If anyone in your household is enrolled in Medicaid, your household can qualify for Lifeline. Medicaid itself doesn't provide tablets, and Lifeline only discounts service. The free tablet comes from Combo Wireless, as part of a device combo for eligible customers who enroll.
Medicaid by state
Medicaid goes by different names. All of these count as Medicaid for Lifeline:
| State | Program name | Where to manage benefits |
|---|---|---|
| California | Medi-Cal | BenefitsCal or your county office |
| New York | Medicaid | NY State of Health or your local social services district |
| Texas | Texas Medicaid (including STAR plans) | YourTexasBenefits.com |
| Florida | Florida Medicaid | ACCESS Florida |
Programs that are often confused with Medicaid
Medicare
Medicare is federal health insurance for people 65+ and some people with disabilities. It is not a Lifeline qualifying program. If you have both Medicare and Medicaid, your Medicaid qualifies you.
CHIP
The Children's Health Insurance Program isn't on the federal list of Lifeline qualifying programs. You may still qualify through income or another program.
Why a tablet helps Medicaid members
- Telehealth visits. Many Medicaid plans offer video appointments, which are easier on an 8.7-inch screen than on a phone.
- Plan portals and apps. Check claims, find in-network doctors and message your care team.
- Renewals. Upload documents and complete your annual Medicaid renewal online.
Tablet combos for Medicaid members
The Samsung Galaxy Tab A9 is included in four combos:
How to apply with Medicaid
- Apply online and choose Medicaid as your qualifying program.
- Verification often confirms Medicaid automatically. If not, upload a Medicaid eligibility letter or benefit statement dated within the last 12 months. Your Medicaid card may not be enough on its own if it has no date. See documents.
- After approval, your line is activated and your devices ship free.
Qualifying through a program is an alternative to qualifying by income.
Source: USAC Lifeline Support – How to Qualify; USAC – Tribal Eligibility; CPUC – California LifeLine Eligibility
Prefer Apple? Read free iPad with Medicaid. Need a keyboard? See free laptop with Medicaid.
Free tablet with Medicaid FAQs
Does my Medicaid plan give me a free tablet?
Medicaid doesn't include tablets through Lifeline. The free tablet described here is a Combo Wireless offer for customers who qualify for Lifeline, for example through Medicaid, and enroll.
My child is on Medicaid but I'm not. Do I qualify?
Yes. If any member of your household participates in Medicaid, including a child or dependent, your household can qualify.
What if I lose Medicaid later?
You must remain eligible to keep Lifeline. At recertification you can qualify through another program or your income.