If you are looking for a way to get a free government iPhone in 2024, you may be eligible for one of the programs that offer free or discounted phone service and devices to low-income Americans. These programs are Lifeline and the Affordable Connectivity Program (ACP), which are funded by the Federal Communications Commission (FCC) and administered by participating telephone service providers.
Lifeline is a program that provides a monthly discount of up to $9.25 on phone or internet service to eligible low-income customers. ACP is a new program that provides a temporary monthly discount of up to $30 on broadband service and a one-time discount of up to $100 on a connected device, such as a smartphone, tablet, or laptop, to eligible low-income households.
Qualify for either Lifeline or ACP
To qualify for either Lifeline or ACP, you must have an income at or below 135% of the federal poverty guidelines or participate in one of the following government assistance programs:
- Medicaid
- Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP)
- Supplemental Security Income (SSI)
- Federal Public Housing Assistance (FPHA)
- Veterans Pension and Survivors Benefit
- Tribal Programs (and live on federally-recognized Tribal lands)
You can apply for Lifeline or ACP online at National Verifier, by mail, or through a participating service provider. Proof of your eligibility will be required, such as your income documents, program enrollment letter, or benefit card. Additionally, personal details like your name, address, date of birth, and the last four digits of your Social Security number or Tribal identification number must be provided.
If you are approved for Lifeline or ACP, you can choose a service provider that offers free government iPhones to eligible customers. Some of the service providers that offer free iPhones are:
- AirTalk Wireless
- Assurance Wireless
- Q Link Wireless
- Safelink Wireless
- StandUp Wireless
A list of service providers in your area can be found on the Lifeline or ACP websites. To sign up for service and request a free iPhone, feel free to contact them. Be aware that you may need to pay a small activation fee or shipping fee to receive your device. It’s also important to note that you will need to recertify your eligibility every year to continue receiving the benefits.
Comparison chart of benefits Offered by the Lifeline and ACP programs
| Lifeline | ACP | |
|---|---|---|
| Purpose | Subsidizes voice telephony and broadband connectivity | Subsidizes broadband connectivity |
| Benefit Amount | Up to $9.25 per month (up to $34.25 for residents of Tribal lands) on broadband internet service or eligible bundled phone/internet service | Up to $30 per month on broadband services, with an increased benefit of up to $75 per month for households residing on Tribal lands |
| Benefit Delivery | The money is paid directly to participating service providers, resulting in a lower bill for the user | Provides a voucher-like subsidy that allows eligible participants to shop around for a provider and service that best suits their needs |
| Program Duration | Ongoing | Set to run out of funds in 2024 |
| Switching Providers | Allows households to switch providers | Does not allow households to switch providers |
| Services Covered | The Lifeline program provides discounts on basic phone services and broadband internet access. You can use Lifeline for either phone service (one home landline or one wireless phone) or internet service (including bundled phone and internet) at home or via your wireless phone. | The Affordable Connectivity Program (ACP) also includes additional components such as expanding public Wi-Fi and providing digital skills training to eligible individuals. ACP subscribers can apply their discount to any plan. |
| Devices Covered | Some providers offer a free 4G/5G smartphone as well. | Eligible households can also receive a one-time discount of up to $100 to purchase a laptop, desktop computer, or tablet from participating providers if they contribute more than $10 and less than $50 toward the purchase price. |
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 for Lifeline application process
Step 1: Check Your Eligibility
Before you apply for the Lifeline program, you need to check if you are eligible based on your income and household size or if you receive benefits from a federal assistance program. You can use the Lifeline Eligibility Pre-Screening Tool to see if you qualify for the program. Alternatively, you can visit the Lifeline website and select your state from the drop-down menu to see the eligibility criteria for your area.
Step 2: Choose an Application Method
There are three ways to apply for the Lifeline program: online, by mail, or through a phone or internet company. You can choose the method that is most convenient for you.
Online Application
To apply online, you need to create an account or log in to the Lifeline National Verifier website. Providing some personal information, such as your name, date of birth, address, and Social Security Number (SSN) or Tribal Identification Number (TIN) is necessary. Additionally, copies of your proof documents, such as your income statement, benefit letter, or ID card, need to be uploaded. You can see the list of acceptable documents here.
The online application process is fast and easy. You may receive an immediate approval if the system can verify your eligibility automatically. If not, you will receive a message asking you to submit additional documents for review. You can check the status of your application at any time by logging in to your account.
