Assistance Programs are Available
Did you know you can get a subsidy to put towards a monthly cell phone bill? If you want to know how to get a free cell phone in the USA, keep reading. We're here to provide tips to help you afford your phone so you can stay connected.
The Lifeline Assistance Program
The Lifeline Assistance Program offers a $9.25 monthly subsidy toward phone or broadband service for qualifying low-income individuals and households, or up to $34.25 for those living on Tribal lands. To be eligible, your income must be at or below 135 percent of the Federal Poverty Guidelines, or you must participate in programs like SNAP, Medicaid, SSI, Federal Public Housing Assistance or the Veterans Pension, among others. Applications are processed through the National Verifier, available at lifelinesupport.org.
Once approved, you can select a participating provider in your area to receive free wireless service. The discount applies to either one wireless or one wireline service per household. Only one account is allowed per household at a time.
5 Phone Providers
These providers all currently participate in the Lifeline Assistance Program:
1. Assurance Wireless (T‑Mobile Network)
Assurance Wireless operates as a T‑Mobile subsidiary and offers eligible users a free Android phone, free monthly data, unlimited texting and free monthly minutes. Customers are not required to sign contracts, pay activation fees or go through credit checks. The service includes at least 350 minutes per month, unlimited texts, voicemail, call waiting, caller ID and free 911 access. Users must make at least one call, text or use data each 30 days to maintain the service.
2. SafeLink Wireless (Verizon Network via TracFone)
SafeLink Wireless is a subsidiary of TracFone/Verizon that offers free smartphones or SIM cards depending on eligibility, with unlimited talk and text and around 4.5 GB of data under Lifeline. When users qualify for both Lifeline and the Affordable Connectivity Program (ACP), they can receive significantly more high-speed data (in some cases up to 20–25 GB per month) as noted by user reports. SafeLink phones typically include entry-level but modern Android devices, and customers can also bring unlocked compatible phones and use a free SIM card
3. Life Wireless (MVNO on 5G/4G)
Life Wireless offers free unlimited talk and text, a free smartphone or BYOD (bring your own device), free SIM card, free activation and high-speed data through a national 5G/4G network. They require no credit checks, contracts or hidden fees. If high-speed data runs out, speeds are throttled but remain available at a reduced rate. Users must place at least one outbound or inbound call every 30 days to keep the service.
4. TruConnect
TruConnect participates in Lifeline and often offers free phones to eligible individuals. Their application process is quick and requires no risk, and they provide free wireless service where available. TruConnect also offers plans that include international calling options as part of their service.
5. TAG Mobile (AT&T Network)
TAG Mobile is an Eligible Telecommunications Carrier (ETC) serving Lifeline households across 19 states. They provide free cell phones to qualifying low-income users, including talk, text, data and free international calling to over 80 countries.
How to Apply and What to Consider
To apply for a free cell phone, you should first determine if you meet eligibility through low income or participation in federal assistance programs. Once approved by the National Verifier, you can select a provider and order a free phone or SIM kit. Some users may prefer bringing their own unlocked compatible phone, which can often qualify for better data plans.
You should activate the service, complete any required paperwork and maintain active use (typically by making a call, sending a text or using data once every 30 days) and then recertify annually.
Tips for Choosing a Provider
Your choice should depend on network quality in your area and data needs. If you often travel abroad or call internationally, providers like SafeLink, TruConnect and TAG Mobile include free international minutes. If data is a priority, combining Lifeline with ACP can significantly increase your data allowance, sometimes delivering up to 25 GB per month. For those who already own a smartphone, opting for BYOD can give you access to higher-tier data plans and newer device models.
Final Notes
Thanks to the FCC’s Lifeline Assistance Program, low-income Americans can access free or heavily subsidized cell phone service, complete with a free device, unlimited talk, texting and data. Major providers offer different advantages based on network coverage, data allotments and additional perks like international calling. By verifying your eligibility, selecting the right provider for your needs and maintaining regular usage, you can stay connected to vital opportunities and services at no cost.