Medicare Blog

how does an elderly person get a free phone if they are on medicaid/medicare?

by Mr. Moriah D'Amore DVM Published 3 years ago Updated 2 years ago

If a senior citizen received one or more of the following types of public aid, they will automatically qualify for a free phone. They include Medicaid, Supplemental Security Income (SSI disability), Low-Income Home Energy Assistance Program, A discount from Link-Up, or a housing subsidy.

Full Answer

Can seniors on Medicaid get a free cell phone?

If a senior citizen received one or more of the following types of public aid, they will automatically qualify for a free phone. They include Medicaid, Supplemental Security Income (SSI disability), Low-Income Home Energy Assistance Program, A discount from Link-Up, or a housing subsidy.

How do I get a free cell phone with Medicaid minutes?

Jan 26, 2022 · No, there are no free government phones being given out by the government to senior citizens. However, Lifeline service providers are often giving senior citizens a FREE smartphone when they qualify for the Lifeline Program. So, you CAN get free cell phones but just not directly given out by the US government. More Seniors On Smartphones

Do you qualify for a Medicaid cell phone?

Dec 28, 2021 · And since Medicare is based solely on age . It doesnt qualify seniors for free phones. In order for seniors on Medicare to obtain a free government phone, they must also have a low income or participate in certain federal assistance programs . Read Also: What Is The Best Medicare Advantage Plan In Alabama. Aarp Cell Phone Plan Discounts

Do you receive Medicare phone calls?

Sep 02, 2021 · many quires about free phones for seniors on medicare, but actually you may recieve a free phone if you are on Medicaid not Medicare. Free Phones for Seniors on Social Security People who are on Social Security and recieving benefits from government programs may get Lifeline phones. 911 Emergency Call Cell Phones for Seniors

How can the elderly get a free cell phone?

Free phone for seniors service providers

Some of the service providers for the Lifeline program are SafeLink Wireless, ReachOut, US Cellular, Assurance Wireless and many others. These and other providers offer a free phone for seniors who qualify, along with a monthly plan.
Jun 14, 2013

How can I get a free Iphone from the government?

Lifeline is a government benefit program that offers eligible customers FREE cell phone service every month. You must participate in federal programs such as Medicaid and SNAP, or by income in order to qualify for this FREE benefit. Sign up now to see if you qualify.

What are Jitterbug phones?

The Jitterbug Flip2 is a simple flip phone designed to help older adults stay in touch with their loved ones. Its big buttons, simplified menu, and powerful speaker makes it easy to see, hear, and use.Jan 24, 2022

Can you get a free phone if your on Social Security?

The Bottom Line

If you receive SSI benefits, then you can qualify for a free government cell phone and service. In addition, you can also receive this benefit if you participate in one of several other government assistance programs or your income is below the Federal poverty level.

What carrier is giving free iphones?

AT&T came out of the gate essentially giving away the iPhone 13 Pro and iPhone 13 Mini for a starting price that can go as low as "free" to new and existing customers.Oct 17, 2021

What phone company is giving away free phones?

Facing pressure from its wireless competitors, Verizon Communications Inc. is offering free Apple and Android phones to customers who sign up for unlimited plans on its faster 5G network.Jun 1, 2021

How much does Jitterbug cost a month?

Simple Phone Plans

Jitterbug phone plans plans are available as low as $17.48 a month and new Unlimited Talk & Text plans are just $19.99 a month, with data for your Jitterbug Smart3 as low as $2.49 a month. No U.S. long distance fees. Call anywhere in the U.S.

How much is activation fee for Jitterbug phone?

$35
How much is the Jitterbug Flip2 activation fee? It costs $35 to activate the Jitterbug Flip2. This one-time activation fee will be added to your first monthly bill.May 2, 2022

What is the easiest cell phone for the elderly?

The Jitterbug Flip2 and Jitterbug Smart3 are two of the easiest phones to use, due to their simple menus, voice commands, and accessibility features. Additionally, the Alcatel GO FLIP 4 has a simple design that anyone could pick up and use.Apr 11, 2022

How does a disabled person get a free phone?

The government program that provides low-income people - including those with disabilities - with free or discounted cell phone service is called Lifeline. The program is funded through a small charge on every wireless bill, called the Universal Service Fund fee.

What kind of phone do you get with safelink?

The company offers phones from several retailers, including Nokia, Motorola, LG and Kyocera. The type of phone Safelink Wireless customers are offered depends on where in the country they live and which minute plan they choose.

What network does Assurance Wireless use?

T-Mobile's network
For new customers on October 1, 2020, Assurance Wireless offers mobile Broadband Internet Access Services for smartphones and feature phones, over T-Mobile's network. T-Mobile provides service on its 2G, 3G, 4G, and 5G broadband networks.

Is The Government Giving Out Free Cell Phones For Seniors

No, there are no free government phones being given out by the government to senior citizens.

More Seniors On Smartphones

In conclusion, youll want to go through all of these steps to see what options are best in order for you to get a free cell phone.

