On one hand, Illinois is an economic powerhouse: Its 2010 total gross state product was fifth in the nation. The 2010 per capita income was $41,411.
On the other hand, the state is in dire financial condition despite its size. For too many years, the Land of Lincoln has spent far beyond its means which has caused even greater problems for its residents as the national economy has slowed.
The state has attempted to solve its budget deficit by raising corporate taxes, which has caused companies to leave the state, making the unemployment situation even worse.
Luckily, the Lifeline phone service program is here to help the unemployed and other financially disadvantaged people to get a free cell phone from the government. When you have a free cell phone and free minutes, it makes it a lot easier to contact prospective employers and land the job you need.
And you have two main choices from which to get your Lifeline phone. We’re still waiting for the third major company in this space, Assurance Wireless, to enter the market; they will eventually. And you’ll also see that their is a smaller companies that offers the cell phones as well.
Free Cell Phone Providers in Illinois:
Here’s a list of all the Lifeline Assistance free government cell phones in Illinois. They all offer different plans with different numbers of minutes, different refill options, and serve different geographic areas. So click through them all and find the plan that’s best for you.
Lifeline Discount Companies in Illinois
If you qualify for Lifeline Assistance, but since California is such a big state, you may find that none of the companies offer free government cell phones where you live. But no need to despair, since you have another option. The companies below, while not offering free cell phone plans, do offer substantial Lifeline discounts off their regular mobile phone plans in Illinois:
Lifeline Cell Phone Eligibility in Illinois:
You are eligible if you receive benefits from any of these programs in Illinois:
- Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (Food Stamps or SNAP)
- Medicaid
- Supplemental Security Income (SSI)
- Federal Public Housing Assistance (Section 8)
- Veterans Pension and Survivor's Benefit.
- Bureau of Indian Affairs General Assistance (BIA)
- Tribally Administered Temporary Assistance for Needy Families (Tribal TANF)
- Tribal Head Start (only those households meeting its income qualifying standard)
- Food Distribution Program on Indian Reservations (FDPIR)
You may also qualify in Illinois if your Total Household Income is at or under 135% of the Federal Poverty Guidelines. See our handy chart below that shows those levels at the 135% rate already calculated for you:
| Income Based Eligibility for Illinois | ||
|---|---|---|
| Members in Household | Annual income | |
| 1 member | $18,347 | |
| 2 members | $24,719 | |
| 3 members | $31,091 | |
| 4 members | $37,463 | |
| 5 members | $43,835 | |
| 6 members | $50,207 | |
| 7 members | $56,579 | |
| 8 members | $62,951 | |
| For each additional member add $6,372 annually | ||
Latest News for Illinois:
If you have any other questions, please refer to the links in the sidebar.
Debra D. says
I have my new cell phone and have had nothing but problems trying to make calls, text or use my data (streaming). My phone is T-Mobile and I am covered by Assurance. My problem is I am very hard of hearing so calling the customer service number is out of the question because the customer service is either in the country of India or Pakistan and I have an extremely hard time understanding anyone with an accent, someone who talks soft, or fast or has some form of weird voice. I have been trying to figure out what was wrong with my phone and found out through another cell phone service provider (US cellular) that my phone is not unlocked so therefore I CANNOT GET SERVICE IN MY AREA. I live in rural area (very small town away from city) and only service they get here is US cellular. What do I do now? This is the phone that I was sent through Assurance (the T-Mobile phone with service through T-Mobile) and this service does not work in my area as I said I need US Cellular for service in my area. I am very disabled, an elderly lady who lives alone with no family in the state of Illinois so I need a working cellular site so I can make calls to take me to doctors office, shopping and so forth (daily living needs). I really need my phone unlocked but only had it since March 2022 but like I said this is the phone they sent me through Assurance. Please help.
Free Government Cell Phones says
U.S. Cellular partners with Verizon (and uses its network) in many parts of the country. Find a Lifeline provider that uses the Verizon network and enroll with them. That should solve your problem. But you should also get a friend to help you through the enrollment process just to avoid any hearing problems. Good luck, Debra.
Henry says
U.S. Cellular offers Lifeline service, but there is a monthly charge involved. See their website for details. Assurance sent you a phone that uses the T-Mobile network. The SIM card provided is also tied to a specific network. Even if you got the phone unlocked, you would still need another SIM card from another provider such as US Cellular, but they do not offer free Lifeline service. Safelink which is operated by Tracfone was recently taken over by Verizon, so you may want to look into signing up with Safelink.
Or you can sign up with US Cellular Lifeline with their offer.
LIFELINE: POSTPAID NON-TRIBAL
Nationwide Unlimited Voice, Messaging and 20GB Data
Voice Mail, Call Waiting, Caller ID, Call Forwarding, Three-Way Calling
$34.25 per month. (additional savings if you sign up with ACP program).
Free Government Cell Phones says
We doubt that you will find any service providers that still offer the old-style flip phones, Leonard. However, virtually all free government cell phone service providers offer BYOP (Bring Your Own Phone) plans. That would allow you to purchase a flip phone from some other source (eBay, Amazon, Walmart, etc) and use it as your free government cell phone. PLEASE NOTE: Before you purchase any phone, make sure that the phone you want is compatible with the network used by the services provider. Speak to customer service to confirm IN ADVANCE that the phone you want to purchase will work with the service provider’s network.
