Mon to Sat 8am to 10pm EST · Sun 8am to 7pm ESTEnrollment: 1-800-463-4699

The 5 steps

  1. Check eligibility

    See if you qualify through SNAP, Medicaid, SSI, housing aid, a Veterans Pension, Tribal programs or income.

  2. Apply online

    Tell us about yourself, your state and the free device you want. It takes about five minutes.

  3. Verify with the National Verifier

    We help confirm your program or income using the official Lifeline system.

  4. Choose your device

    Pick a free iPhone, tablet or SIM card, with 5G models available.

  5. Receive and activate

    Your device ships free. Activate it, keep your number, and start using your service.

Step 1 and 2: Check and apply

Use the eligibility checker, then fill out the application form. You will pick a device and tell us how you qualify.

Step 3: Verify

The National Verifier checks your program or income. If it cannot confirm automatically you upload documents. See accepted documents.

Infographic showing the steps to get a free iPhone: check eligibility, check coverage, prepare documents, review the offer and apply

Step 4 and 5: Receive and keep it

Your device ships for free. Activate by following the card inside the box or call technical support at 1-800-177-8829. Remember to recertify yearly.

Frequently asked questions

How long until I get my phone?

Shipping usually follows approval. Timing depends on verification and inventory. Your enrollment specialist gives you an estimate.

Do I need internet to apply?

No. You can apply by phone at 1-800-463-4699.

Sources and further reading

Related free phone and Lifeline pages

Lifeline Eligibility

Check Lifeline eligibility in seconds. See qualifying programs like SNAP and Medicaid, income rules and what you need to apply for a free phone.

Read more

Free iPhones & Tablets

Browse free iPhones and tablets for Lifeline customers: iPhone 14, 13, 11, 8 Plus, 7 and free government tablets. Compare specs and apply.

Read more

Free iPhone & Lifeline FAQs

Answers to common questions about free iPhones, Lifeline eligibility, free government phones, recertification and switching.

Read more

Documents Needed for Lifeline

See which documents prove Lifeline eligibility: program letters, income proof and ID. Prepare before you apply for a free phone.

Read more

Contact iPhone Government

Contact iPhone Government by phone or email. Enrollment 1-800-463-4699, technical support 1-800-177-8829, SIM requests 1-675-338-8924.

Read more

Ready to get your free iPhone?

Check your eligibility, choose your device and apply online in about five minutes.