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Ohio: Free government cell phones from ACP & Lifeline – Internet too!

The Buckeye State’s unemployment rate is even higher than the national average. When a recent Ohio newspaper poll asked the question “Are you worried about losing your job,” a remarkable percentage answered that they were already retired or unemployed.

Obviously, the state’s unemployment rate isn’t that high, but it does indicate how widespread the problem is in the Buckeye State. And it shows that there are a lot of Ohioans who can benefit from the Lifeline free government cell phone program and the newer Affordable Connectivity Program (ACP) free government internet phone service program.

Luckily, Lifeline is available to provide free cell phones and free minutes to the state’s residents. And ACP is available to provide free internet service.

In May 2011, Ohio accepted Assurance Wireless into the state, and soon Safelink Wireless followed. Now, Ohio residents have a number of Lifeline providers to choose from. Call several of them and see what types of phones they offer, and ask about texting charges and rollover minutes — the plans may differ slightly.

How to qualify for Lifeline Assistance free government cell phones in Ohio

Here’s a list of all the Lifeline Assistance free government cell phones in Ohio. 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 Ohio:

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 Ohio:

Ohio Lifeline Eligibility

You are eligible if you receive benefits from any of these programs in Ohio:

  • 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. We’ve taken care of the math for you and you can check your income against the amounts in the table below:

Income Based Eligibility for Ohio
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 Ohio

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.

Low-income Ohio residents should take advantage of these two great programs — Lifeline and ACP — as soon as possible. You can get a free smartphone, unlimited talk, unlimited texts, and maybe even unlimited data. As our old grannie used to say, “What the heck are you waiting for?”

Latest ACP & Lifeline News for Ohio:

How do Budget Wireless customers find a new free government cell phone company? - If you're one of those 800,000 abandoned Budget Wireless customers, what should you do next? How do you find another Lifeline company to replace Budget?
Companies dropping out: Trouble in the free government cell phone program? - Two of the top 20 LifeLine Assistance free government cell phone companies have now dropped out of the business. And two others have merged into a single company.
Free cell phone fraud out of control in Ohio - In 2008 there were only 280,000 state residents enrolled, but by 2011 it had increased to nearly 600,000. But 26,500 Ohio recipients have already been busted for violating the rules.
Cincinnati Bell enters Lifeline cell phone program in Ohio - Cincinnati Bell has just entered the Lifeline cell phone market in Ohio, with plans to expand in neighboring Kentucky soon.
Assurance Wireless Expands into Ohio with Lifeline Free Phones Service - People in Ohio who are facing tough economic times received a little bit more help this month, as Assurance Wireless became the second provider of no-cost Lifeline cell phones to the poor there.

If you have any other questions, please refer to the links in the sidebar.

Comments

    • Free Government Cell Phones says

      It can’t be “switched,” but if you’re paying for your Straight Talk account, you can have both accounts simultaneously or cancel StraightTalk and enroll in a Lifeline free government cell phone account.

  2. Stephanie Goodpaster says

    My name is Stephanie Goodpaster and I was wondering if I had any open accounts with any of your companies or not? The reason I ask is because an x boyfriend named Andrew Thompson has been using my information to obtain government phone’s and tablets which has caused me not to be able to get service and I do qualify for real. Thanks again. Please feel free to contact me by phone too. 513-635-****

    • Free Government Cell Phones says

      Please be aware, Stephanie, that FreeGovernmentCellPhones.net is not a service provider. This is an independent informational website that has zero affiliation with any of the Lifeline companies. You’ll need to contact each of the service providers on this page in order to check on your open accounts.

    • Free Government Cell Phones says

      You need to look at the service providers on this page, choose the plan you want, and enroll with that company, Patrick. We are not a service provider.

    • Free Government Cell Phones says

      We strongly urge our readers NOT to enroll at street events. They have bee the scenes of far too much fraud and abuse. Save yourself a lot of trouble and enroll by phone or online.

  5. Clinton Ward says

    I love the “Yes, its unlimited data……with a cap.” WTF? Are people really that stupid or is common sense lost in someones safe space? Why not be honest and say “No, Sir, we claim its unlimited but its not, in reality we make sure online usage is minimal unless you cough up money for our real Unlimited plan on top of the Unlimited plan you already have.” Yea……. gotta love the double speak. Politicians and Pawn shops fall in place. Free layaway…….with 10% down and 60 days to pay in full… I mean… FREE Layaway.. And for GOD sake, Politics are FAKE! Don’t waste your time or energy, put it all into family and you will have won. If you think there is voting like in Washiington days please find a cliff. Lincoln started the civil war because he wasnt on the ballots in most states and the ones he did go on was last second, ILLEGAL. Please wake up and put all YOUR TIME AND ENERGY INTO FAMILY! FREE PALESTINE!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

  6. Hasan Wali Shabazz says

    How do I get in touch with the national verifer?
    So I can send proof of award letter from SSA.

  9. Reticuli says

    You do realize that KY is a different state than Ohio, right? Why is it on this page?

    • Free Government Cell Phones says

      That is hilarious, Reticuli. That pages has been up for ten years, we’ve revised it numerous times, and it has been viewed by tens of thousands of people. And no one has ever spotted that typo until you came along. You win the Eagle-Eyed Reader Award.

