Samsung Galaxy A16 5G
5G · 128 GB
$0 with Lifeline
Free Phone for Low Income Families
If your family gets SNAP or Medicaid, or earns under the 2026 limit for your household size, you can get a free phone with free service.
Quick answer
How can low income families get a free phone?
Low income families can get a free phone through Lifeline if anyone in the household receives SNAP, Medicaid, SSI, public housing aid or a Veterans Pension, or if household income is at or below 135% of the poverty guidelines: $44,550 a year for a family of four in 2026. One free phone line is available per household.
- $44,550 for a family of 4
- One line per household
- Children's Medicaid counts
What are the 2026 income limits for families?
| Household size | 48 states and D.C. | Alaska | Hawaii |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 person | $21,546 | $26,933 | $24,786 |
| 2 people | $29,214 | $36,518 | $33,602 |
| 3 people | $36,882 | $46,103 | $42,417 |
| 4 people | $44,550 | $55,688 | $51,233 |
| Each additional person | +$7,668 | +$9,585 | +$8,816 |
Count everyone in your household who shares income and expenses. Use your gross income (before taxes). See every household size on 2026 income limits.
Does my child's Medicaid or CHIP qualify the family?
Yes, if your child is on Medicaid, the household qualifies, because Lifeline looks at anyone in the household. Some states run children's Medicaid under a separate name. CHIP programs that are not Medicaid may not count, so use income if you are unsure.
Can every family member get a free phone?
No. Lifeline is limited to one benefit per household. The best way to connect the whole family is to share your plan's data using hotspot, or add our discounted tablet combo for the kids. Adult children who live with you but keep their own finances may be a separate household.
Which phone is best for families?
iPhone 13
5G · 128 GB
Free or low co-pay
Android Tablet (8-inch, 4G LTE)
4G LTE + Wi-Fi · 32 GB + microSD
Free or low co-pay
What else can low income families get?
Lifeline works alongside other help. Families on SNAP, WIC or Medicaid may also qualify for utility assistance and other local programs. Lifeline does not reduce those benefits.
How do I count my household size?
Count yourself, your spouse or partner if you share expenses, your children and anyone else you support who lives with you. Do not count roommates who pay their own way. If you are unsure, the application asks simple questions to work it out.
Frequently asked questions
Does WIC qualify for Lifeline?
WIC is not on the regular Lifeline list. Most WIC families also get Medicaid or SNAP, or qualify by income.
Does TANF qualify?
Regular TANF is not a qualifying program, but Tribal TANF is. Many TANF families qualify through SNAP, Medicaid or income.
Do child support payments count as income?
Yes. Child support you receive is generally counted as household income.
Can a single parent apply?
Yes. Any adult in the household can apply for the family's one Lifeline benefit.
Is there a free phone for children?
Lifeline is for adults applying on behalf of the household. Children can use a tablet or share the household phone's hotspot.
Sources and last update
Reviewed and updated on by the FreeCall Wireless team. Program figures come from these official sources:
- FCC: Lifeline Support for Affordable Communications
- USAC: Lifeline program overview
- Lifeline Support (USAC): How to qualify
- HHS ASPE: 2026 Poverty Guidelines
- USDA: Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program
- Medicaid.gov
Spotted something out of date? Email support@freecallwireless.com and we will correct it.
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