The ACP ended for lack of funding on June 1, 2024, cutting a $30–$75 monthly credit that 23 million homes relied on. Bills jumped, and many providers stopped the extra-data “ACP boosts” they once bundled with Lifeline. Yet Lifeline itself did not close. It still gives a $9.25 monthly discount ($34.25 on Tribal lands) and lets carriers bundle a basic voice-plus-data plan with a free phone.
Five carriers still giving free smartphones + internet
Below are real providers that ship a handset at no charge when you join their Lifeline plan. Phone inventory changes fast, so treat the models as typical examples, not guarantees.
Assurance Wireless (T-Mobile network) still tops the Lifeline charts: every approved household gets unlimited talk and text plus at least 4.5 GB of high-speed data, with many states now showing a 10 GB allowance. Handsets rotate, but entry-level Androids such as the Wiko Life 3 and the Moto G Pure remain the most common freebies, shipping at no charge once your application is cleared.
SafeLink Wireless (Verizon/TracFone) rebuilt its Lifeline plan after ACP ended and now bundles unlimited talk & text, hotspot support, and up to 25 GB of monthly 4G/5G data in many states. Recent SafeLink shipments have included mid-range 5G phones such as the Samsung Galaxy A14 5G and the newer Motorola G Play 2024, giving users a far better camera and battery life than yesterday’s flip phones.
TruConnect (T-Mobile + AT&T roaming) focuses on flexibility: its core Lifeline offer provides unlimited talk/text, hotspot use, and 6 GB of high-speed data, with an option to buy top-ups if you stream heavily. Common giveaway models include the BLU C5L Max—favored for its simple 5.7-inch screen—and the sturdy Unimax U696CL, both delivered free with your first SIM.
Life Wireless (AT&T network) sticks to the FCC minimums but keeps costs at zero: you receive unlimited nationwide calling and texting plus 4.5 GB of data each month, and many states now throw in bonus hotspot MBs on promotion days. Expect an ultra-budget Android like the NUU A6L in the welcome box—basic, but reliable for messaging, maps, and light browsing.
Cintex Wireless (T-Mobile tower access) rounds out the list with a 4.5 GB, unlimited-talk Lifeline plan and a reputation for higher-end refurb stock; applicants in 2024 report receiving gently used iPhone 11 handsets or a 5G-ready OnePlus Nord N200 at no extra cost, though inventory does vary daily. Once the phone arrives, activation is a two-minute SIM swap, and Cintex lets you port your existing number during sign-up to avoid service gaps.
Availability varies by state, stock, and time of application.
Lifeline: the main program still standing
Lifeline is a federal safety-net program that discounts one phone or broadband line per household by up to $9.25 each month—or $34.25 on Tribal lands. Most wireless carriers convert that subsidy into a free voice-plus-data plan and toss in a basic smartphone to attract customers.
Who qualifies
You’re eligible if your household income sits at or below 135 percent of the Federal Poverty Guidelines or if someone in the home already receives SNAP, Medicaid, SSI, Federal Public Housing Assistance, Veterans Pension, or approved Tribal benefits. Proof can be an award letter, pay stub, or tax return plus a government-issued ID and current address.
How to apply—step by step
- Visit the National Verifier (lifelinesupport.org) and complete the online form; most applicants receive an immediate on-screen decision.
- Collect your paperwork—ID, proof of program participation or income, and a utility bill or lease for address confirmation.
- Choose a carrier that serves your ZIP code (use USAC’s “Companies Near Me” tool or the list above).
- Submit the carrier’s Lifeline order form and upload the approval letter or application ID.
- Activate the phone when it arrives; most services turn on automatically once you insert the SIM.
Staying enrolled
Every calendar year the FCC requires a quick recertification—fail to respond within 60 days and the benefit ends. You must also cancel Lifeline if your income rises above the limit or you exit the qualifying assistance program.
Extras worth knowing
- State top-ups: California, Oklahoma, and a handful of other states layer an additional $19–$30 credit onto Lifeline, which can translate into more monthly data or a better phone.
- Tribal bonuses: Households on recognized Tribal lands get the larger $34.25 discount and a one-time $100 installation credit for fixed broadband or landline service.
- Port-out freedom: If coverage is weak, you can switch providers once per month using USAC’s simple benefit-transfer rule—just start a new application with the desired carrier.
Other ways to find a no-cost phone or plan
- State add-ons: A few states (e.g., California, Oklahoma) layer extra subsidies on top of Lifeline for more data or a better handset. Check your state utility commission.
- Refurbished-device nonprofits: PCs for People and Human-I-T sell or grant low-cost smartphones to Lifeline-eligible families.
- Carrier promo swaps: Metro by T-Mobile, Boost Infinite, and Cricket regularly run “switch for free phone” offers that stack atop the $9.25 Lifeline credit—worth comparing if you can pay taxes and the first month.
- Emergency Broadband Benefit on Tribal lands: Separate from ACP, some Tribal programs still grant equipment vouchers; ask local housing authorities.
Tips to keep service free—or close to it
- Use Wi-Fi: Home and library Wi-Fi don’t count against mobile data.
- Dial 611, not 1-800: Lifeline carriers let you manage your account free at 611.
- Track data in Settings: Android and iOS both show a monthly meter—set a cap alarm one GB below your allowance.
- Recertify on time: Miss the 60-day recert window and your line shuts off.
- Change carriers if service is poor: Use the USAC transfer rule—just call the new company and ask for a “benefit transfer.”
Frequently asked questions
1. Is Lifeline really still open now that ACP is gone?
Yes. Lifeline is older (since 1985) and funded from the Universal Service Fund, not the ACP budget.
2. How much data will I get?
Plans range from 4.5 GB (minimum FCC requirement) up to 25 GB, depending on the carrier and your state.
3. Can I pick the phone model?
No. Carriers ship what they have in stock. You may upgrade later, usually for $50–$150, through the carrier’s shop page.
4. Do any providers still combine Lifeline with extra ACP-style data?
A few offer promotional “Lifeline Plus” plans with bonus data, but the ACP credit itself is gone, so check the fine print.
5. What if my income jumps above the limit?
You must notify your carrier within 30 days and de-enroll or you risk penalties.
6. Does Lifeline cover tablets or laptops?
No. Lifeline is phone or broadband only. Look to nonprofits like PCs for People for low-cost PCs.
7. How fast is the data?
Speeds depend on the network (4G/5G) and congestion but generally match prepaid speeds—about 3–20 Mbps on 4G and up to 100 Mbps on 5G.
8. Can I keep my number?
Yes. Ask for “port-in” when you apply. Bring your current account number and PIN so the carrier can transfer it without interruption.
ACP may have ended, but free government smartphones with internet are still within reach. Check if you qualify for Lifeline, pick a carrier from the list above, and send in your documents today. A few minutes now can save you $500-plus a year on phone bills—and keep you connected to jobs, school, and family.