Free iPhone ACP Program: Can We Still Get an iPhone with ACP?
It’s a common misconception that free iPhones are still available through the Affordable Connectivity Program (ACP), and many options remain under the free iPhone ACP program umbrella.
In reality, the ACP has ended new enrollments, and the availability of free iPhones now depends on other assistance programs like Lifeline.
Find out how you may still be able to get a free iPhone and which programs are still active.
1. What was the Free iPhone ACP Program?
If you were part of the Affordable Connectivity Program (ACP), you likely received a monthly discount on your internet bill, and in many cases, you may have even gotten a free or discounted device.
The ACP was launched to help low-income households afford reliable internet access and connect to essential online services such as healthcare and education.
The program provided a monthly discount of up to $30 on broadband service for eligible households. For those living on Tribal lands, the benefit was more generous, offering up to $75 per month toward internet costs.
In addition to these savings, eligible participants could also receive up to $100 off the purchase of a connected device, such as a phone, tablet, or laptop, when obtained through an approved provider.
Many companies advertised “free iPhone with ACP program” or “free tablet” offers under the ACP, often bundling them with discounted internet plans. These promotions helped thousands of families get connected quickly and affordably.
However, please note that not all devices were really free; some required small copayments.
Unfortunately, the ACP officially ended in June 2024 due to a lack of renewed funding from Congress.
The program stopped accepting new applications on February 7, 2024, and the last fully funded month was April 2024. While some internet providers may still be promoting ACP offers on their websites, be careful. These materials may be outdated, and no new ACP benefits are available as of now.
If you’re looking for free iPhones from the government in 2025 and beyond, the Lifeline program is currently your best alternative. Lifeline is a long-standing federal assistance program for low-income households.
>>> Read more: Best ACP Tablet Providers – Top Free ACP Program Tablet Providers
2. Can You Still Get a Free iPhone Now That ACP Has Ended?
As of the enrollment freeze date, ACP has more than 23 million households enrolled. So, what happens to those 23 million households now that the program has ended?
With the Affordable Connectivity Program (ACP) ending in June 2024, many people are wondering if it’s still possible to get a free iPhone or similar device from the government. The short answer is we can’t do it through the ACP anymore, but there are still other programs and options to explore.
The Lifeline program is currently the main federal assistance option that provides free or low-cost phone and internet services to eligible low-income households. Certain Lifeline service providers offer free iPhones as part of their plans. The exact model you receive can vary by provider, availability, and location.
In short, while you likely won’t find a free iPhone with ACP program, the Lifeline program still offers valuable support. With the appropriate provider, you can still be able to get a discounted or free smartphone, even if it’s the latest iPhone model like iPhone 15 Pro Max.
3. What Are the Current Alternatives to the ACP Free iPhone Offer?
The ACP officially ended, and you might be looking for other ways to get a free or low-cost iPhone. Here are the most common alternatives:
Get a Free Government iPhone through the Lifeline Program
As mentioned above, the Lifeline program is the closest government alternative to the ACP right now. It helps low-income households stay connected by offering monthly discounts on phone or internet services. Some Lifeline providers also include a free smartphone, including iPhone models, as one of their exclusive benefits.
If you were part of the ACP, you may still be eligible for Lifeline benefits. However, keep in mind that not all ACP providers participate in the Lifeline program, so verify provider eligibility before applying.
NOTE: The government does not subsidize devices. Lifeline programs cover basic service costs only. Free or discounted devices, upgrade plans, or top-ups are exclusive benefits provided by AirTalk Wireless as part of our promotional offers. Terms and conditions apply. Limited-time promotion—offers vary by state, stock availability, and eligibility.
Claim a Free iPhone with Carrier Promotions
T-Mobile, Verizon, or AT&T often run promotional deals where you can get a free iPhone when you sign up for a plan. These deals usually apply to specific iPhone models and may require that you stay on the plan for a certain period.
Get Trade-In Deals or $0 Upfront iPhones With Contracts
Look for trade-in deals. Many wireless carriers will give you a significant credit, or even a free iPhone, when you trade in your old phone, especially if it’s a newer model in good condition.
You can also find plans that let you get a phone for $0 upfront, but you’ll usually need to agree to a contract or installment plan that lasts 24 to 36 months. Keep in mind that while there’s no big payment at the start, you’re still paying for the phone over time as part of your monthly bill.
4. How to Get a Free Government iPhone through Lifeline
If you meet the eligibility criteria, you get a chance to receive a free government phone from the right provider. There are two primary ways to qualify for Lifeline:
- You can qualify if you or someone in your household participates in government assistance programs, such as SNAP, Medicaid, SSI, FPHA, and Veterans and Survivors Pension Benefit.
- If you live on Tribal lands, additional programs make you eligible: Bureau of Indian Affairs General Assistance, Tribally-Administered TANF, Tribal Head Start (income-based), and FDPIR (Food Distribution Program on Indian Reservations).
- You may also qualify for the program if your household income is at or below 135% of the Federal Poverty Guidelines.
You must apply for Lifeline through a licensed provider in your area to receive a free iPhone. Each state has a list of approved Lifeline carriers. Some of the most popular providers include AirTalk Wireless, TAG Mobile, and StandUp Wireless.
AirTalk Wireless is well-known for premium device offers, including free iPhones, through the Lifeline.
You can choose from a wide selection of smartphones and even get device bundles (phone + tablet or phone + smartwatch).
They also provide flexible Lifeline and BYOD plans, fast approvals, and free shipping.
Step 1: Visit the Provider’s Website
Head to AirTalk Wireless. Enter your ZIP code to check service availability in your area.
Step 2: Choose a Lifeline Plan
AirTalk offers multiple Lifeline plans, including:
- Standard, Plus, Premium, or Unlimited Plans (include a free or discounted iPhone with talk, text, and data)
- BYOD Lifeline Data Boost Plan (for those who already own a phone and want more data)
Step 3: Pick Your iPhone
Browse available models and select your preferred iPhone (options may vary by location).
Step 4: Upload Required Documents (If required)
Depending on your state and how your Lifeline application is reviewed, you may need to provide documents to confirm your eligibility. These may include:
- A government-issued photo ID
- A benefits award letter or a recent income statement
- Proof of address
Note: Document requirements vary by state and verification method.
Step 5: Submit Your Application
Once your information is submitted, AirTalk will review your application. After approval, your free iPhone is shipped within 7–10 business days.
FAQs
Can you get a free iPhone through ACP?
While the ACP has concluded, some providers that previously participated in the program may still offer free iPhones through the Lifeline program. For instance, AirTalk Wireless continues to provide free iPhones to eligible customers under Lifeline.
How to get a free iPhone without money?
You can apply through the Lifeline program. Eligibility generally depends on your income level or participation in certain government assistance programs. Once approved, you can choose from the available devices offered by participating providers.
Is the government giving out free iPhone?
Please note that the government doesn’t directly distribute free iPhones. Through programs like Lifeline, it partners with service providers, and some of them offer free smartphones as one of their exclusive benefits.
If you’re interested in applying for a free iPhone through the Lifeline program, consider visiting the websites of providers like AirTalk Wireless to check your eligibility and start the application process.
Conclusion
So, while many still associate the idea of a free iPhone ACP program, it’s no longer ACP making these devices accessible. Instead, current opportunities rely on programs like Lifeline, which continue to offer support for those who qualify.
