Free Government Phone - Do You Qualify?

Having a cell phone has become a necessity.

The economy is in bad shape and many families are struggling to keep the bills paid on time. A free government phone is available for eligible low income families and individuals. A cell phone is no longer a luxury. In this day and age it has become a necessity. Everyone needs a means of communication in case of an emergency. Single, working moms needs to be accessible for their children's school. Everyone needs to be able to call for help if their car breaks down on the road. Disabled, shut-ins, and elderly citizens need to have a means of contacting family and others if help is needed. The reasons goes on and on.

So how do you receive a free government phone and what are the qualifications? There are two major communications companies that have a free cell phone program for low income, disabled, and elderly citizens. SafeLink Wireless is giving a free cell phone and up to 250 free monthly minutes to eligible persons. Virgin Mobile is the other company offering a free cell phone and 200 free monthly minutes to qualified citizens.

Both free cell phone programs are similar. The main difference is the states which are participating in their programs. SafeLink Wireless has been around for a longer period of time so it's free government phone program is available in more states than SafeLink Wireless. See a list of states participating in SafeLink's free cell phone program here. Virgin Mobile's free cell phone program is relatively new. There are fewer states participating in Virgin Mobile free cell phone program so far. There are only about 10 states with them so far. Both companies plan to add more states to it's free government phone program by the end of the year.

To be eligible for either of the two free cell phone programs applicants must have a total household income of a certain amount below the poverty level in their state. The amount varies by state, but typically if the applicant is receiving governmental assistance they probably qualify for a free cell phone and free phone service. Some of the governmental assistance programs are SSI, Food Stamps, and Section 8 housing.

Complete details and applications can be found on SafeLink Wireless and Virgin Mobile website.