The Affordable Connectivity Program (ACP) was once a significant initiative to bridge the digital divide. It offered discounted internet services to low-income households. Especially, as an added perk, ACP eligible participants could receive free or heavily discounted phones from participating providers
However, can you still get an ACP free phone in 2025? This article will answer that question and explore your best alternative for staying connected in the digital age.
1. What Was ACP And Can You Still Get an ACP Free Phone?
The ACP program was a government initiative that provides internet access to low-income households. It aimed to help citizens stay connected for essential needs like work, school, healthcare, and more.
But how exactly did the ACP benefit its participants? Below is an overview:
- The ACP offered a monthly discount of up to $30 on internet service for eligible households. For households living on Tribal lands, they can receive a higher benefit of up to $75 per month.
- In addition, ACP beneficiaries could receive a one-time discount of up to $100 to purchase a laptop, desktop computer, or tablet from free ACP phone providers. To qualify, recipients were required to contribute between $10 and $50 toward the purchase price.
- The ACP benefits were limited to one service and one device discount per household.
However, it is no longer possible to receive a free phone with ACP program as it ended in 2024. This is sadly due to a lack of additional funding from Congress.
As a result, the ACP stopped accepting new applications on February 7, 2024, and the last fully funded month for free ACP phone and services was April 2024.
Read more: Is Lifeline And ACP The Same? Differences, Benefits, And More Explained
2. Lifeline – The Best Program to Receive a Free Government Phone
Although the ACP program free phone has ended, the Lifeline program now serves as an excellent alternative for getting a free government phone. Launched in 1985, Lifeline is an initiative by the Federal Communications Commission (FCC) to make essential communication services more affordable for low-income households.
In the following sections, we’ll explore who qualifies for Lifeline and the benefits it offers.
Who is eligible for Lifeline?
To qualify for Lifeline, you must meet one of the following criteria:
- Income: Your household income must be at or below 135% of the Federal Poverty Guidelines. For example, in 2025, the Federal Poverty Level for an individual is $15,060.
- Participation in assistance programs: Instead, if you or your household members participate in government assistance programs such as SNAP (food stamps), Medicaid, or certain Tribal programs, you may qualify for Lifeline.
- Survivors: Additionally, individuals who qualify as survivors may also be eligible.
Which group do you fall into? Make sure you confirm your eligibility carefully before applying.
Explore Lifeline’s benefits
Lifeline is an excellent alternative to the ACP program. If you’re unable to get an ACP free phone, there’s no need to worry because Lifeline has you covered! Let’s take a closer look at the benefits this program offers.
To make phone and internet services much more affordable, Lifeline provides significant discounts to eligible participants as follows:
- Monthly discount: Lifeline offers up to $9.25 per month toward phone or internet service for qualifying households. For those on Tribal lands, the discount increases to up to $34.25 per month. Depending on your state or county, you may receive extra benefits in addition to the standard benefit of the federal Lifeline.
- Phone and internet service: Eligible subscribers can receive a discount on either wireline (landline) or wireless service. However, it should be noted that you cannot receive both at the same time.
- Broadband and bundles: Lifeline also supports broadband internet and voice-broadband service bundles. This allows households to get internet access along with phone service at a discounted rate.
- Free phones: This is the biggest perk that makes Lifeline an excellent alternative to the ACP. By applying for Lifeline through a provider like AirTalk Wireless, you can receive a free phone. This way, everyone can have the opportunity to stay connected in today’s digital world.
3. How To Apply for An ACP Lifeline Free Phone with AirTalk Wireless?
AirTalk Wireless is a reliable provider of Lifeline. Since 1999, the company has partnered with the Lifeline program to make phone and internet services more accessible to those who need them most. We are proud to help bring Lifeline benefits to low-income individuals and families across the United States.
Previously, AirTalk Wireless provided both ACP and Lifeline benefits. Customers could also combine the benefits of Lifeline and ACP to maximize the government assistance. However, after ACP ceased to operate, AirTalk Wireless is currently offering only Lifeline services.
What motivates us? It’s our dedication to bridging the digital divide by providing affordable connectivity options. As an authorized service provider for the Lifeline program, we provide eligible subscribers with free phones and service plans. Choosing us means that you can stay connected without breaking the bank!
If you find yourself eligble for Lifeline, here’s how to apply for a free phone with AirTalk Wireless:
- Step 1: Visit the AirTalk Wireless’s website then locate the zip code box to enter yours and check if the program is available in your area.
- Step 2: Next, let’s choose the phone plan that best suits your needs. If you wish for receiving a Lifeline and ACP free phone, select a plan from Lifeline’s standard or unlimited options. Alternatively, if you prefer to use your own device, opt for the “Bring Your Own Device” plan.
- Step 3: If you selected a plan that includes a device in step 2, in this step, you will choose from a variety of devices available in your location. Carefully review the device descriptions before selecting your preferred option.
- Step 4: After choosing your phone plan and device, you should gather necessary documents to prove your eligibility. For example, you need proof of your income (e.g., paycheck) or proof of participation in government assistance programs like Medicaid or SNAP.
- Step 5: Finally, submit your application and wait for approval. You’ll typically receive your phone and service plan within 7-10 business days if approved.
Important notes: The devices offered by AirTalk Wireless are in high demand and may go out of stock quickly, so be sure to apply promptly. Also, some devices may not be completely free, but rest assured, the price we offer is significantly lower than the retail price for the same devices.
4. Free Phone Suggestions from AirTalk Wireless
AirTalk Wireless offers a wide selection of free phones to suit a variety of needs. From a simple device to stay connected to a more advanced phone for all your daily tasks, we all can handle!
Below are some free phone suggestions offered by AirTalk you shouldn’t miss:
| Options | Who should use it |
| Apple iPhone 8 | Seniors or users looking for a compact device that is easy-to-use and works smoothly. |
| Samsung Galaxy S8+ | This is a perfect choice if you value a large screen with advanced features. Its camera is also great. |
| FOXXD A56 | For seniors seeking a simple and accessible phone, this device is perfect. It has a large display and physical buttons. |
| Apple iPhone 7 | If you’re an Apply fan and you want a reliable smartphone with essential features, this device is a solid choice. |
| Samsung Galaxy S9 | Students looking for a high-quality phone with a stunning display and fast performance. Ideal for gaming, entertainment and photography! |
If none of these options fit your needs, simply visit AirTalk Wireless, enter your ZIP code, and explore the other devices available in your area. There are plenty of great choices waiting for you!
Final Words
To sum up, although the ACP free phone program has ended, you can still get a free phone through the Lifeline program via AirTalk Wireless. We offer a wide selection of devices and phone plans tailored to meet various needs. Therefore, don’t wait, apply today to get access to essential resources at no extra cost.
Also read: Free Government Phone Without ACP – Exploring Alternatives While Retaining Benefits