Where to get a free iPhone
For households with a very limited income or who receive public assistance, the federal government Lifeline program can provide them with a free smart phone, often including models from Apple (iPhone). It is important to note that while Lifeline covers a discount for service, the device offers (a “free smart phone”) comes from participating wireless providers and depends on availability. Learn more below on where and how to apply for a free iPhone.
How the federal government can provide a free Apple iPhone
The federal government Lifeline program helps low-income households by providing a monthly discount on phone or internet service. A number of wireless companies that agree to take part in the Lifeline program provide customers with a free iPhone - as the wireless company offers the device in order to get a customer to sign a contact.
It is important to recognize that Lifeline itself provides a service discount and does not guarantee a free iPhone. The “free iPhone” offers are made by participating wireless providers, using the Lifeline benefit as part of the cost structure. Some companies provide free smartphones, including Assurance Wireless, Q Link, SafeLink (Tracfone) and others.
The Federal Communications Commission (FCC) administers Lifeline through the Universal Service Administrative Company (USAC). Households that meet income guidelines (generally at or below 135 % of the federal poverty line) and/or participate in benefit programs such as SNAP (Food Stamps or EBT), Medicaid, Supplemental Security Income (SSI), or section 8 may qualify.
Companies that provide a free Apple iPhone
Typical conditions to get a device vary by company, but include enrollment in the carrier’s qualifying plan, meeting eligibility rules, and device availability. While some customers may receive a new iPhone model, many other may receive an older or refurbished Apple iPhone model depending on the provider and state. Credit checks are usually not required for Lifeline-based service, and the goal is to make connectivity accessible rather than profit-driven.
There are national and regional telecommunication companies that provide free iPhones or other smartphones. Some companies operate in nearly every state, while others focus on certain regions such as the Midwest, Southeast or West Coast. Many companies also offer additional storage options, international calling packages, extra data add-ons and messaging apps. Most companies also do not run a credit check, meaning applicants with low or poor credit scores can also get a free iPhone, which can be combined with government internet assistance for the low income.
- Applicants to a free government phone program, whether iPhone or another device, will need to fill out an online application or call the company's toll-free number. Once approved, the government approved Apple cell phone will be shipped to the customers address. Computers or laptops may be provided too, and find details on free laptops for people on government assistance.
Access Wireless provides free smartphones, including Apple iPhones when stock allows. They serve many eastern, SE and midwestern states and offer free talk, text and data through Lifeline. Their website is https://www.accesswireless.com and customer service numbers area 1-888-900-5899 for new customers and 1-866-594-3644 for existing ones.
AirTalk Wireless frequently advertises free or deeply discounted premium smartphones, including refurbished iPhone models (like iPhone 7, 8, or SE) to eligible Lifeline participants. They operate on major networks like AT&T and provide broad coverage across many states (e.g., California, Texas, Kentucky, etc.). Call (855) 924-7825 or the site is https://airtalkwireless.com/.
American Assistance continues to help low-income households in western, northeastern and central regions of the country - about 20 states total. They provide free smartphones to households on Medicaid, SNAP, LIHEAP, SSI, Federal Public Housing and similar benefits. Their website is https://www.americanassistance.com and they are part of American Broadband, which lists information at https://www.ambt.net/lifeline-wireless. The customer service number for American Assistance is 877-266-7212.
Assist Wireless operates mainly in southern and central states and distributes free smartphones, including refurbished iPhones when available. They accept applicants who receive SNAP food stamps, Medicaid, SSI or other qualifying benefits. More information is at https://www.assistwireless.com. Call 1-855-392-7747.
Assurance Wireless, a subsidiary of T‑Mobile US, remains one of the largest Lifeline providers in the country. They operate in more than forty states and provide free smartphones, sometimes including new or refurbished iPhones. Their plans may include unlimited texting and data depending on the state. Their website is https://www.assurancewireless.com and customer service is 1-888-321-5880.
Cintex Wireless has widespread coverage in many states. They are a major Lifeline/ACP provider known for offering a selection of popular smart phone devices, including various iPhone models, Google Pixel, and Samsung Galaxy phones, typically running on a major national 4G/5G network. Call (855) 655-3097 with the website at https://cintexwireless.com/.
enTouch Wireless has a free iPhone program in over 35 states. Senior citizens on social security, the working poor or unemployed and people on benefits are a main focus. The free Apple iPhones also come with very affordable texting/data monthly plans, with several options to choose from. Call 1-866-488-8719. Their website is https://www.entouchwireless.com.