Why Free Cell Phone Is Necessary For Seniors And The Disabled Citizen

For free cellphones, the government considers only the disabled with limited income and the abandoned seniors above 65 years. They provide the phones along with free services. Below are the reasons why the government saw it necessary to provide a free phone to eligible seniors and the disabled.

Does At& t Offer Free Government Phones

AT& T Mobility is the name of the wireless service provided by phone company giant AT& T . The company has been around for more than 100 years and while it doesnt offer a free government cell phone program, it does offer a Discount Lifeline program for needy Americans who can prove that they are eligible.

Is It The Bidenphone Free Unlimited Talk Unlimited Text And Unlimited Data For A Limited Time

May 30, 2021 | | Filed Under: Internet Tagged With: Emergency Broadband Benefit, FCC

How To Get Free Cell Phone Service

One in four American adults suffers from a disability that impacts major life functions, according to the CDC . This is a startling statistic, especially when you consider that the maximum SSI benefit is just $771 per month .

Getting The Phone Through The Mail

Following the online application, you can begin watching the mail for your free phone to arrive. From there, you can turn the phone on and use it to receive 250 free minutes of airtime every month. Depending on the provider that you have chosen, you may also have opted for getting reduced costs for texting and extra minutes.

Lifeline Eligibility Via Participation In Federal Or State Assistance Programs

Most people will qualify for a Lifeline cell phone and service through their participation in a federal or state assistance program. The theory goes, if you are on these designated programs then you have already proven yourself to be in financial need so no need to prove it all over again.

Do Medicare Advantage Plans Cover Stem Cell Therapy

Advantage plans must provide the same coverage as Part A and B. However, they decide how much youll pay out of pocket in the form of cost-sharing. Advantage plans also require you to use their in-network doctors.

Features To Look For In Senior

Eligible seniors have two options cell phones from the providers. They can have basic cell phones or even the best 10 smartphones government provides. Most seniors may prefer basic cell phones since theyre using them more for texting and calling. Besides, most providers dont offer specific cell phones for seniors.

What Is The Lifeline Assistance Program

Its a government benefit program that was initially founded to provide free landline service to qualifying, low income households. However, with the rise of modern technology, the government has started to keep up with the times and modernize the program.

Customer Service That Is Senior

Even better than Livelys easy-to-use phone is the great senior-friendly customer service. U.S.-based operators and customer service representatives are available to help explain how to use your phones features, dial phone numbers or answer any of your questions.

Us Mobile Unlimited Talk And Text Plan

The only way to bring your bill lower than $10 a month is to throw out your data plan altogether. If you know you don’t want to pay for any wireless data, the US Mobile Unlimited Talk and Text plan at $7 a month is your best bet. Bonus, US Mobile operates on both T-Mobile and Verizon networks, which offer excellent coverage.

Does Medicare Call You At Home

Medicare and Insurance for Stem Cells? Don’t Believe It Simply Because There’s a Q-Code

Why do seniors need cell phones?

Cell phones allow seniors to communicate with their friends and family members and considered a tool they can rely upon for emergencies , especially when access to immediate emergency health care is needed. Here we preview the possible options for getting a free cell phone for seniors and show you how to qualify.

What phone companies offer free phone service?

Many other regional companies offer free government phone services, such as Assist Wireless, True Wireless, StandUp Wireless, and Terracom Wireless.

What is Obama phone program?

The Lifeline Assistance Program - also known as the Obama Phone Program - is a government-sponsored program, which aims to provide free cell phones for seniors and low-income citizens. This program offers free cell phones along with free cell phone plans for seniors who are qualified. The free cell phone service plan may vary from one state ...

How to apply for Verizon government discount?

You can apply online via the Lifeline National Verifier, and if you receive the eligibility notification, you can apply to get the Verizon government discount.

Does Texas have free cell phones?

If you live in Texas and searching for free government phones for seniors, you have many providers offer free cellphone service. Below are some Lifeline cell phone providers in the state of Texas.

What are the features of a telephony phone?

Features like Voicemail, Caller ID, 3-way Calling.

Is assurance wireless free?

Assurance Wireless is a subsidiary of the Virgin Mobile Corporation. It offers free cell phones and free cell phone plans that range from monthly 350 minutes to unlimited talk, text, 2GB of data. Free cell phone services by the same provider may vary from one state to another so, you have to check out what is available in your area.

When was the Medicaid cell phone program created?

This program was created in the 1980’s to make sure that low-income families and individuals had access to a phone for basic communication. Medicaid recipients can easily get their FREE Medicaid cell phone with monthly minutes and data through any government-approved Lifeline provider. Federal regulations allow only one cell phone per household.

How to apply for lifeline?

Visit a Lifeline provider and fill out the quick application form. You will need to verify that you receive Medicaid or confirm your income. You may also qualify through income or other welfare programs from the government.

How many people are covered by medicaid?

Medicaid also provides coverage to 4.8 million people with disabilities who are enrolled in Medicare.

What is Part B in Medicare?

Part B: Pays for physician services, lab and x-ray services, durable medical equipment, and outpatient and other services

Can you be covered by Medicare and Medicaid?

Individuals who are enrolled in both Medicaid and Medicare, by federal statute, can be covered for both optional and mandatory categories.

