The employment situation is not improving much, and there are far too many unemployed, underemployed and unfortunate in the Bay State. And inflation is hitting low-income Americans worse than any other group.
According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, unemployment peaked in January 2010. That number has eased in the last couple of years and still sits at a still unacceptable level.
For those of you who find yourself out of work and out of options, Lifeline and the Affordable Connectivity Program (ACP) phone service comes to the rescue. Now you can get a free cell phone, unlimited talk, unlimited text and unlimited data every month at no charge, thanks to the government’s Lifeline program.
Lifeline and ACP free government cell phone service providers in Massachusetts
Here’s a list of all the Lifeline Assistance free government cell phones in Massachusetts. 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 Massachusetts
If you qualify for Lifeline Assistance, but you find that none of the companies offer free government cell phones where you live, 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 Massachusetts:
How to qualify for Lifeline Assistance free government cell phones in Massachusetts
You are eligible if you receive benefits from any of these programs in Massachusetts:
- 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 if your Total Household Income is at or under 135% of the Federal Poverty Guidelines. Take a look at our chart below, which show these 135% levels, and compare your income:
| Income Based Eligibility for Massachusetts | ||
|---|---|---|
| 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 | ||
How to qualify for an ACP free government phone and unlimited service in Massachusetts
It’s even easier to qualify for ACP service than it is to qualify for Lifeline service. The USAC website spells it all out:
Consumers qualify for the Affordable Connectivity Program (ACP) through participation in Lifeline or a Lifeline-qualifying program, having an income at or below 200% of the Federal Poverty Guidelines, through participation in ACP-qualifying programs, such as the free and reduced-price school lunch or breakfast program (including the Community Eligibility Provision), WIC, through award of a federal Pell Grant, or through participation in a participating service provider’s existing low-income program.
It’s your turn now. If you’re a low-income Massachusetts resident, pick your favorite provider. Pick your favorite plan. Enroll today in the Lifeline, ACP, or Lifeline + ACP plan that fits your needs best.
Latest Lifeline & ACP News for Massachusetts:
If you have any other questions, please refer to the links in the sidebar.
Darlene Grimes says
I lost my cell phone. I need to know what I do from here.
Free Government Cell Phones says
Here’s an article that explains it all:
https://www.freegovernmentcellphones.net/faq/i-lost-my-phone-how-do-i-get-a-replacement
Maria Raskind says
Does Mass Health Limited and HSN full qualify for a free cell phone
Free Government Cell Phones says
Here is a link from the state of Massachusetts (mass.gov) that lists all the programs that confer Lifeline eligibility:
https://www.mass.gov/service-details/check-your-eligibility-for-the-lifeline-program
Alla Tsybulskaya says
I was many years happy with cell phone from Assurance wireless. In September that phone started work worse.
I called to company with request to substitute old one at new one.Very soon I received new one. It was not activated, and I did not receive explanations about it. I called again, and was informed. that I have to mail old one. O’ key. I Just three times asked agent to tell by which way.Three times it was not fluently answer, Like bllllll…
I did not ask more. From that point my problems grew up. I mailed phone by the address shown on the card, which company regular send. It was delivered Oct. 4. I checked by track number..But after I mailed old phone from my post office I received the box and envelope Fedex from Assurance.If I were explained!
As a result, I am two months without cell phone. I am 78 years old woman cancer’s survivor and completely alone. If first I received promise that my phone would be activated during 5 days, instead I was turned off. My number 781-656-**** stopped exist. I have to start application. I did yesterday.But had a new stress: my name and address were rejected. My address is not valid. My name is not clear Identity. I am in despair..
Free Government Cell Phones says
Have you tried enrolling with a different Lifeline company? Try one of the other companies listed on this page, Alla.
Viona says
I was using my phone and get the free service but my phone is now not working good and have problem in receiving calls could I get a new phone and how to do that ?
