Approved Lifeline provider · T-Mobile network
Free Government Phone and Tablet Combo
Combo Wireless pairs qualifying wireless service with two free refurbished devices: a phone or iPhone plus a tablet, iPad or laptop. Service is available to eligible households in California, New York, Texas, Florida and on Tribal lands.
- Unlimited talk & text
- Free standard shipping
- Refurbished devices with warranty
- Qualify with SNAP, Medicaid or SSI
Choose your free government device combo
Nine combinations, no repeats. Every combo is tied to one Combo Wireless service line with unlimited talk & text and a qualifying data allowance on the T-Mobile network.
What "free government phone and tablet" actually means
People search for a free government phone or free government tablet because they have heard about Lifeline, the federal program that helps low-income households afford phone and internet service. Here is how it really works:
- Lifeline is a service discount. It lowers the monthly cost of a qualifying phone or internet plan by up to $9.25, or up to $34.25 on Tribal lands.
- Lifeline does not pay for devices. No government program hands out phones, tablets or laptops through Lifeline.
- The devices are our offer. Combo Wireless provides the phone, tablet, iPad or laptop free to eligible customers who enroll in our service.
That is why you will see the phrase "free government phone" on this site: it is what people search for, and we explain exactly what is behind it.
Maximum monthly discount applied to a qualifying service plan, not a cash payment.
Source: USAC – Lifeline Program; FCC – Lifeline Support for Affordable Communications
From application to delivery in four steps
Most applications take about 10 minutes. You will need basic personal details and proof that you qualify.
- 1
Check eligibility
Qualify through SNAP, Medicaid, SSI, other programs or household income.
- 2
Apply online
Complete our secure application and choose your device combo.
- 3
Verification
Your eligibility is confirmed through the Lifeline verification process.
- 4
Get connected
Your free refurbished devices ship with free standard shipping.
Read the full enrollment walkthrough · See which documents you need
The devices in every combo
Pick from 13 refurbished models across five device types. Each one ships free and includes the standard manufacturer or provider warranty where applicable.
Count of models currently offered.
- Samsung Galaxy phones3
- iPhones4
- Tablet1
- iPads2
- Laptops3
Source: Combo Wireless current offer lineup.
iPhones, Galaxy phones, tablets, iPads and laptops
Choose an iPhone (7, 13, 14 or 15) or a Samsung Galaxy phone (S24, Z Flip or Z Fold), then pair it with the Galaxy Tab A9, an iPad 7th or 9th Gen, or a Chromebook, Dell Latitude or MacBook Pro.
Already happy with your phone? The tablet and laptop combo lets you bring your own phone for service.
Browse all devicesDo you qualify for a free phone and tablet combo?
You can qualify for Lifeline service in one of two ways. Once your eligibility is verified, you can enroll in Combo Wireless service and receive your free devices.
Through a program
SNAP (EBT), Medicaid, SSI, Federal Public Housing Assistance or the Veterans Pension and Survivors Benefit.
Through income
Household income at or below 135% of the Federal Poverty Guidelines, or $21,546 a year for one person in 2026.
135% of the 2026 Federal Poverty Guidelines, 48 contiguous states and D.C. Household size shown under each bar.
Source: USAC Lifeline Support – How to Qualify; HHS – Poverty Guidelines
Quick eligibility check
Answer two questions. Nothing is saved or sent.
Approved Lifeline provider in four states
Each state has its own regulator and rules. California runs its own LifeLine program with higher income limits and more qualifying programs than federal Lifeline. We also serve eligible customers on Tribal lands.
Annual household income limit by household size (1–4 people).
Source: USAC Lifeline Support – How to Qualify; CPUC – California LifeLine Eligibility
Built to be clear, fair and useful
T-Mobile network
Your line runs on the T-Mobile network. Check coverage at your address before you apply.
Refurbished, not second-rate
Every device is refurbished and includes the standard manufacturer or provider warranty where applicable.
Free standard shipping
Your devices ship to your address free. No pickup, no store visit.
Terms in plain English
We state what is free, what is required and what the program does and does not cover. See our terms.
Privacy first
We only collect what enrollment requires. Read our privacy policy.
Switching is simple
Keep your number and get a free phone when you switch to Combo Wireless.
Free government phone and tablet questions
Is the phone and tablet combo really free?
Yes, for eligible customers. Both devices are free and refurbished when you qualify and enroll in Combo Wireless service. Shipping is free too. The devices are a Combo Wireless offer; Lifeline itself only discounts the monthly cost of service.
Does the government give out free tablets?
No. Lifeline, the current federal program, is a discount on phone or internet service and does not pay for devices. The Affordable Connectivity Program (ACP), which included a one-time device discount, ended in 2024. Any free tablet you get from Combo Wireless is our offer to eligible customers.
Can I get a free tablet with EBT or Medicaid?
SNAP (EBT) and Medicaid are two of the most common ways to qualify for Lifeline service. If you qualify and enroll with us, you can choose a combo that includes a free tablet or iPad. See free tablet with EBT and free tablet with Medicaid.
Which states do you serve?
California, New York, Texas and Florida, including eligible customers on Tribal lands. If you live elsewhere, you can still apply for Lifeline with another provider through the National Verifier.
How many Lifeline benefits can my household get?
One. Lifeline is limited to one discount per household, not per person. A household is a group of people who live together and share income and expenses.
Can I keep my phone number?
Yes. You can transfer your number when you switch to Combo Wireless and still get a free phone when you switch.
How long does delivery take?
Your devices ship with free standard shipping once your application is approved and your service is set up.
What happens if I don't use my line?
Lifeline has a usage rule: if the line is not used for 30 days, you will get a 15-day notice, and the benefit ends if the line is still unused. A single call, text or data session keeps it active.
Compare Lifeline providers and 5G phones
Not sure which provider fits you? See a factual side-by-side of six Lifeline providers, or learn how free 5G phones really work.
Helpful Lifeline guides
Clear, sourced explanations of the questions we hear most.
Ready for your free phone and tablet combo?
Check your eligibility and apply in about 10 minutes. We email you every step.