Free phone eligibility in Ohio
There are two ways to qualify for Lifeline in Ohio: 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 Ohio
- 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 11 Lifeline providers serving Ohio.
- 3
Apply
Apply on the provider's official site or through the Lifeline National Verifier. Approval is often same day.
Ready to compare plans?
11 providers offer Lifeline service in Ohio.
We are not a carrier or a government agency. Apply only on the provider's official website or through the Lifeline National Verifier.