Search "free government iPhone" and you'll find plenty of offers. Here's what's true: no government program buys iPhones. Lifeline lowers the monthly cost of qualifying service. Some providers, including Combo Wireless, offer a free iPhone to customers who qualify for Lifeline and enroll in their service.
Our free iPhone lineup
| Feature | iPhone 7 | iPhone 13 | iPhone 14 | iPhone 15 |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Display | 4.7-inch Retina HD | 6.1-inch Super Retina XDR (OLED) | 6.1-inch Super Retina XDR (OLED) | 6.1-inch Super Retina XDR with Dynamic Island |
| Chip | A10 Fusion | A15 Bionic | A15 Bionic (5-core GPU) | A16 Bionic |
| Camera | 12MP rear, 7MP front | Dual 12MP rear (wide + ultra wide), 12MP front | Dual 12MP rear, 12MP front with autofocus | 48MP main + 12MP ultra wide, 12MP front |
| Security | Touch ID | Face ID | — | — |
| Connector | Lightning | Lightning | Lightning | USB-C |
| Software | iOS 15 is the last major iOS version for this model | — | — | — |
| Connectivity | — | 5G capable, physical SIM + eSIM | 5G capable, eSIM only (U.S. models) | 5G capable, eSIM only (U.S. models) |
| Safety | — | — | Crash Detection, Emergency SOS via satellite | Crash Detection, Emergency SOS via satellite |
| Best for | Calls, texts, maps and everyday apps on a compact phone | A balanced iPhone with strong battery life and current iOS support | Added safety features and an eSIM-only setup | The newest iPhone we offer, with USB-C and a 48MP camera |
| Price (eligible) | Free, refurbished | Free, refurbished | Free, refurbished | Free, refurbished |
Which iPhone is right for you?
| If you want… | Choose |
|---|---|
| The newest design, USB-C charging and a 48MP camera | iPhone 15 |
| Crash Detection and Emergency SOS via satellite | iPhone 14 or iPhone 15 |
| A physical SIM card option | iPhone 13 or iPhone 7 |
| A small phone with a Home button and Touch ID | iPhone 7 |
| The longest remaining iOS support | iPhone 15 |
About the iPhone 7: its last major software version is iOS 15. It still makes calls, sends texts and runs many apps, but some new apps and updates require newer iOS versions.
eSIM vs. physical SIM
U.S. iPhone 14 and iPhone 15 models don't have a SIM tray; they activate with an eSIM, a digital SIM built into the phone. The iPhone 13 supports both, and the iPhone 7 uses a physical SIM. Our support page walks you through activation either way.
Pair your iPhone with a second free device
Every iPhone comes as part of a combo:
- iPhone & iPad: the all-Apple option with iMessage, FaceTime and AirDrop on both
- iPhone & Tablet: an iPhone plus the Samsung Galaxy Tab A9
- iPhone & Laptop: pair with a MacBook Pro, Dell Latitude or Chromebook
Who qualifies for a free government iPhone
First, qualify for Lifeline service through SNAP/EBT, Medicaid, SSI, Federal Public Housing Assistance, the Veterans Pension, or income. Then enroll with Combo Wireless in California, New York, Texas or Florida.
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
Free government iPhone FAQs
Is the free iPhone new?
No. All iPhones we offer are refurbished and include the standard manufacturer or provider warranty where applicable.
Can I get an iPhone 16 or newer?
Not currently. Our lineup is the iPhone 7, 13, 14 and 15. We'll update this page if that changes.
Can I keep my number when I get the iPhone?
Yes. You can transfer your existing number when you switch. See how to keep your number.
Do I need an Apple Account?
An Apple Account is free and recommended for the App Store, iCloud backups, iMessage and FaceTime.