Having a cell phone can make your life much easier.
However, phones can be expensive and not everyone can handle the cost of them.
Sometimes, people feel like there may not be any support for their situation, which is not the case!
Instead, there are opportunities out there for individuals in need to get a phone.
These opportunities are available thanks to specific carriers that offer phones for free!
Besides that, there are even opportunities for free unlimited data, free international calling, and more.
How Can You Get a Free Phone?
It may sound like a scam that you can get a free phone without knowing the details of how it’s possible.
Luckily, it’s all legit and there are a variety of carriers that offer this opportunity. They also offer additional perks!
How can they do that?
Well, it’s possible thanks to certain promotions and government programs. Take the Lifeline Program for example.
What is the Lifeline Program?
Before we discuss what carriers can provide a free phone, it’s important to get some context!
Lifeline is a program available thanks to the Federal Communications Commission (FCC).
Even though it is a program available through the FCC, it is administered by the Universal Service Administrative Company (USAC).
The USAC has the responsibility of helping consumers through the application process, the recertification process, eligibility requirements, and more.
The goal of this opportunity is to make the cost of communication services easier to handle for qualifying recipients who are low-income.
Typically, this opportunity provides a monthly discount on eligible services such as telephone services, broadband internet services, or bundled voice-broadband packages.
The discount amount is up to $9.25 but can be a maximum of $34.25 to recipients that live on tribal lands.
To qualify for this opportunity, applicants must be at or lower than 135% of the Federal Poverty Guidelines.
However, they may also qualify if they are currently a recipient of any of the following programs:
- Supplemental Security Income (SSI)
- Federal Public Housing
- Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP)
- Medicaid
- Veterans and Survivors Pension Benefit
- Certain Tribal Programs
Who is Providing a Free Phone?
Several service providers, known for their reliable networks, offer the chance to get a free phone.
These include Safelink Wireless, AirTalk Wireless, Metro by T-Mobile, and Verizon.
There are more providers out there than the ones on this list that are offering a free phone. That is why it’s important to find carriers that service your region.
It’s definitely worth exploring all options!
Safelink Wireless
SafeLink Wireless provides an attractive offer for those in the ACP program with other carriers: switch to SafeLink’s ACP to get a free smartphone, unlimited talk and text, and free data on a top-tier network.
Lifeline recipients at SafeLink also enjoy benefits like unlimited texts and 4.5 GB of data.
Alongside AirTalk Wireless, SafeLink stands out for its wide range of options designed to meet various user needs.
AirTalk Wireless
AirTalk is a great choice for ACP recipients looking to switch providers, offering not just a free smartphone but also a range of additional perks.
These include free unlimited international calls to over 50 countries, free Wi-Fi calling, and complimentary monthly cell phone services with advanced 5G+ high-speed internet.
Additionally, AirTalk provides nationwide coverage, ensuring you stay connected wherever you are.
Plus, even after the ACP program ends, you can keep your number and stay connected through AirTalk’s Lifeline Plan.
Metro by T-Mobile
Metro’s latest promotion is a real win for those who need a phone. That’s because this carrier offers 5G phones like the Google Pixel 6a and REVVL 6 5G at absolutely no cost – what you see is what you pay.
To take advantage of this deal, choose a plan of $40/month or more, and handle the tax.
For those preferring to shop online, there’s specific phones available with zero activation fees, plus the chance to add an extra voice line to your current plan.
This is a golden opportunity for anyone looking to upgrade to a 5G phone without any hidden expenses.
Verizon
Verizon makes upgrading to a new phone both affordable and easy with their range of promotions.
They offer enticing deals like buy-one-get-one-free, ideal for families or anyone needing multiple phones.
Other promotions often allow you to get a phone for free, particularly through a 36-month bill credit plan, which suits those looking to upgrade without overspending.
Keep an eye on Verizon’s free phone offers, as they frequently include various models and brands.
You might also have the option to trade in your current device or an older one for a free upgrade.
With such opportunities, getting a free phone with Verizon can feel easy.
Bottom Line
A cell phone can significantly simplify your life, but the cost of owning one might be a barrier for many.
Thankfully, this doesn’t always have to be the case.
There are numerous carriers out there like SafeLink Wireless, AirTalk Wireless, and Verizon offering free phones, along with additional benefits like unlimited data and international calls.
This is made possible through special promotions and government programs like Lifeline, managed by the USAC under the FCC.
Lifeline aims to ease communication costs for low-income individuals by providing monthly discounts on phone or internet services.
Eligibility often involves income guidelines or participation in certain federal programs.
So, if the expense of a phone seems daunting, exploring these options can provide an affordable solution, keeping you connected without straining your budget.