And could i change the company provides the service ?and how
Free Government Cell Phones says
Speak to your service provider’s customer service team by calling 6-1-1 on that phone (your comment leads us to believe you can still make outgoing calls). If they will not provide you with a free replacement phone, you can switch to a different service provider and that company will give you a smart phone.
V says
How I do the switch?? They refuse to give me phone
Free Government Cell Phones says
Check out this article:
https://www.freegovernmentcellphones.net/faq/how-do-i-switch-lifeline-providers
Anna says
Hi! I have a free mobile phone for several years android alcatel .Is it a smart phone or not . if not, then can i have a smartphone for free. I live in the state MA. Anna
Free Government Cell Phones says
We have no way of knowing if your older free government cell phone is a smartphone. Use it to call 6-1-1 to speak to your service provider’s customer service team to see what they will offer you.
If they will not offer you a free upgrade, you can always switch service providers. The new service provider will give you a free smartphone when your application is accepted.
Luis Rodriguez says
I’m trying to get an application, but the different links are creating a loop. Can I get a link where I can download the application fill it out and submit it?
Thanks in advance.
Luis Rodriguez says
Massachusetts*
Free Government Cell Phones says
We are not a Lifeline free government cell phone service provider, Luis. This is an independent informational website so we cannot offer other companies’ applications. But we provide contact info on each service provider’s page. Just click on any of the company names on this page.
Kay Smith says
Is it true that there is now a $25 fee for the Government Cell Phones?
Free Government Cell Phones says
No.
Chloe says
Hi, I am helping a friend who has Masshealth/medicare to obtain free government cell phone and along with Safe Link due to his mobility issue (he has at home PCA service.)
Can he get both service? somehow I thought one can get only one service-yes, he is about mid 50’s and living in the community in Western Mass.
Thank you,
Chloe,
Free Government Cell Phones says
Safelink and the free government cell phone program are the same thing, Chloe. Safelink is just one of the companies that offers Lifeline plans. We’re not quite sure what you are saying, but if you are saying that your friend has Safelink plus another Lifeline free government cell phone program, that would be illegal. Only one free government cell phone plan is permissible per household.
Polite educated gentleman says
Who is ““WE”? That you are referring to?!
Free Government Cell Phones says
“We” refers to those who operate this website and the comment moderators.
Karina says
What is the age requirement to get a cell.
Free Government Cell Phones says
Eighteen.
Laura Melone says
A neighbor recently told me that her government issued phone is an Iphone…….is this true?
Free Government Cell Phones says
Quite possible, Laura. It won’t be a newer model, but it could certainly be an older model.
Lynne Clark says
Do these free phones come with instruction manuals? I have gotten gov”t. free phones but they did not come with a manual.
Free Government Cell Phones says
Nothing comes with a service manual anymore, Lynne. Find one by Googling the words “user manual” and the make and model of your phone.
Kathleen Brazier says
Hi I would like to see if I am able to get the free phone is am I am disabled for two years in January I don’t understand how to do it since I can’t really get out now. Thanks Kathleen
Free Government Cell Phones says
Firs thing to do is to figure out if you qualify, Kathleen. You can do that by reading the article at this link:
https://www.freegovernmentcellphones.net/basics/qualify
Bryana says
It says here that in MA Tmobile offers a lifeline program but when you go to their website it is not an option. It says they currently offer it in only 9 states & Puerto Rico. Florida, Kentucky, Minnesota, Pennsylvania, Virginia, Washington, Mississippi, Texas, & New Mexico.
Free Government Cell Phones says
Thanks, Nathan. These plans change all the time and it’s almost impossible for us to keep track of all the changes. So we always appreciate it when our readers pitch in with updates.
Norma says
Is it gross income or adjusted gross income?
Free Government Cell Phones says
Gross.
Robert Egan says
I need to reactivate my SIM card in the phone. How do I get it activated again ?
Free Government Cell Phones says
Contact your service provider’s customer service team, Robert.
Christina Soundis says
I am fostering my grandson, 12 years old, who has Mass Health (Medicaid?).
