Free Cell Phone With No Deposit and No Activation Fee: How True
In the past two decades, cell phones have become indispensable for communication, work, education, healthcare, and more. While high-quality devices can be costly, there are now opportunities to receive them for free. Many carriers provide promotional offers, but conditions like plan purchases, deposits, and credit checks often apply. However, in 2024, there are methods and providers offering free cell phones without deposits or activation fees. Explore further in the following sections.
Ways to Get a Government Free Cell Phone With No Deposit No Activation Fee in 2024
As we have established before, it is possible to get a free cell phone with no deposit and no activation fee. There are these general ways to do so:
- Lifeline Program: Lifeline government phones cater to low-income individuals, offering free devices without deposit, activation fees, or credit checks. However, device options are limited, and only one per eligible household is provided.
- ACP Program: The relatively new Affordable Connectivity Program (ACP) also offers discounts on phones. Sometimes ACP providers do so independently through the ACP program or through the Lifeline and ACP collaboration.
- Special Deals from Carriers: Keep an eye on prepaid and postpaid carriers for limited-time free cell phone offers. Act swiftly as these deals are time-sensitive and frequently change.
- Deposit-Free Options: Certain carriers, including Google Fi, T-Mobile, Verizon prepaid, and AT&T prepaid, don’t require a deposit when applying for device financing.
- Activation Fee Waivers: While many carriers charge activation fees, exceptions like Boost Mobile and Google Fi waive this additional cost.
By exploring these avenues, eligible individuals can secure a high-quality cell phone from reputable brands without incurring deposit or activation fees.
Considerations for Free Cell Phones in 2024
- Lifeline phones, designed for low-income individuals, lack a deposit, activation fee, or credit check but have limitations, offering only one device per eligible household.
- Free cell phone deals from prepaid and postpaid operators are short-lived, requiring frequent website checks.
- Credit checks are common for postpaid services, except for certain programs like Boost Mobile’s BoostUP! and T-Mobile’s smartphone equality for royal customers.
- While many companies require device financing down payments, some, like Google Fi, T-Mobile, Verizon prepaid, and AT&T prepaid, waive this deposit.
- Activation fees are prevalent for postpaid and prepaid carriers, with exceptions like Boost Mobile and Google Fi.
The Process to Get a Government Free Cell Phone With No Deposit No Activation Fee in 2024
To obtain a government free cell phone with no deposit and no activation fee in 2024, follow these steps:
- Lifeline and ACP Programs:
- Lifeline, a government assistance program, provides discounts on phone, wireless, or internet services for eligible low-income households.
- Many Lifeline providers participate in the Affordable Connectivity Program (ACP), offering additional benefits for those in both programs.
- Qualification:
- To qualify, ensure your household income is at or below 135% of the Federal Poverty Guidelines or a member participates in specified government assistance programs.
- Lifeline eligibility automatically extends to ACP, making you eligible for both programs.
- Proof of Eligibility:
- Provide necessary documents during the application process, verifying income, program participation, identity, address, and age.
- Application Process:
- Apply for Lifeline and ACP through the National Verifier, Lifeline/ACP Support Center, or directly with the chosen provider offering free phones in your state.
By following these steps, eligible individuals can access government free cell phones with no deposit and no activation fees.
