AirTalk Wireless participates in both the Lifeline and the Affordable Connectivity Program (ACP). As such, they offer brand new and free government tablets to individuals who are eligible to participate in both programs. However, if you only participate in the ACP program, you won’t receive a free government tablet, but you qualify for discounted certified pre-owned tablets.
The pre-owned tablets are not free, but very close to it. For example, tablets such as the Samsung Galaxy Tab S2 costs as little as $10.01! AirTalk Wireless offers a range of low-cost pre-owned tablets, but only for as long as supplies last, so make sure to check their site and act quickly.
Along with the tablet, AirTalk Wireless offers unlimited high-speed data with no contracts, no monthly bills, or registration fees.
AirTalk’s States of Operation
Although AirTalk Wireless provides nationwide coverage, they only provide these services to qualified individuals living in the following states:
- California
- Colorado
- Georgia
- Kentucky
- Maryland
- Michigan
- Mississippi
- Missouri
- New York
- Nevada
- North Dakota
- Ohio
- Oklahoma
- Pennsylvania
- Rhode Island
- South Carolina
- West Virginia
- Wisconsin
How to Qualify for Free (low cost) Government Tablet
To qualify for the tablet you must meet at least one of the following:
- Participate in a government assistant programs such as Medicaid, WIC, Lifeline, SSI, or other programs and have proof of such participation.
- A household income at or below 200% of the Federal Poverty Guidelines.
- Live on Tribal Land and participate in certain programs such as Tribal TANF, Bureau of Indian Affairs General Assistance, or Food Distribution Program on Indian Reservations.
- Participate in the Lifeline program
The programs listed above are not an exhaustive list of programs. To find a more complete listing of qualifying programs, visit the Do I Qualify? page of the USAC Affordable Connectivity Program.
*The qualifications for ACP are the same as for Lifeline so make sure to apply for and be approved for both to receive the new free government tablet (instead of a low-cost, pre-owned tablet).
If you were previously enrolled in the Emergency Broadband Benefit Program, your benefits will automatically be transferred to the Affordable Connectivity Program.
How to Apply to Receive a Free/Discounted Tablet
Once you qualify for Lifeline/ACP, go to the AirTalk Wireless website and click Apply. Enter your zip code and determine which plan works best for you.
Since AirTalk participates in both Lifeline and ACP, you have the option of bundling both the free smartphone along with the free tablet to get a better deal. If you bundle them both, you get 15GB of high-speed internet along with unlimited talk, text, and messaging. However, if you choose the tablet only, your monthly high-speed limit is reduced to 8GB of data instead of the 15GB offered with the combined plan.
Once you've decided on your plan option, click Apply Now and complete the application. To track the status of your application, you could either call or visit the Check Application Status page. You'll need to enter your email address (the one you used on the application), zip code and the last four digits of your social security number.
Things to Note
- Before filling out the application, make sure to have the necessary supporting documentation. You’ll need to access the National Verifier for lifeline information in addition to using the AirTalk Wireless online application. Having the necessary documentation will make the application and approval process easier.
- You must be at least 18 years of age to apply.
- You will be required to recertify your eligibility annually.
AirTalk Wireless - Lifeline/ACP FAQs
Below are some of the most frequently asked questions with answers. More than likely the question you were going to ask is included in the list below. However, if you have additional questions that are not answered here, you can always Contact them directly.
Common AirTalk Wireless Questions
What type of smartphones does AirTalk Wireless offer?
Eligible Lifeline/ACP customers will receive a free 4G/5G LTE smartphone. The phone manufacturers range from Apple, Motorola, Samsung, LG, and more. Keep in mind, that the inventory changes. And therefore are subject to affect product availability. AirTalk Wireless offers these phones for free at its own cost.
How long does it take for my application to be approved?
According to AirTalk Wireless, it takes about 20 to 30 minutes to approve an application. However, some applications take longer. They may take as much as 3 to 4 days or more for approval. Usually, the holdup is the proof of eligibility documentation must be reconfirmed. If it's taking several days for approval, you can always check the status on the website.
How do I check the status?
If you recently applied for service and would like to know where you stand in the approval process, you can visit the Check Application Status page. Enter your email address, ZIP Code, and the last four digits of your Social Security number. Then click Check Status and you will find out the status of your application.
How long will it take to receive a free smartphone after signing up?
Assuming that you signed up and your application has been approved, you should receive your phone within 7 to 10 days after AirTalk Wireless completes the order.
How will I know that my phone has shipped?
Once your application has been approved and your order processed, AirTalk Wireless will send either an email or a text with your tracking number. If you requested contact by email, make sure to check your spam folder as your notification might end up there. To avoid that, add AirTalk Wireless to your contact list. This way the email won’t go to the spam folder.
What if my phone arrives damaged?
If your phone is damaged when you receive it, notify AirTalk Wireless immediately. You have 15 days from the day that you received the phone to exchange it for a similar model. However, since AirTalk Wireless only provides one completely free phone including shipping and handling, if you order a replacement phone you may be subject to a $25 fee. That $25 covers shipping and handling. The phone itself is still free and it's covered by a 15-day warranty.
They only provide a free phone free shipping and handling when you have originally signed up with them and I stayed with them for at least six months. Otherwise, the $25 shipping and handling fee applies.
The phone I received is different from the one I chose. Why?
Because the inventory changes and phones are distributed based on availability, there is a possibility that you may not receive the phone that you selected. AirTalk Wireless will try its best to give you a phone that is similar to the model that you requested.
Can I transfer my service to AirTalk Wireless?
If you wish to switch your current service to AirTalk Wireless, you can do that but you must start the process by submiting an application.
ABOUT THE AUTHOR: This site was created to help people find information about free government phones. The ower of this site does not mail, activate or repair free government phones nor provide phone service. If you have questions about phone service it is suggested that you contact the phone service provider directly.
Last Modified: 17 January 2023