      • Free Government Cell Phones says

        It’s impossible to know. You may get one phone while the person just before you gets a different make and model, and the person after you may get a third different make and model.

  10. Dennis Larson says

    Good morning, I filled out the form for a friend and mailed it to you. Her name is Tina Knisley and her address is *** ******* ***** ** *****. Did you receive the information? Do you have everything that you need? If so when can she expect her phone.She has medical problems that require contstant communication. Please let me know Thanks Dennis

    • Free Government Cell Phones says

      Sorry, Dennis, but we haven’t received anything because we are NOT a free government cell phone company. This is an independent informational website. You need to contact whatever company you enrolled with.

  11. Tucko says

    Assurance wireless A BIG FIIPPING JOKE, I’ve have had my phone for 4 months and nothing works right, first I had no data and seriously had to fight with them to fix it till finally gave me some code, I punched it in and what do you no, I’ve got data, but now after that code I cannot dial out but can do everything else I’ve called them and called , I have been through every code they have , then they tell me OH, YOU HAVE A TOWER BEING WORKED ON, bull**** and this is after I gave them my address , the hole downtown in Canton has these phones and they can call , but I tell them that ,they said I was lying, but they are all having some kind of problem with something else, I’ve asked I them to replace phone they say they can’t ,don’t get me wrong i’ts a great thing they are doing, this hole program is called SafeLink, and I can not even. I just guess I’m lying.🤔

    • Ronald Brown says

      i have Assurance Wireless phone worked good for 1 month then they k icked me off Facebook. Called them they couldn’t help me and that is how i connect with my family. need to find another carrier

      • Free Government Cell Phones says

        Not quite sure we understand your problem, Ronald. Who kicked you off Facebook? That’s not something your free government cell phone service provider should be able to do.

    • Marcia says

      I AGREE ASSURANCE IS A TOTAL JOKE !!! THEY GAVE ME NOTHING BUT PROBLEM TOO !!! HAD DIFFICULTY GETTING PROPER OR ANY RESPONSE AT TIMES, THEY’D ARGUE WITH ME LEFT AND RIGHT ON MY PHONE TIL I ALMOST HAD A HEART ATTACK !!! THEY DON’T DESERVE TO BE A GOVERNMENT PROVIDER !!!!!

  13. Eddie M Haines Jr says

    I submitted a copy of my drivers licence and document of snap. i have not recieved my governtment phone yet ;send it to covington georgia (Assurence wireless almost 2 months ago is this some kind of joke?

    • Free Government Cell Phones says

      All free government cell phone companies are required to offer smartphones to their new customers.

      • LeeAnne Vidette says

        Is this still true? I’m asking because I just signed up with q link like 2 weeks ago. But, nowhere could I find any offers for a cell phone. Only byop sim card kits and the option to buy a phone.

        • Free Government Cell Phones says

          Some plans offer phones, minutes, text and data. Other plans offer SIM cards in lieu of phones. Click on the specific service provider to find out what plans they offer. Plans also tend to change over time and companies often offer special limited time offers.

        • Marcia says

          Q-Link does offer a good service, I’m highly considering going with them….if you don’t mind a good android smart phone…. TracFone has a great Motorola Moto g pure !!! Contact them and see if you can choose your own phone service provider and not SafeLink !!!

  15. Diana Lynn Kelly says

    I need to get a SmartPhone that is at least a 5″ or 6″, what I am talking about a Samsung Galaxy if I can get get one of those please because I have trouble with my vision. Email me at *******@gmail.com please!!!!!

    • Free Government Cell Phones says

      We cannot email you, Diana, because of the volume of comments and questions we receive every day. We cannot tell you which company are offering which phones on any particular day because they are handed out randomly. You need to contact the companies found on this page to find out if they offer phones that meet your needs.

    • Charley Bland says

      Diana, check out consumer wireless, they aren’t government phones, but they offer very low cost plans for elderly/disabled. they also have phones that cater to those with poor eye sight

    • Trish says

      Omg girl your a bit much when us the tax payers are paying for it and your demanding some fancy large expensive phone. It cracks me up

  18. Amber says

    Has anyone found a government lifeline service provider that has fluent English speaking customer support?? It simply amazes me, that every federal government agency customer support that I personally have ever spoken to is foreign! No prejudice here (I don’t blame them a bit for excepting every penny the US government hands them) only to say my employer moved after 14 years (js reason on lifeline) and I’ve applied several times to government jobs only to be turned down for no experience!

  19. Jessie says

    Hi, in the above info, you listed several free cell phone companies, then after, a block of text saying many are fraudulent, and many have dropped out . Which ones are legit? I’m trying to get away from assurance wireless!

        • Free Government Cell Phones says

          That’s not how it works, Doris. You need to look at all the companies and plans on this list, choose the plan that fits your needs best, then enroll with that company using the contact info we provide.

  20. Leann Barber says

    My name is Leann Barber, I am the Forensic Nurse Manager for Mount Carmel Health System in Columbus Ohio. We serve very underserved individuals through our department that come in for Sexual Assault, Domestic Violence, Interpersonal Violence, Human Trafficking, Strangulation, Gun Shot wounds and Stabbings. I have a question about government phones? We have phones that we are able to distribute to our patients, but recently have found the need for several of our patients that could use a phone other than a 911 phone but we are not sure where to turn. Is it possible for us to obtain phones ahead of time to be able to distribute at the time of service.