Top 10 Free Cell Phones Offered by Government for Free With No Deposit No Activation Fee in 2024
Recently, the government solely provided Lifeline benefits, resulting in limited funds for providers, leading to basic phones. The pandemic prompted the FCC to introduce the ACP program, boosting resources for Lifeline providers. Now, select Lifeline + ACP providers offer improved devices, including Android smartphones, basic flip phones, and a few Apple iPhones—all provided for free, without deposits or activation fees. While many providers keep phone models undisclosed, some let customers choose their preferred device. Some of the most generous Lifeline and ACP providers currently offer these amazing high-quality smartphones from trusted brands:
Alcatel Revvl 5G
i. Android: 10
ii. Storage: 128GB, microSDXC support
iii. Display: 6.53″, 1080×2340 pixels
iv. Camera: 48MP (2160p video)
v. RAM: 6GB
vi. Processor: Snapdragon 765 5G
vii. Battery: 4500mAh Li-Ion
vii. Provider: AirTalk Wireless
Apple iPhone 8
i. Released: September 22, 2017
ii. Weight: 148g, 7.3mm thickness
iii. iOS: 11, upgradable to iOS 16.6.1.1
iv. Storage: 64GB/128GB/256GB (no card slot)
v. Display: 4.7″, 750×1334 pixels
vi. Camera: 12MP (2160p video)
vii. RAM: 2GB
vii. Processor: Apple A11 Bionic
ix. Battery: 1821mAh Li-Ion
x. Provider: AirTalk, NewPhone Wireless
LG V60 ThinQ 5G
i. Released: March 2020
ii. Android: 10, upgradable to Android 13
iii. Storage: 128GB/256GB, expandable
iv. Display: 6.8″, 1080×2460 pixels
v. Camera: 64MP (4320p video)
vi. RAM: 8GB
vii. Processor: Snapdragon 865 5G
viii. Battery: 5000mAh Li-Po
ix. Provider: AirTalk Wireless
Motorola Moto Edge 5G
i. Released: May 2020
ii. Android: 10
iii. Storage: 128GB/256GB, expandable
iv. Display: 6.7″, 1080×2340 pixels
v. Camera: 64MP (2160p video)
vi. RAM: 4/6GB
vii. Processor: Snapdragon 765G 5G
viii. Battery: 4500mAh Li-Po
ix. Provider: AirTalk Wireless
Motorola Moto G Play
i. Released: December 2022
ii. Android: 12
iii. Weight: 203g, 9.4mm thickness
iv. Storage: 32GB, expandable
v. Display: 6.5″, 720×1600 pixels
vi. Camera: 16MP (1080p video)
vii. RAM: 3GB
viii. Processor: Helio G37
ix. Battery: 5000mAh Li-Po
x. Provider: Assurance Wireless
OnePlus Nord N10 5G
i. Released: November 2020
ii. Android: 10
iii. Storage: 128GB, expandable
iv. Display: 6.49″, 1080×2400 pixels
v. Camera: 64MP (2160p video)
vi. RAM: 6GB
vii. Processor: Snapdragon 690 5G
viii. Battery: 4300mAh Li-Po
ix. Provider: NewPhone Wireless
OnePlus Nord N200 5G
i. Released: June 2021
ii. Android: 11
iii. Storage: 64GB, expandable
iv. Display: 6.49″, 1080×2400 pixels
v. Camera: 13MP (1080p video)
vi. RAM: 4GB
vii. Processor: Snapdragon 480 5G
viii. Battery: 5000mAh Li-Po
ix. Provider: NewPhone Wireless
Revvl V Plus 5G
i. Released: July 2021
ii. Android: 11
iii. Storage: 64GB
iv. Display: 6.82″, 720×1640 pixels
v. Camera: 16MP (1080p video)
vi. RAM: 4GB
vii. Processor: Dimensity 700
viii. Battery: 5000mAh Li-Po
ix. Provider: AirTalk Wireless
Samsung Galaxy A53 5G
i. Released: March 2022
ii. Android: 12, upgradable to Android 14
iii. Storage: 128GB/256GB, expandable
iv. Display: 6.5″, 1080×2400 pixels
v. Camera: 64MP (2160p video)
vi. RAM: 4-8GB
vii. Processor: Exynos 1280
viii. Battery: 5000mAh Li-Po
ix. Provider: AirTalk Wireless
Samsung Galaxy S9 Plus
i. Released: March 2018
ii. Weight: 189g, 8.5mm thickness
iii. Android: 8.0, upgradable to Android 10, One UI 2.5
iv. Storage: 64GB/128GB/256GB, microSDXC support
v. Display: 6.2″, 1440×2960 pixels
vi. Camera: 12MP (2160p video)