Jamie Lynn Poshard says
I qualify. I’m disabled I have tried to use Qlink and Assurance. Qlink sent new sims cards but I can’t get my phone unlocked until March. Assurance can’t get me a phone because of the shipping problems, & will not offer me a different phone. I live in BFE (New Haven, Illinois) where cell phone service is hit and miss. I really need to get a phone that will work in my area asap. I can no longer afford to put minutes on my ST phone.
Free Government Cell Phones says
Have you spoken to the other companies list on this page?
Robin E Bowersock says
I am moving to Illinois and it is way out in the country I need to know if the area will be covered the address is 18756 dabs North Road Jerseyville Illinois 26052
Free Government Cell Phones says
Are you already enrolled with a free government cell phone plan? If so, contact that company’s customer service team by calling 6-1-1 on your free government cell phone. They should be able to tell you. Are you moving from one area of Illinois to a new area or from another state? If you are moving from another state, your phone may work for a while, but you will need to enroll with a new provider ASAP.
Isaiah says
I have no phone and I can’t call
Free Government Cell Phones says
You have two choices: Either borrow someone else’s phone or enroll online.
Joseph Reed says
Hello, I need assistance in getting help with a phone. My counselor tried and gave me this link, I do qualify. Any help would be great, thank you.
Free Government Cell Phones says
This page tells you all about the plans available in your state. And here’s a link that will show you all the ways you might be eligible:
https://www.freegovernmentcellphones.net/basics/qualify
Barbara Johnson says
I live in Illinois and qualify for a free government phone because I receive Link.
Free Government Cell Phones says
Find the plan on this page that fits your needs best, then enroll with that company using the contact info we provide for each service provider.
Kendra says
I read that one of the three cell phone companies also had hotspot which company is that?
Ricky Collins says
So how or who has the best service or coverage for my area with the area code 618 or where can I find coverage maps to see for myself please and thank you for your time and help
Free Government Cell Phones says
Each company has their own coverage maps, Ricky. But it’s impossible for us to answer your question because there are so many variables. The best company for the guy who lives across the street may not work out as well for you on your side of the street.
Scott Logue says
I am currently a customer of SafeLink make at least one call a month but when I tried calling today it says it’s not active
Free Government Cell Phones says
No way for us to know what the problem is, Scott, because it could be a thousand different things. You need to contact Safelink customer service to find out what the issue is.
Helen McCoy says
My husband passed away in january, which was big a income assistance to me, I can no longer handle all the bill by no means, I’m trying to find a way, I’m on meal on wheels,
I’m 68 years old, I’ve been receiving SSA disability from the age of fifty, I live alone,I have one child, living afar and unable to assist. unemployed status. I can no longer pay a phone bill, with otherbills, like home mort. other utilities, etc, etc,etc, and being disable
needing the emergency assist when or if,
Helen McCoy
(708) 547-****
Free Government Cell Phones says
You can check out all the ways to become eligible oh this page, Helen:
https://www.freegovernmentcellphones.net/basics/qualify
And if you qualify you can find all the plans available in your state right here in the article on this page,
christina A Ochoa says
THis miss christina Ochoa I order a phone from you Right now I live at (deleted). my other family home is at (deleted). there was something wrong with the phone and phone number that your company sent me about 5 years ago i would need a new one thanks. or i tried doing a new application.
Free Government Cell Phones says
We are not your service provider, Christina. We are no one’s service provider. This is an independent informational website. You need to contact your service provider’s customer service team.
mayra casasola says
why i have to pay almost 60.00 dollars to change a phone that is not working i,m retire i don;t have the money to pay i only have what i received from social security that is only 1,000.00 a month
Free Government Cell Phones says
Unfortunately, Mayra, it’s the free government cell phone (singular) program, not the free government cell phones (plural) program. The program requires the companies to offer customers one free phone, but not replacement phones.
Marge Arnold says
I’m in FL and my 72 year old cousin is in Springfield. She’s dealing with her mom’s estate, the return of her cancer and she lives alone. She is overwhelmed and struggling right now and has no cell phone which worries me in case she should fall, be out in the car going to treatments and it breaks down, etc. If I apply for her, since the stress is affecting her ability to think clearly, what information do I need to get from her and what questions am I likely to be asked, so I am prepared to answer them? Also, what questions should I be asking ?
Free Government Cell Phones says
It is illegal for you to enroll for her, Marge. If you are sitting next to hear she can probably tell the agent that she’s turning the phone over to you and we assume that would be acceptable. But you cannot apply for her.
Kathy says
I applied through Truconnect.com for my dad who lives in an Independent Living Facility. They sent email saying not approved 3X. 1st denial- birthdates didnt match. 2nd denial- picture of doc not clear. 3rd reason for denial-was because someone with dad’s address had a phone. Seems odd that a senior with limited income can’t get a free phone service through the gov. because someone else in his facility has one! IS THERE A PROGRAM OUT THERE THAT TRUELY CAN HELP? Ex
Free Government Cell Phones says
Sorry to hear about your problems, Kathy. Have all your attempts been with TruConnect? Have you spoken to its customer service team? That’s what we’d suggest. It is true that there is a “one per household” limit, but the service providers are required to make exceptions for residents of group homes like your dad. Speak to customer service and explain his living situation. You might also want to enroll with one of the other companies listed on this page.
Dorene Jackson says
i applied for a free government phone and service with safelink wireless and they told me Illinois no longer offer government phone. I would have to buy a phone or bring one that’s compatible. I cancel my service with Assurance Wireless because they kept sending me the defected phone that would not work properly for more than 6 months. And they told me i would have to buy another phone or wait until the year expiration.I have been submitting documents and usac question with safelink just to be told that. Is it true? That Illinois no longer offer government cell phones?
