What is the California LifeLine?

Lifeline is a program that offers discounted cell phone and home phone services to millions of eligible customers aimed at helping low-income individuals reduce the cost of their phone bills. California resident can get 6GB of data on their account at a low price or no cost through Lifeline. Whatever states you travel through, you will have access to free talk, text, and data. Plus, enTouch Wireless provides new CA Lifeline customers with a FREE phone!*  

You may qualify for free government cell phone service in California (Lifeline) if you or someone else in your house actively participates in any of the following public assistance programs:

  • CalFresh / SNAP / Food Stamps
  • Medi-Cal / Medicaid
  • Supplemental Security Income (SSI)
  • Other government programs

You may also qualify if your total household income meets the Federal Poverty Guidelines. Among all CA LifeLine providers, enTouch is your number-one choice.

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CALFRESH / FOOD STAMPS

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MEDI-CAL / MEDICAID

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SUPPLEMENTAL SECURITY INCOME (SSI)

Get FREE Talk/Text & 6GB + A FREE Phone!1

ENROLL NOW

The #1 Choice for FREE Phones for Low Income in California*

Thanks to enTouch customers who qualify for California LifeLine, free phone and internet service is only a few clicks away! Individuals and families who meet the income-based qualifications can obtain a free smartphone in California with enTouch Wireless and get free phone service through the LifeLine program to stay connected. To determine the requirements and find out if you are eligible for a free smartphone, choose enTouch Wireless as your resource.

Ready to find out if you’re eligible for a free cell phone? California residents can partner with enTouch to find out what is required and whether you qualify for a free phone* in California.

Now has never been a better time to check whether you can get your free minutes with LifeLine and a cell phone in California with enTouch.

FREE PHONE*
  • New Premium Cell Phones* From Brands You Trust
  • Large Screen, Android Operating System, Brand New
  • We Beat The Competition In Quality
FREE PLAN*
  • FREE 6GB of Data1
  • Unlimited Talk and Text1
  • No Contract, No Hidden Fees
100% Free Phone with Service

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100% Free Phone with Service

1This plan offering is supported by both the California LifeLine and federal Lifeline programs. Terms and conditions apply.
*Promotional offer subject to eligibility for Affordable Connectivity Program and Lifeline; may be changed or withdrawn at any time; see plan page details; subject to our Terms and Conditions of Service and Agreement to Arbitrate Disputes.

Do I Qualify for a FREE Phone* & FREE Service?*

You may qualify for Lifeline by participating in select government assistance programs or meeting income guidelines.

QUALIFY BY PROGRAM

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CALFRESH / FOOD STAMPS / SNAP

WHAT DO I NEED?

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MEDI-CAL /
MEDICAID

WHAT DO I NEED?

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SUPPLEMENTAL SECURITY INCOME (SSI)

WHAT DO I NEED?

VETERANS PENSION AND SURVIVORS BENEFIT

WHAT DO I NEED?

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FEDERAL PUBLIC HOUSING ASSISTANCE (FPHA)

WHAT DO I NEED?

You may qualify for Lifeline benefits if your total household income meets the poverty guidelines for your state.

Qualify by Income in California

Persons in Household Income
1 member $23,400
2 members $31,700
3 members $40,000
4 members $48,400
Each additional member $8,400

Income guidelines effective June 1, 2024 to May 31, 2025

DO I QUALIFY?

ENROLL NOW

Source: U.S. Federal Poverty Guidelines Used to Determine Financial Eligibility for Certain Federal Programs, U.S. Department of Health & Human Services, January 17, 2024. If you provide documentation that does not cover a full year (such as current paycheck stubs), you must submit three (3) consecutive months’ worth of the same type of document from the previous twelve months. NOTE: All new applicants will need to submit proof of government assistance in order to complete enrollment. There are several easy methods to submit proof eligibility; you will be able to select what method is best for you later in the signup process.

