The Reagan Administration launched the Federal Lifeline Assistance Program in the 1980s. Since then, it has been an integral part of the Federal Communications Commission. It’s made it possible for many low-income families to qualify for free government smartphones in Nevada.
In 2005, the Bush Administration updated it so that it covered the cost of wireless service. Today, it’s helped thousands of families across Nevada afford communication devices.
How Does the Lifeline Program Work?
To qualify, you must meet certain criteria, but you get a free phone if you do.
Does your family already receive any of the following benefits:
- Medicaid
- SSI benefits
- SNAP program
- Public housing assistance
If your household income is less than 135% of federal poverty limits, your family may also qualify.
What Does the Lifeline Program in Nevada Include?
If you qualify, the Lifeline program covers the cost of a smartphone. In addition, it subsidizes the cost of talk, text, and data. As a result, you may receive unlimited minutes, messages, and data if you are in the program.
Best of all, you may use a phone you already own if you’d like. Otherwise, check with the program to see about a free smartphone.
What About the Affordable Connectivity Program?
The FCC has also established a program to subsidize the cost of at-home broadband. If your family earns less than 200% of federal poverty limits, you may qualify for the ACP.
Infiniti Mobile administers the Lifeline program in Nevada. Visit them at their website at to learn more.