vii. RAM: 4/6GB
viii. Processor: Exynos 9810
ix. Battery: 3500mAh Li-Ion
x. Provider: AirTalk, NewPhone Wireless
List of Other Free Cell Phones Offered by Government for Free With No Deposit No Activation Fee in 2024
Depending on which Lifeline/ACP provider you choose (which in turn depends on your location), you may expect to receive one of the following free cell phones with no deposit and no activation fee through the government:
- Alcatel Go Flip 3
- Alcatel Go Flip 4
- Apple iPhone 6
- Apple iPhone 6 Plus
- Apple iPhone 6s
- Apple iPhone 6s Plus
- Apple iPhone 7
- Apple iPhone 7 Plus
- Apple iPhone SE
- Cat S62
- Coolpad Belleza
- Google Pixel
- Google Pixel 2XL
- Google Pixel 3XL
- Google Pixel 4
- Google Pixel 4XL
- LG Aristo 4 Plus
- LG K51
- LG Stylo 6
- LG V50 ThinQ 5G
- Motorola G Play
- Motorola G Stylus
- Motorola G Stylus 2020
- Motorola Moto G Power (2022)
- Motorola Moto G7
- Motorola Moto G8 Power
- Motorola Moto G9 Play
- Motorola Z4
- Nokia G100
- OnePlus 6
- OnePlus 7
- OnePlus 7T
- Samsung Galaxy A01
- Samsung Galaxy A21
- Samsung Galaxy A32
- Samsung Galaxy A50
- Samsung Galaxy A7
- Samsung Galaxy Note 8
- Samsung Galaxy On5
- Samsung Galaxy S8 Plus
- Samsung Galaxy S9
- Samsung Note 8
- Samsung S9 Plus
- TCL 10 5G
- TCL 20AX 5G
- TCL 30 XE 5G
- Unimax U693CL
- And many others
Top Government Lifeline and ACP Phone Providers for Free Cell Phone in 2024 With No Credit Check, No Deposit, or No Activation Fee
Access Wireless
Access Wireless provides free government cell phone service with unlimited monthly talk, text, and data, including a free smartphone for eligible households. Initiate the application at Access Wireless, input your ZIP code, and click ‘Apply Now.’ Choose the best plan, follow instructions, and complete the application.
AirTalk Wireless
Apply for AirTalk Wireless’ free phone, discounted tablet, and unlimited plan with high-speed data, talk, and text at AirTalk Wireless. Click ‘Apply Now,’ select your state and plan, and fill out the online application with the required information.
Assurance Wireless
Assurance Wireless offers eligible customers a free smartphone, unlimited data, texts, minutes, and 10GB of free mobile hotspot data. Apply at Assurance Wireless by entering your ZIP code, selecting a plan, and clicking ‘Apply Now.’
Cintex Wireless
As an affiliate of AirTalk Wireless, Cintex Wireless provides a free phone, ACP tablet, and unlimited services. Sign up at Cintex Wireless by clicking ‘Apply Now,’ entering your ZIP code, and choosing a plan.
enTouch Wireless
enTouch Wireless offers free government phone services in 34 states with a premium Android smartphone and unlimited talk, text, data, and international calling. Enroll at enTouch Wireless by selecting your state and plan, and completing the online application.
Infiniti Mobile
Infiniti Mobile, a Lifeline and ACP provider, provides free wireless services with a smartphone. Apply at Infiniti Mobile by clicking ‘Get Started’ and following the prompts to complete the application.
Life Wireless
Life Wireless, a generous Lifeline and ACP company, offers free cell phone service, a smartphone, and 5GB hotspot data. Apply at Life Wireless by entering your ZIP code and email, and clicking ‘Apply Now.’
NewPhone Wireless
NewPhone Wireless, like other Lifeline providers, offers a free phone, discounted tablet, and unlimited plan. Enroll at NewPhone Wireless by clicking ‘Apply Now,’ entering your ZIP code, choosing a plan, and completing the application.