Can Medicare help with out of pocket medical expenses?

Medicare enrollees who have limited income and resources may get help paying for their premiums and out-of-pocket medical expenses from Medicaid (e.g. MSPs, QMBs, SLBs, and QIs).

What companies provide free cell phones for seniors?

The free cell phones for seniors and the free service are provided by several nationwide wireless companies such as Safelink Wireless and Assurance Wireless and Q LINK Wireless, and also there are regional wireless companies that provide the lifeline program services. Most of the states have more than one Lifeline service provider, the free cell phone options and free cell phone service for seniors and eligible citizens may vary from one provider to another which means you need to check each provider to get the best offer.

What is the free phone plan for California?

With Assurance Wireless, California residents get the best free phone deal, they get unlimited talk, text, 5GB of data, and free smartphones for seniors and eligible citizens. This plan is called the California Freedom Plan. Other Lifeline providers in California

What is assurance wireless?

Assurance Wireless is a big Lifeline service provider that provides free cell phones for seniors. It’s a subsidiary of Virgin Mobile which uses the Sprint network.

How many minutes does assurance wireless have?

What does Assurance Wireless offer vary from a state to another. Talk minutes start as few as 350 monthly minutes, while many states get unlimited talk, text, and 2GB of data. Q LINK Wireless. Q Link Wireless provides free phone service for customers who are qualified for the Lifeline program.

How many people can use Lifeline?

Note: the Lifeline program benefits are limited to one per household, not per person and a household can get a free Lifeline service from only one provider.

How many minutes a month is free?

Free up to 1000 minutes per month.

Does Lifeline Assistance give free cell phones?

Let’s first talk about the Lifeline Assistance program, this government-sponsored program aims to provide free cell phones for seniors and low-income citizens, not only that, but if you participate in the program you will get a monthly free cell phone plan that offers free minutes, free text messages, and data allotment. The available free cell phone service varied by the cell phone provider and the state where you live.

How do seniors get free phones?

There are many ways a senior can get a free smartphone but the most reliable is through the Lifeline program, a government federal program that provides mobile phones to low earning citizens with a view of availing telecommunication services to all Americans so as to improve access to education, jobs, and other opportunities.

Who can access the Lifeline program?

This Lifeline program can also be accessed for citizens who live on recognized tribal lands or participate in a tribal assistance program.

When all else fails, can you use calling and texting apps?

When all else fails you can simply use calling and texting apps to keep in contact with your loved ones.

Can you apply Lifeline discount to existing service?

Lastly, you’ll just sign up. If approved, you will receive your Lifeline discount toward your bill. Your company can also apply your discount to an existing service.

Is Metro by T Mobile free?

Currently, Metro by T-Mobile, Cricket Wireless and Text Now are all offering free phone deals with eligible plans.

Is there a 90 day warranty on mobile phone service?

Disrupting the mobile phone space means more than cutting the cost of service. There are also no lengthy contracts, generous 90-day warranties, and a completely free monthly service for people who prefer smaller plans. This is one of the most generous plans for people who are looking to access the internet legally for free.

Can seniors use cell phones?

The good news is that you can also consider using cell phone plans made specifically for seniors.

What is Medicaid insurance?

The Health Insurance Association of America describes Medicaid as a "government insurance program for persons of all ages whose income and resources are insufficient to pay for health care.". (America's Health Insurance Plans (HIAA), pg. 232). Medicaid is the largest source of funding for medical and health-related services for people ...

What percentage of the poverty line is eligible for Medicaid?

Under the law as written, all U.S. citizens and legal residents with income up to 133% of the poverty line, including adults without dependent children, would qualify for coverage in any state that participated in the Medicaid program.

Does poverty qualify for medicaid?

Poverty alone does not necessarily qualify someone for Medicaid. The Patient Protection and Affordable Care Act will significantly expand both eligibility for and federal funding of Medicaid beginning on January 1, 2014.

Does Sebelius have to agree to Medicaid expansion?

Sebelius that states do not have to agree to this expansion in order to continue to receive existing levels of Medicaid funding, and many states have chosen to continue with current funding levels and eligibility standards. MEDICAID RECIPIENTS QUALIFY FOR LIFELINE SERVICE.

What is lifeline assistance?

Lifeline Assistance is the Federal Communication Commission's long running (since 1985) program designed to provide equal access to phone service for all Americans. It specifically caters to low-income residents who may not otherwise be able to afford a cell phone device or plan.

What is Gen Mobile?

Gen Mobile is a smaller wireless carrier that runs on Sprint's network. Plans start at $6/month and top out at $25/month, with varying amounts of talk, text and data. The cheapest plan gets you 300 minutes of talk, unlimited text, and 1GB of data for $6 /month. Gen Mobile.

What phones does ZTE sell?

Take Assurance : the carrier offers a host of smartphones like the Alcatel Dawn, Kyocrea Hydro Reach and ZTE Prestige 2. Or Truconnect : they sell the NUU A3 and ZTE Warp Elite N9518.

Can you get a touch screen phone from the government?

As long as you meet all the restrictions on the Lifeline Assistance Program, you can indeed get a touch screen phone from the government.

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