When you’re trying to make ends meet on social security or what you’ve saved for retirement, even a basic phone bill can feel overwhelming. However, the fact is that staying connected has never been more important. Whether you need to call your doctor, handle an emergency, or just want to hear your grandkids’ voices, you shouldn’t have to choose between paying for phone service and other essentials.
If you’re a senior or you’re helping someone you care about, we want you to know that there are programs out there that can help. There are companies that offer free phones for seniors and plans for free or little cost. One of the best options is called the Lifeline program. It’s been around for over 40 years, helping people on tight budgets stay connected without that monthly phone bill stress.
Do you or your loved one qualify? We’re here to help you find out by answering questions like:
- What is the Lifeline program?
- Does Lifeline provide free phones for seniors?
- What seniors qualify for Lifeline?
- What kind of free phones for seniors are available?
- How to apply for Lifeline through enTouch Wireless
What is the Lifeline Program?
Lifeline is a government program created by the Federal Communications Commission (FCC). It helps make phone and internet service more affordable, even providing discounted and free internet for seniors and anyone with limited income.
If you qualify, Lifeline can give you:
- A monthly discount of up to $9.25 on phone or internet service (or up to $34.25 if you live on Tribal lands)
- Access to free monthly phone service with talk, text, and data low-cost phone plans for seniors
- And in some cases wireless providers will offer free cell phones for seniors
Lifeline is here to help everyone have access to the essentials, like calling for help, checking in with family, making appointments, and staying informed.
Does Lifeline Provide Free Phones for Seniors?
Yes, but it depends! Many low-income seniors qualify for a free phone service. However, many providers also offer a free phone to customers who qualify for Lifeline. enTouch offers a free phone for qualifying customers who live on Tribal lands and in California.
What If I Don’t Live in California or in a Tribal Area?
That’s okay! Even if you don’t qualify for a free phone, you may still qualify for a free phone service with talk, text, and data.
Just remember: Free phones for senior citizens are currently available for new Tribal Lifeline or California Lifeline customers only. Otherwise, you can find inexpensive cell phones for seniors at enTouch Wireless.
What Does the Free Phone Service Come With?
Great question! You can choose from different free and low-cost phone plans for seniors, depending on what you need and your location. All plans come with texts, minutes, data, and voicemail. That means you can text your friends and family, make calls, access the internet, and leave and receive voicemails.
For non-tribal Lifeline plans outside of California, the basic 100% free Lifeline plan comes with:
- 300 Text
- 300 Minutes
- 4.5GB Data
- Voicemail
If you need more texts, minutes, or data than that, you can choose from inexpensive plans, starting at $1/month.
If you’re in a tribal area or California, the basic free Lifeline plan comes with:
- Unlimited Text
- Unlimited Minutes
- 4.5GB Data
- Voicemail
You can find information about each state here.
What Seniors Qualify for Lifeline?
Seniors can qualify for Lifeline in two main ways: Through income or by participating in certain government programs.
1. Seniors With Low Income
You may qualify for Lifeline if your household income is at or below 135% of the Federal Poverty Guidelines.
For example, in 2025:
- A single senior living alone can qualify with an annual income of $15,650/year or less
- A couple can qualify with a combined income of $21,150/year or less
2. Seniors Receiving SSI
If you’re receiving Supplemental Security Income (SSI), you almost certainly qualify for Lifeline. SSI is designed for people 65+ or with disabilities who have limited income. Many seniors are already enrolled in SSI and don’t realize they’re eligible for phone assistance, too.
3. Other Programs That Count
You can also qualify if you participate in any of these programs:
- Medicaid or Medi-Cal
- SNAP / Food Stamps / CalFresh
- Federal Public Housing Assistance
- Veterans Pension or Survivors Benefit
- Women, Infants, and Children Program (WIC)
- Tribal TANF, FDPIR, or Tribal Head Start
What Kind of Free Phones for Seniors Are Available?
Eligible for a free device? enTouch will send a smartphone that’s simple to use and arrives pre-activated. While exact models vary, they typically include:
- Large screen
- Easy-to-read icons
- Speakerphone
- Texting and internet access
- Optional accessibility features (great for hearing or vision support)
Once again, free phones for seniors are currently available with enTouch for new Tribal Lifeline or California Lifeline customers only. Outside of those areas, you may still qualify for a free phone plan.
Find cheap phones for seniors here.
How to Apply for Lifeline Through enTouch Wireless
Ready to get started with Lifeline? You can begin in three simple steps.
Step 1: Check Your Eligibility
You can check online through the National Verifier or go directly to enTouch Wireless to begin the process.
Step 2: Gather Your Documents
You’ll need:
- A valid ID (driver’s license, Social Security card, or another government-issued ID)
- Proof of income (like tax documents or pay stubs) or proof of program participation (such as an SSI or Medicaid award letter)
- Proof of address (like a utility bill)
Step 3: Apply for Lifeline
You can apply online or with an enTouch Lifeline agent in your area. If approved, your free or discounted plan will begin.
If the benefit of free phones for seniors is available to you, your device will be shipped to you through USPS, ready to use as soon as it arrives.
FAQs: Free Phones for Seniors
Can I Qualify for Lifeline if I’m on Social Security?
Supplemental Security Income (SSI) and Social Security benefits are two separate programs. SSI is need-based. You can qualify for SSI if you have a low income and are 65+ or have a disability. If you’re on regular Social Security (retirement, not SSI), you’ll still need to qualify by income or another eligible program.
Can I Help My Parent Apply for Lifeline?
Absolutely! You can assist a loved one with their application. Just be sure the application is in their name and uses their documents.
Is Medicare Enough to Qualify?
No, Medicare alone isn’t a qualifying program. But if your income is low or you’re also receiving Medicaid, Medi-Cal, Food Stamps, SSI, Veterans Benefits, or another qualifying program, you may still qualify.
Do Veterans Qualify for a Free Phone?
Yes! Those receiving VA Survivors Pension qualify for Lifeline benefits.
Important Lifeline Rules to Know
Before you apply (or after you’re approved), here are a few things to keep in mind so you don’t lose your benefit by accident.
Use Your Phone At Least Once a Month
This is very important. You must use your phone at least once every 30 days to keep your Lifeline benefit. That means making a call, sending a text, or using your data once a month, at a minimum. If you don’t use it, they’ll disconnect your service. Even if you’re not much of a phone person, just send a quick text or make a call once a month to stay active.
You’ll Need to Recertify Once a Year
Once you’re signed up, you’ll need to recertify every year to prove you still qualify. (It’s actually pretty quick and easy. See how here!). Miss it, and they’ll turn off your service. Don’t worry, you will receive annual reminders when you’re due to recertify.
See if You or Your Loved One Qualifies for Free Phone Service
Phones have become our lifelines. They keep us safe, informed, and connected to the people who matter most. The Lifeline program is one of the easiest and most helpful resources available to make this possible.
You could be just a few steps away from getting free phone service, and possibly a free smartphone, too.