Good news for needy residents of Idaho: Now you can get a free government cell phone from one of the biggest companies in the business.
Assurance Wireless, which offers Lifeline Assistance free government cell phones in 35 states, is now open for business and ready to serve more than 220,000 low-income residents of the Gem State.
If you’re eligible, you can get a free cell phone plus 250 free voice minutes and 250 free text messages each month. And that’s just the beginning. You’ll also get a voice mail account and call waiting, caller ID and access to 911. You’ll be able to keep your current home or cell phone number. And if you need more than the 250 free voice minutes per month, Assurance makes it easy to buy additional minutes for talking, texting, and even making international calls.
According to the latest statistics, more than 50,000 Idahoans are still unemployed and more than 20% of the state’s residents living in poverty.
The program’s rules are pretty simple: Each household is eligible for only one free government cell phone. Idaho residents can qualify for Assurance Wireless if they already participate in other public assistance programs. For example, Medicaid, National School Lunch Program, Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP), Supplemental Security Income (SSI), Temporary Assistance for Needy Families (TANF) and Low Income Home Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP).
Please be aware, however, that your application will not be accepted unless you can verify your income or provide proof that you participate in one of the government programs.
Let’s quickly review all the ways a free government cell phone can improve your life: When you have a free government cell phone you can contact prospective employers and give them a contact phone number, which will greatly increase your ability to land a job. You can much more easily reach medical providers and improve your family’s health. You can stay in touch with family members to enhance their safety. And, of course, you can call 911 in case of emergencies.
Tyler Nickell says
It keeps saying I’m not I there sirvice range I live in twin falls Idaho 83301
Free Government Cell Phones says
Call 6-1-1 on your free government cell phone to speak to a customer service rep for your service provider.
shirley Diann Branton says
I had assurance but I had to reapply for lifeline. I have been accepted but can’t talk to anyone at assurance.
How can I get this resolved? My application # is Q5296115970
Free Government Cell Phones says
Are you saying you can’t talk to anyone because you get stuck in an endless loop of no help when you call in?
Henry says
Since it appears that your service was cancelled and you had to reapply, you should be at the same point as a new customer. You can try applying directly online at their website. If you do not have access to a computer, try the local library. Otherwise, you will have to keep trying to contact a representative. Lifeline administrators only process your application for approval and that’s it. You have to contact a service provider on your own.
John Joe mcgillis says
Can I get service here in Wallace I’d as it is very difficult, because of silver content
Free Government Cell Phones says
We are unable to track availability down to the local level, John, but you can contact the companies that offer free government cell phones in Idaho to ask if any of them offer service in your area. Here’s where you can find that info:
https://www.freegovernmentcellphones.net/states
Evelyn Crouch says
Assurance won’t approve you if you are a current paying Virgin Mobile customer. Assurance won’t approve you based on your participation in the Low Income Housing Energy Assistance program.
linda mahnke says
i would like to know if you have a a place in Twin falls Idaho where a person can get a free government phone?
Lawrence S. Olds says
I need information on switching my phone of assurance phone that was issued in Austin, TX in 10/12 at 2101 E. Ben White Blvd, Austin TX >512-961-**** & living in Nampa, ID. Could you please tell me how to reapply for this State. My contract ends in 12/10/14 and unemployed. Account # ******. Thank You. P.S. I can’t seem to get that message of renewing of Contract off the Account usage for the minutes & Text I have left on the phone, HELP! Lawrence S. Olds
Rebecca Sherwin says
After hours and hours on the phone trying to get my Assurance phone to work I was informed that a tower was being upgraded and I would not get service until it was complete. No time frame available. I’m wondering if there is any other option for a phone in Idaho yet and if Assurance is collecting money for my account while I’m unable to use it.
patrice moynihan says
I would like to know when the free government cell phone will be available on Hawaii.
Please keep me informed.
Thank you (Mahalo)
Bernice Prather says
I am just wondering when the free cell program will be available in Gold Beach, Curry County, Oregon. I have submitted my application already.