Free Government iPhone & Tablet

Get your free iPhone, free tablet and iPads through government assistance programs such as Lifeline & Affordable Connectivity Program and Providers.

If you are wondering how to get a free government iPhone, do not worry because you are on the right place as here I will guide you everything about getting government funded smartphones.

Government lifeline assistance and ACP (Affordable Connectivity Program) is doing an amazing job. They’re providing free connectivity services and free government phones as well to needy people. They have a range of phone models that they give out for free to those in need. But, a question that hits everyone’s mind is, are free government iPhones available? 

Can you get one? The answer is yes; some participants in Lifeline assistance and ACP programs also offer free government iPhones. So, how do you get an iPhone from the government? I’ll teach you that in this article. Keep reading. 

Best Free Government iPhone Programs

There are many government funded available who are offering free government smartphones to the people who can’t afford to buy one including low income households. Their main focus is to reduce the digital gap between people so everyone can freely use these important communication gadgets without worrying about their financial situation. Below are the top most famous government programs where you can get your free or discounted government cellphones.

Lifeline assistance
Lifeline Assistance

The Lifeline Assistance Program is a government program that helps people with low income pay for their phone and internet. If you qualify, you could get a discount of up to $9.25 each month for your phone or internet bill, or up to $34.25 each month if you live on Tribal lands. This can help make it easier to afford an iPhone or any other smartphone.

national lifeline association
National Lifeline Association

The National Lifeline Association (NaLA) is a non-profit group that makes it easier for people to get affordable phone and internet services. They collaborate with the government and companies providing phone and internet to ensure everyone can access these important services. They offer discounts on these services for families with low income.

connect america fund
Connect America Funds

The Connect America Fund (CAF) is a program aimed at increasing internet access and making phone services more affordable in areas that don’t have much service, especially in rural places. While it mainly focuses on internet services, it also helps people who need smartphones to get online by improving internet availability. The CAF helps make phone services cheaper for families with low income, especially those living in far-off areas.

affordable connectivity program
Affordable Connectivity Program

The Affordable Connectivity Program (ACP) is a benefit program from the FCC designed to help individuals access high-speed internet and devices at a lower cost. To be eligible, your income needs to be at or below 200% of the Federal Poverty Guidelines.

ACP provides discounts on monthly internet costs and on devices such as tablets, laptops, and smartphones.

Can you get an iPhone from the government for free?

Initially, when the lifeline assistance was launched, they used to provide landline phones to people. It was back in 1985 when no the latest touchscreen phones were available. However, as everything progressed, so did the government and its life assistance programs. Before there was only one program, Lifeline Assistance, but now, another program recently launched in 2020 called ACP (Affordable Connectivity Program). 

Fortunately, now that the government understands the iPhone’s obsession, both government programs are giving away iPhones for free. The answer to whether you can get an iPhone free from the government is yes. You can get one, but only if you meet the criteria.

Fortunately, now that the government understands the iPhone’s obsession, both government programs are giving away iPhones for free. The answer to whether you can get an iPhone free from the government is yes. You can get one, but only if you meet the criteria.

What government program provides free government iPhones?

You might have heard of two government programs: lifeline assistance and the recently launched ACP. These programs provide free government iPhones to low-income people, veterans, those needing medical help, and so on. 

Free Government iPhone

Over time, the government programs have expanded their network to several phone service provider companies. These programs fund those companies, also called free government iPhones providers or phone carriers. Through those companies, government provides free iPhones to needy. Although there are many such companies, we’ll only be talking about the ones that provide not only other models but also iPhones. 

Will you get a free iPhone from the government?

Whether you’ll get a free iPhone from the government or not depends on whether you meet the program’s criteria or not. There are some criteria that the government has made for its life assistance program. This is to ensure that the benefits are only being given to those who are in need.  So, what are the criteria for getting a free iPhone from the government?

Eligibility Criteria:

  • To qualify for a free government iPhone, you need to be 18 years old or above. 
  • You must make between 135-150% of the Federal Poverty Guidelines to be eligible for a free government iPhone. This varies depending on your state of residence.
  • Federal aid programs like Medicaid, SNAP, housing assistance, Veterans Pension and Survivors Benefit, or income support can make you eligible for a free iPhone.
  • Senior citizens, folks with disabilities, and veterans might also be eligible for free iPhones in some states.
  • Living on federally recognized tribal lands can qualify you for an iPhone through programs like the Bureau of Indian Affairs General Assistance, TANF, and FDPIR.

