Are you looking to get a free 5G Government Phones and tablets? If yes, then you have stumbled upon the right article.
Many service providers are now switching their network to 5G as it provides a faster network connection, but the cost of 5G smartphones is very high, and not everyone can afford them.
As someone who came from a low-income family background and wanted for a long time to get his hands on a brand new 5G phone, and finally got one from the government assistance program.
Although the process was a bit tricky, there was even a time when my application got rejected due to a slight mistake on my application form.
However, I didn’t give up and started my application again, carefully filling out the application form and attaching documents where required.
I finally got accepted, and my free 5G government phone was delivered in a week.
In this article, I have shared my personal experience of applying for free government phones and tablets.
I have also shared some necessary information about these government assistance programs, such as their eligibility criteria, documents, and the application process.
So, without further ado, let’s get started.
Understanding the Free 5G Government Phones and Tablets Program
To bridge the digital gap, the government offers free phones & Tablets with free monthly data. These benefits are offered through the Federal Communications Commission FCC Lifeline and Affordable Connectivity Program ACP.
The Lifeline program was started in 1985 by the federal government to provide a $9.25 discount on monthly data plans, this discount is even higher on tribal lands, ranging up to $34.25.
ACP is the latest program that replaced the Emergency Broadband Benefit Program as a permanent solution. It offers discounts of up to $30 on nontribal land and $75 on tribal lands for monthly wireless services.
In addition, it offers a $100 ACP discount to purchase a free 5G government tablet and a phone. However, customers must make a co-pay between $10 and $50.
How to Get Free 5g Government Phones and Tablets in March 2024
The US government is giving people free 5G phones, tablets, and cell phone service as part of a larger effort to encourage the adoption of 5G technology. The goal is to get as many people using 5G as possible so that the country can reap the benefits of this new wireless standard
The government provides free 5G phones, such as a “free Government iPhone” or a “Government Samsung Phone,” to eligible low-income residents through its partnerships with major wireless carriers and government phone programs.
By visiting the program’s official website, you can find a list of local providers participating in the Lifeline and Affordable Connectivity Program.
Those who qualify can get a free 5G phone, tablets, and additional perks, such as free data, talk time, and more.
Here are the general steps you need to follow.
- Check if you qualify: See if you fit the rules for getting help. This usually means your income is low, or you get benefits like food stamps.
- Find a program: Look for government programs like Lifeline or Affordable Connectivity Program (ACP) that offer free or low-cost phones and tablets.
- Apply: Fill out a form for the program you found. You might need to show papers that prove you qualify.
- Choose a provider: Pick a phone or internet company that works with the government program.
- Get your device: After you’re approved, the company will tell you how to get your phone or tablet.
How to Qualify for a Free Government 5G Phones & Tablet?
Anyone who meets the eligibility criteria set by the government and is able to provide the supporting documents proving their eligibility usually qualifies for the free government 5G phone & tablet.
But before you apply, make sure you are 18 years or older and are a permanent resident of the state you are applying from.
Here are the detailed eligibility prerequisites and documents required to get a free or discounted 5G phone or a tablet from the government –
Eligibility Criteria
Eligibility is based on low income or participation in government assistance programs.
Income Eligibility
- For Lifeline, your household income should be at or below 135% of the Federal Poverty Guidelines.
- For ACP, your annual household income must be at or below 200% of the Federal Poverty Guidelines.
Government Program Participation
The federal and state governments provide assistance programs for low-income households, and you may be eligible for free 5G government phones through one of the following government aid programs –
- Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP)
- Supplemental Security Income (SSI.)
- Medicaid
- Federal Public Housing Assistance (FPHA)
- Veterans Pension and Survivors Benefit
- Temporary Assistance for Needy Families
Tribal Program Participation
The government will provide free 5G phones if you meet specific conditions and live on tribal lands. Here are several programs through which you might be able to get a free 5G government phone –
- Tribal Temporary Assistance for Needy Families (Tribal TANF)
- Food Distribution Program on Indian Reservations
- Tribal Head Start
- Bureau of Indian Affairs General Assistance
Documents Required
You will also be required to prove your eligibility for the program through which you apply for the free 5G government phones and tablets. You will need legal, valid government documents verifying your claim.
Here is the list of the accepted documents based on your eligibility.
Income documents
If you apply for the Lifeline or ACP on the basis of your low income, you must prove that your income falls below the prescribed limit for the program.
You can check for these documents to substantiate your income.
- Income statement from your current employer
- Child support award
- Divorce decree
- Previous year’s state, federal, or tribal tax return
- Unemployment or worker’s compensation statements of benefits
- Social security statement of benefits
- Veterans Administration statement of benefits
- Pension/retirement statement of benefits
Program documents
If you qualify by participating in other eligible government support programs, you should provide any official document to prove your participation.
The accepted documents include the following.
- Benefit award letter
- Benefit verification letter
- Program’s approval letter
- Statement of benefits
General Documents
You may require some additional documents to prove your age, identity, or address. In that case, you must have these important documents while applying for the Lifeline and ACP program.
