Red Pocket Free Government Phone Plans

Servicing the continental United States plus Alaska and Hawaii, Red Pocket offers free unlimited talk, text, and data. 20GB of the unlimited data is at high speeds on a 5G network. In addition to free service, qualified households can receive a tablet for only $19 (after the $100 discount). Currently (as of this writing), they offer the 8” Maze Speed Quad Care tablet. Depending on when you’re reading this, the brand and type of tablet may change.

Red Pocket can make these low-cost and free offers because they participate in the Federal Affordable Connectivity Program (ACP). The ACP provides discounts to low-income households to assist in paying for internet connectivity in an attempt to close the gap between those who can afford internet and those who cannot. As you know, almost all opportunities require internet access. Whether it’s online schooling, employment applications, or just finding out the location of the nearest bank, having access to a reliable internet connection is imperative.

Qualifying for the Affordable Connectivity Program

To receive the free phone and discounted tablet, you must satisfy the ACP eligibility criteria. Fulfilling one of the following criteria makes you eligible for the Affordable Connectivity Program:

1. Participate in any of the following government assistance programs:


• Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP)
• Medicaid
• Supplement Security Income (SSI)
• Federal Public Housing Assistance (FPHA)
• Veterans and Survivors Pension Benefit

Additional programs for households living on Tribal Lands:

• Bureau of Indian Affairs General Assistance
• Tribally-Administered Temporary Assistance to Needy Families (TANF)
• Tribal Head Start
• Food Distribution Program on Indian Reservations (FDPIR)


2. Have a household income at or below 200% of the Federal Poverty Guidelines
3. Be enrolled in the Lifeline program

There might be additional state-run programs that qualify for the discounted/free phone service. Please check with your local authorities for more information.

Applying for Free and Discounted Services

After meeting the qualification criteria, gather the necessary documents to prove eligibility and apply. You can apply online at assist.redpocket.com. According to their website, they approve applications within 48 hours.

Please be advised that the monthly phone charge may be free but is subject to taxes and fees. You are responsible for those taxes and fees.

About Red Pocket

I’ve made it a habit to learn about the Better Business Bureau rating of the cellular companies I write about. Red Pocket has been accredited with the BBB for 18 years and has an A+ rating. Taken at face value, that’s a stellar rating. However, there’s more to the story.

Regarding customer reviews, they’re rated at 1.15 out of 5 stars based on 85 reviews. That’s not very impressive. I suggest you do your due diligence before signing up with any cell phone company, even if the Affordable Connectivity Program pays the monthly bill. If Red Pocket isn't the right company for you, check out some of the other cellular companies offering free and discounted government phones and tablets.

Government Phones - Things to Know

1. You must use the phone at least once every month to maintain service.


2. You’ll be required to recertify annually to prove you still meet the eligibility criteria.


3. Only one ACP benefit per household.


4. If you change your address, you must notify Red Pocket within 30 days of your new address.

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: 24 January 2024