The smartphone markets have changed for good. Nowadays, there are separate cell phones created specifically for seniors. Senior cell phones are very different from the smartphones we are used to seeing. Seniors need cell phones for emergencies or to find their way to certain destinations.

Safelink is a government program that sponsors free cell phones and cell phone services for low-income groups and seniors too. Under this plan, the seniors can receive 250 minutes of free talking time per month.

Safelink cell phones for seniors

Safelink phones for seniors are a big help to seniors who are dependent on cell phones. Safelink phones are given to eligible applicants and seniors who are disabled due to accidents or any other circumstances. To qualify for a free cell phone program, an applicant needs to furnish his social security number and proof of income. In order to be eligible to qualify, the applicant needs to be on a government assistance program by either State or Federal.

Safelink phones for seniors are specifically made keeping in mind the requirements of seniors and disabled.

Requirements of Senior cell phones

Senior cell phones require:

• Large backlit buttons
• One-touch Emergency Dialer
• Speaker facility for hearing impaired
• No unnecessary apps

Seniors do not need fancy smartphones or apps that are useless to them. Special phones for seniors have the necessary dialing buttons for help.

Safelink phones are contract-free with no activation charges or billing. A senior can access the following benefits on his or her free cell phone:

• Voicemail
• Caller Id
• Call waiting
• Free 911 calls.

Eligibility criteria

To qualify for the Safelink government free cell phone program, the total household income of the applicant should be at or below 135% of the federal poverty guidelines. Apart from that, the applicant should be enrolled in any one of the following programs:

• Supplemental Security Income
• Temporary assistance for needy families
• Federal Public housing
• Supplemental Rental assistance
• Low-income home energy assistance program
• Food stamps or Supplemental Nutritional Assistance program

On meeting these criteria, a senior can get 250 minutes of free talk time per month that can be used anytime.