    Thank You

    • Free Government Cell Phones says

      Unfortunately, that’s impossible according to the rules of the program, Leann.

  21. Irene Abon says

    I am in america with F2 visa which doesnt allow me to work my husband is studying at ohio university and is on scholaship, i get sponsored food by food box do I qualify for tree phone?

    • USA Sux says

      This country is sinking itself. It’ll happen and all you on the government tit will be crying when the country is in trouble yet it’ll be your lazy worthless asses that will have caused it. I have no pride in this politically correct, crybaby l, completely worthless country anymore.

      • Marcia says

        I AGREE 💯👍 WITH YOU THIS COUNTRY HAS GONE TO #### WITH BIDEN !!! I TRIED TO SAY MY PIECE A FEW MINUTES AGO IN A REPLY BUT THEY DIDN’T PUBLISH IT !!!!

        • Free Government Cell Phones says

          Let’s clear up one misconception, Marcia. We approve virtually every comment left by our readers. There are a few exceptions, such as when one commenter threatens another commenter or when the comment is so filled with vile language that deleting the objectionable words makes a comment unintelligible.

          In your case, we just didn’t get around to seeing your comment. Sometimes it’s as simple as a time zone difference between commenter and moderator causing a delay in when the comment is seen. There’s not a lot of money in this operation, so comments sometimes sit for a few hours before they are seen. You left a lot of comments this morning and they have all been approved and posted.

  22. Rick says

    The article posted above looks like it was published in 2014.(?) Could I get the most recent listing of LifeLine phones/service available in Ohio.

    THANK YOU

    • Free Government Cell Phones says

      Our state listings are continuously updated, Rick. So this is a current list.

  23. John Tuohy says

    I receive a 10% disability benefit from the military and my gross income is over your limit. Do I qualify for a free phone?

    • Marcia says

      MILITARY AND VETERANS SHOULD RECEIVE ANY POSSIBLE BENEFITS THAT THEY NEED TO BE ABLE TO SURVIVE IN OUR WORLD AT LEAST AS GOOD AS US IF NOT BETTER !!!! THEY’RE THE ONLY REASON WE HAVE WHAT WE HAVE TODAY VS OTHER COUNTRIES !!!!!!!! THANK GOD FOR THEM EVERY DAY OF YOUR LIFE !!!!

    • Marcia says

      I TRIED TO RESPOND TO YOU EARLIER BUT THEY OBVIOUSLY DIDN’T LIKE MY RESPONSE….GOD 🙏 BLESS ALL OF YOU VETS AND ALL YOU’VE DONE TO MAKE OUR COUNTRY BETTER THAN ANY OTHER !!!! I PRAISE ALL OF YOU !!!!

      • Free Government Cell Phones says

        See our response to one of your earlier comments. The fact that your comment wasn’t approved immediately had nothing to do with liking or not liking what you said.

  24. Jackie says

    I have a Lifeline phone through Assurance Wireless and would like to switch to a company that is easier to deal with. I requested a smartphone through them and had to pay $25, then Fedex lost the shipment. They eventually refunded my money, but it is hard to get through to a live person. Can I switch companies? Is my number portable?

  25. Mike hotton says

    I sign up with a link according to them they sent the phone .
    Which I still am waiting for after months. I get ails from them with statements with remaining minutes which to date have always stayed the same. I have tried to contact them to no avail. What do I do? Thank you.

    • Free Government Cell Phones says

      There’s a typo in your comment, Mike, and we assume you meant to say “I get emails….” How have you tried to contact your service provider?

  26. Denise Dillon says

    I have no income. i have’nt since 2001. i have epilepsy and am diabetic. i have been homless for several yrs but i am currently staying on the 1st floor of someones home. I do recxieve snap and medicade. i also have a disaility claim open, but im not sure that ill get it. i need a phone so that i can call for help when i am ill, or have a seizure. i also have c.o.p. broncitis, and asthma.. i applied for a phone from another company but was told becuse one of the men who live upstaires has one but he’s had 2 strokes within 4 months among other disabilities, and needs to carry the phone with him at all times. i do not get to use it. i cant gain employment b/c i was told i was a liability due to my seizures/ it’s literally a matter of life and death. if i am unconcious for too long i can suffer brain damage and there is no one to care for me.

    • Free Government Cell Phones says

      You have run into one of the unfortunate quirks in the Lifeline Assistance program, Denise. You can’t get a phone because someone else at your address has one. The rules make exceptions for multiple people living in a group home (such as a homeless shelter), but it’s tougher to get an exception in a situation like yours. You need to contact a free government cell phone company’s customer service team. Ask to speak to a supervisor. Explain that you are NOT part of the same household as the man upstairs who has a free government cell phone. They should make an exception under those circumstances.

    • Kara says

      I would purchase another mailbox and sticker(s) for A & B or 1/2. Easiest way to add an address from what I understand if the supervisor you talk to at the phone company can’t assist you.

  27. Patty Wiseman-Offinger says

    I was with Budget Mobile. But they closed up, so I’m left without a phone and service. Can you please help me. My phone number with them was: 740-480-****. I hope you can help me get another phone . Thank you !

