iPhone 13
5G · 128 GB
Free or low co-pay
Free Government iPhone: how to get one in 2026
Lifeline covers your monthly service. FreeCall Wireless pairs it with iPhone offers that are free in some states and deeply discounted in others.
Quick answer
Can I get a Free Government iPhone?
Yes, in many cases. If you qualify for Lifeline through SNAP, Medicaid, SSI, public housing, a Veterans Pension or low income, FreeCall Wireless can ship you an iPhone such as the iPhone 13, iPhone 12, iPhone 11 or iPhone SE. Depending on your state and stock, the iPhone is free or has a small one-time co-pay.
- iPhone 11 to iPhone 14
- Free or low co-pay
- Lifeline service included
- No contract
Which iPhone models can I get?
We stock popular, recent iPhones that still receive iOS updates from Apple. Each one ships ready to use on our nationwide network with your Lifeline plan already active.
We also carry the iPhone 11 and iPhone 14 when available. Compare every model side by side on iPhone Government Phone models.
Is the Free Government iPhone really free?
Here is the honest answer. Lifeline is a discount on service, not a voucher for a phone. The government does not buy iPhones for anyone. Providers like FreeCall Wireless choose which phones to offer and how to price them. Because iPhones cost more than most Android phones, we offer them in two ways:
- Free: in select states and during promotions, an eligible iPhone ships at $0.
- Discounted: elsewhere, the iPhone has a one-time co-pay that is shown before you finish your order. There is never a monthly bill for Lifeline service.
Be careful with websites that promise a brand-new iPhone 16 or iPhone 17 for free with no conditions. Lifeline rules are the same for every provider, and any offer that sounds too good should be checked. Read our guide on getting a free iPhone from the government.
Who qualifies for a Free Government iPhone?
The iPhone offer is for customers who qualify for Lifeline. You qualify if you, or someone in your household, takes part in one of these programs:
- SNAP (food stamps)
- Medicaid
- Supplemental Security Income (SSI)
- Federal Public Housing Assistance
- Veterans Pension and Survivors Benefit
- Tribal programs on Tribal lands
You can also qualify by income if your household earns 135% of the federal poverty guidelines or less. In 2026 that is $21,546 a year for a single person and $44,550 for a family of four. See every household size on our income limits page.
How do I apply for a Free Government iPhone?
- 1
Check eligibility
Make sure you receive a qualifying benefit or meet the income limit.
- 2
Apply and pick iPhone
Fill out the online application and choose an iPhone in the phone step.
- 3
Verify and ship
Once you are approved, we ship your iPhone with service ready to go.
What comes with the iPhone plan?
Your iPhone works with the same Lifeline plan as every other phone: unlimited talk, unlimited text and 10 gb of high-speed data every month each month, with hotspot included. You can keep your current number, and you can add more data at any time. See all plan details on Lifeline plans.
Can I use my own iPhone instead?
Yes. If you already own an unlocked iPhone XR or newer, you can bring your own phone, get a free SIM card or eSIM, and use your Lifeline service on it. That is the fastest way to get free service on an iPhone you love.
Frequently asked questions
Which iPhone is free with government assistance?
With FreeCall Wireless, the iPhone SE, iPhone 11, iPhone 12 and iPhone 13 are offered free in select states and at a discount in others. Availability depends on stock.
Can I get a free iPhone 16 or iPhone 17 from the government?
No Lifeline provider can promise a free current-generation iPhone. Lifeline pays for service, and newer iPhones cost too much to give away. We offer recent models that still get iOS updates.
Do I have to pay a co-pay for the iPhone?
Only in some states and for some models. The exact co-pay, if any, is shown in the application before you submit. Free Android phones are always available at $0.
Can I get an iPhone if I am on SSI or Medicaid?
Yes. SSI and Medicaid both qualify you for Lifeline, and Lifeline customers can choose an iPhone from our current offers.
Is the government iPhone new or refurbished?
Depending on the model, iPhones may be new or certified pre-owned in excellent condition. The condition is listed in the application.
Can I upgrade later?
Yes. Customers in good standing can upgrade their phone through our support team. Call (918) 931-0991 for current upgrade offers.
Sources and last update
Reviewed and updated on by the FreeCall Wireless team. Program figures come from these official sources:
- FCC: Lifeline Support for Affordable Communications
- USAC: Lifeline program overview
- Lifeline Support (USAC): How to qualify
- HHS ASPE: 2026 Poverty Guidelines
- Apple: Compare iPhone models
Spotted something out of date? Email support@freecallwireless.com and we will correct it.
Get your Free Government Phone today
Apply in about five minutes. No contracts, no credit checks and free shipping when you are approved.