California woman enjoying California LifeLine free government phone service

California LifeLine Renewal

Individuals and families across California can save each month with access to discounted phone and Internet service through the California LifeLine service. But how can households continue to keep their benefits year after year?

After enrolling in the LifeLine program, California residents must complete the annual renewal process. In order to renew California LifeLine, you will receive a text and letter about recertifying your LifeLine benefit.

ONLINE RENEWAL       Get Started

How To Renew Your California LifeLine Benefit

You will receive a pink envelope from the California LifeLine Administrator notifying you when it is time to renew your LifeLine benefit. The envelope containing the letter will include your renewal form and a unique Personal Identification Number (PIN). You will have 60 days to complete your renewal application process to verify your continued eligibility for your monthly benefit.

Renew Online

Use the Personal Identification Number, located on your recertification form to renew online. Didn’t receive your letter or don’t have your PIN? Text GETPIN from your LifeLine phone to 345345.

ONLINE RENEWAL

Renew by Mail

Complete the California LifeLine application form sent to you by the California LifeLine administrator (in a pink envelope) and return by the indicated due date to:

    • California LifeLine Administrator
      P.O. Box 138014
      Sacramento, CA 95813-8014

California LifeLine Renewal FAQ

I didn't receive a letter and/or don't know my PIN.

If you believe your benefit is up for renewal, but have not received the Pink envelope containing your PIN, you can:

  • Text GETPIN from your LifeLine phone to 345345. We will text your PIN to your LifeLine phone.
  • Contact the California LifeLine Administrator to get your PIN. Hours are Monday to Friday, 7am to 7pm, except during state holidays.

How can I check the status of my renewal?

Once you have submitted your California LifeLine program renewal application (either by mail or online), you can check your renewal status online, using your PIN and Lifeline phone number: https://www.californialifeline.com/en/account/check

I lost my form, how can I get a new one?

Please contact the California LifeLine Administrator to request a reprint of your form. Remember, you only have 45 days from the date of the original form to return your completed form. Your form will be mailed to you only if it is within the 45-day period given to you to submit the form. If your application is late, your service may be disconnected.

We recommend renewing online if you have lost your form, to assure meeting the renewal deadline.

I want to know the status of my application. How can I find out about it?

Please go to Check Your Status to find out your status online. You may also contact the California LifeLine Administrator to find out about your application’s status. You can check your status 24 hours a day, or customer service representatives are available Monday to Friday, 7am to 7pm, except during state holidays.

What can I do if my renewal is denied?

If your disqualification can be corrected, you will be given a chance to correct it.

If you believe you have been disqualified improperly, you may file a written appeal. No verbal appeal will be accepted or approved. Your appeal must be received by the due date stated on your disqualification letter to be considered. Your appeal must include the following:

  • A copy of your disqualification letter.
  • A brief description of your complaint – Please limit your appeal to two pages or less. You can also use the back of your disqualification letter to write down your appeal.
  • Any supporting document(s) to prove your eligibility.

Your appeal may be faxed to (415) 703-1758 or mailed to:

California Public Utilities Commission
Consumer Affairs Branch
505 Van Ness Ave
San Francisco, CA 94102

It is open Monday to Friday, 8:30am to 4:30pm, except during state holidays.

Get a FREE Phone + FREE Phone Service!

ENROLL

Join The Thousands of Happy enTouch Wireless Customers

review 1

I only have good things to say about enTouch. Ive referred several friends because enrolling is easy and I got my free phone quickly!

review 2

This program is great! I needed help getting a new phone so I signed up with entouch. This is FREE so take advantage!!!

review 3

Great product. can’t beat free phone free service and customer service is as good if not better then most companies

Join the enTouch Wireless family!

You deserve the best phone and the best service! That is what we are committed to delivering to you!

enTouch is committed to providing the easiest pathway to California LifeLine cell phone services. There are many government assistance programs that could make you eligible for LifeLine cell phone service in California. If you are living in a low-income household, the chances are you may qualify. California LifeLine wireless and landline phones are available now. We offer the latest models and give you access to top-tier phones you can rely on.

