Does Medicare Offer Free Phones to Seniors?
Loneliness and social isolation are widespread concerns in the United States, but data suggests that older and lower-income individuals are especially at risk.
Having access to an affordable phone can help to combat loneliness and social isolation and the health impacts that come with them, including an increased risk of heart disease, depression, and dementia.
Research also suggests that older adults are increasingly using their phones for digital health tech resources that reduce their barriers to care and promote disease self-management.
Phone access is important, yet many older individuals cannot afford the cost. Thankfully, there are federal and state-run programs that offer eligible individuals financial support for their phone service. And if you don’t qualify for those programs, you may be able to get a free or discounted phone through a brand’s senior discount, a refurbishment program, or a nonprofit or charitable program.
In this article, we’ll cover your options for getting a free or discounted phone or phone service through federal, state, and privately run programs.
Key takeaways:
Medicare does not provide free or discounted phones or phone services to its enrollees.
Eligible individuals can get financial support for their phone service through a federal or state-run program.
Can seniors get a free phone on Medicare?
Medicare does not provide free phones to seniors. However, there are some programs that may provide free phones or help you pay for your landline or cell phone.
The Lifeline program
Lifeline is a federal program that helps eligible, low-income individuals pay for their landline or cell phone service. You can apply for the program online, by mail, or through a phone or internet company.
Notably, enrollment in Medicare on its own does not qualify you for the Lifeline program. It’s also important to note that most people who qualify for the Lifeline program receive a monthly discount for their phone service of up to $9.25 (individuals living on Tribal lands receive a larger discount of up to $13.25 per month), but may still have to pay some of their remaining service fee.
If you think you qualify for assistance through the Lifeline program, you can apply directly on their website here.
State-specific phone assistance programs
There are also some state-specific programs that offer assistance with phone payments for seniors who meet certain requirements. Examples of these programs include California Lifeline, Oregon Lifeline, and Tribal Lifeline. Some of these state or locally run programs may offer greater financial benefits than the Federal Lifeline program.
Can I still get a phone through the Affordable Connectivity Program (ACP) benefit?
The Affordable Connectivity Program (ACP) benefit provided a discount of $30 per month for internet services for eligible households and as well as a one-time discount of up to $100 for an internet-ready device, such as a tablet, laptop, or computer. Unfortunately, the ACP ended in June 2024.
How to qualify for free phone programs
There are four ways you can qualify for the Lifeline program:
If your income is 135% or less than the Federal Poverty Guidelines (see the guidelines here).
If you participate in a federal assistance program, such as the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP), Medicaid, Supplemental Security Income (SSI), Federal Public Housing Assistance (FPHA), Veterans Pension and Survivors Benefit, Bureau of Indian Affairs General Assistance, Head Start, Tribal temporary Assistance for Needy Families (Tribal TANF), or a Food Distribution Program on Indian Reservations.
If you are a survivor of domestic violence, human trafficking, or a related crime.
If your child or dependent participates in any of the federal programs listed above.
Eligibility requirements through state-run programs or programs for individuals living on Tribal land may differ.
Alternative low-cost phone options for seniors
If you don’t qualify for a federal or state-run Lifeline program, there are other avenues to consider for receiving a discounted or free phone or phone service.
Senior discounts
Some brands and retailers offer senior discounts on their products and services, including:
AT&T (10% discount on monthly service and 15% discount on accessories for AARP members as well as a discounted plan for Florida residents aged 55+).
Consumer Cellular (5% on monthly service and 30% discount on accessories) for AARP members.
T Mobile (offers a range of discounted phone plans for individuals aged 55+).
Verizon (offers a range of discounted phone plans for individuals aged 55+).
Nonprofit and charitable programs
Some charitable organizations may help older individuals get a phone. Reach out to nonprofit programs, senior centers, and community organizations in your area to see if they can help you get a free or discounted phone.
Refurbished phone programs
Several brands and retailers have refurbished and restored phone programs, including Apple, Best Buy, and Verizon. These products are fully functional and usually available for purchase at a discount.
Family plan options for seniors
Several phone carriers, including AT&T and Verizon, offer senior plans that can be purchased on their own or added on to an existing family plan at a discount. Reach out to each respective provider to learn the details about their family plan options for seniors.
Bottom line
Having an internet-enabled phone can help to improve your quality of life, social connectedness, and general well-being.
Lifeline is a federal program that assists low-income individuals and households with the cost of their phone plan. Other state-specific programs may also help to cover the cost of your phone or phone service.
But if you don’t qualify for a federal or state program, you may be able to get a free or discounted phone or service through discounts offered by brands, retailers, or through a local charitable or nonprofit organization.