How to Get a Free Phone in Colorado — Lifeline Program Guide

A phone is infrastructure. It's how you call about a job, access your EBT balance, receive texts from your case manager, use navigation, call the crisis line at 2 AM, and access this site without relying on library computers. Going without one isn't just inconvenient — it actively makes every other part of surviving harder.

Lifeline is a federal program that's existed since 1985. It's not charity. It's a utility subsidy — the same logic as heating assistance. If you qualify, you're entitled to it.

Do You Qualify?

You qualify if you participate in any of these federal programs:

• ✓
  SNAP / EBT (food stamps)The most common qualifier.
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  MedicaidColorado's public health insurance.
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  SSI or SSDIFederal disability programs.
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  Federal Public Housing Assistance or Section 8
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  Veterans Pension or Survivors Benefit
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  Income at or below 135% of federal poverty guidelines

How to Apply

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  Go to lifeline-applies.com or safelinkwireless.comSafeLink (TracFone) and Access Wireless are the most common Colorado Lifeline providers. The application is online — you can do it at the library.
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  Enter your information and proof of eligibilityA photo of your EBT card or Medicaid card is usually enough as proof. You'll also need to provide a mailing address.
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  Use All Roads as your mailing address4869 Broadway, Boulder, CO 80304. Tell the front desk you're expecting mail so they hold it for you. This is the standard approach for unhoused people in Boulder.
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  Wait for the phone to arriveUsually 7–10 business days. Pick it up at All Roads when you get notification it's arrived.

If You Already Have a Phone

Lifeline can also apply as a monthly discount ($9.25/month) to an existing phone plan rather than a free device — useful if you have a phone you like but are paying too much for service. Ask your current carrier if they participate in Lifeline.

Keeping Your Phone Safe

A phone is a target. Keep it on your body, not in your bag. A cheap phone case with a carabiner clip that attaches to your belt loop or bag strap helps. If your phone gets stolen or damaged, you can apply for a Lifeline replacement — but the process takes time, so protecting the one you have matters.

Charge it whenever you have access to an outlet. All Roads day center (9 AM – 2 PM) has charging available. The Main Library (1001 Arapahoe) has outlets throughout the building.