Free Government Phone Resources

There is much buzz about the government sponsored free cell phone program. While most people have heard about the program, they may not be aware that free cell phones are made possible because of the Lifeline/Link-Up program.

The Lifeline program helps low income individuals pay for the monthly cost for phone service (yes, sometimes the program will absorb the entire monthly phone costs). The Link-Up program, on the other hand, helps to offset the installation costs associated with new phone service.

The Lifeline and Link-Up program is a rather extensive program. Each state offers a variation of the Lifeline/Link-Up program. Quite a large number of states allow Assurance Wireless, SafeLink Wireless and ReachOut Wireless to offer free cell phone service to their residents. Along with the free cell phone comes free airtime. To find out more about the free cell phone and airtime visit the appropriate website.

Since free cell phones are not available in all states, there are alternatives to the free program. Each state offers a discounted home phone service to qualified residents. The qualification criterion varies from state to state so there are a few websites that you should bookmark in the case you have questions pertaining to your state.

US Public Utilities Commissions: This page provides a map which links to the public utility commissions for each state. The public utility commission is the organization that provides state specific information regarding which phone carriers are approved to offer Lifeline services. They may also provide an outline on how to qualify and how to apply. Some Public Utility Commission sites provide detailed information while others do not.

US Department of Health and Human Services: The Health and Human Services website helps you to determine whether or not you are eligible for the Lifeline program. It also lists each state's eligibility requirements and sometimes provides links to downloadable applications. The link provided here will take you to a map of the regional Health and Human Service offices. From there you can follow the links to find your local Health and Human Services website.

Free Government Phones.org: This website basically does the homework for you. It provides user-friendly, state specific information (and more) on how to go about signing up for either a free government phone or discounted home service. It provides state specific links to the necessary resources. It's an alternative to going to the Public Utilities Commission or Heath and Human Services websites.

Now that you have the appropriate resources to help you determine whether or not you are eligible for free or discounted phone service, the next step is up to you. Follow one of the links to see if you qualify for a free government cell phone or discounted home service.