the cycle that has become a systemic issue in urban areas, you know the “Government owes me a living” mentality, we as a people are going to have to put in place educational resources to curb the thirst for “Free” stuff. We need to lead by example and teach our kids once again that nothing is free, some one pays.
Scott says
The “Obama phone” is simply the latest representation of what our society is becoming under what is arguably the most controlling Government in U.S. history. Crack came into play in the early 90’s and was largely distributed for free until the customer was “Hooked” on it’s never ending thirst. Government programs giving perceived “Free” resources anf funding simply create a “Slave” base of citizens that will vote to keep their life “Crack” supply coming visa ve the dealer (U.S. Government).
Stargazer says
You all are so woefully under-informed. You don’t think there was deceit and unfairness in the program way back in Reagan’s time? Much less, BUSH! You people sit and listen to Fox News and Rush Limbaugh and now you don’t know your butt from your elbow. Lady, if you’re working, you must be making enough to make the 135% OVER the poverty line for the number of people in your family. You have a house and a car AND a phone. These regulations on the phones were stuck in place many years ago and they’ve stayed the same.
And shame on all of you for not having once ounce of empathy for the poor and down and out. When it happens to you, you’ll be singing a different tune, Unless you’re going to live in your mom’s basement and make money from working from home. Not everyone is out for a government handout. Most have been forced to accept it after a long period of poverty, illness, etc. Many refuse for many years before they will accept any kind of assistance. And no, Welfare people are not all lazy, black, Hispanic people who refuse to work and do drugs in the back alley, then lay around all day.
Empathy and sympathy are very good traits to have, but the conservative right believe more in judging people and legislating other people’s rights, than in helping those less fortunate. You’re a pathetic bunch of whiners..
mike says
of course not all of them are as you described, but the vast mojority are. i have seen it time and time again in my profession, someone on welfare/medicaid…yet on their ipad. christ i dont have an ipad and i work/dont take an ounce of aid from anyone. and as far as empathy…its one thing to feel for someone, but regardless of how they got there, why is it my fault or responsibility? if i am unfortunate to end up there i will blame no one but myself and will rely on no one to pick me up again. why is someone elses misfortune my problem? if this is a free country then one of those freedoms is to choose not to help people vs being forced to. i commend those who are charitable and donate time or money to the less fortunate. but no one should be obligated to or condemned if they do not.
simona says
Mike, you have no idea how they got what little they have. I don’t have an iPad, either, but I have a bunch of other stuff that someone living well below the poverty line shouldn’t have. You know why? A couple of reasons: because other people doing better off gave me gifts (parents, partner, etc), sometimes gifts they had saved up quite some time to be able to give me. Pooled resources. I am also very savvy at finding clever ways to salvage things rich folks who don’t appreciate what they have throw away without a thought. I don’t get government assistance, which I easily qualify for. I just have a heart and a brain, so I don’t begrudge someone else what little they have in a world where we should ALL have those things because there’s enough to go around. In a better world, that is.
carole says
WHAT THIS DISCUSSION IS ABOUT IS FREE PHONES [THAT ARE PAID FOR BY EVERY PHONE USER WHO PAYS THEIR BILL] BUT REALLY WHAT IS BEING SAID IS THAT THE GOV. IS CONTROLLING OUR LIVES AND WE ARE DOING NOTHING TO STOP IT. WHEN DID IT BECOME A GIVEN TO PAY EVERYBODY’S WAY AND NOT MAKE THEM EARN IT. IF YOU MAKE MONEY YOU HAVE TO SHARE IT,,,,,,,NOT,,,,,,,,I DO NOT OWE YOU A FREE RIDE AND YOU DO NOT OWE ME ONE EITHER. ANYWAY I AM MAAAAAAAAAAD AT THIS INSANITY AND HOPE EVERYONE THE VERY BEST THE NEXT FOUR YEARS.
simona says
Stargazer, thank you for saying this. I was thinking the same thing. I am so SICK of all these ridiculous arguments barely masking racist and hateful piss and vinegar.
john says
well said Stargazer!!!!!!! SURE THEIR ARE SOME OUT THERE THAT ABUSE THE SYSTEM, JUST AS THOSE THAT WILL ABUSE THE TAX SYSTEM TO GET EVERY DIME BACK THEY CAN, AND OTHER WAYS MANY ABUSE TO GET A DOLLAR…AS Stargazer SAID THOUGH THERE MAYBE A DAY YOU NEED HELP THEN YOU WILL BE THANKFUL INFACT MOST OF US OUT HERE PROBABLY KNOW SOMEONE GETTING HELP A FRIEND OR REALITIVE.