Is he eligible for a government phone? *******@Verizon.net
Free Government Cell Phones says
Sorry, Christina, but he is not eligible. Lifeline customers must be 18 or older to qualify.
Harry says
Is it gross income or net 135% government federal Poverty Guidelines
Free Government Cell Phones says
Gross, Harry.
Anna F. says
I am using SaveLink for more than five years. I have plan No. 1 (68 in all states (80 in MA) and FREE INTERNATIONAL LONG DISTANCE.
About two months ago FREE INTERNATIONAL LONG DISTANCE stopped to work. I called the company many times.
Nobody understands what is happening and how to fix this problem. Each time they find different reasons, for example, there is no such plan, the plan has changed, I have to pay for this plan and etr.
There is such the plan on the company’s website. My financial situation is the same.
Please help me fix it
Free Government Cell Phones says
Your 68 minutes per month plan is the worst plan offered in the entire nation, Anna. You should really ask customer service to upgrade you to one of the current plans that offer far more minutes. If Safelink won’t do that for you, you should consider switching to one of the other plans listed on this page.
bernard a. gagne says
Are the supplement housing requirements in MA before or after deductions? I do get sec8 assistance but cant make headway on my app.
Free Government Cell Phones says
Before.
Shiming Chen says
I had a cell phone kindly from Assurance Wireless for about 5 years. Unfortunately，because of my careless use (one month was out of use), It was stopped. It is very inconvenient now, in particular, I can not contact the hospitals and doctors, missed important diagnosis and treatment opportunities（cancer patient）, resulting in great losses, I am really very distressed. Recently I asked some people to help and re-applied several times, but since May 10 so far it has been ignored Ask for help. Thank you.
Free Government Cell Phones says
BAsed on what you’ve told us, it sounds as if you are eligible to re-enroll with a different free government cell phone service provider, OR you can re-enroll with Assurance. Here’s where you can find a list of all the service providers in your state. Check them all out carefully to find the company and plan that fits your needs best:
https://www.freegovernmentcellphones.net/states
Phillip Petros says
Here’s my problem: I was wrongfully cancelled by Safelink Wireless back in April, 2017. I reapplied for service in May, on June 10, 2017 I was approved and was supposed to get a phone in the mail 7-10 business days. It is now August 7th, 2017 and I have heard nothing from them. I am still stuck in qualified status on their website. As far as I am concerned they owe 1500 minutes for June, July and August 2017. I have sent them several faxes requesting information AND STILL I HAVE HEAQRD NIOTHING FROM SAFELINK WIRELESS CUSTOMER SERVICE!!! What is going on with them? This is poor customer service and I know this as I used to be a customer service representative for 25 years. Now I am disabled and I need my phone. Please help me!!!
Free Government Cell Phones says
We’d be willing to bet a gazillion dollars that they won’t give you 500 minutes per month for months you haven’t had the phone.
Have you tried calling customer service, Phillip?
Jay W. says
How and why did these government-approved mobile telephone products and services receive the nickname “Obamaphones?”
Was this nickname for the “free” cell phones somehow related to so-called “Obamacare” as a nickname for the Affordable Care Act of 2010, signed into Federal law that year by Barack Obama?
Free Government Cell Phones says
Simple answers, Jay. Although the program traces its roots back far earlier than President Obama, it expanded rapidly during his presidency. Then there was a famous viral video of a woman screaming about how much she loved her ObamaPhone. Combine the two and you get your basic ObamaPhone.
However, you’ll see very few references to the word “ObamaPhone” on this website. We call it what it is, the Lifeline Assistance free government cell phone program.
Darcy says
If my phone was stolen and I can’t get through on the phone number to safe link what should I do?
Free Government Cell Phones says
You can always contact your service provider using the phone number we list on that service provider’s page. Here’s where you can find your service provider’s contact info:
https://www.freegovernmentcellphones.net/free-cell-phone-providers
Jeffrey says
Is there anywhere I can physically go to receive a phone? Pretty desperate here!
