How to get a free phone for SNAP Recipients

If you use the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP), also known as food stamps, you may be eligible for a free smartphone and free phone service.

Two federal programs - the Lifeline Assistance Program and Affordable Connectivity Program - were created to keep you connected to the people and things that matter most, at no cost to you. TruConnect brings you freemium phone and internet service.

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Senior mother hugging her daughter in the kitchen looking at the harvest on the table
Senior mother hugging her daughter in the kitchen looking at the harvest on the table

Does the government offer free internet to SNAP beneficiaries?

Yes, if you participate in SNAP (also known as food stamps or CalFresh), you can get free internet and phone service from TruConnect. By applying for TruConnect's Lifeline and the Affordable Connectivity Program (ACP) plans, you can start enjoying free or discounted monthly broadband service, plus a free smartphone or discounted tablet! All households, whether related or not, that share living expenses are eligible for these benefits. If you live alone, no problem! As a household of one, you can still qualify. And if multiple households live at the same address, each eligible household can be receive free internet service.

Woman talking and laughing on smartphone in yellow shirt
Woman talking and laughing on smartphone in yellow shirt

How to qualify for free internet/phone with food stamps

If you use food stamps (SNAP), you may instantly qualify for Lifeline online, thanks to the National Verifier, which can electronically verifies food stamp (SNAP) participation in certain states. See the list of states below that confirm SNAP participation electronically through the National Verifier.

  • Colorado

  • Connecticut

  • Florida

  • Georgia

  • Indiana

  • Iowa

  • Kentucky

  • Michigan

  • Minnesota

  • Mississippi

  • Missouri

  • Nevada

  • New Mexico

  • North Carolina

  • Pennsylvania

  • South Carolina

  • Tennessee

  • Utah

  • Virginia

  • Washington

  • Wisconsin


Note: SNAP is still a qualifying program for Lifeline in all states, but the above states will be able to verify your eligibility quickly. 

For other states, you can still apply online. Or, you can use the mail and send in a paper application. The paper application is very simple and straightforward; have your social security number ready and the social security numbers of any of your dependents, especially if they participate in SNAP. 

Learn how TruConnect can help

Here at TruConnect, we’re passionate about keeping you connected to the people and things you love. We make it easy for you to find the plan and device that’s right for you. 

Have questions about your application process or our Lifeline and ACP plans?
We've got your covered. You can learn more about our programs by visiting our online help center or by contacting a helpful human on our customer care team. Our team is available Monday through Saturday from 5 AM to 9 PM PST.

As soon as you’re qualified, we'll ship you your phone or SIM card so you can start enjoying your free phone or internet-capable device and free monthly wireless service plan. 

Need Help on Annual Benefit Renewal?

When it’s time to renew/recertify your benefits, we help you keep things simple. We’ll remind you that it’s time to renew so you can keep your benefits without any break in coverage. It’s also easy to renew online. 

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 ^ Device discount available to eligible customers only. There is a minimum copayment of $10.01, while the maximum copayment is $50.