    • Free Government Cell Phones says

      You qualify for an exception to the USAC’s 60 day rule, because, in the USAC’s own words, “Current Lifeline service provider ceases operations or otherwise fails to provide service.”

      That means “Lifeline subscribers may cancel service and receive a new Lifeline-supported service with another provider until the end of the original 12-month period. In these circumstances, the subscriber is not required to re-verify eligibility until the end of the original 12-month period. Requests for exception are reviewed on a case by case basis by USAC.”

      Here’s a link to the USAC, where you can apply for the exception:

      http://www.usac.org/default.aspx

  28. Patty Wiseman-Offinger says

    I had a government phone, with Budget Mobile, they went out of business and I need to get another company and phone. I am 65 and on Social Security.

  30. Rhonda Hayes says

    Do these phones allow calls going out to be blocked. My mother in law has dementia and has been making nuisance calls, we would like her to be able to receive calls but not call out. She is in a nursing home and can call out with there phone.

    • Free Government Cell Phones says

      You can find the information you need by doing a Google search for the make and model of your phone plus the words “user manual.”

  31. Lisa Love says

    YES,HELLO,MY NAME IS LISA LOVE I RECEIVED UR FREE CELL PHONE I SIGN UP AND RECEIVED MY CELL PHONE IN JULY OR AUGUST OF 2015 I THINK , MY CELL PHONE I CAN’T HEAR A THING ,WHEN SPEAKING TO SOMEONE SPEAKING, BECAUSE I CAN’T HEAR THEM,,ON THE OTHER LINE, SO MY QUESTION IS CAN I RECEIVE ANOTHER FREE CELL PHONE,OR CAN I RECEIVE A FREE CELL PHONE FROM Q LINK,INSTEAD, BECAUSE I SIGN UP FOR Q LINK,AND THEY SAID I WILL HAVE 2 TALK TO U GUY’S,FIRST,SO DO I GET OUT OF UR CONTRACT,AND SIGN UP FOR Q,LINK ???SO I DON’T KNOW WHAT TO DO ??THEY SAID I WAS APPROVED TO GET A FREE PHONE FROM THEM,,SO COULD U PLEASE CALL ME @937 640 ****EMAIL ME @ *****@gmail.com,THANX,, ALSO DO UR COMPANY,GIVE OUT FREE MEDICAL ALERT SYSTEM,, BECAUSE I REALLY NEED ONE,BECAUSE I GET THESE 😵 SPELLS, AND I’M TIRED OF FALLING DOWN?? PLEASE,LET MR KNOW OK, THANX

    • Free Government Cell Phones says

      We are not a free government cell phone company, Lisa. (Great name, by the way.) We’re an independent informational website. You need to contact your service provider’s customer service or tech support team to solve your problems.

      • Marcia says

        Please advise the lady, Lisa, that when she makes a phone call from a cell phone, there’s a place that says speaker. Touch that spot and it’ll put the person on speaker and she can adjust the volume Up or Down. GOOD 👍 😊 🤞 LUCK !!!

    • Tim Windhorst says

      It has been my experience that the government offers free medical alert line or free phone, NOT BOTH. They are considered separate.

      • Free Government Cell Phones says

        We honestly know nothing about free medical alert phones, Tim. They’re outside our area of expertise and don’t think we’ve ever mentioned them on this site.

        • Marcia says

          IF you check under government programs or benefits.com, I believe…. I’ve found out ALL kinds of programs and assistance people can get that are disabled, over 50, and so forth…. ALL KINDS OF ASSISTANCE, YOU WOULDN’T BELIEVE THE HELP OUT THERE, ….IF YOU QUALIFY… I’M STILL IN A NURSING REHAB FACILITY…. BUT I’M GETTING OUT SOON !!!! GOOD 👍 🤞 LUCK !!!

    • Free Government Cell Phones says

      Do you know why it has no service, Marie? Did you do your annual certification? Is it broken? Something else? You need to contact your service provider’s customer service team to get an answer.

  33. Alan Mangini says

    I tried to apply for a cell phone from two different places and was turned down. They told me that I’m already receiving the lifeline benefit therefore they couldn’t help me. I haven’t received this benefit for at least 4 years. So I’m assuming someone is either collecting in my name or the last company I dealt with over 4 years ago is and has been collecting money from you all and providing no benefits to me.

    • Free Government Cell Phones says

      Call one of the companies again and ask to speak to a supervisor. Explain your situation and tell the supervisor that you “need help in clearing up this NLAD mistake.” NLAD is the National Lifeline Assistance Database. It keeps track of all customers participating in the program. Mistakes pop up all the time.

  34. Sandra sumling says

    Someone stole my phone. I don’t remember the carrier. please help if u can. my number is 614 649 ****,

    • Free Government Cell Phones says

      We can’t help you, Sandra, because we are not your service provider. Well, maybe we can help you. The only way we can think of for you to find out which company is your service provider is to go down the list of providers in your state and call them one-by-one to ask if they’re your provider. They’ll need to ask you some questions (maybe social security number, address, name, phone number, etc) to figure out if you’re one of their customers.

