Guide to Free Government Cell Phones for Kentucky Residents
How to Get a Free Government Cell Phone Near Me in Kentucky
The Great Recession of 2008 had a huge impact on Kentucky residents. Countless small businesses shut their doors, large companies cut back on workforces and people lost their homes. While the recession is over, Kentucky still struggles to recover, with nearly 600,000 people still living below the poverty income level.
We know that life after the recession has been difficult, and the drastic economic situation in Kentucky has forced even more people below the poverty line than ever before. While public assistance and federal housing programs help with some basic necessities, families still struggle to survive on a daily basis. Did you know that there is a government benefit program called Lifeline that provides a free government cell phone for qualified Kentucky residents?
Guide to Free Government Cell Phones for Kentucky Residents
While cell phones are commonplace for many people, hundreds of thousands of Kentuckians are forced to live without them because of affordability issues. For many, no cell phone means no ability to make calls for emergency services or obtain employment.
Luckily, thanks to the federal government, the cell phone situation in Kentucky is about to change! The Lifeline Program is now available to Kentucky residents. Through this program, you might be eligible to receive a free cell phone along with 250 free minutes or more every month! A free cell phone and free minutes means that you, along with other Kentuckians, can now apply for jobs stress free or not have to worry about being stranded somewhere with no way of calling home.
Guide to Free Government Cell Phones for Kentucky Residents:
The Lifeline Program is a federally funded program that allows millions of Americans living below the poverty line a chance to own a cell phone free of charge. Along with the cell phone, each participant is allotted between 250 and an unlimited amount of calling minutes and texts, depending on each individual situation.
Currently, it is estimated that between 12 and 15 million Americans participate in the Lifeline program. The program was set up by the FCC in the 90’s and is funded by the Universal Service Fund fees that are paid by millions of cell phone users across the country.
How Do I Qualify for the Lifeline Program?
For Kentucky residents, it is already assumed that if you receive federally funded assistance from any number of programs, including Section 8, Medicaid, Temporary Assistance for Needy Families, Supplemental Security Income and more, you are automatically eligible to receive a Lifeline Program cell phone.
Kentucky residents who fall within certain income brackets qualify to receive a free cell phone and monthly plan. For example, a family household of 1 with income of less than $15,890 or a family household of 4 with income of less than $32,738 qualify to receive a free cell phone. Each household is allowed only one Lifeline Program cell phone plan and you must have a valid mailing address within the United States.
Getting an Obama Phone Near You is Easier Than You Think
Getting an Obama phone near you in Kentucky is easier than you might think. The Obama Phone program is a federally funded program that provides discounted cell phone services to low-income individuals and families. The program is administered by the Federal Communications Commission (FCC) and is available in all 50 states, including Kentucky. To qualify for an Obama Phone, you must meet certain eligibility requirements, such as having income at or below 200% of the Federal Poverty Guidelines.
Once you’ve determined you’re eligible for an Obama Phone, you can begin the process of obtaining one. This can be done either online or in person at an authorized Lifeline Assistance service provider. In Kentucky, there are several providers to choose from, including Safelink Wireless, Assurance Wireless, and Q Link Wireless. Each provider offers different plans and features, so it’s important to compare them to find the one that best meets your needs. Once you’ve chosen a provider, you’ll need to complete an application and provide documentation to prove your eligibility. Once approved, you’ll be able to use your Obama Phone and start enjoying the convenience of having a cell phone.
