How can low-income families get a free cell phone?
The main route is Lifeline, which makes phone service free for households on benefits like SNAP or Medicaid or with income at or below 135% of the poverty line. Charities and low-cost prepaid plans fill the gaps for people who don't qualify.
- About $21,128/year for 1 person or $43,403 for 4 qualifies (2025)
- Nonprofits help survivors, veterans and people without housing
- Prepaid plans start around $15/month
What are the key facts about Your options?
| Route | Who it suits | Typical iPhone | Real cost |
|---|---|---|---|
| Lifeline provider | SNAP, Medicaid, SSI or low-income households | Bring your own, or an older/refurb model at a discount | Free service; iPhone often $0–$100 |
| Switch deal | Anyone who can pay a monthly plan | Current and last-year models | $0 phone via bill credits; plan from ~$25–$90/mo |
| Trade-in | People with an old phone to hand in | Newest models incl. Pro Max | $0 on premium plans |
| Refurbished | Anyone wanting no contract | iPhone 11 – 15 | $120–$550 one-time |
| Giveaways & charities | Specific groups (students, survivors, veterans) | Varies | Free, but limited supply |
Option 1: Lifeline (free service + phone)
The money behind a free cell phone comes from Lifeline, a federal benefit administered by USAC under FCC rules. Each qualifying household can put a $9.25/month discount on one phone or internet service, or $34.25/month on eligible Tribal lands. Because a basic wireless plan costs providers less than that, most Lifeline plans are free to you.
The government does not buy the handset. Providers decide which phones they give out, which is why models vary so much between companies and states.
For income-based eligibility, compare your household income with the limits below.
| 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.
Not sure which option fits you?
Answer 5 quick questions and the Phone Finder matches you with programs, providers and deals.
Option 2: Charities and community programs
Nonprofits distribute donated and refurbished phones to specific groups: survivors of domestic violence, veterans, people experiencing homelessness and seniors. See our charities & nonprofits directory, including support for domestic violence survivors and people experiencing homelessness.
Option 3: Low-cost prepaid
If you are just above the income limit, prepaid plans from $15–$30 a month with a cheap phone can cost less than a year of coffee. See cheap iPhone plans and refurbished iPhone deals.
How do you apply for a low-income 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.
Proof of income that works
- Prior year's federal or state tax return
- Three consecutive months of pay stubs
- Social Security or Veterans benefit statement
- Unemployment or workers' compensation statement
- Divorce decree or child support award showing income
Frequently asked questions
What income qualifies for a free cell phone?
A household income at or below 135% of the federal poverty guidelines, for example about $21,128 for one person or $43,403 for four (2025 figures).
Can I get a free cell phone if I'm unemployed?
Unemployment itself isn't a qualifier, but low income or benefits like SNAP or Medicaid usually are.
Can I get a free phone without an ID?
You will need some identity proof. A Social Security number's last four digits or a Tribal ID can substitute in some cases.
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.