Free Phone Service for Seniors on SSI or a Fixed Income (2026)

For seniors and anyone living on a fixed income, a phone bill is one more expense that adds up every month. The federal Lifeline program exists for exactly this reason — and through Assurance Wireless, eligible older adults can get free phone service at $0/month.

Why so many seniors qualify

If you receive Supplemental Security Income (SSI), Medicaid, SNAP, a Veterans or Survivors Pension, or Federal Public Housing Assistance, you qualify automatically. You can also qualify by income if your household earns at or below 135% of the Federal Poverty Guidelines — which covers many retirees on Social Security alone.

What's included

• $0 per month — no contract, no credit check, no surprise bills.
• Free monthly high-speed data, plus unlimited talk and text.
• Keep your current number and, if compatible, your current phone.
• A free smartphone for eligible customers in California.
• Reliable coverage on the nationwide T-Mobile network — important for staying in touch with family and doctors.

Staying connected matters

A working phone means being reachable for medical appointments, pharmacy calls, family check-ins, and emergencies. Lifeline was designed so that a tight budget never has to mean being cut off.

How a senior applies

Have a photo ID, proof of SSI or another qualifying program (or proof of income), and a proof of address ready. Apply online in a few minutes — or ask a family member to help you complete it. One benefit per household.