Your Guide to SafeLink and Government Assistance in 2025
Staying connected is more important than ever for health, work, and family. For many seniors and low-income households, programs like SafeLink Wireless are essential. However, recent changes to federal funding have created confusion.
The Biggest Change: The End of the Affordable Connectivity Program (ACP)
The most significant update is the end of the federal Affordable Connectivity Program (ACP). Due to a lack of new funding from Congress, the program officially stopped accepting applications in February 2024 and ended on June 1, 2024. This program previously provided a monthly discount on internet service and was often bundled with Lifeline benefits for enhanced plans.
As of September 2025, the ACP is no longer active, and SafeLink's website clearly reflects this change. This means the extra data and discounts provided through the ACP are no longer available.
Lifeline: The Enduring Program for Connectivity
While the ACP has ended, the long-standing federal Lifeline program continues. SafeLink is a major provider of Lifeline services. This program is designed to make communications services more affordable for eligible low-income consumers.
Through Lifeline, SafeLink provides qualifying individuals with:
- A free smartphone or a free SIM card to use in your own compatible phone.
- Free monthly calling minutes.
- Free monthly text messages.
- A monthly data allowance.
So, to answer the main question: yes, SafeLink continues to offer free phones and service in 2025, but strictly through the Lifeline program.
How to Qualify for SafeLink's Lifeline Program
Eligibility for Lifeline is determined by federal and state guidelines. You generally qualify if your household income is at or below 135% of the Federal Poverty Guidelines or if you (or someone in your household) participate in certain federal assistance programs.
Program-Based Eligibility:
- Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP)
- Medicaid
- Supplemental Security Income (SSI)
- Federal Public Housing Assistance (FPHA)
- Veterans Pension and Survivors Benefit
Income-Based Eligibility: You may also qualify based on your household's gross annual income. For example, under the guidelines effective from June 1, 2025, to May 31, 2026, the income limit for a one-person household might be around $24,200, though this varies by state.
Step-by-Step: How to Apply
- Visit the SafeLink Website: Start your application online at the official SafeLink Wireless site.
- Verify Eligibility: You'll be directed to the National Verifier, a centralized system used by the Universal Service Administrative Company (USAC) to confirm your eligibility.
- Provide Documentation: You may need to upload documents proving your identity, address, and participation in a qualifying program or your income level.
- Choose Your Plan: Once approved, you can select your plan and decide whether you want a new phone from SafeLink or a SIM card for your current device.
Comparing Lifeline Providers
While SafeLink is a top choice, other providers also participate in the Lifeline program. It's wise to compare your options.
| Feature | SafeLink Wireless | Assurance Wireless | Gen Mobile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Free Phone | Yes, typically a smartphone | Yes, basic smartphone | Yes, subject to availability |
| Parent Company | TracFone/Verizon | T-Mobile | Gen Mobile |
| Bring Your Own Phone | Yes, SIM kit provided | Yes, with limitations | Yes |
| Network | Verizon | T-Mobile | T-Mobile |
What Kind of Phone Can You Expect?
SafeLink typically provides entry-level Android smartphones. While they aren't the latest flagship models, they are fully capable of making calls, sending texts, and accessing the internet. Models vary based on availability. If you receive a basic model, you always have the option to use the provided SIM card in a more advanced, compatible phone that you purchase separately.
Conclusion
In 2025, SafeLink remains a vital service for helping seniors and low-income families stay connected. Although the end of the ACP has reduced the amount of free data available, the core Lifeline program still provides a free phone and essential monthly services at no cost to eligible individuals. To get started, verify your eligibility through the National Verifier and apply directly on the SafeLink website.
For the most reliable information on the Lifeline program, you can visit the FCC's official Lifeline page.
