Free Phone with Medicaid: How Lifeline Works in 2026

Medicaid itself doesn't provide phones, but enrollment qualifies you for Lifeline, a federal discount on phone or internet service. Many participating companies offer a free or low-cost basic phone with their plan.

How to apply

1. Find approved companies on the Lifeline website.
2. Confirm your eligibility through the National Verifier, using your Medicaid enrollment.
3. Sign up with a company and ask about its phone offer.
4. Recertify each year to keep your discount.

Rules to know

• One Lifeline benefit per household, not per person.
• The discount can be used for phone or internet, depending on the plan.
• The discount is non-transferable, and you can lose it for not using the service.
• Tribal lands have an enhanced benefit.

Questions to ask a company

Ask: Is the phone really free? Is it locked? How much data do I get? Are there any fees? Want a specific model? See free iPhone with Medicaid. Need Medicaid first? Check your eligibility. You can use your phone to book free medical rides too.

Be careful with any site or street table promising a free device. Don't pay a "processing fee", and share your Medicaid or Social Security number only with an approved Lifeline company or a government agency.

Keeping your Lifeline service

Use your service regularly, because prepaid plans can be cancelled for non-use. Respond when you receive a recertification notice, and update your address. If you switch companies, the benefit moves with you, but ask about your phone. If you stop being on Medicaid, you must tell the company unless you qualify another way.

Who qualifies for Lifeline

Lifeline is the main federal program connected to Free Phone with Medicaid searches. You can qualify in one of two ways:

• Through a program: Medicaid, SNAP, SSI, Federal Public Housing Assistance, or the Veterans Pension and Survivors Benefit. Tribal programs also qualify on Tribal lands. You can also qualify through a child or dependent in one of these programs.
• Through income: at or below 135% of the federal poverty level, as shown below.

48 contiguous states and DC. Alaska and Hawaii are higher.

Questions to ask before accepting any offer

• What is the company's full name, and is it listed on the Lifeline website?
• What is the total cost, including taxes, shipping and activation fees?
• What happens to the device if I switch or stop service?
• Is the device new or refurbished, and does it have a warranty?
• How long will it get security updates?

Common questions

Does having Medicaid automatically get me a phone?

No. You still have to apply for Lifeline and sign up with a participating company.

Can two people at my address get Lifeline?

Only if they are separate households that do not share income and expenses.

Does Lifeline cover smartphones?

Lifeline discounts service. Companies decide what phones they offer.

What happens if I lose Medicaid?

You may still qualify through income or another program. Otherwise, you must end your benefit.