Switching mobile providers can sometimes come with unexpected rewards. One of the biggest perks available today is the chance to get a free phone when you move your number to a new carrier. This opportunity comes in two forms: government assistance programs that provide free devices to qualifying households, and promotional deals from wireless companies that give away phones to attract new customers.
This guide explains how both options work, who qualifies, and how to compare them so you can decide which route makes the most sense for your situation.
Free Government Phone When You Switch Through Lifeline
The Lifeline program, managed by the FCC, helps low-income households stay connected by offering discounted or free phone service. Most providers that participate in Lifeline also supply a free or heavily reduced smartphone as part of the enrollment. In many states, once approved, applicants can receive both service and a device without paying an activation or shipping fee.
Who Qualifies for Lifeline?
Eligibility is based on either income or participation in certain federal or state benefit programs. You may qualify if your household income is at or below 135% of the federal poverty level, or if you’re already enrolled in programs like:
- Medicaid
- Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP)
- Supplemental Security Income (SSI)
- Federal Public Housing Assistance
- Veterans and Survivors Pension Benefit
Only one Lifeline account is allowed per household, and you’ll need to re-certify each year to keep your benefit.
Applying for Lifeline
Applications can be submitted through the National Verifier system at getinternet.gov or through a Lifeline-approved provider. You’ll need to submit proof of identity and eligibility. If approved, your chosen provider will activate service and ship your free phone.
What Happened to the ACP?
The Affordable Connectivity Program (ACP) once offered broadband discounts and device support, including free or low-cost smartphones and tablets through select carriers. However, the ACP ended in June 2024 due to a lack of funding. At this time, Lifeline remains the main federal program offering free phones to eligible households.
Carrier Promotions: Free Phones When You Switch
Outside of government assistance, many wireless companies run promotional deals that provide a free phone to new customers. These offers typically require you to port in an existing number, activate a new line, or commit to a specific service plan.
Here’s how some of the most popular carriers structure their switcher deals:
- T-Mobile & Metro by T-Mobile: T-Mobile often offers free phones through bill credits spread across 24 months. Metro by T-Mobile runs more straightforward deals, where certain Samsung and Motorola and other 5G government phone models are free when you switch and pay for your first month.
- Boost Mobile: Frequently advertises free Android phones for new customers who bring their number. No contracts are required, but you’ll need to cover the first month of service.
- Cricket Wireless: Runs promotions for free entry-level to midrange devices if you activate a line on a qualifying plan, usually $60 or higher, and transfer your number from another carrier.
- Other prepaid brands: Verizon’s prepaid brands, Total by Verizon, StandUp Wireless, and others like Spectrum Mobile, often include free or heavily discounted smartphones as part of limited-time switcher promotions.
Comparing Government Programs vs Carrier Deals
When deciding between Lifeline and carrier promotions, it helps to weigh the trade-offs.
Cost
- Lifeline: Service is free or extremely low-cost. Phones are free with no activation fees.
- Carriers: Free phones are tied to monthly service plans ranging from $30–$60+. Some offers use bill credits, meaning you must keep service for up to two years.
Coverage
- Lifeline: Coverage depends on which major network the provider partners with (T-Mobile, Verizon, or AT&T).
- Carriers: Direct access to nationwide networks with options for larger data plans.
Device Options
- Lifeline: Usually budget or refurbished smartphones such as entry-level Samsung, Motorola, or Alcatel models.
- Carriers: Can include more recent midrange or flagship devices, sometimes even iPhones, Galaxy Z Flip or Google Pixels with trade-ins.
Eligibility
- Lifeline: Strict income or benefit program requirements. One benefit per household.
- Carriers: Open to nearly all customers who switch or activate a new line, but terms vary by promotion.
Benefits and Drawbacks
Government Programs
- Pros: Free service and device, no credit checks, helps households that truly need support.
- Cons: Limited device selection, capped data and talk allowances, one-per-household restriction.
Carrier Promotions
- Pros: Wider variety of phones, larger data allowances, flexible prepaid or postpaid plans.
- Cons: Ongoing service costs, taxes and fees, and sometimes long-term commitments through bill credits.
Key Takeaways
If you qualify, Lifeline is the most affordable way to get both free service and a phone with almost no out-of-pocket costs. If you don’t meet income requirements, switching to a new carrier can still get you a free phone, though you’ll need to cover service charges and possibly commit for a longer term.
Before making a choice, check coverage in your area, compare plan costs, and read the fine print of any promotion.