Having personally witnessed a friend’s struggle due to the lack of a cell phone, I understand the critical role it plays in our lives. In this article, I will share real insights into the importance of mobile connectivity. Drawing from personal experiences, I explore how individuals can access free 5G government phones through the top providers. In an era where communication is vital for accessing resources, emergency services, and more, the article sheds light on valuable options to bridge the digital divide and empower those in need.
The Kind of Free Phone That the Government Offers
In 1984, the U.S. government established the Lifeline program, acknowledging every citizen’s right to communication services. Lifeline, overseen by the FCC, aims to make communication affordable for low-income households. Lifeline providers offer eligible customers discounted monthly phone service, and some include government-funded free phones. These phones vary, ranging from entry-level to mid-range Android smartphones.
However, since the government also launched a new assistance program called the Affordable Connectivity Program (ACP) that offers discounts on monthly internet services and complements Lifeline benefits, certain wireless companies that used to only offer Lifeline benefits, now offer both. Such extra-generous providers sometimes offer Apple phones or advanced 5G government phones. The specific phone brand and model remain uncertain in most cases, as providers are extremely secretive about this issue, as it depends on the location, eligibility, and availability. However, users can anticipate getting a basic phone, iPhone, Android phone, 4G phone, or a free 5G government phone.
Latest Top 10 Free 5G Government Phones You Can Get From Government
As previously stated, the majority of Lifeline providers do not disclose the specific free 5G government phones recipients can expect in advance. Consequently, there is no definite way of determining the current availability of these phones. Additionally, the selection of free 5G government phones is contingent on the provider, location, and their current stock.
However, certain Lifeline providers are recognized for offering the following models of free 5G government phones:
TCL 10 5G
Specifications: The TCL 10 5G, released on July 27, 2020, weighs 210g with a 9mm thickness. Running on Android 10 with TCL UI, it offers 128GB storage with microSDXC support. Featuring a 6.53″ display at 1080×2340 pixels, it boasts a 64MP camera capable of 2160p video recording. Equipped with 6GB RAM and powered by a Snapdragon 765G 5G processor, it houses a 4500mAh Li-Po battery.
Provider: AirTalk Wireless
Samsung Galaxy S9 Plus
Specifications: The Samsung Galaxy S9+, released in March 2018, weighs 189g with an 8.5mm thickness. It runs on Android 8.0, upgradable to Android 10 with One UI 2.5. Available in 64GB, 128GB, and 256GB storage options with microSDXC support. Featuring a 6.2″ display at 1440×2960 pixels, it includes a 12MP camera capable of 2160p video recording. With 4/6GB RAM and powered by the Exynos 9810 processor, it is equipped with a 3500mAh Li-Ion battery.
Provider: NewPhone Wireless
Alcatel Revvl 5G
Specifications: Running on Android 10, the Alcatel REVVL 5G offers ample storage with 128GB, expandable via microSDXC. Its 6.53″ display at 1080×2340 pixels provides a clear viewing experience. The device boasts a 48MP camera capable of 2160p video recording. With 6GB RAM and powered by the Snapdragon 765 5G processor, it houses a 4500mAh Li-Ion battery.
Provider: AirTalk Wireless
OnePlus Nord N200 5G
Specifications: Released in June 2021, the OnePlus Nord N200 5G runs on Android 11 with OxygenOS 11. It offers 64GB storage, expandable with microSDXC. Featuring a 6.49″ display at 1080×2400 pixels, it includes a 13MP camera for 1080p video recording. Equipped with 4GB RAM and the Snapdragon 480 5G processor, it features a substantial 5000mAh Li-Po battery.
Provider: NewPhone Wireless
OnePlus Nord N10 5G
Specifications: Released in November 2020, the OnePlus Nord N10 5G operates on Android 10 with OxygenOS 10.5. It provides 128GB storage, expandable via microSDXC. The 6.49″ display at 1080×2400 pixels delivers vibrant visuals, and the 64MP camera supports 2160p video recording. With 6GB RAM and the Snapdragon 690 5G processor, it is powered by a 4300mAh Li-Po battery.
