Are free 5G government phones available?
Yes. Many Lifeline providers now supply 5G-capable Android phones such as Samsung Galaxy A and Motorola Moto G 5G models. Whether you get 5G speeds depends on the provider's network and your plan.
- Every iPhone from the iPhone 12 onward (plus the 2022 iPhone SE) supports 5G
- You qualify with SNAP, Medicaid, SSI, public housing or a Veterans Pension, or with income at or below 135% of the poverty line
- Ask the provider if your plan includes 5G access
Can you get a free 5G government phone?
Yes. As older networks shut down, Lifeline providers have moved to 5G-capable smartphones, often budget Samsung Galaxy A or Motorola models. Whether you get 5G speeds depends on the provider's network and whether your plan includes 5G access.
If you want a 5G iPhone, the iPhone 12 was the first. Every iPhone since, plus the 2022 iPhone SE, supports 5G.
5G phones you may be offered
| Phone | Where you'll see it | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Samsung Galaxy A16 5G | Lifeline providers, prepaid | Long update promise |
| Samsung Galaxy A15 5G | Lifeline providers | Common free handset |
| Motorola Moto G 5G | Lifeline & prepaid | Good battery life |
| iPhone 12 / 13 | Switch deals, refurb + BYO | Cheapest 5G iPhones |
| iPhone SE (2022) | Prepaid, refurb | 5G with Touch ID |
Not sure which option fits you?
Answer 5 quick questions and the Phone Finder matches you with programs, providers and deals.
Does 5G matter on a free plan?
Lifeline data allowances are modest, so 5G's biggest benefit is not speed but future-proofing. Carriers are retiring older network technology, and 5G phones will keep working longest. A 5G phone also tends to have a newer processor and better security support.
Who qualifies?
There are two routes to eligibility: program-based (you already receive certain benefits) or income-based (your household earns no more than 135% of the poverty guidelines).
Qualifying programs
- SNAP (food stamps)
- Medicaid
- Supplemental Security Income (SSI)
- Federal Public Housing Assistance (including Section 8)
- Veterans Pension or Survivors Pension
On federally recognized Tribal lands, these also qualify: Bureau of Indian Affairs General Assistance, Tribally Administered TANF, Food Distribution Program on Indian Reservations (FDPIR), Tribal Head Start (income-qualified households).
Income limits
| Household size | Maximum yearly income (135% of poverty guideline) |
|---|---|
| 1 person | $21,128 |
| 2 people | $28,553 |
| 3 people | $35,978 |
| 4 people | $43,403 |
| 5 people | $50,828 |
| 6 people | $58,253 |
| 7 people | $65,678 |
| 8 people | $73,103 |
| Each additional person | add $7,425 |
Figures are based on the 2025 Federal Poverty Guidelines for the 48 contiguous states and DC, rounded. Alaska and Hawaii have higher limits. USAC updates the limits each year, so check lifelinesupport.org for the current figures.
Want an instant answer? Use the Lifeline eligibility checker. It takes under a minute.
How do you get your free 5G phone?
- Check you qualify Confirm your benefit program or income using the eligibility checker.
- Pick a provider Choose a Lifeline provider that serves your area. Compare phones, data and coverage on our provider comparison.
- Apply through the National Verifier Apply on the provider's site or at checklifeline.org. Many applications are approved automatically by database checks.
- Upload proof if asked If the automatic check can't confirm you, upload a benefit letter or income proof. See documents you need.
- Activate your phone or SIM Your phone or SIM ships in about a week. Activate it and use it at least once every 30 days so the service isn't cancelled for non-usage.
Ask the provider two things before you enroll: Is the phone 5G? and Does my plan include 5G network access? Some plans cap you to 4G LTE even on a 5G phone.
Frequently asked questions
Is 5G free on government phones?
Many Lifeline plans now include 5G access where the network supports it, but some limit speeds. Check the plan details.
Which iPhones support 5G?
iPhone 12 and every later model, plus the iPhone SE (2022).
Will my old 4G phone stop working?
4G LTE phones continue to work today, but 3G phones have been shut off. A 5G phone is the safest long-term choice.
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.