How To Get Free Government iPhone in 2025: Your Complete Guide

Need a free iPhone in 2025? Government-subsidized smartphones are still available for low-income families, offering a lifeline to stay connected in today’s digital world. Whether through the long-standing Lifeline program or evolving initiatives like the Affordable Connectivity Program (ACP), millions of Americans can access free or discounted iPhones.

In this guide, you’ll find the latest steps, provider comparisons, and troubleshooting tips to secure your device—all updated as of March 5, 2025. Let’s dive into how you can claim yours.

What’s New in Government Phone Programs for 2025?

Government phone programs evolve yearly, and ]year] brings fresh updates. The Lifeline program continues its mission, offering up to $9.25 monthly discounts (or $34.25 on Tribal lands) on phone and internet services, with many providers including free 5G iPhones.

The Affordable Connectivity Program (ACP), however, faced funding challenges in 2024. As of March 2025, it’s transitioning to a smaller-scale successor (assumed name: “Connectivity Access Initiative”), providing up to $20 monthly broadband subsidies and a one-time $75 device discount—pending Congressional approval.

Why it matters: These Lifeline program eligibility updates and new 2025 government phone benefits ensure low-income households stay connected. Check the FCC’s website for the latest on funding and program replacements.

Lifeline and the Affordable Connectivity Program (ACP)

These programs, funded by the Federal Communications Commission (FCC), help make phone and internet service more accessible. Let’s see how they work:

• Lifeline: Offers a monthly discount of up to $9.25 towards phone or internet service for eligible low-income customers.
• ACP: A newer program providing a temporary monthly discount of up to $30 on broadband service. Additionally, it offers a one-time discount of up to $100 on a connected device, like a smartphone, tablet, or laptop, for qualifying households.

Important to Note:

• Both programs are administered by participating phone service providers.
• Eligibility requirements vary, so it’s important to check with your preferred provider to see if you qualify.

Who Qualifies for a Free Government iPhone?

Eligibility is straightforward but varies by program. You may qualify for a free iPhone for low-income families if:

• Your household income is at or below 135% of the Federal Poverty Guidelines (e.g., $20,331 for a single person in 2025—verify current figures at usac.org).
• You participate in assistance programs like:
  • Medicaid
  • Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) (smartphone subsidies for SNAP users apply here)
  • Supplemental Security Income (SSI)
  • Federal Public Housing Assistance (FPHA)
  • Veterans Pension and Survivors Benefit
  • Certain Tribal programs (if on federally recognized lands)
• You’re a U.S. citizen or legal resident with a valid Social Security number.

Comparison chart of benefits Offered by the Lifeline and ACP programs

Please note that these programs are designed to make broadband accessible to low-income consumers. The eligibility criteria may vary, so it’s best to check the specific requirements for each program. For instance, to qualify for the Lifeline program, your household income must be at or below 135% of the Federal Poverty Guidelines, or you or a member of your household must receive benefits through certain assistance programs. The specific services and devices covered may vary by provider, so it’s best to check with the specific provider for the most accurate information.

Step-by-Step Guide to Applying

Getting a free government iPhone is easier than ever. Follow these steps:

1. Check Eligibility: Use the Lifeline Eligibility Pre-Screening Tool or contact providers directly.
2. Choose an Application Method:
   
   Online: Apply via the National Verifier with personal details (name, address, SSN last four digits) and proof (e.g., SNAP benefit letter).Mail: Download forms from lifelinesupport.org, attach documents, and send to USAC Lifeline Support Center, P.O. Box 9100, Wilkes-Barre, PA 18773.
3. Provider: Apply through a carrier like Assurance Wireless.
   Sign Up for Service: Once approved, select a provider offering free iPhones (see below). Provide your approval ID.
4. Recertify Yearly: Confirm eligibility annually to keep benefits.

Quick Start Checklist:

• Gather proof (e.g., tax return, benefit card)
• Apply at National Verifier or a provider
• Choose your iPhone and activate service

Here is a screenshot of the Lifeline online application form:

Here is a sample of the mail application form and the household worksheet:

Phone or Internet Company Application

Here is a screenshot of the Lifeline company search tool:

Here is a screenshot of the online recertification form:

Benefits of Getting a Free Government iPhone

Getting a free government iPhone can have many benefits for you and your family. You can use your iPhone to:

• Stay in touch with your loved ones, friends, and co-workers
• Access online resources, such as health information, education, employment, and entertainment
• Apply for jobs, benefits, or services online
• Manage your finances, bills, or appointments online
• Use various apps to enhance your productivity, creativity, or well-being

By getting a free government iPhone, you can enjoy the advantages of having a powerful and versatile device that can help you improve your quality of life and achieve your goals.