Provider: NewPhone Wireless
Motorola Moto G Play
Specifications: Released in December 2022, the Motorola Moto G Play (2023) operates on Android 12. Weighing 203g with a 9.4mm thickness, it provides 32GB storage, expandable through microSDXC. The device features a 6.5″ display at 720×1600 pixels, offering a clear visual experience. Equipped with a 16MP camera capable of 1080p video recording, it includes 3GB RAM and is powered by the Helio G37 processor. With a substantial 5000mAh Li-Po battery, the Moto G Play ensures extended usage on a single charge.
Provider: Assurance Wireless
Samsung Galaxy A53 5G
Specifications: Released in March 2022, the Samsung Galaxy A53 5G runs on Android 12, upgradable to Android 14, with One UI 6. It provides 128GB/256GB storage, expandable via microSDXC. With a 6.5″ display at 1080×2400 pixels, it features a 64MP camera capable of 2160p video recording. Available in 4-8GB RAM options, it is powered by the Exynos 1280 processor and a 5000mAh Li-Po battery.
Provider: AirTalk Wireless
LG V60 ThinQ 5G
Specifications: Released in March 2020, the LG V60 ThinQ 5G runs on Android 10, upgradable to Android 13. Offering 128GB/256GB storage, expandable via microSDXC, it features a 6.8″ display at 1080×2460 pixels. Equipped with a 64MP camera capable of 4320p video recording, it includes 8GB RAM and the Snapdragon 865 5G processor. The device is powered by a 5000mAh Li-Po battery.
Provider: AirTalk Wireless
Motorola Moto Edge 5G
Specifications: Released in May 2020, the Motorola Edge runs on Android 10. It offers 128GB/256GB storage, expandable with microSDXC. Featuring a 6.7″ display at 1080×2340 pixels, it includes a 64MP camera for 2160p video recording. Equipped with 4/6GB RAM and the Snapdragon 765G 5G processor, it houses a 4500mAh Li-Po battery.
Provider: AirTalk Wireless
Revvl V Plus 5G
Specifications: Released in July 2021, the REVVL V+ 5G runs on Android 11. With 64GB storage, it features a 6.82″ display at 720×1640 pixels. The device includes a 16MP camera for 1080p video recording, 4GB RAM, and is powered by the Dimensity 700 processor. It houses a 5000mAh Li-Po battery.
Provider: Assirance Wireless
List of Other Free 5G Government Phones
The only Lifeline and ACP providers that not only allow customers to see which devices they could receive but even enable them to choose themselves are AirTalk Wireless, Assurance Wireless, Cintex Wireless, and NewPhone Wireless. Other Lifeline and ACP companies don’t reveal the offered phone models in advance. As such, other companies may offer a bunch of other free 5G government phones that we are not aware of. However, the ones that do reveal the available phone models also offer the following free 5G government phones:
- LG V50 ThinQ 5G
- Wingtech Revvl V Plus 5G
- TCL 20AX 5G
- TCL 30 XE 5G
Free Government General Phone List
Additionally, Lifeline and ACP companies offer other advanced phone models, such as:
- Apple iPhone 8
- Samsung Galaxy S9
- Samsung Galaxy S9 Plus
- Motorola G Stylus 2020
- Motorola Moto G9 Play
- Motorola Moto G Power (2022)
- Apple iPhone 7
- Apple iPhone 7 Plus
- Samsung Galaxy A7
- Cat S62
- Nokia G100
- OnePlus 7
- Google Pixel 4
- Google Pixel 4XL
- Apple iPhone SE
- Samsung Galaxy Note 8
Top 10 Free 5G Government Phone Providers
If you are Lifeline eligible, live in a state where a Lifeline provider offers free 5G government phones, and can prove certain needed documents, you can apply for Lifeline service and a free 5G government phone.
To do so, you must find a good Lifeline provider that offers exactly what you need in your state of residence. To make this step as easy as possible, we have created a list of some of the best free 5G government phone providers in the country. Find out what they offer and how to apply.
Access Wireless
Access Wireless is another provider that is said to offer great 5G devices, even though they do not reveal the phone brand and model in advance. The company operates in the states of Alabama, Arkansas, Arizona, California, Colorado, Connecticut, Delaware, District of Columbia, Florida, Georgia, Illinois, Indiana, Iowa, Kansas, Kentucky, Louisiana, Maryland, Michigan, Minnesota, Mississippi, Missouri, New Hampshire, Nevada, New York, North Carolina, Ohio, Rhode Island, South Carolina, Tennessee, Texas, Utah, Virginia, Washington, Wisconsin, and West Virginia.
