If you want a new smartphone with the latest technology, but you don’t have the money to buy it, you can engage in one of the available options that many companies offer for people with low income.
In fact, there are many companies in the US that provide great free phone deals all over the country when you choose to transfer service to their network.
These deals are always available from the leading mobile carriers like Verizon, T-Mobile, AT&T, and many other mobile network operators and there is the chance that you get a decent smartphone for free or at a very affordable cost.
The problem is that it can be a bit complicated to clearly identify the best offers.
For that reason, here you have the only guide you’ll need to follow if you want to know what phone companies give free phones when you switch so that you can do thorough research before making any decision.
How Do You Get The Free Phones When You Switch 2024?
Nowadays, there are many mobile carriers offering interesting deals on free cell phones all over the country. Usually, this process requires that you trade in an older phone, sign up for a specified data plan, or switch from your current service to receive the benefit.
In the case of switching to another company, you’ll have to sign a contract with them. You won’t get the newest and most advanced models, but they’ll be enough to satisfy most of your communication and entertainment needs.
The best part is that usually, you don’t need to pay any upfront costs so many times you can get a new phone for $0, which you’ll have to pay off in easy installments over several months – this might vary by company.
On the other hand, you can also take advantage of many interesting deals in wireless device technology and plans as part of these free cell phone deals.
It will also depend on the company, but there is the possibility of getting brand-new phones from some of the best manufacturers, including Samsung Galaxy A11, Samsung, Motorola, LG, and others.
Sometimes, you must pay off a fraction of the cost via monthly bill credits and activate a new voice line on a qualifying rate plan to use with your device, being the most part of these, unlimited voice, text, and data plans.
Note that you’ll have to remain active in order to keep your benefits and in the case you want to cancel the wireless service, credits may stop and you’ll have to pay the remaining balance.
You can check the list below to see if any of these cell phone carriers is a viable option for you.
What Phone Companies Give Free Phones When You Switch 2024
While AT&T, Verizon, and T-Mobile stand as the major players in the US mobile market (keeping in mind Sprint’s merger with T-Mobile), smaller carriers also provide options to procure smartphones upon switching services. Each company differs in the range and caliber of its offerings, so it’s essential to conduct thorough research to determine the most suitable option for your needs. Below is a curated list of choices.
1. Free Phones When You Switch toT-Mobile
T-Mobile offers a complimentary phone when you establish a new line with the company, which is then billed over a 24-month period.
Alongside this offer, you can opt for basic plans inclusive of unlimited voice, text, and data, alongside various other perks. Should you terminate the contract before its 24-month duration, the remaining balance will still be due.
Notably, there’s no obligatory trade-in, and monthly charges are comparatively modest compared to competitors.
The devices available at this time include:
- Samsung Galaxy A15 5G
- T-Mobile REVVL 6x Pro 5G
- T-Mobile REVVL 6x 5G
- OnePlus Nord N30 5G
- T-Mobile REVVL 6 5G
- T-Mobile REVVL 6 PRO 5G
- TCL 30 XE 5G
- Nokia G310 5G
Terms and conditions vary; certain promotions necessitate a switch to T-Mobile or the addition of a new line, while others require the purchase of another device at full price or an eligible trade-in.See the company’s current free phone deals at https://www.t-mobile.com/cell-phones/deals/free-cell-phones.
In case you also need information on T-Mobile EBB Tablet and T-Mobile Compatible Phone
2. Free Phones When You Switch to Verizon
The Verizon offer bears resemblance to T-Mobile’s, albeit with certain nuances.
Switching or adding a new line qualifies you for a complimentary phone, sans the need for a trade-in.
While obtaining the device is complimentary, there’s a one-time activation charge of $35 upon adding a new line with any of the available unlimited plans. Following this, the entire bill amount must be paid over a 36-month period.