Free Government Cell Phones says
We strongly urge you to enroll by phone or online rather than visiting a street tent or booth. There have been too many problem with fraud and abuse originating at the street locations.
Kelly says
My Brother is homeless & has a free cellphone that someone gave him. But, it is pretty broken & very outdated. How would I sign him up for his own plan?
Thanks
Free Government Cell Phones says
Here’s the problem: All Lifeline free government cell phone customers must have a valid street address, unless they live in a homeless shelter. If your brother doesn’t have a street address, he cannot enroll.
Kelly says
Thanks for responding!
He’s living in a nursing home for now. Could he use that address or mine? Is there anyway he can upgrade the one he has or does the person who’s name it is in have to do?
Free Government Cell Phones says
He can use the address of the nursing home. This is the kind of enrollment that probably requires a phone call to customer service. Under normal circumstances only one Lifeline account is allowed per household. In case someone else at home already has a free government cell phone, you may need to explain the situation to customer service. In cases such as nursing homes or homeless shelters, multiple Lifeline accounts are permitted at one address, but we are willing to guess that most customer service agents don’t know that.
Judy says
I work in a hospital and we have clients that need phones. Who can I call or where should they go for the government phone?
Free Government Cell Phones says
We need a bit of clarification, Judy. Are you saying they are long-term patients who in effect “live” in the hospital?
Judy says
No, Outpatient only.
Free Government Cell Phones says
OK, that’s exactly the answer we needed. Here’s what we think is the best approach. First thing you need to do is take a look at all the free government cell phone plans in your state. You can find them at this link:
https://www.freegovernmentcellphones.net/states
Each of your patients will need to decide which plans fits their needs best, then use the contact info we provide to enroll. It’s a relatively easy process and you may be able to help guide them through it.
Mildred Melanson says
There were 2 people at WALMART in Saugus last week, I was waiting for the Ride ( I’m disabled) they took my license info, my mass health info and the last 4 of my social security number,but the ride came and couldn’t wait a few minutes so I never got my phone,and they have my info! Ms.Mildred Melanson
Free Government Cell Phones says
Mildred, Mildred, Mildred. We constantly tell our readers not to enroll at street tents. You don’t know who those guys were nor if they really represented a Lifeline free government cell phone company. Do you know what company they supposedly represented?
Mildred Melanson says
It was inside WALMART ,they had a large sign and table with a Banner, they would ask people if they wanted to get a free phone? Asked Everyone if they had mass health,food stamps etc, I watched them for awhile as they gave many people phones,they needed an I.D and mass health or food stamp proof,would see if you qualified,and set up a phone.they never asked for any $, I just didn’t get mine,because she was trying to set it up,But my Ride driver wouldn’t wait,she was going to give me her card with instructions on how to set up the phone,But the driver pulled away. So I didn’t get my phone. M.M
Free Government Cell Phones says
Well, we would assume that Walmart does a good job screening people before they allow them to sell within its walls, but you never know.
You can also enroll from the comfort of your own home, Mildred. Here’s an article that tells you everything you need to know:
https://www.freegovernmentcellphones.net/basics/qualify
Nicki says
Hello,
I have been a lifeline customer for almost a year and in another month will make 12 months. I am with AW and although I like their services I don’t like the phones they offer. Now I am reading you can bring your own phone with some of the companies. I am kind of confused what steps do I take first in order to switch lifeline providers. I have a month to do my homework and compare and apply. I really like reading this web page and reading the answers you give people. You get a two thumbs up from. While I wait for a response I will read over the providers and research which one is the best for me. Thank you.
Free Government Cell Phones says
Here’s the info you need, Nicki. You are on the right page to find all the service providers and plans in your state. And this article tells how to switch service providers:
https://www.freegovernmentcellphones.net/how-to-i-switch-lifeline-phone-companies
Donald Racette says
I am looking for a cell phone that uses push buttons to help an elderly lady in an A L F unit.. She is NOT able to use a smart phone,and can use a cell phone threw the government Freedom Program.
If you are capable of helping.Please send an application to me to help her fill out.