      Unfortunately, there are 13 Lifeline service providers in Ohio and you’ll need to call each one until you find your provider. Here’s a link to that list. Just click on your state:

      https://www.freegovernmentcellphones.net/states

  35. Sherry Trueblood says

    I have a life line govt phone. However it does NOT work at my house. I would like to change my service to a company that actually works at my home. There is a Verizon tower 2 miles from my house. Can I use that tower or how can I get service that works here? Please call me. I can’t access my e mail 740-637-**** Thank you Sherry Trueblood

    • Free Government Cell Phones says

      We’re unable to call you, Sherry, because of the sheer volume of comments and questions we get every day. So we hope you see our answer here.

      We have no way of knowing if a tower two miles away will provide a strong signal at your home. There are just too many variables (and 2 miles is a loooong way). What we’d suggest is that you ask your neighbors what cell company they use and if they’re happy with their cell service. Then find one of the free government cell phone companies that uses that same network.

  36. Patricia Kinney says

    I am now getting SSI/Disability,Ohio food Card, I have found my old one phone that was sent to me from the Freedom phone. How can if possible to have it turn on or how can I start to use it. If I may. Thank you. Patricia Kinney

    • Free Government Cell Phones says

      There’s no reason to stick with that old phone, Patricia. All you need to do is enroll with any free government cell phone company in your state. They’ll include a new phone in your new plan. Here’s where you can find a complete list of companies in your state. Check them all out to find the one that’s best for you — the most minutes, the most texts, data plan, etc.

      https://www.freegovernmentcellphones.net/states

  37. Susan Fiore says

    My mom lives in a nursing home. She had to sell everything she owned to pay for it. She doesn’t get food stamps or Medicaid, yet. Would she still be able to get a cell phone through the government? Her kids are unable to talk to her when needed.

  38. Michelle says

    Hello –

    I am classified as homeless. I do not have a mail address, and shelter services do not seem to help in my case for a mail address. Do you have any suggestions for receiving a free phone? I noticed sometimes there are people that try to sign people up or…

    I tried suggestions such as a shared PO Box, Single Service for someone with friends, and other issues, but they don’t help me at this time.

    Thank you very much for your time and consideration.

  39. Jason says

    How are the free minutes added? Is there a set date? Is it determined by when you buy it or is it the same for everyone in the state of Ohio?

    • Free Government Cell Phones says

      The sale and purchase of extra minutes is determined by the free government cell phone company. You’ll need to check to policy of each company on its own website.

      • Jason says

        So depending on the company will determine what date they decide to add the free monthly minutes?

        • Free Government Cell Phones says

          That is correct. Most add them on the first of the month, but some add them on the anniversary date of your enrollment.

  40. richard urbanski says

    Is there someplace I can go to do this instead of over the phone or internet?

    • Free Government Cell Phones says

      Very few free government cell phone companies publish schedules of where and when their street teams will be out in the community. On top of that, we do not recommend dealing with the street teams because there have been too many problems with scams. Please take our advice and apply by phone or online if at all possible.

    • Free Government Cell Phones says

      Some companies’ websites offer a feature that allows you to plug in your zip code to determine if they serve your community. Others do not. In that case, the only way to get your question answered is to contact each companies’ customer service team by phone or online. Good luck.

  42. Loretta Allen says

    Reguardless of the numbers listed for customer service to speak with a person to answer questions @ assurance wireless all I get is a automated voice. How do I reach a person? I do have a free phone and I trying to make a choice. the number I have are 1 888 321 5880 or 1 888 898 4888

    • Free Government Cell Phones says

      We have the right numbers. We called the 5880 number and got connected to a live rep. Try it again.

  43. Regina Niehaus says

    I have custody of my great niece and receive are course for her and she receives free lunch. Am I eligible?

    • Free Government Cell Phones says

      If you have legal custody of your niece, you should qualify for a free government cell phone as a result of her status with the National School Lunch Program.

  44. Shepherd Verhoff says

    I moved from Columbus, Ohio to near Lucasville in Scioto County. I am about 15 miles from the Ohio River.

    Reception is haphazard at best in these rolling hills. I had to toss my phone. My provider did not provide in this area. No complaints though, free is free. No one company can be everywhere.

    My question is what company does provide here? If I have to stand on my roof or walk around in the yard to make a call that’s on me. It isn’t the government’s fault where I live.

    I will make do with what is available, if indeed anything is.

    Is anything available here?

    Thank you everybody.

    • Free Government Cell Phones says

      Go to our “States” page (found in the navigation bar at the top of this page) and click on your state. That will take you to a full listing of your local service providers. Unfortunately, this will take a little research on your part. You’ll need to contact each of the companies to ask which national network (Spring, Verizon, etc.) provides their service. You’ll also need to figure out which of those national networks provides the best signal in your area. For example, if Sprint has the best signal in your area, you need to find a free government cell phone provider that uses the Spring network. That’s the company you should go with for your Lifeline Assistance plan. Good luck.

  45. Pam Owen says

    My brother in law was provided a free cell phone through the state of Ohio. He recently passed away but the phone is still active. How to I go about having this phone turned off if I do not know which provider he used to obtain it in the first place?

