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Lifeline Eligibility

Tribal Lifeline: Free Phone on Tribal Lands

Enhanced Lifeline support for Tribal lands residents. Apply with Phone Government for a free phone and $0 monthly service.

Residents of federally recognized Tribal lands can receive enhanced Lifeline support of up to $34.25 per month. You qualify through Bureau of Indian Affairs General Assistance, Tribal TANF, the Food Distribution Program on Indian Reservations (FDPIR), Tribal Head Start (income-qualifying), or any standard Lifeline program or income limit. Phone Government applies the benefit to a free phone and plan.

Updated · Sources: FCC · USAC

Person using a free government phone after qualifying through Tribal Lifeline

Which Tribal programs qualify?

  • Bureau of Indian Affairs (BIA) General Assistance
  • Tribally administered Temporary Assistance for Needy Families (Tribal TANF)
  • Food Distribution Program on Indian Reservations (FDPIR)
  • Tribal Head Start (only households meeting its income standard)
  • Any standard Lifeline program (SNAP, Medicaid, SSI, FPHA, Veterans Pension) or income at or below 135% FPG

How much is the Tribal Lifeline benefit?

Up to $34.25 per month — $9.25 standard Lifeline support plus up to $25 in enhanced Tribal support. Phone Government's Tribal Lifeline plan uses this to provide more data at $0.

How do I know if I live on Tribal lands?

Tribal lands include reservations, pueblos, Alaska Native regions and other areas recognized by the FCC. When you apply, tell us you live on Tribal lands and we'll confirm your address with the National Verifier.

How do I apply?

Start your application online in about 10 minutes or call 1-800-633-7797. Choose your free device — like a free iPhone or 5G phone — and we'll guide you through verification.

Monthly Lifeline benefitFederal discount applied to your phone service each month.
Standard Lifeline$9.25/mo
Tribal lands Lifeline$34.25/mo

Phone Government applies the full benefit so qualifying customers pay $0 for the base plan.

Frequently asked questions

Do I need to be a tribal member to get Tribal Lifeline?

No. Enhanced support is based on living on Tribal lands and meeting eligibility rules.

Can I use a Tribal ID instead of SSN?

Yes. Tribal residents may provide a Tribal ID number instead of the last 4 digits of an SSN.

Is Tribal Lifeline free?

Yes. Our Tribal Lifeline plan is $0 per month for qualifying customers.

Ready for your free government phone?

Apply online in about 10 minutes or call our enrollment team at 1-800-633-7797.

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