The devices available at this time are:
- Apple iPhone SE (3rd Gen)
- Apple iPhone 14
- Apple iPhone 13
- Samsung Galaxy S23
- Motorola one 5G UW ace
- Motorola edge
- Samsung Galaxy A23 5G UW
- Apple iPhone 14 Plus
- Samsung Galaxy S23 FE
- Google Pixel 8
- Motorola edge+ 5G UW
- Google Pixel 7a
- Apple iPhone 15
- Apple iPhone XS (Certified Pre-Owned)
- Apple iPhone XR (Certified Pre-Owned)
- Apple iPhone 11 (Certified Pre-Owned)
- Apple iPhone 11 Pro (Certified Pre-Owned)
- Apple iPhone 11 Pro Max (Certified Pre-Owned)
- Apple iPhone SE 2020 (Certified Pre-Owned)
- Apple iPhone 12 (Certified Pre-Owned)
- Apple iPhone 12 mini (Certified Pre-Owned)
- Apple iPhone 12 Pro (Certified Pre-Owned)
- Apple iPhone 12 Pro Max (Certified Pre-Owned)
- Samsung Galaxy S21 FE 5G (Certified Pre-Owned)
- Samsung Galaxy S21 5G (Certified Pre-Owned)
- Samsung Galaxy S21 Ultra 5G (Certified Pre-Owned)
- Samsung Galaxy S21+ 5G (Certified Pre-Owned)
- Apple iPhone 13 (Certified Pre-Owned)
- Apple iPhone 13 mini (Certified Pre-Owned)
- Apple iPhone 13 Pro Max (Certified Pre-Owned)
- Apple iPhone 13 Pro (Certified Pre-Owned)
- Samsung Galaxy S22 (Certified Pre-Owned)
- Apple iPhone 14 (Certified Pre-Owned)
- Apple iPhone 14 Pro (Certified Pre-Owned)
See the list of current Verizon free phones at https://www.verizon.com/shop/online/free-cell-phones/.
Read one of our past articles How to Switch From T-Mobile to Verizon and What Phones are Compatible With Verizon
3. Free Phones When You Switch to AT&T
With AT&T, obtaining a phone comes either free of charge or at a considerable markdown upon switching services. Here are the two alternatives:
3.1.- Trade in your old phone
Activate a new line and receive $250 in bill credits monthly.
3.2.- Purchase a new phone
Obtain a new device for free or at a maximum of 50% off when subscribing to select plans. The phone’s cost will be spread out over 36 consecutive months, reflected in your monthly bill.
Here are some of the phones available:
- Samsung Galaxy S24 Ultra – up to $1000 off with a qualifying plan and an eligible trade-in
- Apple iPhone 15 Pro Max – up to $1000 off with a qualifying plan and an eligible trade-in
- Apple iPhone 15 Pro – free with a qualifying plan and an eligible trade-in
- Apple iPhone 14 – up to $514.36 off with a qualifying plan
- Samsung Galaxy S24+ – free with a qualifying plan and an eligible trade-in
- Samsung Galaxy S24 – up to $404.36 off with a qualifying plan
- Samsung Galaxy S23 FE – up to $384.48 off with a qualifying plan
- Apple iPhone 15 – up to $700 off with a qualifying plan and an eligible trade-in
- Apple iPhone 15 Plus – up to $534.36 off with a qualifying plan
- Motorola razr 2023 – up to $552.36 off with a qualifying plan
- Samsung Galaxy A15 5G – up to $92.36 off with a qualifying plan
- Google Pixel 8 Pro – free with a qualifying plan and an eligible trade-in
- Samsung Galaxy Z Flip5 – free with a qualifying plan and an eligible trade-in
- Apple iPhone 14 Pro Max – up to $280 off with a qualifying plan
- Motorola razr+ – up to $784.36 off with a qualifying plan
- Google Pixel 8 – up to $444.36 off with a qualifying plan
- Samsung Galaxy Z Fold5 – up to $1000 off with a qualifying plan and an eligible trade-in
- Motorola moto g stylus 5G 2023 – up to $192.37 off with a qualifying plan
- Apple iPhone SE 3rd Gen 2022 – up to $358.36 off with a qualifying plan
- Samsung Galaxy A54 5G – up to $234.36 off with a qualifying plan
- Google Pixel Fold – up to $1124.36 off with a qualifying plan
- Google Pixel 7a – up to $412.36 off with a qualifying plan
- Apple iPhone 14 Pro – up to $360 off with a qualifying plan
Shop AT&T’s phones and see its deals at https://www.att.com/buy/phones/.