  46. John C Uncapher says

    Q Link Wireless in Ohio is the worst, do not sign up with them… they offer smart phones with there service, but if your phone breaks the will send you an old phone that is not a smart phone and will not connect to wireless or hot spots… the old bate and switch

    my initial phone was a Samsung touch screen smart phone and it had issues with charging form the day I received it, I ordered a new charger and battery to see if that would fix the issue, about 30 days after installing the new battery and using the new charger the phone turned off and would not turn on again…. they wanted me to pay $25 to replace the DEFECTIVE phone which is absolutely ridiculous, they finally agreed to send out a new phone free of charge after looking at my account and realizing that what I was stating was completely true… unfortunately the new phone was NOT a smart phone and it has absolutely NO capability to connect to the internet via wi-fi or hot spots

    their customer service is the absolute worst… DO NOT SIGN UP WITH Q Link Wireless as a lifeline provider!!!!!!!!!

  47. Chuck Suchland says

    My brother is confined to a Nursing home in Northwest Ohio, (45885), he needs a phone. He is on Ohio Medicaid. Who is the best company and most free minutes for our area?

  49. meagan marsh says

    Hello, I am a full time school student. I am currently going through a divorce. Me and my husband have been separated for quite some time now. He left me high and dry so I have no income. However, I need a phone for school. Some advice would be nice. thank you

  50. John Beaty says

    I began working with Budget Mobil in November 2015 and a phone was received 12/12. The service is terrible. Here are some facts sent to their service representatives: “Hera, I spent about 2 hours’ yesterday going to four cell phone stores trying to locate a battery. The last one was Batteries Plus and they could get a battery in 3-5 days for $29.99. We don’t want to spend that much to solve the problem nor wait 5 days. As to the charger one of my grandsons has a charger that will work with this phone and I will put it on charge with it. I believe the problem is the battery will not hold a charge. The phone is a ZTE VRZ and the date is 03/2010 under the battery. I am shocked to see how old this phone is and that your firm would send it to us. I have spent several hours searching for a manual for this phone and have been unable to find one. Given the situation we should return the phone and cancel this account. We will contact other vendors to find a new phone that works along with a manual. Please give me the information to return the phone and once received give me confirmation of receipt and cancellation of the account and I will contact other vendors.

    How many free call/text credits does this plan have? There is no way we could have used a reasonable number in the short time we have had the phone. I have searched the information I have and find nothing about the credits we get!

    All-in-all this is proving to be a poor experience.

    There is no way that 250 minutes could have been used between 12/12 and when the phone went out about a week ago or 12/22.

    How can I get a provider to give me a new phone that works, a manual on how to use it, a phone immediately, and service. Where is evaluation of the various companies?

  51. Linda Frost says

    Do you have to have a land line home phone to get internet service, or can you get it if you have a cell phone?

  52. DG Taylor says

    I have not been able to work in the last two years. I have issues with my back, my hand and have had several blood clots. So am unable to work….my comment is this
    I live in Hiram, Ohio with family and because these companies don’t recognize my physical address and in Hiram mail is delivered to the post office, I get disqualified. The house I live in was built in 1876… we’ve lived in this house since 1967. It is my residence…is it my fault your computer won’t take my address? I am on Medicaid and get food stamps….I have absolutely NO income. I need help is there anyone who feels this with me?

    • J Burton says

      With Budget Mobile you will need a physical address but they can use a shipping address also they will ship to a PO Box

  53. Rael Marie says

    My granddaughter is 12 and qualifies for the school free lunch program & Medicaid. Does she qualify for a free cell phone in Columbus, OH area?

  54. Lazar Balshen says

    I have a phone from Safe link, but it doesn’t work correctly, and the company for a long time doesn’t want to replace the phone.
    Am I able to switch to another provider and how to do this?

    • debbie says

      You can switch to a different company with life wireless!! Your other phone will be off though. If you let me know where your located I might be able to find out if there is a Rep. close by!!! Good Luck!! 🙂

  55. Brad says

    I am in desperate need of a wireless phone. I am my 79 year old mother’s full time caretaker. I/we need to be able to stay in contact with each other when I leave the house. I mainly need to be able to call & check on her & she needs to be able to contact me in case of a medical emergency or for any thing she may need while I am at the grocery, bank, etc. I am on Medicaid & on Food Assistance. We MUST be able to reach each other in case of emergencies! There was an emergency three years ago when she was in a terrible car accident & she had no way of letting me know that she had been in an accident, totaled the car, & was hurt. Please Help! This is a must have situation for safety & health reasons & to also give us both a sense of security & peace of mind being able to check on her while I’m out & if she needs to contact me. Once again, please help!!! And thank you very much for your help concerning this matter & for your understanding.

    Sincerely,
    Brad Bunker

    • debbie says

      Brad, where are you located?? If in Ohio, look for life wireless. I am a rep for them. If you lived near Columbus Vicinity I could get you one same day. I activate & you get your phone right then. No waiting for it to come in mail. They are a good company. Not just because I’m a field Rep.but because your 500 minutes roll over. Most other companies don’t offer that. Plus if you ate a vet, you receive 100 extra minutes besides the 500. If you let me know where your located I can see if a Rep.is near you!! Good luck!! 🙂

      • J Burton says

        Most of the life wireless free phones are little tiny cheap phones that the screens are so little you need a magnifying glass just to dial a number BUT my Budget phone is a big nice touchscreen that is very modern, yes you have to wait a couple days for it to come in the mail but chances are you will still need a phone in a few days

  57. Linda says

    I have uploaded proof of Medicaid twice now and emailed the support team and tried calling I dont get an answer. Online it says it’s in the process of being verified still yet i just received an email stating they didn’t receive my proof. I have paid my phone service and want to know what’s going on. I either want to get a refund or the phone. I need it or wouldnt have applied. Emergency phond yet i have to go thru all this trouble??

