How to Get Help Paying Your Cell Phone Bill When Funds are Low

Having a cell phone is practically a necessity these days. We rely on our mobile devices to stay connected to family, friends, work, school, and more. But cell phone plans can get expensive, especially if you have unlimited data, multiple lines, and the latest devices. When money gets tight, your cell phone bill may be one of the first things you’re tempted to cut back on or stop paying altogether. However, there are ways to get help so you can keep your service active. In this article, we’ll explore some options to assist with paying your cell phone bill when funds are low.

Explore Lifeline Program for Discounted Service

The Lifeline program aka “Obama Phone” is a federal benefit that provides discounted phone and internet service to eligible low-income households If approved, you can get up to $9.25 off your cell phone bill each month Lifeline is available in every state, territory, commonwealth, and on Tribal lands. It’s administered by the Federal Communications Commission (FCC) and the Universal Service Administrative Company (USAC).

To qualify for Lifeline assistance, you must have an income at or below 135% of the federal poverty guidelines OR participate in certain assistance programs like Medicaid, SNAP, SSI, and others. You can only get Lifeline benefits for one phone line per household, whether it’s wireless, home phone, or internet.

Applying for Lifeline is free – don’t pay anybody to help you sign up You can apply directly with a Lifeline provider in your state or submit an application with USAC online or by mail Make sure to have all required documents ready to verify your eligibility.

Request Bill Assistance from Your Carrier

Most major wireless carriers and many smaller prepaid companies offer bill payment assistance programs to subscribers experiencing financial hardship. Eligibility criteria, application process, and benefits vary by provider. Common options include:

• Payment arrangements – Set up a customized payment plan to pay your bill over an extended period Late fees may be waived

• Account credits – Get a one-time credit applied to your account to cover an upcoming bill.

• Temporary discounted plans – Switch to a lower-cost plan for 1-3 billing cycles until you can pay your regular rate again.

• Service pause – Temporarily suspend service for up to 3 months while maintaining your phone number.

• Waiver of early termination fees – Cancel service without paying fees for breaking your contract early.

Contact your cell provider directly to see what kind of bill assistance they offer. Explain your situation and be prepared to show income verification.

Use Federal or State Programs

If you currently receive government benefits, reach out to the administering agency to see if they offer any financial assistance with cell phone bills.

• TANF – Temporary Assistance for Needy Families may cover costs of basic communication services in some states.

• SNAP – The Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program lets states provide LIHEAP recipients with emergency relief funds that can be used for phone bills.

• Medicaid – You may be able to get a free cell phone and service through Medicaid-sponsored Assurance Wireless in some states.

• SSI – Recipients of Supplemental Security Income can use some of their monthly payments to cover their cell phone bill.

• Older adult services – Area Agencies on Aging offer cell phone subsidies for low-income seniors in select locations.

• State lifeline – Some states have Lifeline-like programs that offer supplemental discounts and benefits.

Use Payment Apps Creatively

Payment apps like Venmo, CashApp, and PayPal let you send money electronically to and from friends. If you have friends or family willing to help, consider having them cover your cell phone bill by sending payments through an app. You can repay them over time as you’re able.

These apps also let you split bills with others. If you share a family cell plan, use an app to request each person’s portion of the payment instead of paying the entire bill yourself.

Pick Up Odd Jobs for Extra Cash

When funds are low, bringing in some extra money can help cover the cell phone bill along with other expenses. Look for odd jobs to do on a temporary basis:

• Dog walking, pet sitting
• House sitting, cleaning
• Yard work, lawn mowing
• Snow shoveling
• Babysitting, nanny gigs
• Delivery driving for apps like UberEATS
• Selling crafts online on Etsy

Save up whatever you earn from side jobs to pay your cell phone bill when it comes due. Or have the money sent directly to your wireless provider.

Seek Out Community Resources

If cell service is at risk of being shut off, and you’ve exhausted all other options, some community assistance resources may be able to help, such as:

• Faith-based organizations like the Salvation Army
• Social service agencies and nonprofits
• Local housing authorities
• Emergency relief funds through United Way

Explain your situation and provide documentation. Funds may be given to cover the full bill or a portion of what you owe.

Switch to a Cheaper Cell Phone Plan

If your current cell plan has too many extra features you can’t afford right now, switch to a more basic, low-cost plan. Consider these ways to reduce your monthly bill:

• Pick a smaller data allowance if you currently pay for unlimited data.
• Drop extra lines and services if it’s just you using the cell plan.
• Go with a smaller carrier that offers discount prepaid plans.
• Choose a family member’s group plan if the monthly charge per person is lower.
• Disable extra services like international calling that increase your bill.
• Use Wi-Fi for data instead of your carrier’s cellular network.

Explore Alternatives as a Last Resort

If you ultimately can’t afford monthly cell service, even with a discounted plan, you may need to go without a cell phone until your financial situation improves. Consider these options to stay connected:

• Use free messaging/calling apps like WhatsApp or Skype on any device that connects to Wi-Fi.
• Get a pay-as-you-go flip phone and buy minutes as needed.
• Borrow a spare phone from a friend or family member.
• Use your phone number temporarily through Google Voice.
• Rely on landline phones, emails, and social media to stay in touch.

Losing cell service can be difficult if you rely on it. But explore every possibility, from government and community resources to creative short-term solutions. With some persistence and planning, you can hopefully keep your cell phone active even when money is tight. Don’t hesitate to ask for help.