What does it offer?
Access Wireless offers the following Lifeline/ACP benefits:
- Free unlimited talk
- Free unlimited text
- Free unlimited data (through ACP)
- A free 4G/5G smartphone
Note: The exact amount of free minutes and data depends on the state. The free government phone you will receive depends on phone availability.
How to apply?
You can apply for Access Wireless Lifeline and ACP to get a free 5G government phone by following these simple steps:
- Go to https://www.accesswireless.com/. Enter your ZIP code and press ‘Apply Now’.
- You will then be redirected to your state’s Lifeline and ACP offer. Select the plan that offers the most benefits and when prompted whether or not you need a new phone, check that you do.
- Then, enter your email address and press ‘Go to Enrollment’.
- Follow the on-screen instructions to fill out the application process. Also, make sure to submit all the proof documentation.
- If your application gets accepted, you will be notified via email.
AirTalk Wireless
AirTalk is a Lifeline and ACP company that offers benefits to eligible customers in the states of California, Colorado, Georgia, Kentucky, Maryland, Michigan, Mississippi, Missouri, New York, Nevada, North Dakota, Ohio, Oklahoma, Pennsylvania, Rhode Island, South Carolina, West Virginia, and Wisconsin.
What does it offer?
AirTalk Wireless offers the following benefits to its Lifeline/ACP-eligible households:
- Free unlimited talk
- Free unlimited text
- Free high-speed data (through ACP)
- A free 4G/5G smartphone (Android or iPhone)
Note: The exact amount of free minutes and data depends on the state and plan. If you qualify for both assistance programs, you will be able to choose your mobile device from a large selection of high-quality phones.
How to apply?
You can apply for the company’s Lifeline and ACP program and get a free 5G government phone by following these simple steps:
- Visit https://airtalkwireless.com/ and press ‘Apply Now’. You can also visit https://airtalkwireless.com/apply directly.
- Enter your ZIP code and press ‘Apply Now’.
- If the company offers its services in your area, you will be redirected to your state’s Lifeline and ACP offers. Select the plan (aim for Lifeline + ACP combo, through which you can get a free 5G phone).
- Fill out and submit the online application by following the instructions and providing the required information and documentation.
- Allow a couple of days for the provider to let you know whether or not you qualify.
Assurance Wireless
Assurance Wireless is a telephone service and Lifeline provider that operates in many U.S. states, including Alabama, Arizona, Arkansas, California, Colorado, Connecticut, Delaware, District of Columbia, Florida, Georgia, Idaho, Indiana, Iowa, Kansas, Kentucky, Louisiana, Maine, Maryland, Massachusetts, Michigan, Minnesota, Mississippi, Missouri, Nevada, New Hampshire, New Jersey, New Mexico, New York, North Carolina, Ohio, Oregon, Pennsylvania, Rhode Island, South Carolina, Tennessee, Texas, Utah, Virginia, Washington, West Virginia, and Wisconsin.
What does it offer?
At Assurance Wireless, Lifeline-eligible customers can receive:
- Free monthly data
- Free unlimited texts
- Free unlimited minutes
- Free 10 GB of mobile hotspot data up to 4G LTE speed
- A free Android 4G or 5G smartphone
Note: The exact amount of free minutes and data depends on the state. The free government phone you will receive depends on phone availability.
How to apply?
If you wish to apply for Assurance Wireless Lifeline and receive a free 5G government phone, follow these steps:
- Visit assurancewireless.com. There, you can learn more about their Lifeline program.
- Scroll down and press ‘Apply now’.
- You will be redirected to the provider’s application form. Fill it out by providing the required information and the necessary documents.
- Once you have applied, allow a few days for the provider to let you know if you qualify.
Cintex Wireless
Cintex Wireless is a popular Lifeline and ACP provider that operates in five U.S. states – (Arkansas, Maine, Maryland, Rhode Island, and West Virginia.
What does it offer?
Qualifying customers can receive:
- Free monthly minutes
- Free monthly texts
- Free monthly data
- A free 4G/5G LTE smartphone (either Android or iPhone)
Note: The exact amount of free minutes and data depends on the state. The free government phone you will receive depends on phone availability.
How to apply?
