Free phone eligibility in Colorado
There are two ways to qualify for Lifeline in Colorado: take part in a qualifying benefit program, or have household income at or below 135% of the Federal Poverty Guidelines.
1. Qualify through a benefit program
You are eligible if you or someone in your household gets benefits from any of these programs:
- Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP, food stamps)
- Medicaid
- Supplemental Security Income (SSI)
- Federal Public Housing Assistance (FPHA)
- Veterans Pension and Survivors Benefit
If you live on Tribal lands
These programs also count for households on federally recognized Tribal lands, which can get a larger discount of up to $34.25 a month:
- Bureau of Indian Affairs General Assistance (BIA)
- Tribal Head Start (income-eligible households only)
- Tribal Administered Temporary Assistance for Needy Families
- Food Distribution Program on Indian Reservations (FDPIR)
2. Qualify by household income
You qualify if your household's total yearly income before taxes is at or below 135% of the 2026 Federal Poverty Guidelines:
| Household size | Poverty guideline (100%) | Income limit (135%) | Per month |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 person | $15,960 | $21,546 | $1,795 |
| 2 people | $21,640 | $29,214 | $2,434 |
| 3 people | $27,320 | $36,882 | $3,073 |
| 4 people | $33,000 | $44,550 | $3,712 |
| 5 people | $38,680 | $52,218 | $4,351 |
| 6 people | $44,360 | $59,886 | $4,990 |
| 7 people | $50,040 | $67,554 | $5,629 |
| 8 people | $55,720 | $75,222 | $6,268 |
| Each additional person: add $7,668 per year to the income limit | |||
How to apply in Colorado
- 1
Gather proof
A benefit letter, or proof of income such as last year's tax return or three months of pay stubs, plus a photo ID.
- 2
Choose a provider
Compare the 8 Lifeline providers serving Colorado.
- 3
Apply
Apply on the provider's official site or through the Lifeline National Verifier. Approval is often same day.
Ready to compare plans?
8 providers offer Lifeline service in Colorado.
We are not a carrier or a government agency. Apply only on the provider's official website or through the Lifeline National Verifier.