Free Government Cell Phones says
Have you checked the Safelink website? Here’s the information it provides for residents of Illinois:
_________
Let’s talk about handsets
If you qualify, you have the following option/s to choose from.
What kind of phone would you like to use once you are qualified for the discount?
• Get a free phone on Walmart Family Mobile or pick a new smartphone from the list of latest devices.
Walmart Family Mobile offers no-contract plans and the latest phone models at affordable prices. Apply your monthly discount and get an unlimited plan on the T-Mobile network starting at $14.88/month.
• I Want to Keep My Own Smartphone (Receive a Free SIM Card*)
__________
In other words, there’s a conflict between what you were told and what the website says.If we were you we’d call in again.
Ebonie Thomas says
I am in dire need of a cell phone. I am not currently working due to the fact that I do not have a cell phone. In orer to interview or keep a permanent position, cell phone access is essential. Please contact me via email ********@gmail.com
Free Government Cell Phones says
We cannot contact you individually due to the sheer number of comments and questions we receive every day, Ebonie. But you can contact any of the companies list on this page in order to enroll in the free government cell phone program.
Ricky Glover says
I applied for government services online but did not receive a response. I do not understand how to apply for a phone. I did everything I can and provided all of my personal information and still cant get any help. Is this a scam?
Free Government Cell Phones says
No scam, Ricky. Millions of people have free government cell phones. It sounds as if you tried to enroll online. Try it again by calling your chosen service provider’s customer service team. They should be able to walk you through the process.
Janean says
I’m on ssi and I have a government phone .one child on disability that all so has type one diabetes . I also have another child that has type one diabetes to they’re 15,and 9 both have insulin pumps that require phone service so I can monitor there sugars and through WiFi I can make adjustments for there medical need will I be able to get them a phone to?
Free Government Cell Phones says
You haven’t given us enough information to make that determination, Janean. The free government cell phone eligibility is based on income or participation in certain federal assistance programs, and you haven’t told us that they participate in those programs. However, you also have not given us enough information to say for sure if you don’t qualify. Your best bet would be to read the following article, which will give you all the info you need to determine if your sons qualify:
https://www.freegovernmentcellphones.net/basics/qualify
PI says
What actual figures or income elements are used to establish one’s bottom line ‘annual income’? Is it one’s AGI, or only certain incomes like wages, dividends, and retirement with capital losses and perhaps other figures not allowed? Does it vary from state to state? Or is it each free gov’t cellphone provider that determines that for themself?
Thanks PI
Free Government Cell Phones says
You can find all the income eligibility rules for each state at this link:
https://www.freegovernmentcellphones.net/basics/qualify
PI says
Thanks for the quick response, but I was already familiar with that page before asking the above question. I’m still not clear as to what “income” is officially. Is it one’s adjusted gross income or one’s taxable income? Are there any subtractions allowed, such as capital losses or others, on the income? I’m guessing that in fact one has to comply with what each phone company lays out on their application.
Free Government Cell Phones says
Right in the article is says,”Household income includes all incomes received by everyone in your household, whether taxable or non-taxable, including, but not limited to: wages, salaries, interest, dividends, spousal support and child support, grants, gifts, inheritances, allowances, stipends, public-assistance payments, social security and pensions, rental income, lottery winnings, income from self-employment and cash payments from other sources, and all employment-related, non-cash income. The only exceptions are student financial aid, military housing and cost-of-living allowances, irregular income from occasional small jobs such as baby-sitting or lawn mowing, and the like.”
PI says
You’re so right. Sorry that I missed it. Some hi’s it didn’t register.
Thanks PI
Dolores Duncan says
I’m trying to help my brother. He lost his government issued cell phone years ago. He keeps saying he can’t remember who the carrier was, what the number was and that he can never reach a live person in IL to help him. He’s on disability and has been paying for a cell phone. I’d like to try to help him, save him $ that he can use on other bills. What advice can you give?
Free Government Cell Phones says
If those phone was lost two years ago, it has surely been inactivated by now. That means he is free to enroll with any Lifeline company offering free government cell phones in your state. Click on each of the company names on this page to find the plan that fits his needs best, then he can enroll with that company. Easy peasy.
Jodi P says
I know this is a couple years late, but……….when you do not use your lifeline cellphone at least once every month, your service gets shut off and you have to start over with getting a new account, number, etc.
So because your brother lost his phone ages ago, he can just get in touch with any lifeline provider in his state, and get a new free cell phone and phone number.
Robert Sidwell says
I have a cell phone that is threw the government and it got stolen and I can’t remember which one I got it from
Free Government Cell Phones says
There are only five service providers in Illinois. It should be a relatively simple matter to contact each of them to find out if your phone number identifies you as a customer.
Dr. H. Sawyer Jr says
IT’s easier than that. Just put the NUMBER of the phone
into the GOOGLE Search Box, and press, ” ENTER “.
You’ll get results that will lead you to the proper
provider. Try it.
Thanks,
HES
Manhattan, NYC
Free Government Cell Phones says
We tried it and it’s not quite as simple as you said, Dr H. This comment moderator plugged his number into the Google search box and clicked and up came…(dramatic pause)…the service provider who originally gave me the number, Verizon. That was about twenty years ago and I’ve been with three or four different providers during that period of time. I’ve had that number with Sprint for the last two years and was with AT&T for a few years before that. I know there have been a couple others in the intervening years, but I don’t even remember who they are or if they still exist.
