Life Wireless to offer cellphone service to eligible low-income customers in Arizona

Life Wireless is now offering subsidized mobile phone service to eligible low-income residents in Arizona.

Life Wireless provides phone service through the federal Lifeline program, which was created by Congress in 1985 to ensure that all Americans have access to quality telephone service and the security and opportunities that it affords. Eligible subscribers in Arizona must take part in a federal assistance program such as Medicaid or Food Stamps or earn less than 150 percent of the federal poverty level. Customers may not receive service from more than one Lifeline carrier at the same time.

Life Wireless customers receive a basic mobile handset with voicemail, text messaging, call waiting, and other features. Smart phones are not available. Calling plans offer up to 250 minutes a month.

"We're excited about this new venture into Arizona," said Jim Carpenter, a senior vice president with Life Wireless. "We want to fulfill the mission of the Lifeline phone program by having our sales representatives go out into the community to reach those most in need of telephone service."

Life Wireless recently had its compliance plan approved by the Federal Communications Commission. The compliance plan details the industry-leading steps Life Wireless takes to preserve the integrity of the federal Lifeline program and deliver affordable telephone service to eligible low-income families and individuals. Life Wireless performs multiple checks on each potential customer to verify that they qualify for phone service through the Lifeline program. All Life Wireless sales representatives receive extensive training and oversight to ensure that company policies are upheld.

"A cellphone is no longer a luxury item, it's a necessity," said Carpenter. "A cellphone helps people to stay in touch with their doctors, loved ones, and potential employers, and enables them to contact 911 during an emergency."