Q Link Wireless
Q Link Wireless provides Lifeline and ACP-eligible customers with a free phone, discounted tablet, and unlimited monthly service. Apply at Q Link Wireless by entering your ZIP code and email, and following instructions to fill out the application.
SafeLink Wireless
SafeLink Wireless offers Lifeline and ACP customers unlimited talk, text, and free data every month, including a free smartphone. Begin the application at SafeLink Wireless by entering your ZIP code and clicking ‘Start.’
StandUp Wireless
StandUp Wireless, a generous Lifeline and ACP provider, offers unlimited talk, text, data, a free phone, and a discounted tablet. Start the application at StandUp Wireless by entering your ZIP code and email, qualifying through the National Verifier, and completing the form.
TruConnect
TruConnect, a popular Lifeline and ACP provider, offers unlimited talk and text, free international calling, and up to 14 GB of monthly data. Sign up at TruConnect by entering your ZIP code and email, and click ‘Enroll Now’ to complete the application.
Top Commercial Phone Provider List Who Offer Free Cell Phone Without Deposit and Activation Fee
Verizon Free Cell Phone with No Deposit No Activation Fee
Verizon stands as one of the nation’s leading carriers, boasting extensive 4G coverage and rapidly expanding 5G coverage. As a substantial corporation, Verizon provides an extensive array of mobile devices, accessories, and service plans. Moreover, the company frequently extends special promotions on cell phones. By taking advantage of these time-limited offers, you can acquire a phone at a reduced price or even at no cost.
Presently, Verizon presents the following free phone options, subject to the following conditions: You must activate a new line and select a specific plan. The cost of the phone is spread over 36 months with a promotional credit applied to your account, and this financing arrangement carries a 0% APR. Keep in mind that taxes and fees may be applicable.
- Apple iPhone 13 mini
- Apple iPhone 14
- Apple iPhone 14 Plus
- Samsung Galaxy A23 5G UW
- Samsung Galaxy S23 FE
- Apple iPhone 13
- Samsung Galaxy S22
- Motorola Edge+ 5G UV
- Google Pixel 7a
- Apple iPhone SE (3rd Gen)
- Motorola Edge
- Certified pre-owned devices: Apple iPhone XS Max, iPhone XS, iPhone 12 Pro Max, iPhone 13, iPhone 13 Pro, iPhone 13 Pro Max, iPhone 13 mini, iPhone XR, iPhone 11 Pro Max, Samsung Galaxy S21+ 5G, iPhone 11 Pro, Samsung Galaxy S20 5G UW, and iPhone 11. A new line and a specific plan are required. Financing over a promo credit applied to your account over 36 months. 0% APR. Taxes and fees may apply.
T-Mobile Free Cell Phone with No Deposit No Activation Fee
T-Mobile, counted among the three major carriers in the United States, holds the distinction of having the third-largest 4G coverage and the most extensive 5G network. T-Mobile provides a wide range of flexible plans, mobile devices, and additional services. Notably, T-Mobile features a financing option that is credit score-friendly, ensuring minimal impact on your creditworthiness. The company also regularly presents time-limited offers for its customers.
At present, eligible customers have the opportunity to acquire one of the following free phones, with the following stipulations: The activation of a new line is necessary, and the phone’s cost is spread over 24 months through a promotional credit applied to your account. Additionally, customers can expect to make an initial payment of $0 plus applicable taxes.
- T-Mobile REVVL 6x PRO 5G
- T-Mobile REVVL 6x 5G
- Samsung Galaxy A14 5G
- OnePlus Nord N30 5G
- OnePlus Nord N300 5G
- T-Mobile REVVL 6 6G
- T-Mobile REVVL 6 PRO 5G
- TCL Stylus 5G
- TCL 30 XE 5G
- Samsung Galaxy A03s
- Nokia G310 5G
- Motorola moto g stylus 5G (2022)
A new line or an eligible trade-in is required. Financing over a promo credit applied to your account over 24 months. $0 down + tax.
