For many, mobile phones have become indispensable. Regrettably, they are often costly. Monthly subscriptions alone may exceed $100, not to mention the price of the phone. Indeed, the cost of a smartphone can vary between $700 and $1,000.

Luckily, astute shoppers can discover affordable plans that include a complimentary smartphone. Certain choices are exclusively for households with low income, whereas different selections cater to a wider audience of consumers.

1. AirTalk Wireless

AirTalk Wireless operates as a service provider under the Federal Lifeline and Affordable Connectivity Program (ACP), providing free smartphones to qualified persons. Eligible recipients can greatly benefit from this offer, as it not only encompasses a complimentary smartphone but also includes no-cost high-speed data, voice calls, and messaging. Furthermore, this offering is accessible across the entire United States.

Regarding the complimentary smartphone, AirTalk Wireless offers multiple options to its users. For example, one could choose from the iPhone 7, Galaxy S9, or Google Pixel 3 XL. Thus, customers have the flexibility to select either an iOS or an Android device.

Who qualifies? Eligibility might be determined by your income level or if you benefit from any of these government schemes:

• SNAP/Food Stamps;
• Medicaid;
• Supplemental Security Income, and;
• Veterans Pension and Survivors Benefit.

2. Life Wireless

Life Wireless serves as an additional provider for Lifeline and ACP services. Eligible participants in the program receive a complimentary smartphone along with a plan that offers unlimited data, voice calls, and messaging at no cost. This plan further includes voicemail services, zero roaming fees, and Hotspot data capabilities.

Similar to AirTalk Wireless, qualification hinges on income levels or participation in various government support schemes. Yet, the availability of a complimentary smartphone is more restricted. Contrary to offering choices, Life Wireless asserts that the selection of devices is at their sole discretion.

Life Wireless provides service plans across the entire United States, including Puerto Rico and the Virgin Islands.

3. T-Mobile

If you find you're ineligible for a complimentary phone and cell service via a government scheme, don't be disheartened — there are still options available. For instance, T-Mobile provides cost-effective mobile plans that come with no-cost smartphones for new subscribers. T-Mobile presents several economical plan options catering to a diverse clientele. Seniors may access monthly plans beginning at $40. Plans for first responders, military personnel, and veterans start at $55 a month. Moreover, even if these special discounts do not apply to you, T-Mobile's standard plans remain reasonably priced, with prices initiating at $60 monthly.

The selection of complimentary smartphones is updated regularly. As of this publication, the available models are the Galaxy A13 5G and Nord N20 5G. Over 24 monthly billing cycles, customers accumulate credits that effectively make the phone free.

T-Mobile positions itself as a top mobile provider, emphasizing its dependable service across the country. The company states that it ranks as the second-largest wireless carrier in the U.S. Additionally, it purports to hold the title for the largest 5G network in the nation.

4. SafetyNet Wireless

Should you become eligible for a complimentary phone via a governmental scheme, then consider exploring SafetyNet Wireless. It functions comparably to other Lifeline and ACP service providers, providing eligibility based on specific programs and income levels.

Eligible individuals can receive a complimentary phone along with a monthly service offering free voice calls, messages, and internet data. The provided data quantity differs based on the state, however, additional data can be bought as needed. For example, an extra 1GB is priced at $9.99.

Like Life Wireless, SafetyNet Wireless does not specify the models of phones offered. Yet, the provider assures that the phones, which might be refurbished, will definitely support texting and calling capabilities. While the phone won't be luxurious, it will fulfill its basic functions.

Regrettably, SafetyNet Wireless plans that come with a complimentary phone are not accessible throughout the whole country. However, they are available in these states:

• California;
• Colorado;
• Georgia;
• Kentucky;
• Michigan;
• Missouri;
• New York;
• Oklahoma;
• Pennsylvania, and;
• Wisconsin.

5. TruConnect

TruConnect stands as an additional Lifeline and ACP service provider, offering eligible customers complimentary smartphones and mobile service. It adheres to the identical income and program-dependent eligibility criteria as prior alternatives.

Upon approval, an applicant receives unlimited speech and text services, along with a maximum of 14GB of data each month. The package also offers complimentary international calls. Moreover, clients have the option to buy a "Top Up" for additional data if required.

While TruConnect does not list particular phone brands or models, it mentions that its complimentary plans come with a new Android smartphone. These free plans are offered nationwide, encompassing Puerto Rico and the Virgin Islands.

Explore Your Options to Find Plans with Free Phones

Although eliminating a cellphone from our lives is not feasible for most, there's no need to accept a monthly plan exceeding $100. By dedicating a bit of time to explore online, customers can discover more affordable phone plans offering essential services — such as voice, messaging, and internet — plus a complimentary smartphone.

As programs and offerings differ across states, it's important to evaluate all your available choices to ensure you select the most suitable option for your circumstances. By doing this, you can be assured that you're securing every entitlement and the most advantageous deal possible.