Give it a try, readers, and tell us if it works. Since most of the free government cell phone companies operate on Sprint’s national network, will doing the Google search tell you that your service provider is Sprint or the company you enrolled with (such as SafeLink, Q Link, Assurance, etc).
We’ll be interested in hearing the results.
Ronald piper says
I have filled out your on line form several times.nothing happens. I can not call. No phone. I qualify. Help sure be
Nice
Free Government Cell Phones says
It’s not “our” online form, Ron. This is an independent informational website that is NOT affiliated with any of the free government cell phone companies.
Joshua says
Haha you guys are a special kind of self-aggrandizing amoral piece of S*** to sit here and claim to offer assistance to those in need, and as soon as someone actually needs help with the process you claim to promote, you simply wash your hands of any official involvement with some balderdash boilerplate nonsense.
Free Government Cell Phones says
You are a moron, Joshua. A complete moron. We do not “simply wash our hands of any official involvement” because we choose not to help. We wash our hands of any official involvement because WE HAVE NO OFFICIAL INVOLVEMENT.
Believe it or not, moron, this is an independent informational website with ZERO affiliation with any free government cell phone companies nor with any affiliation with any of the Lifeline program’s governing bodies.
With that being the case, how could we possibly help someone find out what their phone number is? Would you have us hire hackers to break into the Lifeline companies’ data bases to find out readers’ phone numbers?
To reiterate. We are independent and informational. And you are a moron.
Mike Manusharow says
I have applied for long term disability through Social Security and I will not be able afford a cell plan. How can you help me out?
Thank you
Free Government Cell Phones says
We can give you all the info you need, Mike. Just check out all the plans on this page (assuming you live in Illinois) and chose the one that fits your needs best. Then enroll by using the contact info we provide for each service provider.
Ronald piper says
Ron is my name. Tell me were to start. This is real hard. I have no clue
Free Government Cell Phones says
We assume you live in Illinois, Ron, because you left your comment on our Illinois page. Just check out the companies and plans listed on this page to find the one that fits your needs best. Then contact that company by using the contact info we provide on the page. It’s really much simpler than you may think.
Sally Phillips says
Do you offer fee landline service? This would only be used for local phone calls, no data. It would be much preferred to a free cell phone or a discount service.
Free Government Cell Phones says
First of all, “we” don’t offer anything. This is an independent informational website. But in answer to your question, there is no free landline. Only discounted landlines are available under the Lifeline program.
jillian shull says
i am enrolled in safelink but have already had a replacement phone ive lost the replacement but i have another phone just need a card to activate thru safelink what do i do
Free Government Cell Phones says
Contact customer service or tech support by calling 6-1-1 on your free government cell phone to find out if the phone you have is compatible with the Safelink network.
P. Smith says
Hard to do if she lost her SafeLink phone and needs a replacement Sim card. Jillian, call SafeLink, they will need information from the phone you plan on using the sim card in so they can provision the sim card to your phone.
SafeLink Customer Service
1-800-378-1684
Boyd Payton says
I was on a plan with boost mobile but can no longer afford it (couldn’t in the first place) and was wondering if I could use my phone and number with my boost mobile phone, My ssa income is only $1150 monthly, and medicaid number is 09845****. I had an account with safelink before, but since my address changed I want to start anew,
Free Government Cell Phones says
Check out our “Do You Qualify?” in the navigation bar at the top of this page. Then, if you find that you qualify, you can find all the free government cell phone plans available in your state on the “States” page in the same nav bar.
kimberly hercham says
i applied with American assist for my disabled daughter whose income is seperate from ours. they received her medicaid card and ID. so when they went to enroll her they said something like third party came up what does that mean?
Free Government Cell Phones says
We have no idea what it means, Kimberly. Did you ask them what it means when it happened?
Marta says
to Tracy, I m soory that U have multiple Sclerosis.
U say U are getting only 12 thousand dollars a year.
do U know how lucky U are to be getting any money at all?
my son lost his medical in Febuary of 2010 because of his age.
We found out he has an eye disease in May of 2009. The government
did not seem to care enough to let him keep his medical shortly after
he lost his dental right before his sixth month dental check up.
Luckly we were able to get the eye doctor who diagnosed him with the eye
disease to see him at least 3 times free of charge because my son
had no income at all.
And this particular eye doctor had seem him back in 2004.
But because of my son’s type of eye condition the doctor that
diagnosed him in 2009 had a friend that is also an eye doctor
who strarted seeing my after that.
In 2013 i finanly got the curage to fight for my son to be able
to get medical again & trust it was not easy to do to battle with dshs.
and then not log after former President Obama fought for those who
did not have medical at all get medical.
I also have health problems but towards the end of 2016 I lost my ssi.
And i was only getting $737.00 give or take. And I have not had any income
since then.
The reason fo me losing my ssi was because aparently i was better of
budgeting then i though so social security took my benifits away they thougt i did not
need my ssi any more. will they were dead wrong i did need my ssi.
when is was getting it barely cover the rent & utilities at all.
So i have had no income since september of 2016.
And i am battling a huge debt & immigration problem.
I have been in the us since i was minor.
And yesterday we get more bad news my son’s little benifits got lowered from $197.00 to $120.00
All because i recieve housing help & my housing pays the whole rent for the current hell hole we are
in right now. U see apperently if U don’t pay any rent then the dshs takes money away from U & they call it helpping U which is bull crap
I can’t any part of the rent because i have no income at all.
