Introduction
This page covers free and low-cost phone services available to Mainers. We know there are many new low or no cost ways of communicating, but we are just trying to cover the basics.
We do not endorse any of these services – make sure to check with a reliable consumer site before signing up with a wireless company or web-based service.
Free and Low-Cost Cell Phones
Safelink Wireless
Safelink Wireless is providing eligible, low-income Mainers with free cell phones. The phone plan includes 350 monthly minutes or unlimited calls, depending on which plan you choose; 4.5 to 25 GB of monthly data, depending on plan; calls to Canada and Mexico, depending on plan; unlimited text; unlimited access to 911; voicemail, 3-way calling, and caller ID; and 411 directory assistance at no additional cost.
To learn more about Safelink or to apply, call 1-800-SAFELINK (1-800-723-3546) or go to www.safelink.com.
Assurance Wireless
Assurance Wireless also provides eligible, low-income Mainers with free cell phones and unlimited data, texts, and call minutes; 10 GB monthly hotspot data; low international rates; unlimited access to 911; voicemail, call waiting, and caller ID; and customer care.
To learn more about Assurance Wireless or to apply, call 1-800-395-2171 or go to www.assurancewireless.com
Q Link Wireless
Q Link Wireless is a third provider of free cell phones to low-income Mainers. Q Link offers unlimited talk, text, and data; unlimited access to 911; voicemail and 3-way calling; customer care; and for those who qualify, a low-cost tablet.
To learn more about Q Link Wireless or to apply you can go to www.qlinkwireless.com/
Who qualifies for free and low-cost cell service?
To qualify for these free phone services, you must get help from one of the following programs:
- MaineCare
- Food Supplements (formerly Food Stamps)
- Temporary Assistance for Needy Families (TANF)
- Supplemental Security Income (SSI)
- Emergency Assistance Program
- Home Energy Assistance Program (HEAP)
Or you may qualify if your household income is at or below 135% of the federal poverty level.
Low Cost Landline Telephone Service
Maine's LifeLine Programs are providing eligible Maine residents with low-cost telephone installation and services.
This benefit gives eligible consumers a monthly discount of up to $9.25. Consumers living on Tribal lands are eligible for an enhanced discount of up to $34.25 per month.
Learn more about the LifeLine Program – and how to apply.
To qualify for these services, you must get help from one of the following programs:
- MaineCare
- Food Supplements (formerly Food Stamps)
- Temporary Assistance for Needy Families (TANF)
- Supplemental Security Income (SSI)
- Emergency Assistance Program
- Home Energy Assistance Program (HEAP)
Free and Low-Cost Adaptive Phone Equipment
Mainers with hearing disabilities may be eligible based on income to receive a captioned, amplified or voice-activated telephone. Disability Rights Maine posts more information about captioned, amplified or voice-activated telephones – and how to access them.
July, 2022
PTLA #079