Infiniti Mobile is a smaller telecommunications providers in which they help low-income families in only a few states, however they cover major population centers such as in California, New York, South Carolina and Virginia. Applicants will need to provide proof of eligibility, such as a Medicaid card, EBT forms or other documentation of government assistance. Call 888-801-0012. Their service runs on major national networks based on state coverage. Information is at https://infinitimobile.com.
Life Wireless is a telecommunication company that provides free cell phones, wireless devices, iPhone and monthly service in almost all parts of the country. Not only do they give away a free government Apple iPhone to low-income families or individuals, but they also help people get high speed internet access too. Call them at 1-888-543-3620 to apply for their assistance programs. Note the company uses the AT&T network for most of its service areas. Their website is https://www.lifewireless.com.
Q Link Wireless operates and have coverage in all states as well, plus Puerto Rico and the District of Columbia. Q Link uses the T-Mobile network for most of its nationwide coverage. They provide free smartphones, including Apple iPhones when available, and offer additional low-cost upgrades. Their website is https://www.qlinkwireless.com. Call 1-855-754-6543.
SafeLink Wireless iPhones are offered for free to low-income families who need it for an emergency or work. The company, which is owned by TracFone as well as Verizon, is an approved Lifeline and Link-Up provider that provides free 5G Apple iPhones and other devices. The Apple phone will use the Verizon wireles 5G network to provide coverage. Their website is https://www.safelinkwireless.com. Call 1-800-723-3546. SafeLink operates nationwide and the District of Columbia.
StandUp Wireless offers free smartphones, iPhones when available and discounted iPhone upgrades for customers who want a newer device. Their service runs on the AT&T network in most states, which gives strong national reach. More information is at https://standupwireless.com. Call them at 1-800-544-4441.
TAG mobile gives out a free smart phone, including Apple, per the federal government Lifeline program. The devices will run on the latest 5G networks from Sprint, T-Mobile, or Verizon. Low-income families and those on a government assistance program can dial (800) 986-5670 for details. Due to the various cell phone networks used, this allows them to provide coverage in areas where other carriers may not be strong. Their website is https://tagmobile.com. .
TerraCom Wireless provides a free cell phone plan (including internet access data plan) as well as an iPhone to the low-income. The company offers free smartphones in most of the central, SE, and SW parts of the country with their main office based in Oklahoma. Dial customer service at 1-888-716-8880. Their website is https://www.terracomwireless.com.
Verizon and TracFone Wireless provide free iPhones, Samsungs or other devices to low-income families who qualify for Lifeline. This is also a partnership with Walmart Family Mobile. Together these companies offer coverage across the nation. Not only will a free cell phone, including from Apple be provided, but there are also heavily discounted or free monthly plans, including around texting and internet access.
- All devices will run on the Verizon 5G network as Safelink is the discounted carrier owned by Verizon. Call 1-800-867-7183 or 1-800-417-3849, and Verizon may provide Apple devices or other models based on state offers and inventory. Their websites are https://www.verizon.com and https://www.tracfone.com.
There are regional wireless companies or cable providers as well that provide discounted or free iPhones, often the latest models. This include companies such as USCellular (phone 1 (888) 944-9400), which covers major parts of the Midwestern US. Spectrum Cable (call (1 (833) 267-6094) also has a Lifeline program for low-income families, and they too may be given Apple phones or devices.
The smaller providers mentioned above (Q Link, Life Wireless, AirTalk, etc.) operate as MVNOs (Mobile Virtual Network Operators). This means they do not own their cell towers but partner with major carriers. This is a benefit, as it means their coverage is generally reliable and on the T-Mobile, AT&T, or Verizon networks. Availability may change as the device cost is borne by the carrier, therefore “free iPhone phone” offers may vary or be discontinued. It is wise to confirm with the provider directly.
State contact information
In addition to the federal government Lifeline benefit, many states offer enhanced program. These will be above and beyond the wireless company sites and contact information above. Each state provides residents with additional contact points to apply for Lifeline, phone bill help or free devices, including Apple iPhones. Select your state below for information on iPhone assistance programs for low-income families.
Alabama
Arizona
Arkansas
California
Colorado
Connecticut
Florida
Georgia
Idaho
Illinois
Indiana
Kansas
Kentucky
Massachusetts
Michigan
Mississippi
Missouri
New Jersey
New Mexico
New York
North Carolina
Ohio
Oklahoma
Oregon
Pennsylvania
South Carolina
Tennessee
Texas
Utah
Virginia
Washington
Want to read comments from other people? Or interested in what others from across the country are saying when it comes to getting an iPhone from a Lifeline provider? Take a look at the community forum discussing iPhones and where/how to get one for free.
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