Obtaining an Obama phone and service is straightforward. Eligibility is determined by participation in government programs like Food Stamps and Medicaid, as well as meeting low-income criteria.
The economic downturn, subsequent recession, and ongoing economic challenges have left many Americans in dire financial straits. For some, owning a telephone is seen as an unaffordable luxury.
The Obama Phone program, also known as Lifeline Assistance, aims to alleviate this burden. Over 20 million Americans have already benefited from this program, receiving a complimentary phone and 250 free cell phone minutes monthly.
The Federal Communications Commission has authorized several national and regional companies to provide phones to eligible Americans. This program is currently accessible in 49 states, the District of Columbia, and Puerto Rico. Given its rapid expansion, it is anticipated that all fifty states will soon implement the program.
How to Get an Obama Phone?
It’s easy to get an Obama phone and service. Government programs such as Food Stamps and Medicaid qualify you for eligibility. So does meeting low-income requirements.
Millions of Americans have been economically devastated by the economic meltdown, by the deep recession that followed it, and by the nation’s ongoing economic struggles. Many of those needy Americans have reached the point where they consider a telephone a luxury that they cannot afford.
The Obama Phone program (also known as Lifeline Assistance) can lift that burden. More than 20 million Americans have already received a free Obama Phone and get 250 free cell phone minutes every month.
How do you get an Obama Phone for yourself?
The Federal Communications Commission has approved a number of companies national and regional companies to offer them to needy Americans. The program is now available in 49 states, the District of Columbia and Puerto Rico. Considering the rapid growth of the Obama Phone program, it is expected that all fifty states will soon begin offering the program.
Find an Obama Phone provider
You can get an Obama Phone from three major providers: Assurance Wireless, ReachOut Wireless, and Safelink Wireless. But they are far from the only sources of Obama Phones.
Dozens of other cell phone companies participate in the program across the country. They include Assist Wireless, Budget Mobile, Cintex Wireless, Care Wireless, I-Wireless, Life Wireless, StandUp Wireless, Terracom Wireless, YourTel Wireless, True Wireless, Tag Mobile, Wireless for Hope, and Alaska Communications. (Note: This list is complete as of the publication of this story, but the number of Obama Phone competitors continues to expand rapidly.)
Getting an Obama Phone
Step 1: Determine your eligibility. While eligibility criteria vary slightly among states, most individuals qualify by participating in one of several major programs accepted nationwide. These include SANP (Food Stamps), Medicaid, SSI, National School Lunch Program’s Free School Lunch, Low-Income Home Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP), Temporary Assistance to Needy Families (TANF), or certain Tribal programs. Additionally, you may qualify if your income falls below 135% of the Federal Poverty Guidelines in your state (some states allow up to 150%).
Step 2: These companies provide free phones in various states, so it’s crucial to determine which ones operate in your area. Typically, each state offers several Lifeline phones to select from.
Step 3: After confirming your eligibility, visit the websites of the companies distributing phones in your state. While most companies offer similar programs, some provide better deals. For instance, certain companies may offer extra minutes or discounted texting rates, while others may offer more minutes for a lower cost.
Step 4: Once you’ve identified the company and deal that suit you best, complete the online application provided by that company.
One additional note: While most eligible individuals sign up online, others may enroll through mobile vendors at events like street fairs or outside government assistance offices. If you’re not comfortable with online registration, be on the lookout for these alternatives.
Step 5: Keep an eye on your mailbox.