It would be nice if for those of Us who need a land line& cell phone if could be allowed to have both
on the lifeline program espicaily if we have no means to keep on paying phones bills.
don’t laugh yeah i still use a landline i have had landline way before i ever had a cell phone.
WILL THIS RULE WHERE U CAN ONLY HAVE ONE PHONE ON THE LIFELINE PROGRAM
REALLY SUCKS BIG TIME. I MEAN U WORK YOUR ASS OF & U PAY YOUR TAXES FOR WHAT
SO ASSHOLES LIKE THE CURRENT ONE CAN HAVE EXPENSIVE THINGS ? THIS IS BULL SHIT!!!!!
Free Government Cell Phones says
You may not like the rules, Marta, but they have always been the same. If you have a cell phone, why do you also need a landline?
MelodyJ says
I’ve been waiting to hear something from Assurance Wireless regarding my application status, they say it’s in “review mode”….SINCE DECEMBER???!!! I’m at my breaking point, I have no phone and nobody’s helping me. Which is the best company somebody?
Free Government Cell Phones says
You’re kind of stuck at this point, Melody. Having applied with one company, you cannot just enroll with another one. If we were you, we would read the following article and start the official complaint process. It’s crazy that you should be waiting this long for a decision. Here’s the link to the article:
https://www.freegovernmentcellphones.net/faq/file-official-complaint-about-your-lifeline-service
Marta says
WHAT IF SHE CANCELS HER ENROLLMENT WITH THE COMPANY
THAT IS SCEWRING HER OVER. AND SIGN’S UP WITH A NEW ONE?
IN ADDITION TO FILLING A COMPLAIN?
Free Government Cell Phones says
There are very strict rules about when you can switch from one service provider to another, Marta. If you have voice and text service only, you must wait 60 days before switching. If you also have data as part of your plan, you can only switch after one full year.
Jessica says
Is there a way to get a touch screen phone free?
Free Government Cell Phones says
Unfortunately, you never know what kind of phone you’re going to get. Each free government cell phone company offers different makes and models of phones, and those phones are handed out at random. Check your preferred service provider’s website to see what kind of phones they currently offer. You may be able to bring the phone you want to your account as part of a BYOP (Bring Your Own Phone) program.
Tracey l Bailey says
I am on social security disability for multiple Sclerosis and I need a phone but i am living with my mother her is 77 and it is says that our income together can not be more than 21 thousand AND i ONLY get around 12 thousand a year . SO this mean I can not get a phone ?
Free Government Cell Phones says
It certainly sounds as if you qualify for a free government cell phone, Tracey. Here’s an article that tells you more:
https://www.freegovernmentcellphones.net/basics/qualify
Valerie Stewart says
How could an entity or organization get a contract to become a distributor/administrator of a government phone program?
Free Government Cell Phones says
Each Lifeline company uses different ways to reach customers and distribute phones, Valeria. Our suggestion would be to contact each of the companies in your state to find out about their sales and distribution methods and need for help.
You can find all the companies in your state at this link:
https://www.freegovernmentcellphones.net/states
LINDA ROSE STAHL says
Why does Safelink continue to be allowed to contract with lifeline because their customer Svc if u can call it that sucks and they know it and you know it and the moronic career politicians know it and none of you really gives a rats’ass how low income folks are being used
Ida Simpson says
Yes you are so right a SafeLink rep just cancelled out my free government phone that I qualifyed for without provocation she gave me the impression SafeLink Wireless distributor Sucks and is a ratass company and doesn’t give a damn about their customers
Laura Allen says
I have been waiting for cell phone from Illinois/Safe Link for almost a year now and they are just screwing me every time I get through they say my application is approved and nothing comes after also waiting for 2 hours minimum and they are a night mare. I have filled out all the information in September 2016 and I was told in January I have been approved for the free cell phone service. After multiple calls and told the cell is in the mail and waiting on hold for an average 2 hours each time, Then in MAY after another 2 hour wait,I was told cell phone is in the mail. Its now July 2016 and I am at my breaking point I am disabled and in chronic pain. I have not tried to get SNAP now since getting hit buy a drunk driver and loosing my salary and carrier wasn’t enough, every criminal and scam artist I know has gotten free medication,medicare clothes,shelter and although I paid into this SSI for 30 years I seem to get any help from anyone and their stories depending on who I get on phone I qualify and then I try to use whatever service I can to be asked who did you talk to you aren’t eligible for that. I have paid every medical bill in the to over $200,000 I had for my retirement. My income is only $1,1067.37 my medical bills and pharmacy bills alone are over $4000 I have been on a negative income for 17 years now after being disabled for 17 years now my retirement is gone I worked from 15 years old to 45 I would still be working if someone had not hit me while I was driving in an 89 Toyota Celia so no air bag and I have another back or neck surgery every month. I finally get through to these Idiots at Safe Link and they wanted proof of my wages after I had been told I was approved for over 7 months. I drove up to SS and got my wages and sent them these jerks at Safe link my wages copy.in May, Its now July and still NO PHONE! NOTHING but more pain, stress and TEARS! This causing so much stress in my life every penny I worked for went to hospital bills and now I am still paying $3,000. a month for my prescriptions which would have gone to have a nice house but for 1 uninsured motorist. . I have payed $285,000. in medical and pharmacy bills. I was told I wasn’t able to get medicare or food stamps because legally I am still married to someone I haven’t seen and dont know were he’s at over 20 years ago. I just talked to a different agent and he said I was eligible the whole time. I cant shed any more tears can someone please help me so I can any job where I dont have to lift or scrub and I can sit or stand when I need to i CANT TAKE 5 MORE MINUTES OF BEING UNEMPLOYED I WORKED FROM A YOUNG AGE i HATE BEING HOME ALL DAY! Thank you,Laura Allen temporary phone number is 630 663 **** PLEAS HELP! Burner phone 331 625 **** my e-mail is ********@comcast.net
Free Government Cell Phones says
Horrible story, Laura. We’re frankly amazed that you’ve hung in with Safelink this long. How about if you call another free government cell phone company. Ask to speak to a customer service supervisor and explain your story. Ask that supervisor for help in finding out if you are actually listed on the National Lifeline Assistance Database (NLAD). If you are, ask them to help you transfer your service to their company. If you’re not listed, you should be able to sign up with the company of your choice. Here’s where you can find a complete list of all the Lifeline Assistance free government cell phone companies in your state, complete with their contact info:
https://www.freegovernmentcellphones.net/states
Marquita L Norwood says
Trying to get a new phone my phone was stolen.
