If you receive Supplemental Security Income (SSI) or Medicaid and do not already have Lifeline telephone or wireless service, you likely qualify for free cell phone service through the Lifeline program.

To apply, call the wireless provider you prefer, or apply on their website:

  • Assurance Wireless: 1-888-898-4888 or www.assurancewireless.com
  • Safelink Wireless: 1-800-977-3768 or www.safelink.com
  • Access Wireless: must apply online at www.accesswireless.com

When asked for your address, be sure to provide a unique room number. (For example, if you have a roommate, list your room number as 201A and your roommate, if he or she applies for service, should list their room as 201B). This will ensure that you and your roommate will not be considered part of the same household.

You might need to send the wireless carrier a copy of your Medicaid card or SSI award letter after you call or apply online.

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Last Reviewed: July 5, 2023