  59. angela beekman says

    i have applied for a budget mobile about 2 mths ago and uploaded proof still havnt herd anything back i dont know if i have been approved.

  60. vikki cabaniss says

    My battery went dead and my book is lost also. I have drove everywhere, Batteries not sold! Where do I get one? Also ,Did it delete my numbers and names?

  61. david lee mccoy says

    i do not know whom i am with,my phone dead i need a new one,and possible with some one with a phone that my big fingers will fit on the buttons,please help.thank you.phone 740-444-**** my cell was 740-426-****.

    • FreeGovernmentCellPhones.net says

      You probably just ned to purchase a new battery, and you don’t need to go to your provider to get it. Just go to a Best Buy, Staples or search Amazon.

  62. Dennis says

    I am a 63 year old Vietnam Vet, and currently on 10% disability. I do not have any income besides a $132.00 a month disability from VA. A person allows me to reside with them, but there is no family or close connection. I am not on any other type of assistance program. I am trying to get VA to approve my many other disabilities, but, that takes a long time. So, my question is, when it comes to “house hold income”, do I have to include the persons income who simply allows me to live with them , instead of me being homeless? YES, they have in the past year claimed me as a dependent, because I cannot contribute to them any way financially. Help please. Not being on any type of assistance, and living in someones home who has an income which exceeds the minimum amount seems to disqualify me,,, but I am not really a “member of the household” as I see it, but how does the program view this situation.???

    • FreeGovernmentCellPhones.net says

      We found this definition at LifelineSupport.org:

      Your household is everyone that lives together at your address as one economic unit (including children and people who are not related to you.)

      An economic unit is all adults that live with you and contribute to and share in the income and expenses of the household. Household expenses include: food, health care expenses (medical bills), the cost of renting or paying a mortgage, and utilities (including water, heat and electricity).

  63. m ary says

    Hi My mom is in a nursing home on medicaid, I would like to get her a phone. Please contact me. 419 *******

    • FreeGovernmentCellPhones.net says

      We can’t contact you about this, you need to contact one of the companies on the list in the article above.

  64. Elaine Hogan says

    I think I realize now, after reading your fact based information for the suppliers in Ohio, that the names of many of the programs cause much confusion. Specifically, when I dialed “Lifeline” at Cin Bell last week, I was not connected to the Lifeline letter which Cin Bell sent out requiring re verification due to the 1 home/1 person rule. Maybe that is incorrect, it is too confusing to tell, but that 800 # no longer works anyway. Also, I remember having their current cell phone service 20-25 years ago via Cin Bell and it was just called wireless. I remember it because I was always trying to hit the minutes amount without penalty. How can they call I Wireless a Lifeline program? I recognised that the CSR told me to apply at a Cin Bell store and that gave it away to me that it was only for their IWireless. I appreciate this site for clarification and I think the only help I need now (no need to print my letters) is to figure out who is the Lifeline program that makes the decisions which seemingly required Safelink to deactivate my phone. I am willing to understand my/any mistakes I have made to have the safety of the cell phone when I am out the door. Thank you very much. I really appreciate your site and hard work synthesizing so much information for so many folks.

  65. Elaine Hogan says

    I have gratefully used Safelink for 3 years by qualifying under 3 criteria and re certified every year by phone or online. But I have been accused by Lifeline, now operated by Cin Bell, of 2 people having Lifeline phones at my address. It took me awhile to figure out why the previously polite customer service are no longer answering my questions and concluded (they won’t respond to me) they do not believe me or ? I followed Cin Bell’s directions in December by verifiing via 800 line that I was, indeed, the only one at my address using Lifeline. Safelink even sent a new phone when mine was no longer serviceable. I even went along when Lifeline’s CSR insisted I have to re verify as if I’d never been in the program. When I told them that I used to board homeless women here until they were able to find a place to live and one of them still uses my address for other programs I thought there would be a solution. I have read about the fraud which now permeates the program but I am frightened to go 2 weeks, 4, 6 weeks without the phone. What can I do to get the help I need? I get nowhere when I call. Thank you for your assistance.

    • FreeGovernmentCellPhones.net says

      Your address is obviously showing up twice on the FCC’s National Lifeline Accountability Database (NLAD), which every vendor legally must check. We are not aware of any process for an individual to correct the information on there — it must be done my a phone vendor. It’s like being on the no-fly list, you’re screwed.