To apply for the Cintex government assistance program and perhaps receive a free 5G government phone, follow these simple steps:
- Make sure you are both Lifeline and ACP (Affordable Connectivity Program) eligible, as you may need both to enroll in the program. Read more at cintexwireless.com.
- Visit apply.cintexwireless.com and enter your ZIP code and email to sign up.
- Follow the instructions to fill out the form. Provide all the necessary information and perhaps documentation, which may prove your identity and eligibility.
- Once you apply, wait a couple of days for a confirmation letter.
Easy Wireless
Easy Wireless offers amazing Lifeline and ACP benefits to eligible residents of the following states: Alabama, Arizona, Arkansas (offers both ACP and Lifeline), Connecticut, Delaware, Florida, Georgia, Idaho, Kansas, Kentucky (offers both ACP and Lifeline), Maine, Maryland, Massachusetts, Minnesota, Mississippi, Missouri (offers both ACP and Lifeline), New Jersey, New York, Oklahoma (offers both ACP and Lifeline), Oregon, Rhode Island, South Carolina, Tennessee, Texas, Utah, Washington, and Wyoming.
What does it offer?
At Easy Wireless, Lifeline and ACP customers can receive:
- Free unlimited talk
- Free unlimited text
- Free unlimited data and hotspot (through ACP)
- A free 4G/5G smartphone
Note: The exact amount of free minutes and data depends on the state. The free government phone you will receive depends on phone availability.
How to apply?
You can apply for Easy Wireless Lifeline and get a free 5G government phone by following these simple steps:
- Visit https://myeasywireless.com/#, enter your email address and ZIP code, and press ‘Enroll Today’.
- Follow the on-screen prompts to fill out the online application form. Make sure to provide all the required information and documentation.
- Expect to hear back from the company in a few days.
enTouch Wireless
enTouch Wireless is a nationwide Lifeline provider that serves the following states: Arizona, Arkansas, California, Colorado, Georgia, Hawaii, Idaho, Indiana, Iowa, Kansas, Kentucky, Louisiana, Maryland, Michigan, Minnesota, Mississippi, Missouri, Nebraska, Nevada, North Dakota, Ohio, Oklahoma, Oregon, Pennsylvania, Puerto Rico, Rhode Island, South Carolina, South Dakota, Texas, Utah, Washington, West Virginia, Wisconsin, and Wyoming.
What does it offer?
At enTouch Wireless, Lifeline-eligible households can get:
- Free unlimited talk
- Free unlimited text
- Free unlimited data (through ACP)
- A free 4G/5G smartphone
Note: The exact amount of free minutes and data depends on the state. The free government phone you will receive depends on phone availability.
How to apply?
You can apply for enTouch Wireless Lifeline and get a free 5G government phone by following these simple steps:
- Visit entouchwireless.com and press ‘Enroll Today’. You can also visit apply4lifeline.entouchwireless.com directly.
- Enter your email address and ZIP code and press ‘Check availability’.
- Submit the online application by following the instructions and providing the required information and documentation.
- Allow a couple of days for the provider to let you know whether or not you qualify.
NewPhone Wireless
NewPhone Wireless is not one of the largest Lifeline/ACP companies in the country, however, it does have one of the most generous offers. Only the residents of Louisiana and Wyoming can apply.
What does it offer?
At NewPhone Wireless, Lifeline and ACP-eligible households can get:
- Free unlimited talk
- Free unlimited text
- Free high-speed data (through ACP)
- A free 4G/5G smartphone (Android or iPhone)
Note: The exact amount of free minutes and data depends on the state and plan. If you qualify for both assistance programs, you will be able to choose your mobile device from a large selection of high-quality phones.
How to apply?
You can apply for the company’s Lifeline and ACP program and get a free 5G government phone by following these simple steps:
- Visit https://newphone.com/ and press ‘Apply Now’. You can also visit https://newphone.com/apply directly.
- Enter your ZIP code and press ‘Apply Now’.
- If the company offers its services in your area, you will be redirected to your state’s Lifeline and ACP offers. Select the plan (aim for Lifeline + ACP combo, through which you can get a free 5G phone).
- Fill out and submit the online application by following the instructions and providing the required information and documentation.
- Allow a couple of days for the provider to let you know whether or not you qualify.