Free Government Cell Phones says
Here’s an article you should read, Marquita:
https://www.freegovernmentcellphones.net/faq/i-lost-my-phone-how-do-i-get-a-replacement
Debbie Wilk says
I have a phone that is breaking so I now need a free phone/ minutes. Safelink phones break alot- I helped someone where I live get new phones! The chargers are thin- not too good. So do you know which company has good phones and doesn’t charge you if the phone doesn’t work? At least Safelink was good at that- not charging for replacement phones! I qualify- Medicaid- but haven’t had success finding anything & I live in Illinois- Chicago- by the way! Unlimited free texting would be nice! Does anyone- besides Safelink-500 minutes for first 3 months, I believe- give more than 350 minutes? Thank you. Debbie Wilk
Free Government Cell Phones says
You can find all that information right here at FreeGovernmentCellPhones.net by just clicking around and reading the info we offer.
Lorianne Brown says
I applied for one of the phone and they said that it would come in the mail within 5 days and I have not yet received anything on the phone as of yet
Free Government Cell Phones says
Five days? We’ve never heard of any company offering one that quickly. Don’t get us wrong, Lorianne, because we’re NOT doubting you at all. Most companies say it will take two weeks, but many readers have reported that it took three or even four weeks.
Michelle Jones says
Tempo Wireless has phones on the spot. So look for a tempo rep and you get your phone the same day.
Free Government Cell Phones says
We do NOT recommend enrolling with a street vendor at a street booth. They have been the scene of far too much fraud and abuse. It’s much safer to enroll by phone or online.
Fay says
i have a landline phone with lifeline but i want a cell phone should i cancel my landline
and reapply for the free phone and how long do i have to wait before i do
i hear att is shuting down all the landline phones soon
please help if you can ,thank you
Free Government Cell Phones says
We haven’t heard that AT&T is ending its landline business and it sounds pretty far fetched. But even if it did happen, there are plenty of other landline companies that offer Lifeline discounts. You are correct that you can only have one Lifeline discount — either cell phone or landline. So, yes, you must cancel your landline discount in order to enroll in a cell phone program.
How long you need to wait is a good question. Most free government cell phone companies say their cell phones will be delivered in two weeks. But our readers consistently report that it takes three or four weeks or even longer.
Diane says
Im pretty sure AT&T is trying to get rid of their landlines. I had one till I moved 4 years ago and they said I had to get a VOIP phone or nothing. Like I had no choice in the matter.
Victor says
My name is Victor and I havnt used a government phone in ovet a year but when I’ve tried to apply recently I didn’t get approved becuase they said I’m with anpther government phone company when in all actuality I’m not . So how do i solve this problem
Free Government Cell Phones says
There’s a screw-up somewhere, Victor. Assuming it’s correct that you have not used your phone in a year, the rules of the program say your account should have been cancelled (after 30 days of non-use). But this kind of screw-up happens all the time.
You should speak to customer service at the company you originally got your phone from. Find out if you’ve been cancelled. If the answer is yes, then you should be free to enroll with any other company in your state. If the answer if no, you should be able to activate or re-enroll with the same company.
You can find a list of all those companies offering free government cell phones in your state here:
https://www.freegovernmentcellphones.net/states
Rick says
Your enrollment procedure will not take my address that is correct as ive lived here for 40 plus years ! So id like to know the problem with your enrollment! I know where i live and so does the department of public aid and social security as they send me letters at this address so how is it not valid ?
Free Government Cell Phones says
You need to understand that it’s not “our” enrollment procedure, Rick. We’re an independent website, not a Lifeline free government cell phone company. You need to contact your preferred Lifeline company’s customer service team.
Brandie says
I have a government phone through BLU. my phone was stolen. I don’t know to reach the company to get it replaced.
Free Government Cell Phones says
BLU is a phone manufacturer, Brandie, so you may have a cell phone it built, but that is not your free government cell phone company. The only way to track down your service provider is to contact every service provider in Illinois. Luckily, there are only five providers in the state, so the phone calls shouldn’t take long. Here’s where you can find that list of Illinois companies and their contact info:
https://www.freegovernmentcellphones.net/states
Lily says
I lost the phone I had And I don’t remember the phone company provider how can I find out
Free Government Cell Phones says
There’s only one way to find out and that’s to contact each of the free government cell phone companies in your state. The good news is that Illinois only has five Lifeline service providers. Here’s where you can find them all:
https://www.freegovernmentcellphones.net/states
Lili says
I forgot the password
Free Government Cell Phones says
Contact your service provider’s customer service team. They’re the only ones who can help you.
mubarak hamad says
Lifeline phone service
Free Government Cell Phones says
Yes, indeed.
