The government offers free iPhones to eligible low-income individuals and families through two programs: Lifeline Assistance and the Affordable Connectivity Program (ACP). These programs are designed to help people who cannot afford to pay for basic phone and internet service.
Eligibility Criteria
To be eligible for a free government iPhone, you must meet certain income requirements. You may also be eligible if you participate in certain government assistance programs, such as SNAP, Medicaid, or SSI.
Here is a list of the eligibility criteria for the Lifeline Assistance and ACP programs:
Lifeline Assistance
- Your household income must be at or below 135% of the Federal Poverty Guidelines.
- You must participate in one of the following government assistance programs:
- Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP)
- Medicaid
- Supplemental Security Income (SSI)
- Federal Public Housing Assistance
- Veterans Pension and Survivors Benefit
- Tribal Lifeline Assistance Program
Affordable Connectivity Program (ACP)
- Your household income must be at or below 200% of the Federal Poverty Guidelines.
- You or someone in your household must participate in one of the following government assistance programs:
- Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP)
- Medicaid
- Supplemental Security Income (SSI)
- Federal Public Housing Assistance
- Veterans Pension and Survivors Benefit
- Pell Grant
- Free and Reduced-Price School Lunch or Breakfast Program
- WIC
- Tribal Head Start
- Bureau of Indian Affairs General Assistance
- Tribal Temporary Assistance for Needy Families (TANF)
- Tribal Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP)
How to apply
To apply for a free government phone, you will need to contact a participating wireless carrier. You can find a list of participating carriers on the website of the Federal Communications Commission (FCC).
Once you have contacted a carrier, you will need to provide them with documentation to verify your eligibility. This documentation may include proof of income, proof of participation in a government assistance program, or a government-issued ID.
List of iPhone Providers Companies
Here is a list of iPhone provider companies that participate in the Lifeline and Affordable Connectivity Programs:
- AirTalk Wireless
- Assurance Wireless
- Cintex Wireless
- FreeUp Mobile
- Life Wireless
- Safelink Wireless
- Q Link Wireless
- US Mobile
List of iPhone models that provide by Carriers
The iPhone models that are available through the Lifeline and Affordable Connectivity Programs vary depending on the carrier. However, some of the most common models include:
- iPhone SE
- iPhone 7
- iPhone 8
- iPhone XR
- iPhone 11
Conclusion
If you are eligible for a free government iPhone, it is important to contact a participating carrier as soon as possible. The number of iPhones available is limited, and they can go quickly.
Once you have received your free government iPhone, be sure to take care of it. It is a valuable resource that can help you stay connected with friends and family, access important services, and find employment opportunities.