ENROLL IN ENTOUCH WIRELESS LIFELINE SERVICE

Ohio lifeline service

Contact California Commission

If you have unresolved issues after contacting enTouch Wireless Customer Support, you may contact:

California Public Utilities Commission

  • Toll Free: 1-800-649-7570 (8:30 AM to 4:30 PM PST, Monday through Friday)

Consumer Affairs Branch
505 Van Ness Avenue, Room 2003
San Francisco, CA 94102

  • Toll Free: 1-800-848-5580 (8:30 AM to 4:30 PM PST, Monday through Friday)
  • Fax: 415-703-1758 (All appeals should be faxed)
  • Web: Click Here
  • California Relay Service: 711

California Relay Service

Dial 711 or use on of the toll-free language-specific numbers below to be routed to the California Relay Service Provider. For more info click this link.

Type of Call Language Phone Number
V/TTY English 877-632-9095
V/TTY Spanish 877-419-8440
Captioned Telephone English
Spanish		 866-399-9050
866-399-9090

enTouch Wireless Customer Support

Dial 611 on your Lifeline phone (Monday – Friday: 8 AM – 8 PM PST)

Terms of Service for Communication Services. The Terms of Service are part of your agreement with enTouch Wireless for Mobile Services. For complete Terms & Conditions visit www.entouchwireless.com

For all available Lifeline plans please visit: www.entouchwireless.com/lifeline-plans

  ID Guidelines

  • U.S. Driver License
  • Certificate of U.S. Citizenship
  • Certificate of Naturalization or Citizenship
  • U.S. Passport/U.S. Territory Passport
  • Foreign Passport
  • U.S. government, military, state or Tribal issued-ID, which includes date of birth and/or Social Security Number and/or Tribal ID
  • U.S. Military ID cards (active or reserve duty, dependent of a military member, retired member, discharged from service, medical/religious personnel)
  • Common Access Card (only if designated as Active Military or Active Reserve or Active Selected Reserve)
  • Military Discharge documentation, which includes date of birth and/or Social Security Number and/or Tribal ID
  • Northern Mariana Card
  • Permanent Resident Card
  • Permanent Resident Alien Card
  • Permanent Resident Re-Entry Permit
  • Temporary Resident Identification Card
  • Employment Authorization Card
  • Mexican Consular Card (Matricula Consular - 2006, 2014, 2015 and later versions)

 

*All forms of ID must be valid and used before expiration date.

Qualify by income and provide one of the following as proof.

  • Prior Year’s State, Federal or Tribal Tax Return
  • Unemployment/Workers' Compensation Benefits Statement
  • Divorce Decree or Child Support Documents
  • Veterans Administration Benefits Statement
  • Current Income Statement from Employer or Paycheck Stubs
  • Retirement/Pension Benefits Statement
  • Social Security Benefits Statement

Bureau of Indian Affairs General Assistance (BIA)

BIA Award letter, should contain the following basic information:

  • Name of the program,
  • Name of the beneficiary
  • Address of the beneficiary
  • Date of the award

Tribal Head Start

Head Start Award letter, should contain the following basic information:

  • Name of the program,
  • Name of the beneficiary
  • Address of the beneficiary
  • Date of the award

Tribally-Administered Temporary Assistance to Needy Families (TANF)

TANF Award letter, should contain the following basic information:

  • Name of the program,
  • Name of the beneficiary
  • Address of the beneficiary
  • Date of the award

Food Distribution Program on Indian Reservations (FDPIR)

Notice of Action (award letter) acknowledging eligibility for FDPIR benefits;

  • Name of the beneficiary;
  • The beginning and ending dates of the award or certification period; and
  • The telephone number of the Food Distribution Program office, and the name and address of the person to contact for additional information.