  67. LOUISE BURGESS says

    I DONT WANT THE CELL PHONE I HAVE AS I CANT SEE IT EASILY AND ITS TOO SMALL
    I WANT TO KNOW IF YOU CAN GET ME A FREE SMART PHONE AND FREE MINUTES
    THANK YOU AND GOD BLESS YOU FOR YOUR GIVING LB

  69. Bijay says

    I am here at ohio columbus I would like to know where I can go in person to get free phone service I am very new to this place my zip code is 43224

  70. saida berkioun says

    i barely two months here in Ohio and I am pregnant and i don’t work and I have no money to buy a cell phone since I took needs to make an appointment at the hospital. i need a cell phone if you can help me please
    My address is *** KING AVE APT BLDG 1 9 COLUMBUS OH 43212 ZIP CODE

  71. Dorothy Stinchcomb says

    assurance wireless cut me off because I would not agree to allow a third party to have access to my cell number and my personal information, what else do we have to do sell our soul? so I am looking for another service after being with them for 5 years.

  72. Calvin Felder JR. says

    My phone was stolen and I would like to get a replacement phone but I don’t know what company my phone was with. I tried to get a replacement phone today but I was told that I was already in the system but I don’t know what company I was with. I am still trying to get a replacement phone. I would like to know how I could report the company so that I could get a replacement phone

  73. Ashley Schmachtenberger says

    Hi, My name is Ashley. I am a Family Advocate for Head Start in Dover ohio. I am looking to help a family in our program. dad informed me today that they have to have their phones turned off due to economic hardship. we have to have a way to reach them while their child is in our program so i offered your program, but they have no way of signing up themselves. they have no internet anymore, and no gas to get to the center for me to help them. so he has given me permission to fill out the application on his behalf.
    I am actually having a difficult time finding the online app. i have been directed in circles…if you could, please send me a link to the application.
    thank you!
    Ashley
    Family Advocate
    HARCATUS Head Start
    Dover Learning Center

  74. LOIS J YOUNG says

    I received a message i had to recertify, when i tried the number it kept cutting out on me, so i called customer service to see what’s going on. I was informed that i have to send in a copy of my drivers licence, and bank statement since i have direct deposit, i ger ssd every month nothing has changed since i signed up 4 or 5 years ago is this true, it sounds kind of fishy to me, & it was a guy i couldn’t understand very well so had to have him keep repeating what he said, my question is do i have to send this stuff in or can it be something else that doesn’t have certain information on it, not comfortable with sending anybody my banking info ty

    • Free Government Cell Phones says

      We certainly would not recommend sending anything with your bank information on it to anyone.

  75. Betty Jeanne McClintock says

    At 76 years of age and receiving a PERS Retirement Direct Deposit of $945.97 PLUS Social Security of
    $198.00 = Total of $1143.97. It appears to me I qualify, do I? Also have a sever hearing problem that
    Ohio Rehab mostly helped me to get, so do you have a free phone for the hearing impaired?

    • Free Government Cell Phones says

      You qualify but I don’t know if any of the providers have phone for the hearing-impaired.

  76. Toni says

    Looking for a government phone with the most text and minutes plus a phone if it’s free! THANK YOU!

    • Free Government Cell Phones says

      All you have to do is move your eyes upward and read the article on this page.

  77. Jeanie Friar says

    I have lost access to phone service due to inability to pay for a replacement phone for the one I purchased from the Cricket company, who does not provide service in the Ohio Barberton area. I was willing to pay for the Forty Six dollars to have mobile web, so I had contact with out of state relatives, but the phone died and I cannot afford to replace it and they won’t honor the warranty. I got it in September 2013 and it dies two days ago July 14, 2014. I see no other option but to apply for a “free phone” as I am below the poverty guidelines indicate above. Could you mail the application to me as access to the computer is limited to when it is not used by other residents in my senior living facility? I hope so. Thank you.

  78. Theodore J. Nesbitt says

    I am 72 years old, single and retired. I receive $1001 per month in Social Security benefits and a teachers’ retirement check of $331 per month. My total monthly income is $1332. I have taken a part-time job through which I earn about $180 per month — and most months less than that.

    Am I eligible for a cell phone or any other kind of government assistance?

    Thank you.

    Ted Nesbitt

  79. Richard M. Basil says

    I am on Social Security Disability, and I get extra help, and HEAP. I am interested in government free cell phone. Thank you

    • Barbara jones says

      I lost my phone and did not use any Nov minutes. When I called to order new phone, because I have moved, computer said I had to go to pc n re apply. Is that the norm?

      • Free Government Cell Phones says

        Yes. If you lost the phone and it went unused for 30 days or more, the rules of the Lifeline program say that your account will be cancelled. We cannot be certain that’s what happened, but it seems likely.

        • lori may says

          lost my phone several months ago, i just tried to reapply it says i already have phone and cant recertify until feb 2018. what now

          • Free Government Cell Phones says

            You shouldn’t have attempted to reapply, because your account was still active, Lori. Contact your service provider’s customer service team, explain that your phone was lost and ask about it’s replacement policy. You may be required to pay a small fee or you may be able to use another phone (if you already own one). But you should be able to get your service up and running again.

          • Tim Windhorst says

            Free Government Cell Phones gives conflicting information: (Dec 5 & Dec 6, 2017). One day it says if phone went unused 30 days, your account will be cancelled. You must reapply. The next day if states if your phone has been lost for several months, do NOT try to reapply because your account is still active, contact customer service of your provider. Clarification needed– WHICH IS IT?

          • Free Government Cell Phones says

            The answer is 30 days, Tim. We don’t know what article you’re talking about that says not to re-apply. Got a link?