A QUICK GUIDE ON APPLYING FOR A FREE CELL PHONE

Authored by Athena Nagel

In a world where some products or services are steadily becoming more expensive, government programs offering free phones to low-income groups can be a tremendous help. Thanks to these programs, most people will be able to afford the latest smartphones and fast internet plans. Other options include researching second hand phone shops Brisbane.

To use these free cell phone programs by the government, you must first check if you are eligible. The process is fairly simple, and will allow you to enjoy a free phone and easy access to a free or discounted plan, should you qualify.

Here’s a brief guide to help you along the way.

• Check if you qualify

The very first step is to check if you are eligible for the Lifeline Assistance government program. You can do this by assessing your income. You qualify for the program if your income is at or less than 135% of the Federal poverty government guidelines.

For example, if you are the only earning member at home, you should have an income of below $12,760 per year to qualify for this program.

Alternatively, if you are already enrolled in any of the following government plans, you are automatically eligible for the free phone scheme.

• Federal Public Housing Assistance
• Supplemental Security Income
• Medicaid
• Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program
• Tribal-specific schemes (Head Start, Food Distribution Program on Indian Reservations, etc.)
• Veterans Pension and Survivors Benefits Programs

If you fall into either of the above categories, you will be eligible for this helpful free phone plan.

• How to apply for the program

You have to submit certain documents such as income proof and others when applying for the free cell phone programs. The set must include the following:

• The previous year’s federal, state, or Tribal income tax returns
• A paycheck stub or current income statement ratified by your employer
• A Veterans Administration statement
• A Social Security statement
• A statement of Unemployment/worker’s benefits
• A pension statement
• Documentation pertaining to divorce, child support, etc.
• Tribal/Federal notification letter

Besides the above, you also need to give an unexpired official copy documenting details such as your Social Security number, identity, and DOB (Date of birth).

Typically a copy of one or more of these documents is required: Birth Certificate, Driver’s License, Permanent Resident Alien Card, Passport, Military Discharge Documentation, etc.

Sometimes, people may be asked to provide additional paperwork if the above ones are not enough to prove their income and identity claims. The agency will then conduct a manual verification of documentation.

• Additional useful information

There are specific strict guidelines that one must follow when applying for a free phone. Some of the crucial ones include:

• Applicants to the program should be at least eighteen years old or above.
• Only emancipated minors (below eighteen years of age) can apply. However, they need to submit a verified court document or certificate that proves they are emancipated.
• Each qualifying household can get only one free phone. In simple terms, the benefit is one phone per house, not per person.
• You cannot get the benefit from more than one service provider.
• It is imperative to be completely honest on the submission form. Those who fail to do this can be disbarred from the program and may also face legal action from the government.
• The program is non-transferable. So, you cannot give away your benefit to someone else, even if they qualify for it.

Ensure to remember all these points during the application and enjoy a hassle-free process.