How do I find a free phone I qualify for?
Pick your state, say whether you get a benefit like SNAP or Medicaid, and choose the device you want. The free phone finder tool instantly filters programs, providers, organizations and deals to the ones that fit you, each linking to a full guide.
- Free, private and runs in your browser
- Covers Lifeline, carriers, charities, iPhones, tablets and all 50 states
- Share your filtered results with a link
How to use the free phone finder tool
The free phone finder tool is a searchable directory of every route to a free or low-cost phone that we cover: government programs like Lifeline, Lifeline providers and carriers, charities and organizations, iPhone deals, devices from iPhone models to tablets, and state guides.
- Start with your state to see local programs such as California LifeLine and your state guide.
- Answer the Lifeline question. Choosing “Yes” puts free government options first. “No” shows only deals, refurbished phones and charities.
- Pick a device to narrow results to iPhones, Android phones, tablets, laptops, hotspots or watches.
- Use the type chips above the results to show only programs, providers, organizations or deals.
- Open any card for the full guide, with real costs and step-by-step instructions.
What the labels mean
- Free: no cost for eligible people.
- Low cost: a small one-time or monthly cost, with no long contract.
- Carrier deal: a phone made free through bill credits on a paid plan.
- Needs Lifeline eligibility: you must qualify through benefits or income.
- Open to anyone: no eligibility requirements.
Not sure whether you qualify? The Lifeline eligibility checker gives you an answer in under a minute.
Frequently asked questions
How does the Phone Finder work?
Filter by what you need (programs, providers, organizations, deals or devices), your state, whether you qualify for Lifeline, and the device you want. Results update instantly as concise cards linking to full guides.
Is the Phone Finder free and private?
Yes. It's free, needs no sign-up, and runs entirely in your browser. Nothing you select is sent anywhere.
How do I know if I qualify for Lifeline?
If anyone in your household gets SNAP, Medicaid, SSI, public housing or a Veterans Pension, you likely qualify. Otherwise check income with the eligibility checker.
Can I share my filtered results?
Yes. The page address updates with your filters, so you can copy and share the link.
Sources & last update
Last reviewed . We check program rules against official FCC and USAC guidance and update pages when rules, income limits or offers change. Spot something out of date? Tell us.