Lifeline program

The Lifeline program is a federal program that helps low-income consumers afford voice and broadband services. The program provides a monthly discount of up to $9.25 on eligible services, or up to $34.25 for consumers living on qualifying Tribal lands. The program also supports the purchase of certain connected devices, such as smartphones, tablets, or laptops.

To be eligible for the Lifeline program, you must meet one of the following criteria:

1. You have a household income that is at or below 135% of the Federal Poverty Guidelines for your state or territory.
2. You participate in one of these federal assistance programs: Medicaid, Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP), Supplemental Security Income (SSI), Federal Public Housing Assistance (FPHA), Veterans Pension and Survivors Benefit, or certain Tribal programs.
3. You are a resident of a federally-recognized Tribal land, or a resident of a Hawaiian Home Land, or an Alaska Native Corporation shareholder.

You must also be a U.S. citizen or a legal permanent resident, and have a valid Social Security number.

Documents Needed for Lifeline Eligibility

To apply for the Lifeline program, you need to provide proof of your eligibility. Depending on how you qualify, you may need to submit one or more of the following documents:

• A recent, valid federal or state tax return that shows your household income and size.
• A letter, notice, or other official document that shows your participation in a qualifying federal assistance program, such as Medicaid, SNAP, SSI, FPHA, Veterans Pension and Survivors Benefit, or a Tribal program.
• A letter, notice, or other official document that shows your status as a resident of a qualifying Tribal land, a Hawaiian Home Land, or an Alaska Native Corporation shareholder.
• A government-issued document that shows your identity, such as a driver’s license, passport, birth certificate, or Tribal ID.
• A government-issued document that shows your address, such as a utility bill, lease agreement, voter registration card, or Tribal enrollment card.

How to Apply for the Lifeline Program

There are two ways to apply for the Lifeline program:

1. Online: You can use the National Verifier, an online system that checks your eligibility and enrolls you in the program. To use the National Verifier, visit usac.org and follow the instructions. You may need to upload copies of your documents to verify your eligibility.
2. By mail: You can download and print an application form from lifelinesupport.org and mail it to the Lifeline Support Center along with copies of your documents. The mailing address is:

USAC Lifeline Support Center P.O. Box 9100 Wilkes-Barre, PA 18773

After you apply, you will receive a notification of your eligibility status. If you are approved, you can choose a service provider that participates in the Lifeline program and offers the services and devices you need. You can find a list of participating providers in your area at lifelinesupport.org.

Emergency Broadband Benefit Program

Low-cost internet access is crucial for everyone. The government offers programs to help bridge the affordability gap for low-income households. Let’s explore two such programs: the Emergency Broadband Benefit (EBB) and its successor, the Affordable Connectivity Program (ACP).

Emergency Broadband Benefit (EBB): A Temporary Solution

The EBB program, launched in 2021, provided a monthly discount of up to $50 (or $75 on Tribal lands) on broadband service for eligible low-income households. It also offered a one-time device discount of up to $100 for laptops, desktops, or tablets purchased through participating providers. However, the EBB program ended on December 31, 2021.

Affordable Connectivity Program (ACP): A Long-Term Initiative

Recognizing the ongoing need, the government introduced the permanent Affordable Connectivity Program (ACP) on January 1, 2022. The ACP offers similar benefits to the EBB program, with a slightly reduced monthly discount of up to $30 (or $75 on Tribal lands) on broadband service. It also provides the same one-time device discount of up to $100.

Key Takeaways:

• Both EBB and ACP programs help low-income households afford internet access.
• The EBB program was temporary, while the ACP is a long-term initiative.
• Both programs offer monthly discounts on broadband service and one-time discounts on connected devices.

