Free iPhone From Government: Here's How It Really Works

How do I get a free iPhone from the government?

Getting a free iPhone takes three steps, and most people finish the first one in under 10 minutes:

1. Check eligibility. Make sure you or someone in your household is on a qualifying program, or that your income meets the limit. See the full list on our Lifeline eligibility page.
2. Apply online. Fill out the short iPhone Government application. We submit it to the FCC's National Verifier, which confirms your eligibility, often instantly.
3. Pick your iPhone. Choose from available models like the iPhone 13, iPhone 14 or iPhone 12. It ships to your door with a 5G-ready SIM.

Who qualifies for a free government iPhone?

Lifeline is available to one household at a time. You qualify if anyone in your household takes part in one of these programs:

• SNAP (food stamps / EBT)
• Medicaid
• Supplemental Security Income (SSI)
• Federal Public Housing Assistance (Section 8, public housing)
• Veterans Pension or Survivors Benefit
• Tribal programs: BIA General Assistance, Tribal TANF, FDPIR, Tribal Head Start (income-based)
• Or a household income at or below 135% of the Federal Poverty Guidelines, which is $21,546 a year for one person in 2026

Already have an EBT card? You almost certainly qualify through SNAP. See our EBT guide for details.

Which iPhone models can I get?

Our iPhone lineup changes with inventory. These are the models customers choose most often:

Most free iPhones are certified pre-owned. Each one is inspected, wiped, graded and tested before it ships. Newer flagship models are offered through our upgrade program, and any one-time fee is shown before you confirm.

What comes with the free iPhone plan?

• Unlimited talk minutes nationwide
• Unlimited text messages
• Unlimited 5G data with a monthly high-speed allotment (varies by state)
• Free mobile hotspot on eligible plans
• No contract, no credit check and no activation fees

Compare everything on our free Lifeline plans page and check signal strength at your address on the 5G coverage map.

What documents do I need?

If the National Verifier can't confirm your eligibility automatically, you may be asked for a document such as a SNAP or Medicaid approval letter, an SSI benefit statement, or a recent tax return or pay stubs that show your income. You'll also need a government ID or another proof of identity. Photos taken with your phone are fine.