Buy Free Phone -

: If you leave the carrier before the 36-month term ends, the remaining balance of the "free" phone becomes due immediately on your final bill. 3. Prepaid & Low-Commitment Options

: You generally qualify if your household income is at or below 135% of the Federal Poverty Guidelines (or 150% in California) or if you participate in programs like SNAP , Medicaid , or SSI . buy free phone

: While the phone may be free, you might still need to pay an activation fee or purchase a specific multi-month plan upfront. : If you leave the carrier before the

as "free," but these are usually structured as subsidized installments. : While the phone may be free, you

: The carrier finances the phone over 24 to 36 months and applies a "bill credit" each month to cancel out the installment charge. Requirements :

Prepaid carriers like Metro by T-Mobile and Total Wireless offer free phones when you switch your number to their service.

The Lifeline Assistance Program is a federal benefit that provides free or discounted cell phone service and devices to low-income households.