AT&T Free Cell Phone with No Deposit No Activation Fee
AT&T, the final member among the trio of major carriers, boasts the second-largest coverage in both 4G and 5G networks. AT&T provides an extensive array of wireless services, plan options, mobile devices, and an assortment of offerings. Presently, AT&T is providing the following phone models without any cost:
- Apple iPhone 15 Pro. An eligible trade-in is required. Requires 0% APR over a 36-month agreement.
- Apple iPhone 15. An eligible trade-in is required. Requires 0% APR over a 36-month agreement.
- Google Pixel 8 Pro. An eligible trade-in is required. Requires 0% APR over a 36-month agreement.
- Samsung Galaxy S23+. An eligible trade-in is required. Requires 0% APR over a 36-month agreement.
- Samsung Galaxy Z Flip5. An eligible trade-in is required. Requires 0% APR over a 36-month agreement.
- Samsung Galaxy S23. An eligible trade-in is required. Requires 0% APR over a 36-month agreement.
Boost Mobile Free Cell Phone with No Deposit No Activation Fee
Boost Mobile operates as an MVNO, providing cost-effective phone plans, dependable wireless services, an assortment of phones and devices, and regular promotions. The company currently extends offers for free cell phones without requiring a deposit or activation fee:
- Samsung Galaxy A23 5G
Additionally, the company offers numerous discounted devices, which you can see at https://www.boostmobile.com/phones.
Cricket Wireless Free Cell Phone with No Deposit No Activation Fee
Cricket Wireless, an MVNO renowned for its attractive phone bargains, is presently providing complimentary access to the following devices:
- Motorola moto g stylus (2023). Available when you bring your number and activate a $60/month plan.
- Motorola moto g play (2023). Available when you bring your number and activate a $60/month plan.
- Samsung Galaxy A03s. Available when you bring your number and activate a $55/month plan.
- Cricket Outlast. Available when you bring your number and activate a $60/month plan.
- Cricket Icon 5. Available when you bring your number and activate a $60/month plan.
- Samsung Galax A14 5G. Available when you bring your number and activate a $60/month plan.
- Motorola moto g 5G (2023). Available when you bring your number and activate a $60/month plan.
- Cricket Magic 5G. Available when you bring your number and activate a $60/month plan.
How to Find the Best Free Cell Phone No Deposit No Activation Fee Plan?
To find the best no-deposit, no-activation-fee free cell phone plan, follow these steps:
- Explore Government Assistance Programs: Check out programs like Lifeline and the Affordable Connectivity Program (ACP) for low-income individuals.
- Check Eligibility: Review income requirements and participation criteria to determine if you qualify based on income or government assistance program participation.
- Choose Programs: Decide whether to apply for Lifeline, ACP, or both for maximum benefits.
- Find Providers: Use online tools like https://cnm.universalservice.org/ to locate eligible providers in your area.
- Compare Plans: Research and compare talk, text, data allowances, and extra perks offered by different providers.
- Confirm Device Offers: Check if providers offer free devices and choose one that suits you.
- Visit Provider Websites: Explore provider websites to understand their offerings and application procedures.
- Apply Online: Complete the application with accurate information and required documentation.
- Submit Application: Send your application as directed and provide any additional verification if needed.
- Await Approval: Wait for provider approval and confirmation.
- Activate Your Service: Follow provider instructions to activate your free cell phone plan.
These steps help you find the best no-deposit, no-activation-fee cell phone plan tailored to your needs and circumstances.
The Benefits of Getting a Free iPhone With No Credit Check, No Deposit, and No Activation Fee
Getting a free iPhone, without credit checks, deposits, or activation fees, offers several benefits. You save money upfront, enjoy a premium device, and increase accessibility for those with poor credit. You can skip deposits and activation fees, ensuring affordability. Reliable network coverage and simple processes make it convenient. Competitive plans, potential upgrades, and model choices enhance flexibility without long-term commitments. This inclusive option provides cost-effective access to premium smartphones and reliable service and eliminates financial barriers tied to traditional phone plans.
