"Free government phone" is one of the most searched phrases around Lifeline. It usually means a phone that comes free from a Lifeline provider when you qualify for Lifeline service. The government doesn't manufacture, buy or mail phones. Here's the full picture, and what Combo Wireless offers.
What a free government phone really is
Lifeline is a federal program, run by the FCC and administered by the Universal Service Administrative Company (USAC). It gives eligible households a monthly discount on phone or internet service, up to $9.25 a month, or up to $34.25 on Tribal lands. The program is funded through the Universal Service Fund.
Providers like Combo Wireless deliver that discounted service. Many providers also offer a free device to customers who enroll. That device is the provider's offer, not a government benefit.
Maximum monthly discount applied to a qualifying service plan, not a cash payment.
Source: USAC – Lifeline Program; FCC – Lifeline Support for Affordable Communications
The Samsung Galaxy phones we offer
Our free "Phone" options are three refurbished Samsung Galaxy models. Each one is free for eligible customers who enroll in Combo Wireless service.
| Feature | Samsung Galaxy S24 | Samsung Galaxy Z Flip | Samsung Galaxy Z Fold |
|---|---|---|---|
| Display | 6.2-inch Dynamic AMOLED 2X, up to 120Hz | — | — |
| Processor | Snapdragon 8 Gen 3 for Galaxy (U.S. models) | — | — |
| Camera | 50MP main, 12MP ultra wide, 10MP 3x telephoto | — | — |
| Software | Android with One UI and Galaxy AI features | Android with One UI | Android with One UI |
| Updates | Samsung committed to 7 years of OS and security updates | — | — |
| Connector | USB-C | — | — |
| Design | — | Clamshell foldable that closes to pocket size | Book-style foldable: phone outside, small tablet inside |
| Main display | — | About 6.7-inch foldable AMOLED (varies by generation) | About 7.6-inch foldable AMOLED (varies by generation) |
| Cover screen | — | Outer screen for notifications, widgets and selfies | Full phone-style outer display |
| Flex Mode | — | Stands half-open for hands-free video calls | — |
| Generation | — | Varies by availability; confirmed before shipping | Varies by availability; confirmed before shipping |
| Multitasking | — | — | Run up to three apps side by side |
| Best for | A compact flagship Android phone with a long update window | A full-size screen that folds into a small pocketable square | People who want a phone and a small tablet in one device |
| Price (eligible) | Free, refurbished | Free, refurbished | Free, refurbished |
Prefer Apple? See our free government iPhone options.
Your phone always comes in a combo
Combo Wireless pairs your Galaxy phone with a second free device:
- Phone & Tablet combo, with the Samsung Galaxy Tab A9
- Phone & iPad combo, with an iPad 7th or 9th Gen
- Phone & Laptop combo, with a Chromebook, Dell Latitude or MacBook Pro
Service on your phone
Your line includes unlimited talk & text with a qualifying data allowance on the T-Mobile network. The Lifeline discount is applied to this service. See plans for details and coverage to check your area.
Who qualifies for a free government phone
You need to qualify for Lifeline first. You can qualify if you or someone in your household receives:
- SNAP (food stamps / EBT)
- Medicaid
- Supplemental Security Income (SSI)
- Federal Public Housing Assistance (including Section 8 vouchers)
- Veterans Pension and Survivors Benefit
You can also qualify with household income at or below 135% of the Federal Poverty Guidelines. California and Tribal-lands residents have additional qualifying programs.
How to get your free phone
- 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.
Switching from another carrier? You can keep your number and still get a free phone when you switch.
Free government phone FAQs
Is a free government phone really free?
With Combo Wireless, yes, for eligible customers who enroll: the phone is free, refurbished and ships free. The government's role is the Lifeline service discount, not the phone.
Can I get a free government phone with no income?
Having no income doesn't disqualify you. If your household income is at or below 135% of the poverty guidelines, including zero income, you may qualify, with proper documentation.
Can I get a free government phone online?
Yes. Apply online with Combo Wireless, and your devices ship to you.
Can I have two free government phones?
No. Lifeline is limited to one benefit per household, from one provider.