What is the easiest way to get a free iPhone 13?
Use a carrier switch or trade-in deal, which often makes the iPhone 13 free, or buy one refurbished for about $230–$320 and use free Lifeline service on it. Government programs rarely hand out the iPhone 13 itself.
- Released 2021 · A15 Bionic · 6.1-inch OLED
- Supports 5G
- Latest software: iOS 26 (still supported)
Can you get a free iPhone 13 from the government?
Sometimes, but rarely straight from a government program. Lifeline providers seldom hand out a iPhone 13. Most people get one through a free phone when you switch deal, a trade-in, or a low-cost refurbished unit ($230–$320) paired with free Lifeline service.
It is the sweet spot for a free or near-free iPhone: 5G, great battery and years of updates left. Battery life jumped over the iPhone 12, the camera gained Cinematic mode and the A15 chip is still fast.
Protect yourself: Never pay upfront to “unlock” a free government iPhone. If a site asks for card details before checking eligibility, leave it and see our scam guide.
What are the key facts about iPhone 13?
- Released
- 2021
- Chip
- A15 Bionic
- Display
- 6.1-inch OLED
- 5G
- Yes
- Latest iOS
- iOS 26
- Launch price
- $799
- Typical used price
- $230–$320
- 5G
- A15 Bionic
- Big battery improvement
- Cinematic mode
- Smaller notch
Still supported. The iPhone 13 runs iOS 26, Apple's current software, so it gets security updates and new features.
Want a iPhone 13?
The Phone Finder matches your benefits and budget with the cheapest real route.
Best ways to get a free iPhone 13, ranked
| # | Route | What you get | Verdict |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Prepaid switch deal | iPhone 13 free or near-free with a new line | Best value |
| 2 | Refurb + Lifeline SIM | $230–$320 one-time + free monthly service | No contract |
| 3 | Major carrier trade-in | Credits over 24–36 months | Needs a paid plan |
| 4 | Lifeline provider upgrade | Discounted iPhones offered in some states | Check availability |
If you receive SNAP, Medicaid or SSI, start with Lifeline. It makes your monthly service free, and you can then focus on getting the iPhone 13 itself cheaply. If you don't qualify, compare carrier deals by total 24–36 month cost, not by the word “free”.
How do you get the iPhone 13 with Lifeline?
The money behind a iPhone 13 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 program funds service, not devices. Any phone you receive is the provider's choice and usually a budget model, which is why comparing providers matters.
Lifeline providers rarely stock the iPhone 13 as their free handset, but almost all of them let you use an unlocked, compatible phone. Check that the phone is unlocked and not blacklisted before you buy it.
- 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.
How do carrier “free iPhone 13” deals really work?
Here is how a “free” carrier iPhone works: the iPhone 13 is financed over 24 months, and the carrier credits your bill the same amount each month. The phone ends up free, but only if you keep a qualifying plan for the full term.
| Example | |
|---|---|
| Retail price | $799 |
| Term | 24 months |
| Monthly device charge | $33.29 |
| Monthly promo credit | −$33.29 |
| You pay for the phone | $0 if you stay the full term |
| If you leave after 12 months | about $399 still owed |
Before you sign, work out the full cost: (monthly plan × months) + activation fee + taxes. A “free” iPhone 13 on a $90 plan can cost more overall than buying a refurbished one outright and using a cheap prepaid plan.
Is the iPhone 13 still worth it in 2026?
What's good
- 5G
- A15 Bionic
- Big battery improvement
- Used prices around $230–$320
Watch out for
- It is rarely handed out free by Lifeline. You will usually get it through a switch deal, a trade-in or a low-cost refurbished purchase.
- Battery health varies on used units. Look for 85%+ or a new battery
- Accessories such as the charger are often not included
How does it compare with nearby models?
Weighing up the alternatives? These pages cover the models either side of this one:
Frequently asked questions
Is the iPhone 13 really free with a government phone program?
No. Government programs fund free service, not new iPhones. The iPhone 13 is free only through carrier promotions or charity programs.
Does the iPhone 13 support 5G?
Yes. The iPhone 13 supports 5G, so it works with free 5G government phone plans where the provider offers 5G.
Can I put my Lifeline SIM in a iPhone 13?
Usually yes, if the iPhone 13 is unlocked or locked to the same network your Lifeline provider uses. Ask the provider for a SIM kit or check compatibility on its website using the IMEI.
How much is a used iPhone 13 worth in 2026?
Refurbished iPhone 13 prices are typically around $230–$320, depending on storage, condition and battery health. Buy from sellers with at least a 90-day warranty.
What is the cheapest way to get a iPhone 13?
Buy a certified refurbished unit and use a free Lifeline plan if you qualify.
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.