4. Free Phones When You Switch to Boost Mobile
Boost Mobile consistently offers attractive choices for those on tight budgets. New customers who switch can take advantage of an enticing deal: a Boost free or discounted phone. However, to qualify for this offer, you must opt for a plan priced at $50 or higher, and it’s limited to one free phone per line. Additionally, Boost Mobile occasionally runs promotions where purchasing a particular phone entitles you to receive at least three additional phones at no cost – an ideal solution for families.
The devices available right now are:
- Samsung Galaxy A15 5G – free when you switch and activate a select plan (a limited-time in-store-only offer)
- Motorola moto g 5G – free when you switch and activate a select plan (a limited-time in-store-only offer)
- Motorola moto g stylus 5G – free when you switch and activate a select plan (a limited-time in-store-only offer)
- Celero 5G – free when you switch and activate a select plan (a limited-time in-store-only offer)
- iPhone 11 – only &19.99 when you switch and activate a select plan (a limited-time in-store-only offer)
See the current Boost Mobile offers at https://www.boostmobile.com/stores/offers.html.
5. Free Phones When You Switch to Cricket Wireless
Cricket offers an extensive array of free cell phones and attractive deals, particularly catering to families. By transferring your existing number and activating a new line with a $60 per month plan, you can qualify for a selected free or discounted phone. There’s no need for an annual contract or credit check.
Additionally, you can opt for a package comprising two lines with unlimited data for $80 per month, which includes two complimentary smartphones. Alternatively, families can benefit from a package of four unlimited data lines for $100 per month, each line accompanied by a free phone. These options are particularly advantageous for families seeking cost-effective solutions.
Furthermore, Cricket frequently introduces similar promotions that vary over time. It’s recommended to regularly check their website for the latest offers.
Cricket currently offers the following free and discounted smartphones:
- Motorola moto g stylus 2023 – free when you bring your number and activate a $60/mo plan
- Cricket Icon 5 – free when you bring your number and activate a $55/mo plan
- Motorola moto g play 2023 – free when you bring your number and activate a $55/mo plan
- Cricket Outlast – free when you bring your number and activate a $55/mo plan
- Samsung Galaxy A14 5G – free when you bring your number and activate a $60/mo plan
- Motorola moto g 5G 2023 – free when you bring your number and activate a $60/mo plan
- Cricket Magic 5G – free when you bring your number and activate a $55/mo plan
- Samsung Galaxy A54 5G – from $49.99
- Apple iPhone 12 – from $99.99
- Apple iPhone 11 64GB – from $49.99
See Cricket’s list of free and discounted devices (Android, 5G, Apple) at https://www.cricketwireless.com/current-phone-and-plan-deals/5G.
6. Free Phones When You Switch to Metro by T-Mobile
Metro provides a wide range of complimentary 5G smartphones for prepaid customers who switch to Metro. These offers are only available for a limited time and can be redeemed in-store. The availability and choices may differ depending on the location. To take advantage of these deals, you must sign up for a qualifying plan, and certain offers may necessitate a valid port and ID identification, in addition to tax payment.
Please be aware that a $20 fee is required for line activation.
The free 5G devices available from this company right now are:
- Google Pixel 6a
- T-Mobile REVVL 6 5G
- OnePlus Nord N200 5G
- T-Mobile REVVL 6x 5G
- Nokia G310 5G
- TCL 30 XE 5G
- Motorola moto g 5G 2023
- T-Mobile REVVL 6 Pro 5G
- T-Mobile REVVL 6x Pro 5G
- Samsung Galaxy A15 5G
- Motorola moto g power 5G 2023
- OnePlus Nord N30 5G
- Motorola moto g stylus 5G 2023
See the company’s list of free devices at https://www.metrobyt-mobile.com/deals/free-phone-when-you-switch to stay up to date.
7. Free Phones When You Switch to Straight Talk
Straight Talk is a top choice among no-contract service providers. They offer free phones without tying you into a lengthy contract spanning 18 to 30 months. The company frequently runs enticing promotions where you can score a complimentary phone when you subscribe to one of their unlimited plans. These plans start at a budget-friendly $35 per month and include unlimited talk, text, and data, all without the hassle of contracts, credit checks, or activation fees. What’s even better is that you can complete the entire process without ever having to leave your home, as you can apply conveniently via text message or an online form.