Donald Racette
Free Government Cell Phones says
You need to contact the Lifeline free government cell phone companies directly, Donald. This page shows all the companies and plans in your state, so contact one of them and they will surely help you out.
Timothy Foley says
I need a phone due to hardship
Free Government Cell Phones says
You need to apply for that phone, Timothy.
Lucy Plausse says
My grandson is 19 with special needs. He has a smart phone because he needs a visual supported phone. Can he qualify for a credit towards this plan?
Free Government Cell Phones says
Based on your brief description, Lucy, it sounds like he has a regular phone plan. If that’s the case, he can switch to a free government cell phone account, but he can’t apply the discount to his current cell phone. Here’s an article about all the leading companies’ upgrade/smartphone programs:
https://www.freegovernmentcellphones.net/which-lifeline-cell-phone-companies-offer-smartphones
Keep in mind that these upgrade/smartphones will require you to pay a relatively small upgrade fee. However, Q Link wireless is currently promising smartphones to all new customers. We don’t know where you live, but Safelink is also promising smartphones to all new customers in California.
Lucy Plausse says
Thanks so much for your quick response. One more question, if he currently owns an iPhone, can he keep this phone if he switches to a government contracted provider if there is a list of providers for MA?
Free Government Cell Phones says
Some companies offer already offer smartphones, Lucy, but not all. Here’s an article that tells you all about the smartphone upgrade policies of all the leading free government cell phone companies:
https://www.freegovernmentcellphones.net/which-lifeline-cell-phone-companies-offer-smartphones
Beginning on December 1, 2016 all companies are supposed to begin offering free smartphones to all new customers.
Eileen Borzilleri says
I have guardianship of my nephew who is 14 yo. He is on Mass health. Do I apply for him? He will need a phone for his travel to a new school.
Free Government Cell Phones says
Your nephew does not qualify because the minimum age is 18, Eileen. However, if you qualify for an account there is nothing to keep you from getting an account in your name and allowing him to use the phone.
Colleen Caine says
I have a cell phone that I bought. I have a 2 year agreement with them which doesn’t end until August of this year. I would like to keep my own phone and service if at all possible. I just need assistant paying my bill and I am not working, am homeless and I have no income to speak of.
Any assistance would be appreciated
Free Government Cell Phones says
You have an unusual situation, Colleen. Your problem is that 2-year agreement that runs for another two months or so. Here’s what we would do: Call your service provider and ask to speak to a supervisor. Explain your situation and ask if they will let you out of your contract. Be polite. These companies aren’t heartless and you may be surprised that they cooperate.
In the meantime, you can sign up for a free government cell phone now. There’s nothing to keep you from having a paid account and a Lifeline Assistance free account.
But that brings us to your next problem: You need an address in order to get a free phone. Here’s an article that tells you how to get a phone if you live in a shelter:
https://www.freegovernmentcellphones.net/free-phones-for-the-homeless
Good luck, Colleen. You’re in a difficult situation and we hope you get the help you need. Please come back to FreeGovernmentCellPhones.net and let us know what happens.
Maroun Ellakis says
I qualify to continue receiving free monthly wireless service thank you
anadgrullon says
I need this cell but when I register last year,, the cell never work …so i call and never get the replacement soo 2 weeks ago i get in touch but they told-me that was off no service thanks ana d grullon
James Gillon says
I am a 100% disabled veteran from the Viet Nam era. My fellow vets tell me that I can get a free phone but I don’t see that a Marine Corps disability applies to me. Is this true? Thank you.
FreeGovernmentCellPhones.net says
Sorry, disability is not a qualification.
Nohemi Sanchez says
Hi. My grandmother was living in Massachussett, and moved to Las Vegas, and the cell phone that she got from you guys do not work. Please tell me what are the steps that I have to follow to re-conected the cell phone or help her to apply for a new one.