How would the government know that you meet that criteria? This is where you’ll need to have the following documents. You’ll have to submit these documents to the provider you’re applying for from a free iPhone.

Required documents to Prove Eligibility:

To prove your eligibility, you need to have the following documents:

  • Proof of identity: This can be a government-issued ID, driver’s licence, or passport.
  • Proof of address: This can be a utility bill, lease agreement, or any official mail that shows your name and address.
  • Proof of income: This can be your most recent pay stub, tax return, or a letter from your employer stating your income.
  • Proof of participation in federal assistance programs: This can be a benefit statement or an award letter from programs like Medicaid, SNAP, TANF, SSI, or Federal Public Housing Assistance (FPHA).
  • Proof of enrollment in a federal assistance program: This can be a benefit card or a letter of participation from a federal assistance program.

The most important question is, what iPhone models will you get from the government?  Let’s talk about that now.

What iPhone models do you get free from the government?

The iPhone model that you get free from the government is mentioned below:

iPhone SE (2020)

  • 4.7-inch Retina HD display
  • A13 Bionic chip with Neural Engine
  • Single-lens rear camera with 12MP sensor
  • 7MP front-facing FaceTime HD camera
  • Touch ID for secure authentication
  • Wireless charging
  • Up to 256GB of storage

iPhone 11

  • 6.1-inch Liquid Retina display
  • Dual-lens rear camera system with 12MP Wide and 12MP Ultra Wide lenses
  • 12MP front-facing TrueDepth camera with Face ID
  • A13 Bionic chip
  • Up to 256GB of storage

iPhone XR

  • 6.1-inch Liquid Retina HD display
  • Single-lens rear camera with 12MP sensor
  • 12MP front-facing TrueDepth camera with Face ID
  • A12 Bionic chip
  • Up to 256GB of storage

Apple iPhone 6

  • 4.7-inch Retina HD display
  • A8 chip with 1GB of RAM
  • 8MP rear camera
  • 1.2MP front-facing FaceTime HD camera
  • Touch ID for secure authentication
  • Up to 128GB of storage

Apple iPhone 6 Plus

  • 5.5-inch Retina HD display
  • A8 chip with 1GB of RAM
  • 8MP rear camera
  • 1.2MP front-facing FaceTime HD camera
  • Touch ID for secure authentication
  • Up to 128GB of storage

Apple iPhone 6s

  • 4.7-inch Retina HD display
  • A9 chip with 2GB of RAM
  • 12MP rear camera with OIS and 4K video recording
  • 5MP front-facing FaceTime HD camera
  • Touch ID for secure authentication
  • Up to 128GB of storage

Apple iPhone 7

  • 4.7-inch Retina HD display
  • A10 Fusion chip with 2GB of RAM
  • 12MP rear camera with OIS, dual-pixel autofocus, and 4K video recording
  • 7MP front-facing FaceTime HD camera
  • Touch ID for secure authentication
  • Water and dust resistant
  • Up to 256GB of storage

Apple iPhone 7 Plus

  • 5.5-inch Retina HD display
  • A10 Fusion chip with 3GB of RAM
  • Dual-lens rear camera system with 12MP Wide and 12MP Telephoto lenses, OIS, dual-pixel autofocus, and 4K video recording
  • 7MP front-facing FaceTime HD camera
  • Touch ID for secure authentication
  • Water and dust-resistant
  • Up to 256GB of storage

Apple iPhone 8

  • 4.7-inch Retina HD display
  • A11 Bionic chip with 2GB of RAM
  • 12MP rear camera with OIS, dual-pixel autofocus, and 4K video recording
  • 7MP front-facing FaceTime HD camera
  • Touch ID for secure authentication
  • Water and dust-resistant
  • Wireless charging
  • Up to 256GB of storage

Why does the government provide iPhones?

This question comes to some people’s minds: why is it even important for the government to provide free iPhones to people?