Here is a screenshot of the Lifeline online application form:
Mail Application
To apply by mail, you need to print and fill out the [Lifeline Application Form] and the [Household Worksheet]. Forms can be requested by calling the Lifeline Support Center at 1-800-234-9473 or emailing [email protected]. The same personal information and proof documents as the online application will need to be provided. Once the forms are completed and copies of your documents are ready, they can be mailed to:
USAC Lifeline Support Center P.O. Box 9100 Wilkes-Barre, PA 18773
The mail application process may take longer than the online application. You will receive a letter in the mail informing you of the outcome of your application. You can also call the Lifeline Support Center to check the status of your application.
Here is a sample of the mail application form and the household worksheet:
Phone or Internet Company Application
To apply through a phone or internet company, you need to contact a participating company in your area and ask them if they offer the Lifeline program. You can use the [Lifeline Company Search Tool] to find a company near you. You will need to provide the same personal information and proof documents as the other application methods. The company will help you complete the application process and enroll you in the Lifeline program.
The phone or internet company application process may vary depending on the company. Applying online, over the phone, or in person might be possible. The company’s own low-income program could also be used to qualify for the Lifeline program, provided the company has obtained approval from the Federal Communications Commission (FCC). For more details about their application process and requirements, don’t hesitate to ask the company.
Here is a screenshot of the Lifeline company search tool:
Step 3: Sign Up for Phone or Internet Service
Once your application for the Lifeline program is approved, you can choose a phone or internet service that offers the Lifeline discount. You can use the same company that helped you apply for the program, or you can switch to a different company if you prefer. You can also apply the Lifeline discount to your existing phone or internet service, if it is eligible for the program.
To sign up for phone or internet service with the Lifeline discount, you need to contact the company and provide them with your Lifeline Application ID or your full name, date of birth, and last four digits of your SSN or TIN. The company will verify your Lifeline eligibility and enroll you in the service. You will receive a confirmation letter or email from the company with your service details and the amount of your Lifeline discount.
Step 4: Recertify Your Eligibility Every Year
To keep your Lifeline benefit, you need to recertify your eligibility every year. A reminder will be sent to you from the Lifeline program or your phone or internet company before your recertification deadline. Depending on the method you used to apply for the program, recertification can be done online, by mail, or through a phone or internet company. It’s important to confirm that you still meet the eligibility criteria and provide any updated information or documents if needed.
The recertification process is simple and quick. You may receive an immediate confirmation if the system can verify your eligibility automatically. If not, you will receive a message asking you to submit additional documents for review. You can check the status of your recertification at any time by logging in to your account or calling the Lifeline Support Center.
Here is a screenshot of the online recertification form:
Other Ways to Get a Free Government Phone Near Me
Besides Lifeline and ACP, there may be other ways to get a free government phone near me. For example, some faith-based organizations, state and tribal governments, and non-profit groups may offer free phones to qualifying individuals. You can search online or ask around your community to find out if there are any such programs available in your area.
Another option is to check with your current service provider to see if they offer any government discounts or special deals for low-income customers, people older than 70, veterans, or students. You may be able to save money on your phone bill or get a free or low-cost phone upgrade. You can contact your service provider directly or visit their website to learn more about their offers.
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:
- You have a household income that is at or below 135% 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, 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 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:
- 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.
- 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
The Emergency Broadband Benefit Program (EBB Program) was a temporary program that provided a monthly discount of up to $50, or up to $75 for consumers living on qualifying Tribal lands, on broadband service and certain connected devices for eligible low-income households. The program also provided a one-time discount of up to $100 on the purchase of a laptop, desktop computer, or tablet from participating providers.
The EBB Program ended on December 31, 2021, and was replaced by the Affordable Connectivity Program (ACP), a new long-term program that provides a monthly discount of up to $30, or up to $75 for consumers living on qualifying Tribal lands, on broadband service and certain connected devices for eligible low-income households. The program also provides a one-time discount of up to $100 on the purchase of a laptop, desktop computer, or tablet from participating providers.
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.