KAY says
by the way, I’m working, I can’t afford a cell phone. Haven’t had one in over a year. Barely can put groceries on the table. Why can’t I get a phone – BECAUSE I’M WORKING///!!!!
I’m so appaulled at this. Just such fraud.
Another fraud, furnished by the govt. I don’t know what is called, but do you know there is actually an agency that pays kids to look for work? Pays their child care for allt da baby daddies to look for work. Did you know it furnishes gas, rent, tuition.
Scott says
It’s the oldest trick in the book, the “Takers over take the Makers”. For as long as there are those that feel good about having a job and fulfilled by earning a living, there will be those that take advantage of that by dragging on societies financial apron strings. The next time some one says “Can you spare a dime?” say, “No, I can spare the time to point you towards a job.”
digdot says
I hope you never get a catastrophic illness that takes away your ability to work. One day you’re a typical middle class professional with a home and two cars, perfect credit and the ability to pay for all of your needs, soon the hospital has all of your money, you have to sell your house and the cars go by the wayside because you have no money to maintain them. You can no longer walk but you have enough money to not need gov’t assistance, but a loaf of bread is a luxury. Then, just maybe, you are no longer a hateful uninformed bitter selfish person.
KAY says
sorrry, let me finsh. Its absolutely rediculous that even one dime goes to this program. You are responsible for getting your messages. Goodgrief. You people act like its a hard ship to not have your face stuck in a phone. If you want a job bad enough, you will find a way to get messages.
Shawn says
I agree one hundred percent!!!!!
Wendy says
I would like to know how many of these so-called hardship phones are SMART PHONES??? My guess is that most of them probablyare which boils my blood. If you are unemployed, there are plenty of ways to contact employers, as many other readers have said. I have an old, outdated flip phone. Why? Because it’s cheap and I’m saving my damn money!!!!!!!!!!
J says
Yes, they are old outdated basic phones, with no additional features, usually flip phones, just look at the cheapest prepaid phone you can buy and that’s what it is. At most, people get 150 minutes per month. Why would you think they are smart phones? No, I can guarantee none of them are.
J S says
Im stuck at home in a rual area with no public transportation and can not afford a phone or internet. And the teachers at my childrens school all want to do busness over the internet My husband holds down a full time job but i cant work due to cancer and medical reasons not on anyons government dime but I thank God for the 9.00 dollar phone I have to be able to call the ambulance last week JS
Kelly says
JS. You should apply for a phone. You are the type of person the program was designed to help. If you have a major medical illness you may qualify for SSDI, which would qualify you for a phone. It was intended as an emergency govt service, but like anything, people end up abusing it.
mitch52 says
This program was a few hundred million to help with phone bills when it started now its 7 Billion a year in Obama Phones. the program is full of fraud as well. Who would have guessed?
KAY says
same way all unemployed people do it. Can’t afford a cell phone, give them an email address, go the library, check your email if you don’t have a compute, go use a pay phone and call the company! Shit, when did becoming unemployed become a luxury. give them a freinds phone, it will go to their voice mail, they give you the message. Or get just a 132.95 land line, att voicemail, call in and get your messages. Its utterly rediculous for
Phillip says
Rebecca – lets give them a government provided car as well so they can get to an interview.
Bo says
It’s a bunch of BS!!!
Shawn says
DITTO!!!!!
Austin says
Why don’t we just go ahead and do the interview for them as well so that they dont have to do anything at all! ill even work for them, oh wait I already do
chris says
Did you read the article? The phone company pays for it not the government. Your comment would be better suited if you said, “Rebecca – lets give them a auto industry provided car as well…”