1. Connecting Communities: Closing the Digital Gap

The government offers free iPhones to needy people because it wants to help them walk side by side with other people with access to technology. Due to the lack of an iPhone or just a phone, poor people can’t stay connected with their loved ones, they can’t grab job opportunities, and they can’t even get to the educational material available on the Internet. To help poor people with all those things, the government has taken the initiative to provide them with iPhones.

2. Emergency Communication: 

A phone is needed more when an emergency, such as an accident, a natural disaster, or any news that has to be broken up in no time. But, when the person doesn’t have a phone, they can’t do emergency communication. Therefore, to fulfil this need, the government also gives out free iPhones to people.

3. Inclusive Technology: 

Free iPhone campaigns help improve digital literacy and inclusion. By making sure everyone has access to smartphones, governments ensure inclusivity in the digital world. This helps with daily tasks and promotes digital skills in today’s interconnected society.

4. Streamlining Public Services:

Providing free iPhones is a strategic move to simplify citizens’ interactions with government services. With smartphones, citizens can easily access information, submit applications, and interact with public services. It represents a commitment to leveraging technology to improve citizen experience through efficient and accessible government interactions.

5. Social Welfare Support: 

Those who are vulnerable get free iPhones as part of social welfare programs. Governments are trying to alleviate social and economic inequality by giving people communication tools. By providing smartphones, authorities empower citizens to participate more actively in the digital and social spheres, promoting inclusivity and equal opportunities.

Can you get free government 13, 14, or 15?

You can’t get high-end phones like iPhone 13, 14, or 15. These are quite expensive phones, and the government can’t provide these phones to needy individuals due to a limited budget. Most of the phones the government provides are basic and good working smartphones. There are some iPhone models as well that the company provides, but not any latest models are provided. 

Best Free Government iPhone Providers:

Lifeline assistance and APC programs fund many phone service companies which will give you free iPhones. I’m going to tell you about each of these providers. You’re free to go for the one that meets your requirements. 

1: NewPhone Wireless

Newpone Wireless is a phone service provider company in the USA. It’s available in many states of America and is known for providing affordable connectivity services. This company also participates in two government programs: Lifeline Assistance and the ACP.  This is why it provides people with free phones, including the free government iPhones. What iPhone models you will get will depend on your state and availability. 

2: AirtalkWireless:

AirtTalkwiress is a government-funded company that provides phone services across the USA. This company provides several free government PHones to needy people. The best thing about this company is its free phone services, including 15G of internet data, unlimited talk time, and text messages.

3: (CAF) Connect America Fund:

To make connectivity services more affordable and fast for people, the CAF(Connect America) Fund program was launched. The way this program works is the same as ACP, the famous government life assistance program. This program offers free, affordable, and broadband services to low-income people. The best thing about this program is that it also works with lifeline assistance and ACP, providing free government iPhones to people.  To be eligible for this program, you must meet the criteria you can check by visiting the program’s official website. 

4: Safelink

Safelink is another free government iPhone provider as it participates in Lifeline assistance and the ACP program. Although this company is a smartphone provider and provides affordable phones to people with government funds, Kit also offers a range of free government phones.  They also have some iPhone models available on their site, which you can get for free. Other than that, this provider also gives you some free phone services like Unlimited Talktime, text messages, and high-speed Internet are also provided by this provider. 

5: Cintex Wireless

Cintex Wireless is an amazing company that provides discounted mobile phones and phone services to the people of America. Lifeline and the ACP program have also partnered with this company because it provides free government phones on the government’s funds. Cintex Wireless also has some iPhone models and some iPhone models you can get for free. If you have money and want an iPhone, then even that’s possible on Cintex wireless.

6: Access Wireless:

If you’re looking for a free iPhone provider that also provides you with free internet, text messages, and unlimited talk time, then look no further than Access Wireless. As you can easily guess by this company’s name, Access Wireless is a phone service provider that works in over 18 states of America. The company is also funded by government assistance programs through which it provides free Apple phones and other models of smartphones to needy people.  You may consider this program as well.

7: Assist Wireless 

Assist Wireless works like access wireless working in different states of America, Arkansas, Minnesota, Oklahoma, Maryland, and Missouri. If you have a low income and you’re looking for a free government phone, specifically an iPhone, then you can go for Assist Wireless. This program works with the government and provides free iPhones to low-income people. You can visit this program’s website and see its criteria and what iPhone models are available.