SafeLink Wireless
SafeLink Wireless is a Lifeline provider owned by Tracfone that operates in the states of Alabama, Arkansas, Arizona, California, Connecticut, DC, Delaware, Florida, Georgia, Hawaii, Illinois, Indiana, Iowa, Kansas, Kentucky, Louisiana, Maine, Maryland, Massachusetts, Michigan, Mississippi, Missouri, Nevada, New Hampshire, New Jersey, New Mexico, New York, North Carolina, Ohio, Pennsylvania, Puerto Rico, Rhode Island, South Carolina, Tennessee, Texas, Utah, Virginia, Washington, West Virginia, and Wisconsin.
What does it offer?
At SafeLink, Lifeline-eligible customers can receive:
- Free unlimited talk
- Free unlimited text
- Free unlimited data
- Free 10 GB hotspot
- A free 4G/5G smartphone
Note: The exact amount of free minutes and data depends on the state. The free government phone you will receive depends on phone availability.
How to apply?
If you want a chance to receive a free 5G government phone from SafeLink, simply apply by following these steps:
- Visit safelinkwireless.com/Enrollment/Safelink/en/Web/www/default/index.html#!/newHome.
- Provide your ZIP code and press ‘Start’.
- You will be redirected to their online application form. Fill it out by providing certain information and perhaps documentation that may prove your eligibility.
- Once you apply, allow a couple of days for the provider to notify you about what to do next.
StandUp Wireless
StandUp Wireless is a Lifeline and ACP provider that offers benefits in 31 states and territories, including New York.
What does it offer?
At StandUp, Lifeline and ACP-eligible customers can receive:
- Free unlimited talk
- Free unlimited text
- Free unlimited data
- A free 4G/5G smartphone
- A new tablet with a huge ACP discount
Note: The exact amount of free minutes and data depends on the state. The free government phone you will receive depends on phone availability.
How to apply?
If you want a chance to receive a free 5G government phone from StandUp, simply apply by following these steps:
- Visit https://standupwireless.com/.
- Enter your email address and ZIP code and press ‘Apply Now’.
- Follow the on-screen prompts to select a plan and complete the online application form by providing all the required information and documentation copies.
- Once you apply, allow a couple of days for the provider to notify you about what to do next.
TruConnect
Finally, TruConnect is a very generous Lifeline and ACP company that offers benefits to eligible residents of Arizona, Arkansas, California, Colorado, Georgia, Hawai’i, Idaho, Illinois, Indiana, Iowa, Kansas, Kentucky, Louisiana, Maryland, Massachusetts, Michigan, Minnesota, Mississippi, Missouri, Nebraska, Nevada, New Jersey, New York, Ohio, Oklahoma, Pennsylvania, Puerto Rico, Rhode Island, South Carolina, Texas, U.S. Virgin Islands, Utah, Washington, West Virginia, and Wisconsin.
What does it offer?
At TruConnect, Lifeline and ACP-eligible customers can receive:
- Free unlimited talk
- Free unlimited text
- Free unlimited data
- Free hotspot
- A free 4G/5G Android smartphone
- The opportunity to purchase an 8-inch LTE Android tablet for only $10.01 with the ACP discount
Note: The exact amount of free minutes and data depends on the state. The free government phone you will receive depends on phone availability.
How to apply?
If you want a chance to receive a free 5G government phone from TruConnect, simply apply by following these steps:
- Visit https://www.truconnect.com/.
- Provide your ZIP code and email address.
- Press ‘Apply Now’.
- Follow the on-screen instructions to review the available offer, select a plan, and complete the online application form. While doing so, make sure to provide all relevant information and documentation copies.
- Once you apply, allow a couple of days for the provider to notify you about what to do next.
Steps to Get a Free 5G Government Phone
To secure a complimentary 5G government phone in 2024, you must adhere to a straightforward yet stringent procedure. There is no alternative to the prescribed steps.
- Initially, confirm your eligibility for the Lifeline and Affordable Connectivity Program (ACP), two government assistance initiatives offering discounts on mobile devices. The FCC’s specified eligibility criteria can be reviewed in the subsequent section.
- Subsequently, substantiate your eligibility by furnishing copies of pertinent official documents containing the required information to demonstrate qualification for Lifeline and the ACP. Refer to the provided list for acceptable documents.
- Proceed to apply for the Lifeline and ACP programs as outlined in the upcoming sections. Upon approval of your application, proceed to the next step.