The other part of the story is that most of the time, they offer refurbished, older, or simple specs phones. If you don’t have a problem with that, then you’ll be fine.
You can read one of our past How To Switch Phones On Straight Talk and How To Unlock Straight Talk Phones
8. Free Phones When You Switch to US Cellular
US Cellular presents compelling options for individuals looking to transfer their service to their network. To get started, you’ll need to open a new consumer account, opt for paperless billing, and undergo credit approval. However, note that there’s a $30 device activation fee, which can be waived for online purchases.
You have the freedom to choose your desired phone, subject to availability, and make the purchase through a 30-month Retail Installment Contract (RIC). Alternatively, you can opt for a postpaid service plan. If you opt for online purchase, porting-in will be necessary, and you’ll pay through monthly bill credits on a 30-month RIC, the specifics of which depend on your chosen device.
US Cellular offers the Unlimited Basic plan, which you pay for via monthly bill credits over 13 months, and you can subscribe for up to 4 lines. It’s important to note that there may be additional costs such as taxes or fees. The upside is that purchasing online allows you to bypass lines and activation fees, saving you up to $30.
To qualify for a free phone, you must activate either the Unlimited Everyday or Even Better plan, trade in a qualifying device, and opt for paperless billing.
Some of the available devices at this time are:
- Samsung Galaxy S24
- Apple iPhone 15
- Google Pixel 8
- Samsung Galaxy S23 FE
- Samsung Galaxy A15 5G
- Samsung Galaxy A25 5G
- Motorola razr 2023
- Samsung Galaxy S23
- Samsung Galaxy S23+
- Apple iPhone 14
- Apple iPhone 14 Plus
- Apple iPhone 14 Pro
- Kyocera Dura Sport 5G
- TCL 40 XE 5G
- Google Pixel 7a
- Samsung Galaxy Z Flip4
- Samsung Galaxy S22
- Apple iPhone 13
- Apple iPhone 13 mini
- Motorola moto g stylus 5G 2023
- Motorola moto g 5G 2023
- Samsung Galaxy A54 5G
- Motorola moto g play 2023
- Samsung Galaxy A14 5G
- Motorola edge
- Google Pixel 7
- Motorola moto g 5G
- Motorola moto g stylus 5G 2022
- Samsung Galaxy XCover 6 Pro
- Samsung Galaxy A53 5G
- Google Pixel 6a
- Motorola moto g power 2022
- Apple iPhone SE 3rd Gen
- Samsung Galaxy A03s
- Motorola moto g pure
- TCL ION Z
- Cat S62
- Apple iPhone SE
See the list of free devices at https://www.uscellular.com/devicelist?flow=device&catId=11476998_11477168.
9. Free Phones When You Switch to Other MVNOs
Several other MVNOs (Mobile Virtual Network Operators) provide enticing discounts and promotions for those transitioning to their services. However, none presently provide complimentary phones upon switching. While this could potentially alter over time, you can explore the offerings of the subsequent wireless companies:
- Google Fi
- Visible
- Mint Mobile
- US Mobile
- Good2Go Mobile
- Twigby
10. Lifeline and ACP Providers
Apart from the carriers and MVNOs mentioned earlier, free phones are available through Lifeline and ACP-affiliated wireless providers. However, eligibility for Lifeline and ACP (Affordable Connectivity Program) hinges on meeting specific criteria. These government assistance initiatives aim to provide discounted monthly phone and internet services, along with mobile devices, to low-income households facing financial constraints. Below are the eligibility requirements. Participating Lifeline and ACP companies extending complimentary phones to eligible individuals include:
- Access Wireless
- AirTalk Wireless
- American Assistance
- Assist Wireless
- Assurance Wireless
- Cintex Wireless
- Easy Wireless
- enTouch Wireless
- Infinity Mobile
- Life Wireless
- NewPhone Wireless
- Q Link Wireless
- SafeLink Wireless
- SafetyNet Wireless
- StandUp Wireless
- Tag Mobile
- TruConnect
- True Wireless
Is There Any Other Way To Get Free Phones?
