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The government offers free or discounted cell phone service to for some people. Due to Covid-19, you may no longer be able to apply for this program in-person and will need to apply either online, by phone, or by mail.
In general, you qualify for the program if:
You or someone in your household receives:
- Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP/food stamps)
- Medicaid
- Supplemental Security Income (SSI), but not if you just receive regular Social Security
- Federal Public Housing Assistance
- Veterans Pension and Survivors Benefit
- Tribal Programs (and live on federally-recognized Tribal lands)
* You will need to provide a card, letter, or official document as proof when you apply.
* Until June 30, 2021, you may also qualify if you are receiving or have applied for Unemployment Benefits. You will need to provide a copy of your benefits statement or proof of your application.
OR
Your household income is equal to or less than these amounts:
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Note: There is a limit of one phone or service discount per household.
How can I apply?
To get a free phone, you can apply directly with a specific service provider.
There are a number service providers for Louisiana you can apply with. You will need to provide:
- Your Name
- Your Social Security Number
- A Working Email Address
- A Mailing Address (cannot be a P.O. Box)
- Income or Benefits documentation as listed above. If you are not receiving a government assistance listed above, you should send a copy if your tax return from last year or or proof of three months in a row of your income; other proofs may be accepted if you do not have year-long income documents.
Each program has different features, such as the amount of minutes you’ll receive for phone calls and texts, the amount of “data” you’ll get (to access the Internet from your phone), and whether the program will provide you with a free phone. There are also some differences in the coverage areas (where you can get cell service). You can check what the exact benefits for your area are by providing your zip code on the provider’s website.
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