Apple
Free iPhone 13
$0 – $200* device co-pay
- 5G
- 6.1-inch Super Retina XDR
- 12MP Wide + 12MP Ultra Wide
Free Government Phone in Washington DC
Lifeline helps thousands of Washington DC households stay connected. Here's how to get a Free Government Phone in Washington DC, who qualifies, and how to apply.
Quick answer
Yes. Eligible households in Washington DC can get a Free Government Phone through the federal Lifeline program. You qualify if someone in your household receives DC Medicaid, SNAP, SSI, Federal Public Housing Assistance, or the Veterans Pension — or if your household income is at or below 135% of the Federal Poverty Guidelines.
Who qualifies for a Free Government Phone in Washington DC?
You, a dependent, or someone in your household must participate in one of these programs:
- DC Medicaid (Medicaid)
- SNAP
- Supplemental Security Income (SSI)
- Federal Public Housing Assistance / Section 8
- Veterans Pension or Survivors Pension
- Household income at or below 135% of the Federal Poverty Guidelines
Not sure? Use our eligibility checker.
Lifeline income limits by household size
Maximum yearly household income (135% of Federal Poverty Guidelines, 48 states + DC). Bars show household size.
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Source: 2025 HHS Poverty Guidelines × 135%. Alaska and Hawaii limits are higher. Limits update yearly — confirm on USAC's Lifeline site.
How to apply in Washington DC
- Check eligibility using the programs above or your income.
- Apply online with the Free Link Wireless application.
- Verify your eligibility. Your eligibility is confirmed through the Lifeline National Verifier, run by USAC. In many cases, Washington DC benefit records can be checked automatically.
- Get your phone. We ship free to any Washington DC address, and you can keep your current number.
Service across Washington DC
Free Link Wireless serves eligible customers statewide, including Capitol Hill, Anacostia, Columbia Heights, and Georgetown. Service runs on a nationwide 4G LTE and 5G network — see our coverage page for details.
Popular phones in Washington DC
Apple
Free iPhone 11
$0 – $200* device co-pay
- 4G LTE
- 6.1-inch Liquid Retina HD
- 12MP Wide + 12MP Ultra Wide
See all Free Government Phones →
Neighboring states
Washington DC Free Government Phone FAQs
Can I get a Free Government Phone in Washington DC with DC Medicaid?
Yes. DC Medicaid is Washington DC's Medicaid program, and Medicaid is a Lifeline qualifying program.
Does SNAP qualify for a Free Government Phone?
Yes. SNAP is Washington DC's SNAP program, which qualifies your household for Lifeline.
How many Free Government Phones can a Washington DC household get?
One. Lifeline is limited to one benefit per household in Washington DC and every other state.
How long does it take to get a Free Government Phone in Washington DC?
Many applicants are verified quickly. After approval, phones typically ship within a few business days, depending on where you live in Washington DC.
Get your Free Government Phone in Washington DC
Check eligibility in about two minutes, then apply online. No contracts, no credit checks.