It wouldn’t be inaccurate to say that the Cornhusker State is economically schizophrenic. Here’s what we mean.
Statistics from the US Census Bureau tell two conflicting stories about the state’s economy – one of a strengthening economy in the rural areas, but of a worsening economy in the cities.
For example, the state’s average household income has recently risen to record levels.
But Nebraska’s economy is heavily dependent on agriculture. And as you might expect when you see the skyrocketing costs at the grocery store, the state’s rural areas seem to be doing just fine. Unfortunately, Nebraska’s urban income levels declined by -0.4%.
Unfortunately, the state’s median income level and its level of poverty sit stubbornly above the levels of 2008.
So while the politicians in Washington, DC pat themselves on the back and brag that the economy is on the rebound, needy Nebraska residents don’t believe it, because the percentage of Cornhuskers living in poverty has actually increased since 2010.
As one wit once noted, “When your neighbor loses his job, it’s a recession. When you lose your job, it’s a depression.”
We’re pretty sure that’s how a lot of Nebraskans feel. And we’re also pretty sure that they welcome the free government cell phone program with open arms to their state.
Free Cell Phone Providers in Nebraska:
Unfortunately, there are three providers so far in the state:
StandUp Wireless
Tempo Communications
Terracom Wireless
Lifeline Discount Companies in Nebraska
If you qualify for Lifeline Assistance, but you find that none of the companies offer free government cell phones where you live, you have another option. The companies below, while not offering free cell phone plans, do offer substantial Lifeline discounts off their regular mobile phone plans in Nebraska:
U.S. Cellular
Viaero Wireless
How to Qualify in Nebraska for a Free or Discounted Lifeline Cell Phone
You are eligible if you receive benefits from any of these programs in Nebraska:
Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (Food Stamps or SNAP)
Medicaid
Supplemental Security Income (SSI)
Federal Public Housing Assistance (Section 8)
Veterans Pension and Survivor’s Benefit.
Bureau of Indian Affairs General Assistance (BIA)
Tribally Administered Temporary Assistance for Needy Families (Tribal TANF)
Tribal Head Start (only those households meeting its income qualifying standard)
Food Distribution Program on Indian Reservations (FDPIR)
In Nebraska, you may also qualify if your Total Household Income is at or under 135% of the Federal Poverty Guidelines.