Because smartphones can be so expensive, many people don’t enjoy spending too much money to acquire one of these devices, just want to save money, or simply don’t have enough money to afford the purchase.
Well, no problem. Fortunately, there are actually some alternative ways for you to get a smartphone for free. There are some great programs and organizations out there for people who have this necessity but can’t afford to buy a new phone.
Here you have some tips you can try to get a new phone for free.
1.- Government social programs
Lifeline is a social program implemented by the government to help reduce the cost of cell phones for people with low income. Those who qualify will receive a subsidy of $9.25 each month toward the cell phone bill and a free Android smartphone.
To qualify for this program, you must meet some requirements and provide some documents to prove your condition.
1.1.- Participate in other social programs
If you receive the benefit of one or more government assistance programs, you can participate in Lifeline.
- Medicaid
- Supplemental Security Income (SSI)
- Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP)
- Veterans and Survivors Pension Benefit
- Federal Public Housing Assistance (FPHA)
For individuals living in Tribal lands:
- Head start
- Tribally Administered Temporary Assistance (TANF)
- Bureau of Indian Affairs General Assistance
- Food Distribution Program on Indian Reservations (FDPIR)
1.2.- You have low income
If your income per household is below 135% of the poverty level established by the federal government, you can also join the Lifeline program.
1.3.- You are physically disabled
In the case that you have some type of physical disability, you can also qualify for Lifeline.
Please note that only one person per household can receive the subsidy, and in the case you have a phone plan that is less than $9.25/mo, the subsidy will cover the full cost.
The plan than comes by default gives you unlimited talk and text, as well as 2GB of data each month, free of charge. If you need additional data, you can sign up for another plan or pay for the data as you need.
Most mobile phone providers participate in the Lifeline program, but there are also other providers that work specifically to provide this social service, such as Assurance Wireless and SafeLink Wireless.
2.- Go for charity organizations
As many people upgrade to new phones even though their current phones are in good shape, many also consider donating it to charitable organizations that provide these phones as a form of assistance to people who need them
Many of these organizations refurbish and reprogram these devices to provide them to individuals and public agencies with low income that need this technology.
You can go to several of these organizations and ask if they’re giving donated cell phones. Here you have a list with a few examples of these groups – there are many:
This organization donates used cell phones to provide support and assistance to law enforcement entities and other organizations that provide services to victims across the US.
Recycling for Charities
They recycle old phones and give them to other nonprofit orgs that support people in need of communication devices.
They support social programs that provide communication technology for doctors and healthcare workers that need it to work more efficiently.
A Kentucky-based company that places recycling bins at several zoos around the country.
A non-profit organization that takes old cell phones and makes new ones for people who need them for emergency calls.
The 1Million Project Foundation
They provide cell phones to high school children of low-income families to help in their education process.
This org helps active duty military, veterans, and their families by giving them several services and benefits for free.
3.- Ask someone to exchange their old phone
This is so simple as asking your friends or family members for their old phone when they buy a newer one.
If that person no longer needs their phone, then you can make a deal and trade it for another object that person needs, for example. Or if you are lucky enough, they can end giving it to you as a gift.
Of course, this is just in case that you don’t need the latest phone model.
4.- Look out for giveaways
There are many places that constantly give phones away. It could be a cell phone brand like Motorola or a store that sells cell phones.
So, the recommendation here is that you search the Internet for these great opportunities. Look for places like email lists, official websites, and social media channels.
Many brands and stores post details about their giveaways on these places so that their subscribers and followers can stay up to date with these giveaways.
5.- Ask your employer
There are many companies that give free smartphones or tablets to their employees to help them work better.
If course, this depends on the line of work, but if yours justifies it, ask your employer if the company can give you a phone.
Just remember to be polite and explain that in your case, you need the device to improve on your daily tasks.
How Do You Switch Carriers?
In general, the process to switch mobile carriers is similar in most cases, although naturally with some slight variations in the process depending on the policies of the new service provider to which you switch. Let’s see how the process is step by step.
1.- Determine which provider offers you the best deal
As you already know, there are a good variety of mobile phone companies that offer the possibility of acquiring a free phone when switching providers, each with its pros and cons.
You will have to determine very well what your specific needs are, and see which of the available companies can satisfy them to the greatest possible extent. This will help you in saving some time and headaches.