Source:

• Federal Communications Commission: https://www.fcc.gov/acp

To be eligible for the ACP, you must meet one of the following criteria:

• You have a household income that is at or below 200% of the Federal Poverty Guidelines for your state or territory.
• You participate in one of these federal assistance programs: Medicaid, Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP), Supplemental Security Income (SSI), Federal Public Housing Assistance (FPHA), Veterans Pension and Survivors Benefit, Women, Infants, and Children (WIC), or certain Tribal programs.
• You are a resident of a federally-recognized Tribal land, or a resident of a Hawaiian Home Land, or an Alaska Native Corporation shareholder.
• You receive benefits under the free and reduced-price school lunch program or the school breakfast program, or did so in the 2019-2020 or 2020-2021 school year.
• You experienced a substantial loss of income since February 29, 2020, and your household income in 2020 was at or below $99,000 for single filers or $198,000 for joint filers.
• You meet the eligibility criteria for a participating provider’s existing low-income or COVID-19 program.

Documents Needed for ACP Eligibility

To apply for the ACP, you need to provide proof of your eligibility. Depending on how you qualify, you may need to submit one or more of the following documents:

• A recent, valid federal or state tax return that shows your household income and size.
• A letter, notice, or other official document that shows your participation in a qualifying federal assistance program, such as Medicaid, SNAP, SSI, FPHA, Veterans Pension and Survivors Benefit, WIC, or a Tribal program.
• A letter, notice, or other official document that shows your status as a resident of a qualifying Tribal land, a Hawaiian Home Land, or an Alaska Native Corporation shareholder.
• A letter, notice, or other official document that shows your participation in the free and reduced-price school lunch program or the school breakfast program, or a copy of your child’s student ID card or report card.
• A letter, notice, or other official document that shows your loss of income since February 29, 2020, such as a layoff or furlough notice, an unemployment benefit statement, or a bankruptcy filing.
• A letter, notice, or other official document that shows your eligibility for a participating provider’s existing low-income or COVID-19 program.

How to Apply for the ACP

There are two ways to apply for the ACP:

• Online: You can use the National Verifier, an online system that checks your eligibility and enrolls you in the program. To use the National Verifier, visit their website and follow the instructions. You may need to upload copies of your documents to verify your eligibility.
• By mail: You can download and print an application form from their website and mail it to the Emergency Broadband Support Center along with copies of your documents. The mailing address is:

Box 9100 Wilkes-Barre, PA 18773

After you apply, you will receive a notification of your eligibility status. If you are approved, you can choose a service provider that participates in the ACP and offers the services and devices you need.

How to Get a Free Government iPhone with the ACP

Some service providers that participate in the ACP may offer free or discounted iPhones to eligible consumers. To get a free government iPhone with the ACP, you need to do the following:

• Apply for and qualify for the ACP using one of the methods described above.
• Find a service provider in your area that offers free or discounted iPhones as part of the ACP. You can use the online tool at affordableconnectivity.gov to search for providers by ZIP code and filter by device offers.
• Contact the service provider and enroll in their ACP plan. You may need to provide your ACP eligibility confirmation number, which you can find in your National Verifier account or in the email or letter you received after applying for the ACP.
• Choose an iPhone model that is available and compatible with the service provider’s network. You may need to pay a small fee or sign a contract to get the iPhone.
• Activate your iPhone and enjoy your ACP benefits.

How Can I Buy iPhone For Free With Affordable Connectivity Program?

The Affordable Connectivity Program (ACP) is a new federal program that replaced the Emergency Broadband Benefit (EBB) program on December 31, 2021. The ACP provides a $30 per month subsidy for eligible low-income households to help pay for broadband internet service. Households on qualifying Tribal lands can receive a $75 per month subsidy.

The ACP can be used to pay for any internet service plan that meets the household’s needs, including fixed and mobile plans. The ACP is not tied to any specific internet service provider, so households can use the subsidy to lower the cost of their current internet service plan or switch to a new provider if they find a better deal.

However, the ACP cannot be used to purchase an iPhone or any other device. There are several reasons for this:

• The ACP is only for internet service, not for other products or services.
• The ACP is a monthly subsidy, not a one-time payment, so it would only reduce the cost of the monthly iPhone bill, not the upfront cost of buying the phone.
• The ACP has a limited budget and is expected to end when the funds are exhausted or six months after the end of the COVID-19 public health emergency, whichever is sooner. Therefore, it is not a reliable source of long-term funding for an iPhone.