Toby Graham says
My phone ran out of minutes and it didn’t reload when they were suppose to.
Free Government Cell Phones says
Contact your service provider’s customer service team, Toby. You can do that by calling 6-1-1 on your free government cell phone.
Jill Slater says
I keep going to how do I get a phone and hit go here but it doesn’t give me anything to fill out
Free Government Cell Phones says
There is nothing to fill out because we are not the phone company. We provide the names, websites and phone numbers of companies that provide Lifeline cell phone service in your state. Just look for the information on the pages you are visiting.
Jonathan guillory says
How to get cell phone
Free Government Cell Phones says
Read article. Read website.
Emily says
How can someone who has SSI get a TTY cell phone?
Free Government Cell Phones says
Here’s an article we did about that very subject, Emily. It covers the voice/hearing/vision-impaired policies of all the top Lifeline Assistance companies:
https://www.freegovernmentcellphones.net/government-cell-phones-hearing-vision-speech-impaired
Larry says
What are the location stations
Free Government Cell Phones says
See the answers to similar questions below.
AnnMarie says
Reachout Wireless is out of business.
Free Government Cell Phones says
That is correct. We’ve featured that news in several articles. We’ll update it on our Illinois listing.
Arthur Dorsey says
i have been trying to apply for a free phone with Q- Link but now they are telling me there is no service in my area. and by the way i do get very small government assistance . question is do i qualify for this program. at 71 years of age.
Free Government Cell Phones says
You have lots of options, Arthur. Here’s an article that will tell you about all the service providers in your state:
https://www.freegovernmentcellphones.net/states
And while we’re at it, here’s another article that tells you all the ways you can qualify:
https://www.freegovernmentcellphones.net/basics/qualify
Rosa rodriguez says
How do I get a free cell phone
Free Government Cell Phones says
You apply with one of the companies listed on this page, Rosa. First question: Do you qualify? Here’s a link to a page that tells you all the ways to qualify:
https://www.freegovernmentcellphones.net/basics/qualify
Lanora r mott says
My SafeLink phone got stolen need a new one
Free Government Cell Phones says
It’s as if this article was written especially for you, Lanora. It tells you what to do if your free government cell phone is lost or stolen:
https://www.freegovernmentcellphones.net/faq/i-lost-my-phone-how-do-i-get-a-replacement
Jon Allen says
I lost my phone. I need to know who my phone provider is.
FreeGovernmentCellPhones.net says
This FAQ may help you:
https://www.freegovernmentcellphones.net/faq/i-cant-remember-which-company-provides-my-service
corena Gordon says
How do I get a phone
Laura says
How do I help find a cell phone for my 90 year old grama. She absolutely needs one for emergency cases. Thank you, Laura
Free Government Cell Phones says
Qualification is based on income or participation in another government assistance program. Check the “Do Your Qualify” link at the top of this page. If granny qualifies, click on our “States” link at the top of the page to see which companies participate in your state.
Ralph Green says
I received a text stating that care wireless would be shutting down as the 31st of January, so what do I need to do to keep my phone operable ? should i request another phone or join another phone co.?
Francisco Giron says
Reply with the basic information for a third age couple that needs help from the government
Donald morris says
How do I activat another phone to my account
Carewireless Customer says
Got a text from Care Wireless today. They are shutting down as of January 31st 2016. Called and verified.
Joseph Moran says
Is blackberry for low income people?
If not which one?
Chris says
I’m unable to work because of an injury and have a 6 month old son. In case of emergency I need to get ahold of my mom or grandma because my vehicle is broke down. My girlfriend n I live together but all she is getting is part-time hours which is maybe 25 hours n make like 8.00 n hr we barely make our rent, power. N water.
makya says
Need a phone bad
Daryl Higgs says
Need a phone for my 85 yo mother, must have big numbers and loud ring. Can she keep her current number that she has had since 1969?
anne says
Yes
Rosalyn Holliday says
In need for cell phone very low income, greatly appreciated
SUMA HASHMI says
I NEED CHEAP INTERNET
makya says
Yea
Dale Edward Chester says
I am a senior citizen that is disabled and receive Social Security Disability. I live in a rural area out side of Vienna Illinois in Johnson County Illinois. I have no residential phone because I can’t afford another monthly payment. I need one but can’t afford one and can’t find one that is local service only. Can someone help me please. I would also like to get a thing called internet service but can’t afford it either…
Denise says
Can a person keep their current phone number when switching to this?
danielle says
my phone is lost
pat schumm says
how do i get a free phone with free minutes i am on snap and medicaid i have no income coming in
FreeGovernmentCellPhones.net says
Please read this page.
Glenn Rodman says
Can’t find any providers in 62431 area
Alex says
I’ve had my number for about 5 years and recently I’ve been getting calls and texts for someone else who apparently received on of these government phones with the same phone number as mine. I would like this to stop as I’m actually paying for my number and cannot change it as it is listed for all things related to my autistic son. Is there any way this issue can be fixed?
Christi Ginter says
I had qualified for a free phone and it was going to be delivered in 4-5 days. I went in the hospital for 9 days soon after qualifying. I think they tried to deliver it but no one was here. Can it be sent again?