- Identify a Lifeline/ACP provider in your residential state that extends free 5G government phones. Apply for the provider’s complimentary services and devices, and upon approval, anticipate receiving your complimentary 5G government phone within a few days.
What Do You Need to Qualify for a Free 5G Government Phone
In 2024, the Lifeline and ACP initiatives extend to eligible low-income individuals across all states, territories, commonwealths, and Tribal lands. To participate in the Lifeline program and qualify for a complimentary 5G government phone from any Lifeline provider, Lifeline eligibility is imperative.
Lifeline Eligibility for Free 5G Government Phone
Meeting the FCC’s criteria, applicable universally to all Lifeline providers, is essential. Household qualification includes:
- Income-based eligibility: Household income below 135% of the Federal Poverty Guidelines.
- Program-based eligibility: Participation in specific federal assistance programs like Medicaid, SNAP, FPHA, SSI, and Veterans and Survivors Pension Benefit.
- Eligibility through Tribal Programs: Participation in programs such as Bureau of Indian Affairs General Assistance, Head Start (meeting income standards), Tribal TANF, or Food Distribution Program on Indian Reservations.
If any household member meets these criteria, the household qualifies for one Lifeline benefit from a Lifeline provider, restricted to states where services are available. Note: FCC rules permit only one Lifeline service per household, and it’s non-transferable.
ACP Eligibility for Free 5G Government Phone
To be ACP-eligible, households must meet universal FCC criteria, including:
- Income-based eligibility: Household income below 200% of the Federal Poverty Guidelines.
- Program-based eligibility: Participation in federal assistance programs like Lifeline, Lifeline-qualifying assistance programs, WIC, Free and Reduced-Price School Lunch Program, or receipt of a Federal Pell Grant.
Similar to Lifeline, only one ACP service is available per household, adhering to FCC rules. Additionally, applicants must be at least 18 years old (or an emancipated minor) and residents in states where ACP providers offer services.
What Documents are Required for a Free 5G Government Phone Application
To qualify for a complimentary 5G government phone in 2024, you may need to furnish specific documents establishing your eligibility. To validate your Lifeline and ACP eligibility, proof of income or program participation is required, contingent on your eligibility criteria.
To substantiate income-based eligibility (Lifeline and/or ACP), an official document indicating annual income and full name is necessary. Acceptable documents may include the prior year’s tax return, current income statement, Veterans Administration benefits statement, unemployment or workers’ compensation benefits statement, federal or tribal participation notice in General Assistance, divorce decree, child support award, or other official document containing income information.
For program-based eligibility (Lifeline and/or ACP), an official document illustrating participation and full name is essential. Suitable documents may consist of a benefit award letter, approval letter, statement of benefits, or benefit verification letter.
Throughout the application, identity, address, age, or other personal information verification may be required. You might also need to provide your Social Security Number or Tribal ID Number.
To confirm identity, an official document displaying both your name and date of birth is necessary. Documents like ID, passport, driver’s license, Social Security number, state ID card, or Taxpayer Identification Number (individual) with name and date of birth may be requested.
To validate your address, an official document featuring both your name and address, such as an ID, driver’s license, utility bill, mortgage or lease statement, or the most recent W-2 or tax return, is required.
Participation requires individuals to be 18 years or older or an emancipated minor. Emancipated minors must also furnish proof of emancipation, like a court document or certificate.
General Application Procedure for Free 5G Government Phones
In 2024, applying for Lifeline and the Affordable Connectivity Program (ACP) can be done through three avenues. Those comfortable with technology can opt for the online application, while those averse to online processes have the option to apply via mail. Additionally, specific Lifeline/ACP providers facilitate direct application submission through their platforms.
Apply for Lifeline and ACP Online
- Visit https://getinternet.gov/apply?id=nv_home for Lifeline and https://getinternet.gov/apply?id=acp&awsl=link-from-how-to-apply for ACP.
- Choose your state or territory if prompted and click ‘Get started’. Log in or create a new account if necessary.
- Fill out the online application form with all required information and documentation separately for each application.
- Press ‘Next’ at the bottom of each page and submit your application at the end.
Apply for Lifeline and ACP Via Mail
- Print the Lifeline application from https://www.lifelinesupport.org/wp-content/uploads/documents/get-lifeline/LI_Application_NVstates.pdf.