OR

FDPIR participation documents(e.g., a benefit card or copy of a benefit card);

  • Name of the beneficiary
  • The beginning and ending dates of the award or certification period; and
  • The telephone number of the Food Distribution Program office, and the name and address of the person to contact for additional information.

Lifeline Program

Due to sharing many of the same eligibility requirements those currently enrolled in the lifeline program may qualify for The Affordable Connectivity Program (ACP) also.

 

Medi-Cal / Medicaid

Program Approval Letter, Benefit Statement, or Verification of Coverage Letter, should contain the following basic information:

  • Name of the program or state equivalent,
  • Name of the beneficiary,
  • Address of the beneficiary, and
  • Date of the award

OR

Eligibility Screenshot or printout from an online portal or website tool, should contain the following basic information:

  • Name of the program or state equivalent,
  • Name of the beneficiary
  • Medical Identification number, OR
  • Case number,
  • Eligibility dates, OR
  • Current participation status

CalFresh / Food Stamps / SNAP

Program Approval Letter, Benefit Statement, or Verification of Coverage Letter, should contain the following basic information:

  • Name of the program,
  • Name of the beneficiary,
  • Eligibility dates, OR
  • Current participation status

OR

Eligibility Screenshot or printout from an online portal or website tool, should contain the following basic information:

  • Name of the program or state equivalent,
  • Name of the beneficiary,
  • Case number,
  • Eligibility dates, OR
  • Current participation status

Veterans Pension and Survivors Benefit

Pension Grant Letter should contain the following basic information:

  • Participant’s name
  • Address
  • A decision about the participant’s monthly entitlement amount
  • Payment start date

Federal Public Housing Assistance (FPHA)

FPHA award letter should contain the following basic information:

  • Name of the program,
  • Date of the award,
  • Name of the beneficiary, and
  • Award amount.

Supplemental Security Income (SSI)

Approval Letter or Benefit Statement issued by the SSA or on SSA letterhead.

  • Consumer’s name
  • Date
  • Eligibility Date
  • Claim number OR Other consumer identification number
  • Payment amount

Medicaid / Medi-Cal

Program Approval Letter, Benefit Statement, or Verification of Coverage Letter should contain the following basic information:

  • Name of the program or state equivalent,
  • Name of the beneficiary,
  • Address of the beneficiary, and
  • Date of the award

OR

Eligibility Screenshot or printout from an online portal or website tool should contain the following basic information:

  • Name of the program or state equivalent,
  • Name of the beneficiary
  • Medical Identification number, OR
  • Case number,
  • Eligibility dates, OR
  • Current participation status

SNAP / Food Stamps / CalFresh

Program Approval Letter, Benefit Statement, or Verification of Coverage Letter should contain the following basic information:

  • Name of the program,
  • Name of the beneficiary,
  • Eligibility dates, OR
  • Current participation status

OR

Eligibility Screenshot or printout from an online portal or website tool should contain the following basic information:

  • Name of the program or state equivalent,
  • Name of the beneficiary,
  • Case number,
  • Eligibility dates, OR
  • Current participation status

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FREE 6.5GB Data

+ Talk and Text
+ Free 5.5" Phone

Lifeline Only

This plan does NOT include unlimited data

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  Eligibility Documents

  • Current or prior year's statement of benefits from a qualifying state, federal or Tribal Program.
  • Notice letter of participation in a qualifying state, federal or Tribal Program.
  • Program participation documents.
  • Another official document evidencing the consumer's participation in a qualifying state, federal or Tribal Program.
  • Unemployment Documentation (notice of unemployment benefit payment or notice of successfully submitted application for unemployment benefits)
  • Copy of last year's State or Federal income tax return.
  • 3 consecutive months' worth of your most current pay stubs.
  • Social Security benefits statement. Veterans Administration benefits statement.
  • Retirement/Pension benefits statement.
  • Divorce decree or child support document.
  • Unemployment/Workers' Compensation benefits statement.