Free Government Cell Phones says
We do not know which cell phone company you applied to. The best way for you to get the answer to your question is to contact that company directly.
JOSEPH JUNIOR AGGREY says
PLEASE I NEED HELP TO COUNTING MY EDUCATION AND MY SCHOOL PLEASE I NEED THEY ARE HELP
Armando Gutierrez says
Please send me some information on your free phone service and how it works. Thank you and have a nice day.
FreeGovernmentCellPhones.net says
You need to contact any of the providers on this page.
Carrie says
All my minutes disappeared. And I had plenty. Who do I call for help with this. Thanks
robert hathaway says
what other cell phone plans are our there in the Chicago area for low income people other then saftlink
Bob Z says
I am just curious to know how long has this service been around? Thank you.
FreeGovernmentCellPhones.net says
Here is some history. Lifeline goes way back to the 1980’s for landlines, but it appeared on cell phones in 2008.
https://www.freegovernmentcellphones.net/faq/obama-phone
Kris Hayden says
I am an advocate working with a woman from my church. She had a public aid free cellphone and is trying to get another one for her son who is 14 and needs one to be able to call her. They do not have a landline phone where they are living.
Can you please help me help her.
FreeGovernmentCellPhones.net says
Only one Lifeline phone or discount is allowed per household, so her son will not be able to receive a phone.
Candice says
I have been trying to get a phone for a couple of years now and the problem my husband and I are having is we only have a p o box, they don’t deliver mail to my home address and every time we try our physical address they say they can’t find it. What can we do? Thanks
Gary brown says
Homeless senior disabled who cannot get a phone or response in 4 days. Despicable. I’m at 708785****
Gwendolyn Burrows says
someone has a goverment phone in my name and now i can’t get one
Jamie Bateman says
Where do I find these companies. Having a hard time locating them.
FreeGovernmentCellPhones.net says
Please look straight up this page and you’ll see an article with a list of companies.
Judy says
The two of us draw social security, have about $100 more a month than the limit
of income is.
Guess you can’t help us out.
Maybe should sign up for link card, at one time we could get $16 a month from it, which
would make us elgible for the free government phone.
But guess we can manage, such a hassle to sign up for government help, the workers at
the government departments act as if the money is coming out of their pay.
Maybe some day I will feel the $16 a month food stamps is necessary to survive, but not
at this time.
Esther M M Barnett & Lolita Castillo says
We we at the Cook County Stroger Hospital back in Early November.
man told us both that we qualified for a free phone after we gave him ID and informatin
No repsonse yet. He did not give us any follow-up contact. We only agreed because we
hae seen the table outside. But it was cold. he was in the waiting room at Fantus Clinic.
HOW CAn WE Check?
FreeGovernmentCellPhones.net says
Unless you know the name of the company he represents, there is no way to check.
monique sommer says
Our family has only one cell phone, which we cant afford. However, we could be assured to have access to all of our medical professionals and community resources with a cell phone, like what you are offering.
The kids are also limited in being able to complete school work due to lack of home computer access. All resources would be tremendously appreciated. Thank you.
Hansen McFearson says
Is a cell phone a necessary offered luxury to a low income user? Or should a home line be something more appropriate?
Jess says
Would you know which of the above companies is available for Forest Park IL!?? A lot of them say not available for 60130
Smita P Desai says
I am 60 years old person with disability since more than last 17 years. I am getting disability from social security. I have medicad I need a cell phone. Please let me know.phone 847 285 ****
Thanks, Smita
Free Government Cell Phones says
We can’t call you Smita as we’re not the cell phone company. But you can call any of the cell phone providers we’ve listed above.
chlsea says
hi my Chelsea chamblee
candace porter says
need to find out to get a free government cell phone i have the medical card a child in school they go through 1 cheers i have snapchat which is awful.com linked in my address is **** north maple street centralia illinois 62801 if you could please send me an application so i can fill it out in get a phone i would greatly appreciate it thanks
Free Government Cell Phones says
We can’t send anything to you as we are not a phone company. You need to contact one of the providers listed above.
paula says
I have tried all of the companies and it keeps saying invalid address..i changed my address and am getting my mail and public aid notices…….whats wrong????
Lesa says
I’m a case manager in supportive housing. My client has been terminated from her free phone because they say she is on a list that says she is already getting service from another carrier. The phone companies are not telling us where the other account is so that we can cancel it so she can at least have one working phone. I have called at least one other carrier who says her account is cancelled already but this list for people who appear to have multiple carriers seems to live somewhere in the government.
I wish to be connected to a central point where we can explain to one person that my client has NO service so how does she get this old warning list to phone companies straightened out with the correct information? Going forward I’m working with her to not pick up the “free” phones they offer outside of the Illinois Department of Human Services but since she’s mentally impaired it’s hard for her to understand. Why can’t she just be denied because she already has service and not be able to get new service until she cancel’s the other?
Free Government Cell Phones says
Try customersupport@usac.org USAC.org is the governing body for the program.
Daisy Starks says
I’d like a touch cell phone. Would that be possible? I’m #1 on the low income list.
Wesley Bowen says
I am trying to help my Dad sign up for a phone. He lives in Quincy, Il. Is there an application you could send me? My address is **** Washington St. Gary, In. 46408. Any help would be appreciated.
Free Government Cell Phones says
You need to contact one of the providers above.
Diane White says
I have tried every phone provider out there and they all say not aVAILABLE In IL.Please help .
Kay says
Safelink is available on the internet.. If you don’t have internet, the local library usually does. I would apply with safelink~