(TheDailyCurrents.com) – Going without a cell phone can cause significant issues in one’s home, work, or social life. Those on tight budgets will be eager to know about any opportunity to obtain cell phones for cheap — let alone, free! Here, we’ll summarize several programs from the Federal Communications Commission (FCC) and network providers, designed to increase not just phone access, but internet connectivity as well.

How To Get a Free Cell Phone

Network Retirement Upgrades

As mobile carriers shut down old networks (such as the 3G Phaseout), some have chosen to offer discounts or free devices to users affected by network shutdowns that make older devices obsolete.

The FCC’s Lifeline Program

If your cellular carrier doesn’t offer a free phone upgrade, the FCC’s Lifeline program may be another option, especially if you are on a limited budget. Lifeline provides monthly discounts for cellular service and a one-time discount on select cell phones.

The eligibility standards for Lifeline are similar to those of the Affordable Connectivity Program (ACP), but the the income limit is 135% of the federal poverty level. The benefits include up to $9.25 per month on cellular or internet service, or $34.25 for members of households on Qualifying Tribal Lands. Only one Lifeline discount is available per household, and the program is administered by the Universal Administrative Company (USAC).

The USAC provides a search tool to find which mobile carriers participate in the Lifeline program. There are hundreds of carriers involved in the Lifeline program, which varies by state. Use the USAC search tool to find which mobile carriers have Lifeline programs and which will provide a free phone along with service.

Life Wireless, for example, is one option that’s available in most areas. You can see their application terms and conditions here, which are generally similar to those from other carriers.

Internet Service from the Affordable Connectivity Program

Struggling with internet access as well? The FCC’s Affordable Connectivity Program (ACP) is a federal benefit that provides a monthly stipend of up to $30 for internet service (or $75 for households on Qualifying Tribal Lands) to qualifying US citizens. Those eligible may also be given a one-time discount on a computer or tablet of up to $100.

See the site for full eligibility and purchasing requirements, but generally, those meeting any one of the following criteria can apply for the ACP:

• Household income at or below 200% of the Federal Poverty Guidelines
• Involvement in another federal benefits program, such as Medicaid, Federal Housing Assistance, Supplemental Security Income (SSI), and more
• Involvement in one of a list of federal benefits programs for Qualifying Tribal Lands
• Receipt of a Federal Pell Grant in the same award year period
• Pre-approval in a participating internet provider’s low-income program

There is no minimum credit status required, and the discount is given directly to the internet provider, who then discounts the user’s account. ACP approval is given on a household basis, and they must apply through both the ACP (see affordableconnectivity.gov) and the participating internet provider (who may or may not have an application of their own).

Participating Internet Providers

There are hundreds of companies involved in the ACP program, and you can find more information about it at the ACP’s online FAQ. With the ACP, users can get set up with broadband internet, but the device discount only applies for laptops, desktops, and tablet devices. While it’s increasingly possible to activate some phone services through any internet-connected device, the ACP specifically excludes:

• Cell phones
• Large phones
• “Phablets” (tablets with cellular connectivity)

However, the monthly ACP discount can be applied to plans through internet providers that bundle cellular service with broadband internet and TV.

Staying Connected

One or several of these options should help you obtain free cell phone and/or internet coverage, along with a cell phone (or other device) itself. Be sure to read through and understand every form to ensure you have the broadest overview of the program(s) you are enrolling in.

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