Do you need an address to get a free phone?
Yes. Lifeline lets you apply with a temporary address such as a shelter or a place where you receive mail. Temporary addresses must be confirmed every 90 days, and shelters and caseworkers can help you apply.
- You qualify with SNAP, Medicaid, SSI, public housing or a Veterans Pension, or with income at or below 135% of the poverty line
- Libraries offer free computers to apply online
- Dial 2-1-1 for local help
Can you get a free phone without an address?
Yes. You can get a free phone for homeless people through Lifeline even without a permanent address. The application lets you provide a temporary address, such as a shelter or a place where you receive mail, and you can describe your location if you don't have a formal address.
How do you apply without a permanent address?
- Use a shelter or mailing address Many shelters and service providers let you receive mail.
- Mark the address as temporary The Lifeline form asks whether your address is temporary.
- Recertify your address Temporary addresses must be confirmed every 90 days.
- Get help from caseworkers Shelters, day centers and 2-1-1 can help you apply.
Not sure which option fits you?
Answer 5 quick questions and the Phone Finder matches you with programs, providers and deals.
Why a phone matters?
- Contact from employers and caseworkers
- Telehealth and medication reminders
- Housing program applications and appointments
- Emergency calls and staying in touch with family
Documents if you've lost your ID
If your ID was lost or stolen, ask a caseworker about replacement help. Many programs assist with state ID fees. You may be able to use other identity documents in the meantime.
- 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
Who is eligible?
There are two routes to eligibility: program-based (you already receive certain benefits) or income-based (your household earns no more than 135% of the 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.
Where to get help applying?
| Place | How it helps |
|---|---|
| Shelters | Mailing address and application help |
| Day centers | Charging stations, Wi-Fi, caseworkers |
| Libraries | Free computers to apply online |
| 2-1-1 | Referrals to local services |
| Health clinics | Social workers who help with benefits |
Keeping your phone charged and safe
- Libraries, day centers and many fast-food restaurants have outlets
- A small power bank doubles battery life
- Set a passcode and enable Find My so a lost phone can be locked
- Write down important numbers in case the phone is lost
Frequently asked questions
Do I need an address for Lifeline?
You need an address for the application, but it can be temporary, such as a shelter address.
Can I get a phone through a homeless shelter?
Many shelters help residents apply for Lifeline, and some have donated phones.
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.