Many people forget that not everyone can afford the cost of getting a phone. When people don’t have enough money to get a phone, it can be difficult to navigate life, especially when nowadays a majority of people are using a smartphone. Fortunately, there are opportunities out there for people to get a bunch of free perks like a phone, unlimited data, international calling, and more. Yes, you read that right! All of that can be provided to qualifying Americans at no cost. That is why it is important to know what’s out there and where you may be able to find this support!
Is It Possible to Get a Free Phone?
You might not believe it, but it is true that you can get a free phone. The best part is that it is all legit and a lot of carriers offer this opportunity. These carriers can offer free phones and discounted perks due to a variety of programs. One standout is the Lifeline Program.
The Lifeline Program: What is It and How Can It Help?
Before you find out about the carriers that offer a phone for free, you should know about the programs that make this opportunity possible. The Federal Communications Commission (FCC) provides the Lifeline Program. However, the Universal Service Administrative Company (USAC) administers the program and is responsible for supporting consumers in several aspects. This includes applying, recertifying, finding out eligibility criteria, and so on.
The aim of the Lifeline Program is to make communication services affordable for eligible recipients who have limited income. Generally, this program offers a discount every month on broadband internet services, telephone services, or bundled voice-broadband packages. This discount can reach up to $9.25, or reach up to $34.25 for those who are staying in tribal areas.
If you are interested in finding out whether you are eligible, then you should be at or less than 135% of the Federal Poverty Guidelines. On the other hand, you could also qualify when you currently receive benefits from the following programs:
- Supplemental Security Income (SSI)
- Medicaid
- Federal Public Housing
- Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP)
- Veterans and Survivors Pension Benefit
- Programs that Help Specific Tribal Areas
Which Carriers Offer Phones For Free?
While some of the popular carriers do not offer free phones, there are still opportunities to consider from:
These carriers are just a few options to consider because they offer great phones on solid networks. Some carriers might not be accessible in every location. That is why you should look for carriers that are available in your area.
Metro by T-Mobile
To start off, there is Metro by T-Mobile. Metro’s latest deal is a game-changer, offering 5G phones absolutely free – no hidden costs involved. What you see is what you pay at Metro. To grab this deal, there are some conditions that need to be met. This includes choosing a plan, and paying the applicable tax.
Cricket Wireless
Cricket Wireless is giving away the Motorola Moto G 5G 2024 for free, but there are conditions. These conditions include:
- New customers need to bring their number and start a new line with a qualifying plan.
- You must pay the first month’s service charge and tax upfront.
The phone becomes free with discounts and a coupon applied at checkout. This deal does not apply to upgrades and can be used once a year.
AT&T
For a short time, AT&T has a deal where you can get an iPhone 16 Pro for free by trading in an eligible phone and choosing an unlimited plan. The trade-in phone must be worth a minimum dollar amount. This deal is open to both new and current customers.
Verizon
Upgrading to a new phone can be cost-effective with Verizon’s range of promotions. They frequently offer a variety of free phone deals, catering to different preferences with a selection of models and brands. Opting for a 36-month bill credit plan or trading in your existing device can make it easy to secure a free upgrade. Moreover, their buy-one-get-one-free offers are especially appealing for families or individuals in need of multiple phones. These opportunities underscore how straightforward and affordable it can be to upgrade your phone through Verizon.
Overall
Not everyone can afford a phone, and in today’s world, lacking one can make life quite challenging. However, there’s good news: there are opportunities to get a phone and other perks like unlimited data and international calling for free. Yes, really! Qualifying Americans can enjoy these benefits at no cost, thanks to programs like Lifeline, offered by the FCC and administered by the USAC. This program helps make communication services more affordable for those with limited income, offering monthly discounts on various services.
To qualify, your income should be at or below 135% of the Federal Poverty Guidelines, or you might be eligible through certain federal assistance programs. Providers also offer free phones on solid networks. Remember, availability might vary by location, so it’s important to find carriers that serve your area. With these opportunities, getting a new phone can be both affordable and straightforward.