The Disadvantage of a Free Cell Phone
Obtaining a free cell phone comes with advantages like cost savings and basic communication access, but it also entails drawbacks. These drawbacks include limited device options with potentially outdated technology, plan restrictions tied to specific carriers, and coverage limitations, especially in rural areas. You might also face contractual obligations and data usage limits, along with potential hidden costs like activation fees. Free phones may not be as durable, reliable, or well-warranted as pricier alternatives, and some providers may compromise your privacy by collecting user data. Therefore, it’s crucial to thoroughly review program terms and weigh your specific needs and preferences when considering a free cell phone, as more advanced devices with different plans may better suit your requirements.
Free Cell Phone with No Deposit No Activation Fee Related FAQ
What is a Phone Activation Fee?
It is a one-time fee that carriers make you pay when you set up a new account.
What Cell Phone Company Allows No Requirement of a Credit Check?
Many cell phone companies offer plans and services that do not require a credit check. These plans are often referred to as “no credit check” or “prepaid” plans. Such companies include T-Mobile, Verizon, AT&T, Cricket Wireless, Boost Mobile, Straight Talk, TracFone, Simple Mobile, Mint Mobile, etc.
Can I Get a Free Phone Without Paying Anything?
Yes, you can get a free phone from some government assistance programs like Lifeline and Affordable Connectivity Program (ACP) if you meet eligibility criteria. These programs offer free phones to eligible low-income individuals.
How to Get a Cell Phone Without a Deposit With Bad Credit?
To get a cell phone without a deposit and with bad credit, you can explore prepaid or no-contract plans offered by various carriers. Many prepaid plans do not require a credit check. You can also consider applying for government assistance programs like Lifeline and ACP, which provide free phones without credit checks.
Where Can You Find a Free Cell Phone?
You can find free cell phones through government assistance programs like Lifeline and ACP, which offer free phones to eligible low-income individuals. Additionally, some cell phone carriers offer promotions and deals that include free phones with the purchase of a plan or under specific conditions.
How Can I Avoid Cell Phone Activation Fees?
Competing cell phone providers often waive activation fees as a selling point. Find a provider that does this.
What is a Credit Check?
It is a search of your credit report to understand your financial behavior and abilities.
Phone Providers Vs Credit Check Requirements
Most phone providers perform a credit check for postpaid service activation, however, they tend to skip the check for prepaid services. Boost Mobile and T-Mobile offer device financing without a credit check.
Phone Providers Vs Deposit Requirement
If you have a good credit score, you won’t need to pay a deposit. If, however, you have bad credit, you may have to pay a deposit of $100 to $400. Carriers that charge a small deposit or none at all are Boost Mobile, Google Fi, T-Mobile, Verizon Prepaid, and AT&T Prepaid.
Phone Providers Vs Activation Fee Requirement
Phone providers tend to charge an activation fee when you buy a phone and activate a new line. Google Fi and Boost Mobile usually don’t charge an activation fee. Under certain conditions, the following providers may also not charge a fee: AT&T, Verizon, T-Mobile, Cricket Wireless, and Metro by T-Mobile.
Do I Qualify for a Free Phone if I Have Poor Credit?
It depends on the carrier. Some don’t perform a credit check and some offer affordable financing conditions.
Can I Switch My Phone Carrier Without Having to Pay Charges?
Yes, some carriers offer such great deals. However, some taxes may apply and you must also pay any outstanding balance with your previous provider.
What is the Minimum Credit Score for Someone Buying a Cell Phone?
There is no established minimum credit score. It depends on the provider. Some will even offer you a device with no credit score.
How Can I Find Free Phone Stands Near Me?
You can find a free phone provider near you at https://www.lifelinesupport.org/companies-near-me/. Provide your ZIP code and you will get a list of available Lifeline providers.