- Print the ACP application from https://www.affordableconnectivity.gov/wp-content/uploads/ACP-Application-Form-English.pdf.
- Include the Household Worksheet, available at https://www.affordableconnectivity.gov/wp-content/uploads/lifeline/images/ACP-Household-Worksheet-English.pdf when applying for the ACP program.
- Complete both forms and enclose copies of your proof documentation.
- Mail the package to Lifeline/ACP Support Center, PO Box 9100, Wilkes-Barre, PA 18773.
Apply for Lifeline and ACP Through a Lifeline/ACP Provider
Certain government phone providers may necessitate applying through the National Verifier (Lifeline/ACP Support Center), while others permit direct application submission through their platforms. However, for the latter option, it’s crucial to identify a Lifeline/ACP company offering free 5G government phones in your area.
How Can You Get a Free 5G Phone Other Than the Government?
If you find that you are not eligible for Lifeline/ACP benefits or if no government assistance providers offer free 5G phones in your state, there are alternative avenues to acquire a free 5G phone:
- Explore Carrier Deals: Carriers often present promotional offers, providing discounted or free 5G phones. However, be aware that these deals may come with specific conditions, such as switching services, adding a line, choosing a particular plan, or trading in a functional old phone. These promotions have limited availability, so it’s advisable to regularly check the offers from carriers like T-Mobile, Verizon, AT&T, Metro by T-Mobile, Cricket Wireless, Boost Mobile, Straight Talk, and US Cellular.
- Look for Retailer Deals
- Participate in Online Giveaway Contests (Avoid Scams)
- Consider Becoming a Marketing Agent
- Explore Opportunities as a Reviewer or in Online Surveys
- Utilize Amazon Vine for a Free Phone
- Explore Local Charity Options (Primarily Entry to Mid-Range Phones with 4G): Low-income individuals may try seeking assistance from local charities. However, note that charities typically offer entry to mid-range phones with 4G connectivity. Check with non-profit organizations like Adaptive.Org, Causes, EveryoneOn, On it Foundation, Smartriverside, Technology Assisting People in Need, and The Salvation Army.
What Other Benefits Do You Get if You Qualify for the Free Government Phone Program?
If you meet the eligibility criteria for a government program providing free 5G phones and successfully obtain one, you can leverage the 5G network for enhanced call quality, swift texting, and rapid data speeds. This ensures seamless communication with family, friends, work, educational resources, healthcare, and emergency services.
Furthermore, Lifeline providers extend additional perks beyond free 5G phones, including a Lifeline discount of up to $9.25 monthly (or $34.25 for qualifying households on Tribal lands). This discount applies to monthly telephone service, offering complimentary minutes, texts, data, and occasionally mobile hotspot capabilities.
Moreover, ACP providers offer a discount on monthly internet services and a one-time discount of up to $100 to purchase a tablet with a small fee of between $10 and $50.
How to Choose a Right Free 5G Government Phone Service Provider
Selecting the optimal provider for your free 5G government phone is a crucial step in the process, given the varying offers among Lifeline/ACP companies available nationwide. While these companies extend Lifeline and/or ACP benefits uniformly, the nature of their offerings can differ significantly. For instance, some providers offer basic flip phones or entry-level smartphones limited to 4G connectivity, whereas others grant customers the freedom to select from a diverse range of high-quality smartphones boasting advanced features, including 5G connectivity.
Since individual preferences vary, encompassing factors like 5G capability, camera quality, preferred brand, free monthly data, and minutes, choosing the right provider can be nuanced. To guide your decision-making, follow these steps:
- Visit https://cnm.universalservice.org/.
- Input your location, select the program, then click Search.
- Examine the list of companies available in your area.
- Visit each company’s website to compare their offerings.
- Choose the provider that aligns best with your needs and apply for its benefits.
Alternatively, you can explore a list of recommended free 5G government phone providers in the subsequent section for added convenience.
Can You Replace Your Old Free Phone With a 5G Phone by the Government?
If your existing free phone is lost, stolen, or experiencing malfunctions, you have the option to replace it through the following straightforward process:
- Contact your service provider.
- Report the loss, theft, or malfunction of your device and request service termination.
- Choose a new mobile phone. It’s worth noting that the replacement device is likely to be similar to your previous one. While you might receive a newer model if your old phone was notably outdated, replacement phones typically do not come with the most advanced features.
