PSA: Free cell phones and service for the elderly

People on financial assistance and those with a low income may qualify for a free cell phone with a free 68 minutes per month service. The program is offered by SafeLink and is available in New York and many other states.

In New York, if you're on one of the following programs, you automatically qualify and all you need to do is visit the website and apply online.

• Family Assistance
• Food Stamps
• Home Energy Assistance Program (HEAP)
• Medicaid
• Safety Net Assistance
• Supplemental Security Income (SSI)
• Veteran's Disability Pension
• Veteran's Surviving Spouse Pension

You can also qualify if your total household income is at or below 135% of the Federal Poverty Guidelines (FPG). Check the website for the exact number.