In Georgia, low-income residents can receive free government cell phones through the Lifeline Assistance and Link-Up programs. Eligible households can choose from several service providers that offer monthly talk time.
The program is open to anyone that meets current eligibility requirements based on income or participation in other government assistance programs.
Easy Access to Emergency Services
If you live in Georgia and struggle to afford basic phone or internet services, you can get free phones and services through the federally funded Lifeline program. The Lifeline assistance programs in Georgia are available to low-income households in every state, territory, commonwealth, and Tribal lands. The program offers a monthly discount on voice or broadband and can be combined with a one-time discount on an internet-capable device. The Lifeline Program is managed by the Universal Service Administrative Company (USAC). The program includes additional discounts, such as food assistance and medical values. Those who qualify can choose the provider that best suits their needs. They offer a variety of plans, including free cell phones, data, and wifi access. This is an excellent way for people in need to stay connected with emergency services, family, and friends. It can also help them find work and keep up with their education. The benefits of Lifeline are many and far-reaching, so if you are in need, it is worth applying for this free phone program. Eligibility requirements for free phones and Lifeline in Georgia include a household income below 135% of the federal poverty guidelines, SNAP benefits, or other government assistance. You can also apply for Lifeline if you have a disability, are a senior citizen or if your children receive certain federal benefits. The program provides a free cell phone or device to tens of thousands of residents in Georgia each year.
Improved Communication with Family and Friends
Georgia has one of the strongest economies in the south but still ranks near the bottom regarding per capita personal income. Many residents of Peach State live below the poverty level and can’t afford to pay for a cell phone or landline service. These families are often disadvantaged, especially when keeping in touch with their loved ones. That’s why Lifeline is an important program for eligible residents. The federal government created the program to give low-income households a free cell phone or landline to help them stay connected. The service is offered by participating telephone and broadband Internet access providers. Eligible participants can choose a monthly discount for phone, broadband or voice-broadband bundled services. They may also receive a free smartphone or tablet through the Link-Up program. The program only provides one phone per household, so you should use your device wisely. You can’t transfer your Lifeline phone to someone else in the family. This violates the program rules and can lead to disenrollment from the service. You must provide two proofs of identity and certify under penalty of perjury that you are an eligible recipient.
The good news is that some free phone programs exist for low-income households in Georgia. For more information, you can check out our list of Georgia’s best free phone program providers.
Save Money on Your Bills
While the government doesn’t hand out free phones, there is a way to get a phone with monthly cell service and data for only $5 per month. It’s called the Affordable Connectivity Program and is available to anyone who meets its qualifications. To find out if you qualify, click here. Eligible subscribers may receive a phone or broadband service discount through Lifeline or both. The program also provides eligible households a one-time deal for an internet-capable device. The ACP replaces the previous Emergency Broadband Benefit (EBB) program, and it’s available to all qualifying Lifeline subscribers in all states and territories, including those that serve federally recognized Tribal lands.
The eligibility requirements for both Lifeline and the ACP are similar, but there are a few differences. Most importantly, EBB participants were automatically enrolled in the ACP, but only some were. To see if you’re eligible for the ACP, click here and follow the prompts. People that meet the income guidelines for a free government phone in Georgia can qualify for both Lifeline and ACP by applying through their local telephone company. Several major wireless and landline companies offer the program. The public service commission oversees the process to ensure that people receive all the benefits they’re entitled to.
Access to Educational Resources
Georgia has one of the strongest, most diversified economies in the south. Yet it still ranks near the bottom of per capita personal income for all states. This means many Georgians need assistance, and Lifeline cell phones are an important tool for helping them stay connected to their families, jobs, and community services. This federal program provides discounts for eligible low-income households. This service is available to millions of low-income Americans across the country.
You can apply for Georgia Lifeline and ACP online or call a provider’s toll-free number if you need free phone service. To qualify, your household must receive government assistance, such as Medicaid, food stamps, or disability benefits, or have a total household income at or below 135% of the federal poverty guidelines. Most Georgia Lifeline providers offer free cell phones and discounted or bundled landline or wireless services. Depending on the provider, you may also get internet and tv service discounts. Be sure to check the provider’s website for current eligibility information.