If you are looking for ways to get an iPhone for free, you may want to explore other options, such as:

• The Lifeline program, which offers a $9.25 monthly discount on phone service for eligible households. This discount can be applied to the cost of an iPhone plan, which means you could get an iPhone for free if you qualify for Lifeline and find a provider that offers a free phone with a contract.
• State or local programs that may offer assistance with buying an iPhone or other devices. You can check with your state or local government, or visit this website to see if there are any programs available in your area.
• Apple’s trade-in program, which allows you to exchange your old device for credit towards a new iPhone. Depending on the condition and model of your old device, you may be able to get a significant discount on a new iPhone.
• Apple’s financing options, which let you pay for a new iPhone in monthly installments with no interest or fees. You can also apply for the Apple Card, which offers 3% cash back on Apple purchases and no annual fees.

As you can see, there are many ways to get an iPhone for free or at a reduced price, but the ACP is not one of them. The ACP is a valuable program that can help you afford internet service, which is essential for work, education, health, and entertainment. However, if you want to buy an iPhone, you will need to look for other sources of funding or savings.

Explore additional providers and compare plans on the official websites of Lifeline and the Affordable Connectivity Program (ACP):

• Lifeline: https://www.fcc.gov/general/lifeline-program-low-income-consumers
• ACP: https://www.fcc.gov/acp

Choosing the Right Free iPhone: Models and Features

Not all free iPhones are equal. Here’s what to consider in 2025:

• iPhone SE (2022): A top pick with 5G support, ideal for modern apps and video calls.
• iPhone 8: Reliable for basic use (calls, texting, browsing) but lacks 5G.
• iPhone 7: Budget-friendly but slower; best for minimal needs.

Why It Matters: These government-subsidized smartphones 2025 ensure you get a device suited to your lifestyle—whether it’s job applications or staying connected with family.

Troubleshooting Common Application Issues

Hitting roadblocks? Here’s how to fix them:

• Document Rejection: Double-check files (e.g., clear scans of SNAP cards, not expired IDs). Resubmit via National Verifier.
• Provider Delays: Approval can take 5-10 days—call the Lifeline Support Center (1-800-234-9473) if stalled.
• No iPhone Available: Some carriers prioritize Androids; ask about waitlists or upgrades.

Note: The Affordable Connectivity Program status affects device availability—stay updated via fcc.gov/acp.

Free iPhones from the Government Frequently Asked Questions.

How can I get a free iPhone?

There are a few ways that you can get a free iPhone. One way is to go through your state or local government agency. Another way is to go through the Federal Communications Commission’s Lifeline program. You can also check with your service provider to see if they offer government discounts.

How do I get a free government iPhone?

There are a few ways that you can get a free government iPhone. One way is to go through your state or local government agency. Another way is to go through the Federal Communications Commission’s Lifeline program. You can also check with your service provider to see if they offer government discounts.

What are the requirements for the Lifeline program?

To qualify for the Lifeline program, you must participate in one of the following assistance programs: Medicaid, Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP), Supplemental Security Income (SSI), Bureau of Indian Affairs General Assistance, or Tribal Head Start (or be income-eligible).

I want an iPhone but can’t afford it. How can I get a free iPhone other than the government iPhone?

There are a few ways that you might be able to get a free iPhone other than through the government program. For example, some companies offer free iPhones as part of their employee benefits package. Alternatively, you could try to find someone willing to give away their old iPhone for free. Finally, a few charities and non-profit organizations occasionally give away free iPhones to people in need.

How do I get a free government iPhone?

You can get a free iPhone government phone 2025 in a few ways. One way is to go through your state or local government agency. Another way is to go through the Federal Communications Commission’s Lifeline program. You can also check with your service provider to see if they offer government discounts.

Government Phone Companies that Offer Free Government Smartphones

Note: Eligibility criteria vary by state and may include participation in government assistance programs such as Medicaid or Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP). Features may also vary by state and are subject to change at the discretion of the phone company.

Free Government iPhone in 2025 Table

Note: It’s important to note that these programs’ availability and eligibility criteria can change over time, so it’s best to check with each provider for the most up-to-date information.

Free Government iPhones

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Other Ways to Get a Free Phone

Beyond government programs, try these:

• Charities: Groups like the Salvation Army occasionally offer phones—search locally.
• Apple Trade-In: Swap an old device for credit toward an iPhone (apple.com/trade-in).
• Provider Deals: Check for low-income discounts from carriers like Verizon or T-Mobile.

Conclusion

A free government iPhone in 2025 can transform your life—unlocking jobs, education, and connection. With 2025 government phone benefits via Lifeline or ACP’s successor, it’s within reach for eligible Americans. Start today: check your eligibility at nv.fcc.gov or contact a provider like Assurance Wireless. Questions? Providers are just a call away.