Free cell phones and minutes are available to low income individuals through the Healthcare Authority and a federal program called Lifeline.  For information on the phone services and carriers go to:  https://content.govdelivery.com/accounts/WAHCA/bulletins/283a2da .  To apply, clients would go to:  https://www.freegovernmentcellphones.net/basics/how-do-i-get-a-free-phone.  

HCA has stated that during the COVID emergency, Lifeline carriers are to allow unlimited minutes, currently at least until 5/20/20.  The status of the implementation of unlimited minutes for available Lifeline carriers are:

Access Wireless -  will provide unlimited minutes until 6/21/20

Assurance Wireless  - Website states Carrier will provide unlimited minutes until 5/20/20

Budget Mobile – No information yet

enTouch Wireless  - Carrier is working on a plan and expects to update their website to provide further details

Life wireless -  is working on implementing a plan but has not provided a date when the plan will be implemented