Remember that you can consult the list of providers that we present here.
2.- Request the change of service
Once you are clear about the company that is best for you, go to an authorized agent to process the change of service. Remember that in some cases it is possible – and mandatory – to perform the procedure from the company’s website.
Take into account that you won’t be able to cancel the service with your old provider until you have completed the switching with your new service provider. Once this has been completed, you can request the transfer of your old number to the new provider.
3.- Fill in the details
When making the request to switch your service and transfer your old number, you should have all the necessary requirements at hand, since the porting process is completed relatively quickly and they may request additional personal information at any time.
Once the process is complete, the line will be activated and you will be able to enjoy your new service plan.
However, before this entire process is complete, your new mobile service company will put the available options on the table:
- Keep your old phone
- Exchange it for a new one
- Receive a brand-new phone
If you decide on the first option, your new provider will give you a SIM card toolkit to activate the line on your old phone.
If you opt for the second option, you’ll need to tell your new provider and bring the phone so they can examine it and determine if you can make the change.
And in case you decide on a new phone, read the payment conditions carefully, remember that some cases will give you the phone for free, but you will receive monthly bill credits, while in other cases you will have to pay some upfront cost.
In the end, you will most likely have to pay it in monthly installments.
What Do I Need To Know About These Free Smartphone Promos?
Most likely, you will have to pay something in some way for the exchange of products and services. The general rule of thumb is that you will be able to get a new phone without paying any upfront costs – that’s where the title “free phone” comes from.
As a counterpart, you must enter into a contract for the services received, and the more expensive the phone you purchased, the longer the contract will last.
Sometimes there can also be some hidden additional costs, so it is important to be careful when signing the contract – read well and ask all the necessary questions.
Also, note that these types of promotions are always available and change all the time, so it’s also advisable that you frequently visit the website of the company of your choice to keep up with these changes.
On the other hand, there is also the option of paying a small amount for a new phone, but one or two years old, when manufacturers run promotions to renew their stock with more modern devices.
Why Do Phone Companies Offer Free Phones When You Switch Service?
When cellular carriers offer free or discounted phones, there is always a catch. Usually, it means making a contract with them. This usually involves some costs that you have to afford in terms of service. So in one way or the other, you will end paying for that phone anyway.
Of course, the other benefit these companies get is that they increase their clients base each time a new client switch services.
However, many people really benefit when they have purchased their phone and have the flexibility to switch between providers when they want a more modern device.
Free Phones When You Switch Others Things You Should Know
Are free phones really free?
No at all. When mobile phone carriers provide a free or discounted phone, the most of the time you have to pay for it in one or the other way.
In many cases, the basic principle is that you’ll get this free offer without paying any upfront costs, but you will have to engage in a contract and receive bill credits with a variable duration.
Can I get free phones when switching?
Yes. This is one of the easiest ways to get a new free or discounted phone. You can look out for offers and deals from many mobile carriers throughout the country. Many of them offer free cellphone with unlimited voice, text, and data plans.
Can I get a free phone from government?
Yes. Lifeline Support is a government social program to help in reducing the cost of mobile phones for people who need them.
People that qualify will receive a subsidy of at least $9.25 each month toward their cell phone bill and a free smartphone to use.
Can I get a free phone online?
Yes. Many of the mobile phone providers allow you to acquire these phones for free through an online process and in many cases, this is only possible through this method.
Can I get free phones without contract?
Usually, pre-paid carriers offer no-contract phone deals for people with low-income giving the incentive of several discounts and device installment plans. They also offer several alternatives to the offers from the big carriers.
These deals allow you to save some money in upfront costs, while their prepaid plans allow you to save even more money over time.
Can I get a free phone under the EBB program?
No. The Emergency Broadband Benefit or EBB is a government social program started to help people stay connected during the covid-19 pandemic, so they can carry out their daily activities like work, education, and communication in an online format. The program offers the possibility of getting a free Android tablet for people who qualify.
Do I get a free phone if I switch to Boost Mobile?
Usually, Boost Mobile has several free-phone deals for users who want to switch to Boost on limited time and stock offers. You can check their website or your local dealer to see if they have available offers and verify the eligibility terms for these deals.
