The government launched an Assurance Wireless program for public benefit in 2009. Funded by the Federal Universal Service Fund, it’s designed for individuals who are unemployed or fall below the federal-specified poverty line. Under this program, one receives financial assistance in the form of a free government-subsidized phone and telephone service plan per household. Eligible users are not sent a bill, do not sign any contract, and are not charged any activation cost.

Internet plans offer
This financial assistance is convenient and hassle-free; it does not entail any activation costs. Currently, the program offers a free Android phone with a T-Mobile network for coverage and two plans:

Lifeline and ACP Unlimited plan
In this one, you can get unlimited internet data, calling minutes, text messages, worldwide Sprint network coverage, 911 access, and 10GB of mobile hotspots. During congestion, the internet speed may drop after 35 GB of data usage in a month, which allows you to view roughly 60 hours of streaming with standard resolution.

Lifeline-only plan
This plan comes with 4.5 GB data, unlimited texts, and phone minutes which have some state-specified limits. For the first four months, however, you can get 150 free voice minutes. This plan also offers upgrades for an extra cost, which includes additional data and unlimited phone minutes: $15 for 500MB, $20 for 1GB, $30 for 4GB, and $45 for 10GB.

Eligibility criteria
Since it’s a government financial aid, it requires people to fulfill certain eligibility criteria. The foremost is an individual’s financial status. Most states require documents that provide income information. Prior year’s federal income tax returns, income statements from employers, divorce decree, or child support document containing income can qualify as proof. One can also provide statements like social security, retirement, or unemployment benefits for three consecutive years.

One can apply for the program if the total family income is at or below 125% of the specified federal poverty line. Similarly, those who put in 40-plus hours of work and still fall below the federal poverty line can also avail of the benefit.

Assurance phones
You can expect budget-level smartphones, including Alcatel Dawn, Coolpad Illumina, Kyocera Hydro Reach, Moto G Pure, REVVL 4 Plus, and ZTE Quest. Currently, the program does not provide 5G-compatible phones. Note that one cannot have a stolen or lost claim against an Assurance phone. 

How to apply for Assurance Wireless Program?
Visit the Assurance Wireless website and register for their free service. Once you sign up, you can check your state-wise eligibility, track application progress, renew the certificate yearly, and even contact government officials in case of doubts. The initial online application requires you to provide personal information. Once you add the state you live in, you will get a downloadable form asking for your name, date of birth, last 4 digits of your Social Security Number, contact number, address, and email ID. Then you will be required to disclose any current benefit program you’re enrolled in and documents that specify income and give proof of your claims. If your application is in place, you can expect to receive an acceptance call within 5 to 7 business days.