Companies Offering Free Government Phones By State
There are many providers that offer free government phones by state, and each one has different plans, devices, and features. Some of the most popular providers are:
-
Assurance Wireless:
You can get a free Android smartphone, unlimited talk and text, and 5GB of data per month. You can also get free 5G access if you have a compatible device and coverage area
-
Safelink Wireless:
You can get a free smartphone, unlimited talk and text, and 4.5GB of data per month. You can also get free international calls to select destinations and free access to health and wellness services
-
Q Link Wireless:
You can get a free smartphone, unlimited talk and text, and 3GB of data per month. You can also get free hotspot, free international texting, and free caller ID
-
StandUp Wireless:
You can get a free smartphone, unlimited talk and text, and 3GB of data per month. You can also get free voicemail, free 411, and free 911
-
Life Wireless:
You can get a free smartphone, unlimited talk and text, and 3GB of data per month. You can also get free caller ID, free call waiting, and free three-way calling
-
Access Wireless:
You can get a free smartphone, unlimited talk and text, and 3GB of data per month. You can also get free voicemail, free call forwarding, and free 911.
-
Easy Wireless:
You can get a free smartphone, unlimited talk and text, and 2GB of data per month. You can also get free voicemail, free caller ID, and free call waiting.
These are just some of the providers that offer free government phones by state. You can find more options and compare them on the websites of Lifeline and ACP . You can also check the availability and coverage of each provider in your area.
Getting a free government phone can help you stay connected, informed, and safe. If you think you qualify, don’t hesitate to apply and enjoy the benefits of these programs.
Note: The information in this content is based on the latest available data as of January 2022. The ACP and other programs may change over time, so please check the official websites for the most up-to-date information before making any decisions. This content is for informational purposes only and does not constitute legal or financial advice.
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 2024 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
| Company Name | Phone Model | Operating System | Eligibility Criteria | Features |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Assurance Wireless | ANS UL40 | Android 7.0 Nougat | Eligible low-income households | Unlimited talk, text, and 3 GB data per month |
| Q Link Wireless | ZTE Z3001S | Android 8.1 Oreo (Go Edition) | Eligible low-income households | Unlimited talk, text, and 1 GB of data per month |
| Safelink Wireless | Alcatel TCL A1 | Android 8.0 Oreo | Eligible low-income households | Unlimited talk, text, and 3 GB data per month |
| Standup Wireless | Coolpad Snap | KaiOS | Eligible low-income households | Unlimited talk, text, and 3 GB data per month |
| Tempo Communications | Unimax U505TL | Android 8.1 Oreo (Go Edition) | Eligible low-income households | Unlimited talk, text, and 3 GB data per month |
| enTouch Wireless | ZTE N818S | Android 4.4 KitKat | Eligible low-income households in select states | Unlimited talk, text, and 100 MB data per month |
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 2024 Table
| Provider | Eligibility | Requirements | Availability |
|---|---|---|---|
| AssuranceWireless | Low-income individuals who receive government assistance | Proof of income and government assistance (such as SNAP or Medicaid) | Available in certain states in the US |
| Safelink Wireless | Low-income individuals who receive government assistance | Proof of income and government assistance (such as SNAP or Medicaid) | Available in certain states in the US |
| Q Link Wireless | Low-income individuals who receive government assistance | Proof of income and government assistance (such as SNAP or Medicaid) | Available in certain states in the US |
| Lifeline Assistance | Low-income individuals who receive government assistance | Proof of income and government assistance (such as SNAP or Medicaid) | Available in certain states in the US |
| Veterans Affairs | Veterans who meet certain income and service requirements | Proof of military service and income | Available to eligible veterans in the US |
| American Red Cross | Disaster victims and individuals in emergency situations | Proof of emergency situation or disaster | Available during emergency situations in the US |
Note:Â 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.
Can I please have a iPhone 6s please I’m just a student who needs help so I can learn with the phone I’m in South Africa
These for only people in the United states.
Please
Free government iPhone..
Trying to apply for a government iPhone
You must be residing in the United States to be able to apply for a government iPhone.
I reside in the US. Where do I go to apply for a free iphone?
Assurance Wireless is a program that provides free or low-cost mobile phone service to eligible low-income individuals and families in the United States. If you qualify for the program, you may be able to get a free basic cell phone or smartphone, including an iPhone, through the program. However, availability and selection of phones may vary by state and may not be guaranteed.
To qualify for the program, you must meet certain income and/or program participation requirements, and you must live in one of the states where Assurance Wireless is available. You can check your eligibility and apply for the program on the Assurance Wireless website.
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