Eligible Illinois residents can receive a free smartphone with unlimited talk, text, and data through the Lifeline Program.
Check If You Qualify →You may qualify for a free government phone in Illinois if you participate in any of these programs:
Even without program participation, Illinois residents whose household income is at or below 135% of the Federal Poverty Guidelines may qualify. See full income limits →
A working smartphone at no cost
No limits on calls and messages
Monthly data for apps and browsing
Share connection with other devices
Verify you meet program or income requirements for Illinois.
Apply online with proof of eligibility — benefit letter, EBT card, or income docs.
Your free smartphone ships within 5-10 business days. Activate and use immediately.
Illinois applicants should treat eligibility, documents, and local coverage as three separate checks.
Confirm that your Medicaid, SNAP, SSI, housing, Veterans Pension, WIC, or income proof is current for your Illinois household.
Provider availability in Illinois can change by county, network, and ZIP code, so eligibility approval and usable coverage should both be verified.
Before choosing a carrier, compare coverage and plan details for your exact ZIP code rather than relying on a statewide advertisement.
Use the same legal name, date of birth, and address across the National Verifier and provider application to avoid avoidable delays.
Start by confirming Lifeline eligibility, then apply with proof that matches your Illinois household record. Use the same legal name, date of birth, and address on the National Verifier and carrier application.
Confirm that your Medicaid, SNAP, SSI, housing, Veterans Pension, WIC, or income proof is current for your Illinois household.
Provider availability in Illinois can change by county, network, and ZIP code, so eligibility approval and usable coverage should both be verified.
494 cities covered — find Lifeline info for your area