Want a free iPhone from the government? It’s possible through programs like the Lifeline Assistance Program and the Affordable Connectivity Program (ACP)! The government helps low-income folks get free smartphones, including iPhones.
This could be an iPhone 7 or newer model based on provider stock. You also get a free monthly data plan to stay connected. It’s an awesome deal for those who qualify for these FCC-supported initiatives. Read on to learn all the details about getting your free iPhone.
Free iPhone Government Phone Programs and Their Eligibility Criteria
Program Name |
Eligibility Criteria |
Documents Needed |
Additional Information |
Affordable Connectivity Program (ACP) | Household income is either below 200% of the federal poverty guideline or the household is enrolled in specific government aid programs such as Medicaid, SNAP, CalFresh, SSI, Veterans Pension and Survivors Benefit, Section 8, and Federal Public Housing Assistance (FPHA), or has an EBT card. | Proof of income, such as tax returns or three consecutive pay stubs, and proof of government assistance program participation, such as a benefit letter or official document. | The ACP stopped accepting new applications and enrollments on February 7, 2024, and the last fully funded month of the program is April 2024. Consumers who qualify for the ACP may be eligible for other FCC programs such as Lifeline, which offers a phone or internet discount. |
Lifeline Assistance Program | Household income falls at or below 135% of the federal poverty guidelines, or the household is enrolled in designated government assistance programs such as Medicaid/ Medi-Cal, SNAP, SSI, or Section 8, or holds an EBT card. | Income proof, like tax returns or three recent pay stubs, and documentation of government assistance participation, such as a benefit letter or official record. | Lifeline is another FCC program that offers a phone or internet discount for those with low incomes, disabled individuals, single mothers, seniors, divorced, etc. Consumers who qualify for the ACP may be eligible for Lifeline. |
How to Apply for a Free iPhone Government Phone in 2024?
To apply for a free iPhone 7 through government assistance programs like Lifeline and the Affordable Connectivity Program (ACP), individuals need to follow a straightforward application process. Here are the key steps:
- Verify Eligibility: First, check if you’re eligible. For Lifeline, you must have a low household income at or below 135% of the federal poverty guidelines. Or, you can qualify if you already receive benefits like Medicaid, SNAP, LIHEAP, WIC, or SSI, or live on federally recognized Tribal lands. The ACP has similar income requirements.
- Choose a Service Provider: Select a participating service provider from the approved list, such as AT&T, Safelink, Cintex Wireless, Airtalk Wireless, or NewPhone Wireless.
- Prepare Documentation: Gather necessary documents to prove your eligibility, which may include personal identification, proof of income, and documentation of participation in government assistance programs.
- Apply: Then, submit your application. You can apply online through the National Verifier website, by mailing a paper form, or directly through the chosen service provider.
- Receive Your iPhone: If your application is approved, the provider will ship your free iPhone within 7-10 business days along with instructions to activate free monthly data, text, and talk time.
Why Is it Free?
The government-assisted free iPhone programs like Lifeline and ACP exist to bridge this “digital divide.” They make sure people with lower incomes aren’t left behind in our tech-driven world. By providing free devices and free monthly data, the government aims to create more equal opportunities.
The ultimate goal is digital equity. The programs empower underserved communities by giving them the technological tools they need to improve their circumstances and overall quality of life. It’s about social inclusion and economic mobility for all.