8: Assurance Wireless

Assurance Wireless is a phone service provider which provides monthly and yearly data plans to people. Luckily, the company is a participant in the Lifeline and ACP programs. Thus, you can get a free iPhone from this company, including some free internet and unlimited talk time and text messages. You can also get your plans upgraded for a very affordable price. 

9: American Assistance 

American assistance is a program that is made to help all of the low-income people. This program works just like the ACP program and makes technology available to low-income people.  This program provides many different models, including Apple phones. To be eligible for this program, you must meet the lifeline assistance criteria or ACP.

10: enTouch wireless:

In order to provide low-income individuals and families with free or discounted mobile phone service, enTouch Wireless has partnered with Lifeline and Affordable Connectivity Programs (ACP) to provide these services.

This company participates in both programs, which are government-funded initiatives that provide financial assistance to low-income households to pay for telecommunication services, and they are participating service providers in both programs.  Through these programs,  enTouch wireless also provides free government iPhones and other models of phones.

11: National School Lunch Program:

If you’re a student and belong to a low-income family, getting an iPhone would be your dream. Now, this dream will come true with the help of the National School Lunch program. Don’t get fooled by this program’s name; it doesn’t provide free lunch but affordable iPhones to students.  Yes, you heard that right, not free but affordable.  

This is the reason I’m keeping this program at the bottom of the list, as it’s not completely free.

These are all of the best programs that offer free government iPhones. Depending on your requirements, you can go for any program out of the above. That’s all up to you. Now, let’s learn the method of applying for a free government iPhones:

How to apply for a free government iPhone?

This is the step-by-step guide that teaches you how you can apply for a free government iPhone. Follow it and get your iPhone.

Step 1: Ensure the Eligibility:

Meeting the criteria is crucial to get an iPhone. Your application will be rejected if you don’t meet the criteria. Therefore, go through the criteria mentioned above and ensure you meet them. 

Step 2: Get the required documents:

Just telling the provider that you meet the criteria won’t work. You’ll need to prove your eligibility by providing the required documents to them.  I’ve mentioned all of the required documents that you need to have for the application process. So, have them handy while you’re applying.

Step 3: Visit the Official Website

Now, whatever provider you want to apply for, go to their official website. They’ll have a dedicated section for free government phones. So go to that section and see what phones they have available. Also, read about their criteria, application process, and contact details. 

Step 4: Read the Guidelines and FAQs

Thoroughly read the guidelines and frequently asked questions (FAQs) section on the website. Understanding the program’s rules and requirements will help you submit a well-prepared application. Take note of any deadlines or specific instructions provided.

Step 5: Complete the Online Application

Find and complete the application form on the website of the provider. Make sure your information matches the documentation you have gathered. Double-check your entries before submitting.

Step 6: Submit Supporting Documents

Following the instructions on the website, upload or submit the necessary supporting documents to validate your eligibility. This may involve scanning and attaching files or mailing physical copies, depending on the program’s requirements.

Step 7: Await Application Processing

After submitting your application, be patient during the processing period. Government programs often receive a high volume of applications, and it may take some time to review and verify the information provided.

Step 8: Follow Up if Necessary

If there’s a delay or if you have any questions about your application status, don’t hesitate to contact the program’s designated point of contact. Most official websites provide contact information or customer support details for inquiries.

Step 9: Receive Approval and Instructions

Upon approval, you will receive instructions on how to claim your free government iPhone. This may involve picking it up from a specified location or having it mailed to your address. Follow the provided instructions closely to ensure a smooth process.

Step 10: Stay Informed and Grateful

Keep yourself informed about any updates or additional resources offered by the government program. Express gratitude for the opportunity and make the most of your new smartphone to enhance your connectivity and access to various services.

This is how easy it is to apply for a free government iPhone from any provider you want.  

Final Thoughts

Having an iPhone helps us in many ways. It helps us stay connected with family, grab job opportunities and emergency communications, and learn new things online.  Thanks to the Lifeline assistance and ACP programs that provide free government iPhones. You can even get one iPhone if you meet the program’s criteria.  

Firstly, select a provider that provides iPhones and covers your state. Go to their website and learn more about them.  Once you’re sure the provider meets your requirements, you can apply for a free iPhone.

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