If you aim to replace your outdated free phone with a government-provided 5G device, you may need to bear the cost of the new device, as it may not be available completely free of charge.
How Do 5G Free Government Phones Help Low-Income People?
Getting a free 5G government phone can greatly benefit low-income individuals in several ways – especially in 2024 when we all depend on our smartphones for so many things:
- Access to Communication: A 5G government phone ensures that low-income individuals have access to reliable communication services. It allows them to stay connected with family, friends, potential employers, and essential services. Communication is crucial for staying informed, seeking employment opportunities, accessing emergency services, and maintaining social connections.
- Affordable Connectivity: Owning a 5G phone eliminates the financial burden of purchasing a device, which can be costly for low-income individuals. By providing a free phone, the government enables access to affordable connectivity, ensuring that individuals can stay connected without the additional expense of purchasing a device.
- Internet Access: 5G technology provides faster and more reliable internet access, enabling low-income individuals to access online resources, educational materials, job opportunities, and government services. It bridges the digital divide by giving them the tools to participate in the digital world and access information that can improve their lives.
- Enhanced Opportunities: With a 5G government phone, low-income individuals can take advantage of various digital services and platforms. They can access online educational resources, job portals, and training programs, opening up opportunities for personal growth, skill development, and improved employability. Additionally, they can connect with support networks, access financial services, and utilize apps that enhance their daily lives.
- Inclusion and Empowerment: Providing free 5G phones promotes inclusivity by ensuring that low-income individuals are not left behind in an increasingly digital society. It empowers them to overcome barriers, access essential services, and engage in civic participation. By having access to modern communication technology, they can have a voice, stay informed, and actively participate in social, educational, and economic opportunities.
Overall, receiving a free 5G government phone can have a significant positive impact on the lives of low-income individuals, enabling them to bridge the digital divide, access resources, and participate fully in the digital age.
Free 5G Government Phone-Related FAQ’s
When Will I Receive My Free Phone and Free Service After I Sign Up?
After you sign up, it usually takes up to two days for the company to review your application and approve it if you meet the eligibility criteria. Once your application gets approved, the company will generally try to send out the free device in 24 hours. When exactly you receive the device depends on where you live. The service discount will be applied to your next monthly bill. Phone availability and the company itself also play a part in when you can expect to receive your free phone and service.
How Long Will It Take to Get 5G Government Phone Approval?
If you apply online, you should receive immediate approval. However, if the company has to check some of your information or documentation, it may take up to two working days or even more.
How Long Will It Take for the Company to Send My Free 5G Government Phone?
As mentioned before, the company will try to send out your device within 24 hours of approving your benefits. However, it depends on the company and phone availability.
How Can I Check the Status of My 5G Free Phone Application?
Some providers enable you to check your status by signing into your online account on their website. However, don’t worry, as you will receive a confirmation email anyway.
What’s the Difference Between 4G and 5G?
4G and 5G are mobile network speeds. 5G offers low latency and faster download speeds than 4G. However, both network speeds are very fast.
Can I Use My Free 5G Government Phone With Another Company?
It depends. Most wireless providers offer customers the option to bring their own devices. However, the device you bring must be carrier-unlocked and compatible with the other company’s services. Many companies offer online phone compatibility checks.
How Many Free Government Phones Can a Family Get at the Same Time?
Only one. Both Lifeline and ACP benefits are limited to one person per eligible household.
List of Other Providers That Offer Free Government Phones
Several other Lifeline/ACP providers offer free government phones without 5G connectivity, including American Assistance, Q Link Wireless, Assist Wireless, StandUp Wireless, Life Wireless, TruConnect, Tag Mobile, SafetyNet Wireless, and Infiniti Mobile.
Can Existing Free 4G Phones Be Upgraded to 5G?
Your 4G phone can technically work on a 5G network, but it won’t get the full 5G speed. While it functions fine on a 5G network, for the best results in terms of speed and performance, it’s recommended to consider buying a dedicated 5G device or getting a free 5G government phone.
Does the Government Give Free iPhones?
Yes, some Lifeline providers offer free iPhones. Providers like Cintex Wireless, NewPhone Wireless, and SFone Wireless provide free iPhones, including models like iPhone 6 and 6S, as well as various Android smartphones. Each provider may offer different phone models.