Thank you
Dinah Kudatsky says
Hello friends,
I believe I qualify for this wonderful program. I already have an inexpensive flip-phone cell phone, (from AT&T), and I’m currently using AT&T’s inexpensive 10c a minute no-contract monthly service.So I wonder if I could two things: could I just get the free service, using the phone I currently have? Also, can I keep my current cell phone number, which I like?
My application is in the mail to you.Thank you!
mutshaim siddiqui says
hello,
my son is disable and he on ssi ,but need a cell phone .
i got for him from verzion and i pay a lot of money with contact,
how i am going to get free goverment cell phone.
thanks in advance in erly reply .
s a siddiqi
Scott Woods says
I need help. My unemployment ran out a few weeks ago. Most of my unemployment was spent traveling to and from interviews so far to no avail. I have no bank account, no cash and nothing left to pawn. I have no car due to a divorce. Trying to get a job, the last time I saw my kids was December 7th. One problem I’m encountering with no phone is no one wants to hire me because they can’t get a hold of me. Occasionally I borrow my brothers phone to call my kids. I’m begging for a phone to help me get a job and get on with my life. PLEASE PLEASE HELP ME.
Thanks for your time.
Scott Woods
swoods82@comcast.net
Brian king says
Would you please e-marketing me an application for a free cell phone in massachusetts?
FreeGovernmentCellPhones.net says
Sorry we can’t do that. All the info you need is in the article above.
stacy says
T mobile no longer offers these discounts.
hardeep says
I have free safelink phone ….can I switch with smart phone.
Enedina Perdomo says
I sent my application on 11/24/14 and still have not received the new cell phone.
My birthday:09/05/1943
Last 4 digit of my social:****
PIN:sent by you:761351
Please reply as soon as possible
Sincerly.
Enedina Perdomo
FreeGovernmentCellPhones.net says
We aren’t your phone company, so you’ll have to contact them. However, it’s only been about three weeks, and they are not always the fastest companies when it comes to delivery.
Jerilyn DiCostanzo says
I am the legal Guardian and sister for Mary Jill *****, who is 100% disabled, received SSI and Food Stamps. Would like to apply for a phone for her
Jerilyn DiCostanzo says
I am sorry I did not realize everyone can see my information???
john says
I please need an application for a free Phone…………
Thank You
John F. Spillane
******
Lynn,mass 01902
Free Government Cell Phones says
You should not post your address or other personal information on a public forum. We aren’t a phone company, you will need to enroll with one of the companies on the list above.
Simon Fletcher says
I require free phone immediately.
Free Government Cell Phones says
Yes sir!
syed Sabzpoush says
Greetings,
Thanks for the assistance having cell phone. But unfortunately to me there are some problems and neglect and default from the phone company and some times make the user uncomfortable add affected.
I got one of this phone with 250 minutes free call from ASSURANCE WIRELESS.
1) I was using about 60 mins received message your minutes are over you need to buy Minutes. No mins balance were displayed. After so many discussion with them. I had to cancel my phone and go to an other one.
2) I applied for Safe-kink Wireless it took 5 weeks to get the phone. the company is in out of state or Philippine I don’t know but in the time of internet and advance technology you ask all of this company it takes 10 days minimum to receive a letter or application and …
3) Anyway after so long writing and so fort I got my phone and thanks they give more mints and always display your balance. but after one month they inactive my phone without any notice I was in the middle of my surgery and they disconnect my phone and every day they send me SMS to buy minutes.
4) I called them to ask why I received unfair respond.
5) I talk to their Manager he said I will receive a letter I need to sign and mail it back to them
6) As today July 24 I have not received any letter from them.
7) When i call them every time they come up with different things
8) I have released this phone for my medical and transportation and got stressful.
9) Don’t you think this is MISS USING and MISMANAGING the Government money.
My inactive phone number is (857) 234-5679 please follow up on this case.
Regards
Rev.Ron Hoffman says
He, Rev. ***** is 75 years of age and living at Blackstone nursing home in Blackstone Ma..
Could u please send application to this email.
Thank u
Free Government Cell Phones says
You need to contact one of the phone providers listed above.