Which charities help people get free phones?
Charities and nonprofits help specific groups: domestic violence programs give safe phones, veterans groups support veterans, homeless services help with Lifeline applications, and refurbishers donate computers. Dial 2-1-1 to find local help.
- Supply is limited and usually prioritizes people in crisis
- Combine a donated phone with free Lifeline service
- You can donate old phones after erasing them
How charities help people get phones
Free phone charities and nonprofits fill gaps that government programs don't cover. They donate refurbished phones to people in crisis, help with Lifeline applications, provide computers and internet, and lend devices through libraries and schools. Most serve specific groups rather than the general public.
Types of organizations
Libraries
Hotspot, tablet and laptop lending with a library card.
Learn moreColleges & universities
Laptop loans, emergency grants and student discounts.
Learn moreVeterans organizations
Phones, tablets and connectivity for veterans.
Learn moreDomestic violence programs
Safe phones and help separating shared phone plans.
Learn moreHomeless services
Help getting a Lifeline phone without a permanent address.
Learn moreDigital-inclusion nonprofits
Refurbished computers and low-cost internet.
Learn moreNot sure which option fits you?
Answer 5 quick questions and the Phone Finder matches you with programs, providers and deals.
Well-known national organizations
| Organization | What they do |
|---|---|
| 211 (United Way) | Free, confidential helpline (dial 2-1-1) that connects you to local phone, internet and device help |
| PCs for People | Refurbished computers and low-cost internet for eligible households |
| Human-I-T | Refurbished devices and internet for low-income families |
| EveryoneOn | Helps locate low-cost internet and device offers by ZIP code |
| National Domestic Violence Hotline | Safety planning, including safe phone use (1-800-799-7233) |
| Cell Phones for Soldiers | Supports service members and veterans with communication needs |
Programs, eligibility and stock change, so contact each organization directly for current availability.
How do you ask a charity for a phone?
- Dial 2-1-1 Ask for phone, internet or device assistance near you.
- Explain your situation Charities prioritize safety, job searches, health care and housing needs.
- Bring documents ID and benefit or income proof, if you have them.
- Apply for Lifeline too A donated phone plus free Lifeline service is the strongest combination.
Eligibility for free service
Eligibility is simple on paper. Either you are enrolled in a qualifying benefit program, or your household income is at or below 135% of the federal poverty line.
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.
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.
Donating a phone the safe way
- Back up your data iCloud or your computer.
- Sign out of your Apple ID Settings → your name → Sign Out. This removes Activation Lock.
- Erase the phone Settings → General → Transfer or Reset iPhone → Erase All Content and Settings.
- Remove your SIM Keep it or destroy it.
- Donate to a trusted group Shelters, veterans groups and refurbishers put phones to good use.
Frequently asked questions
Do charities give free iPhones?
Occasionally, as donated or refurbished devices, but supply is limited and usually reserved for people in crisis.
How do I find local phone assistance?
Dial 2-1-1 or visit 211.org to reach local services.
Can I donate an old iPhone to help someone?
Yes. Many domestic violence shelters, veterans groups and refurbishers accept donated phones. Erase it and remove your Apple ID first.
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.