$0 monthly Lifeline service for eligible households

FreeCall Wireless

Free Phone for Seniors: simple phones, free service

Many older adults qualify for Lifeline through SSI, Medicaid or a fixed income. Here is how to get a free phone that is easy to use.

Quick answer

How can seniors get a free phone?

Seniors qualify for a free phone through Lifeline if they receive SSI, Medicaid, SNAP, Federal Public Housing Assistance or a Veterans Pension, or if household income is at or below 135% of the poverty guidelines ($21,546 a year for one person in 2026). FreeCall Wireless offers big-button flip phones and easy smartphones at no cost.

  • Flip phones and smartphones
  • No age limit
  • Help by phone or in Tulsa
Two smiling seniors at their kitchen table with a free government phone
Many seniors qualify through SSI, Medicaid or a fixed income.

Does Social Security count toward the income limit?

Yes. Regular Social Security retirement benefits count as income. For a single senior in 2026, the limit is $21,546 a year, about $1,796 a month. For a married couple, it is $29,214 a year. Many seniors who live on Social Security alone fall under these limits. SSI is different: if you receive SSI, you qualify automatically.

Which phones are best for seniors?

  • Flip phone: big buttons, loud speaker and a long battery life.
  • iPhone SE: a familiar home button and a compact size.
  • Galaxy A16 5G: the biggest screen, with text size you can increase easily.

Which senior benefits qualify for Lifeline?

BenefitQualifies?
Supplemental Security Income (SSI)Yes
Medicaid (including dual eligible)Yes
SNAPYes
Veterans Pension or Survivors BenefitYes
Federal public housing or Section 8Yes
Medicare onlyNot by itself; use income
Social Security retirement onlyNot by itself; use income

Can a family member help me apply?

Yes. A son, daughter or caregiver can help you fill out the application, as long as the information is yours and you agree to the terms. You can also call us at (918) 931-0991 or visit our office in Tulsa, and we will walk you through it.

Tips for seniors using a new phone

  • Ask us to make the text larger and the ringer louder before you hang up.
  • Save emergency contacts as favorites.
  • Turn on hearing aid compatibility mode if you use hearing aids.
  • Never give your Social Security number to a caller you did not expect.

How do I avoid phone scams as a senior?

Scammers often target older adults with calls about Medicare, Social Security or prizes. Hang up on unexpected callers who ask for money or personal numbers, and call the agency back using a number you trust.

Frequently asked questions

Is there a free phone for seniors on Medicare?

Medicare alone does not qualify you, but many seniors on Medicare also have Medicaid, SSI or income under the limit, which do qualify.

Do seniors get a different plan?

No. Seniors get the same free Lifeline plan, with unlimited talk and text and monthly data.

Can I get a phone with big buttons?

Yes. Our 4G flip phone has a large keypad and a loud speaker.

Can seniors in assisted living get a free phone?

Yes. If you live in a group facility, you can still qualify. Use the facility address and note your living situation.

Is there an age requirement?

No. Lifeline has no minimum or maximum age for adults.

Sources and last update

Reviewed and updated on by the FreeCall Wireless team. Program figures come from these official sources:

Spotted something out of date? Email support@freecallwireless.com and we will correct it.

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