How do you get a free data plan?
Qualify for Lifeline and choose a provider whose free plan includes monthly data. How much data you get depends on the provider and your state, and paid top-ups are available if you run out.
- You qualify with SNAP, Medicaid, SSI, public housing or a Veterans Pension, or with income at or below 135% of the poverty line
- Wi-Fi use doesn't count against your data
- Tribal Lifeline plans often include more data
How to get a free data plan
The main route to a free data plan is Lifeline. Providers use the monthly subsidy to include data with free talk and text. How much data you get depends on the provider and your state, because each company designs its own plans within FCC minimum service standards.
What free data plans usually include
- Monthly price
- $0
- Data
- Varies, often several GB
- Talk & text
- Often unlimited
- Hotspot
- Sometimes
- 5G
- Plan-dependent
- Top-ups
- Paid add-ons
Not sure which option fits you?
Answer 5 quick questions and the Phone Finder matches you with programs, providers and deals.
Stretch your free data
- Use Wi-Fi at home, libraries and cafés
- Turn off auto-play video and background app refresh
- Download maps and music on Wi-Fi
- Set a data warning (iPhone: Settings → Cellular)
- Use Low Data Mode on iPhone
Qualifying for free data
You qualify for Lifeline in one of two ways: someone in your household takes part in a qualifying assistance program, or your household income is at or below 135% of the federal poverty guidelines.
Qualifying programs
- SNAP (food stamps)
- Medicaid
- Supplemental Security Income (SSI)
- Federal Public Housing Assistance (including Section 8)
- Veterans Pension or Survivors Pension
On federally recognized Tribal lands, these also qualify: Bureau of Indian Affairs General Assistance, Tribally Administered TANF, Food Distribution Program on Indian Reservations (FDPIR), Tribal Head Start (income-qualified households).
Income limits
| Household size | Maximum yearly income (135% of poverty guideline) |
|---|---|
| 1 person | $21,128 |
| 2 people | $28,553 |
| 3 people | $35,978 |
| 4 people | $43,403 |
| 5 people | $50,828 |
| 6 people | $58,253 |
| 7 people | $65,678 |
| 8 people | $73,103 |
| Each additional person | add $7,425 |
Figures are based on the 2025 Federal Poverty Guidelines for the 48 contiguous states and DC, rounded. Alaska and Hawaii have higher limits. USAC updates the limits each year, so check lifelinesupport.org for the current figures.
Want an instant answer? Use the Lifeline eligibility checker. It takes under a minute.
Compare free data by provider
Data allowances differ a lot. Compare Assurance, SafeLink, StandUp Wireless and others on our provider comparison, and see unlimited data options.
How much data free plans typically include?
| Plan level | Who offers it | Enough for |
|---|---|---|
| Basic Lifeline data | Most Lifeline providers | Maps, messaging, email, light browsing |
| Larger Lifeline data | Some providers / states | Social media, some video |
| Tribal Lifeline plans | Providers on Tribal lands | Often larger allowances or unlimited |
| Paid top-ups | Most providers | Extra data when you run out |
Data amounts change often and differ by state. Always check the plan page for your ZIP code before choosing a provider.
Documents needed
- A current benefit letter or card (SNAP, Medicaid, SSI, public housing, Veterans Pension), or
- Income proof: last year's tax return, three consecutive pay stubs, or a Social Security or unemployment statement
- Government photo ID (driver's license, state ID or passport)
- Proof of address if your ID shows a different one (utility bill or lease)
- The last four digits of your Social Security Number, or a Tribal ID number
Frequently asked questions
Is there a completely free unlimited data plan?
Truly unlimited free data is rare. Most free plans have a monthly cap, and some providers sell unlimited upgrades.
Does Lifeline data roll over?
Usually not. Unused data typically resets each month.
Can I buy more data on a free plan?
Yes. Most Lifeline providers sell top-ups or upgrades.
Does Wi-Fi count against my free data?
No. Wi-Fi use doesn't count toward your cellular data.
Why is my free data slow?
You may have reached a high-speed cap, or be in a congested area. Check your usage in the provider's app.
Sources & last update
Last reviewed . We check program rules against official FCC and USAC guidance and update pages when rules, income limits or offers change. Spot something out of date? Tell us.