- Birth certificate
- Passport
- Driving license
- Certificate of U.S. citizenship
- Valid government, military, tribal or state ID
- Green card
- Mortgage or lease statement
- Recent W-2 or tax return
- Utility bill
Additionally, if you apply for free 5G government phones and Tablets as an individual below 18, you must have a document to prove you are an emancipated minor.
How to Apply for Free 5G Government Phones and Tablets
In the next sections, I have shared the exact steps to apply for free government 5G Phones and tablets.
Apply for Free Government 5G Phones
Here are the steps to apply for a free 5G government phone program.
- First of all, visit the National Verifier’s website and verify if you are eligible for Lifeline and ACP programs.
- If yes, visit the Lifeline program’s official website. You can use this URL – https://nv.fcc.gov/lifeline?ln=RW5nbGlzaA%3D%3D
- Select your state from the drop-down list and click the Get Started button.
- Fill in all of the information and click on the Next button.
- Submit all of the necessary documents.
- Select a service provider participating in the Lifeline program and offering free 5G phones.
- Submit your application.
Alternatively, you can fill out an offline Lifeline application form at “lifelinesupport.org/wp-content/uploads/documents/get-lifeline/LI_Application_NVstates.pdf ” and attach copies of your eligibility documents.
Once done, send your application to USAC, Lifeline Support Centre, P.O Box 9100, Wilkes-Barre, PA, 18773.
That’s it. This is how you can easily apply for free 5G government phones.
Apply for Free Government 5G Tablets
If, instead of a 5G phone, you want a 5G tablet, here are the steps you need to follow.
- First, visit the official website of the Affordable Connectivity program at “https://www.affordableconnectivity.gov/.” As it’s the only government program that offers free tablets.
- Alternatively you can also visit the official website of your chooser service provider and apply for ACP through them.
- Click on Apply now.
- Fill out the free government 5G tablet form and attach scanned copies of your eligibility documents.
- Submit and wait for approval.
Alternatively, you can also fill out an offline application form at “https://www.affordableconnectivity.gov/wp-content/uploads/ACP-Application-Form-English.pdf” and a household worksheet form “https://www.affordableconnectivity.gov/wp-content/uploads/lifeline/images/ACP-Household-Worksheet-English.pdf.”
Attach photocopies of your documents and send them to ACP Support Center, P.O Box 9100, Wilkes-Barre, PA, 18773.
Note: Please note that from February 7, 2024, the ACP program has stopped taking any applications.
Program that Provides Free 5G Phones & Tablets to Low-income
The Lifeline and Affordable Connectivity Program (ACP) offers 5G government phones to eligible low-income individuals to enhance their access to advanced communication technology
Lifeline Program
The Lifeline Program provides free or discounted phones to low-income individuals, helping ensure access to essential communication tools. Applicants must meet income criteria or participate in certain assistance programs like Medicaid or SNAP.
Affordable Connectivity Program (ACP)
This program offers discounts on broadband service and connected devices like smartphones and tablets for eligible households, aiming to ensure that all individuals have access to essential communication services.
Under the ACP program, customers get a one-time ACP time discount of $100 to purchase 4G or 5G tablets. However, you have to make a co-pay of $10 to $50.
Top 5 Free 5G Government Phone and Tablet Providers with Unlimited Data
Below, we have covered some of the best providers offering free government phone programs to low-income families. Through participating providers, you can get free 5G phones from the government.
StandUp Wireless
Standup Wireless is another carrier that provides prepaid wireless services under the Lifeline and ACP program. You can expect a free 5G phone or tablet from this provider.
Currently, they are only offering a StandUp Wireless free government tablet, but there is also a high chance that they will provide a free phone in the near future.
If eligible, you can find out whether the provider offers its benefits in your state and visit “standupwireless.com” to apply for a free 5G phone or a tablet.
Qlink wireless
Q Link Wireless is a telecommunications company headquartered in Dania, Florida, in the United States. It provides free wireless services to Lifeline and ACP-eligible households.
Our recent research shows that they only offer their customers Qlink Wireless free government tablets. However, You can get free government 5G phones and tablets from this provider based on availability.
You can visit their official website to enroll in their services at “www.qlinkwireless.com.” Here are the steps to do so.
- Visit Qlink Wireless’s official website at “https://qlinkwireless.com/”
- Enter your Zip Code and Email address.
- Complete the application form and upload eligibility documents.
- Apply and Wait for approval.
Cintex Wireless
Cintex Wireless is an Eligible Telecommunications Carrier (ETC) that offers Lifeline and ACP service to qualified low-income people.
It provides Cintex Wireless free phone and Cintex Wireless free tablet with free phone services through its Lifeline +ACP combo plan.
You can get free government 5G phones and tablets from Cintex Wireless if the device is available during your application.
Currently, they are offering free government Samsung Galaxy models such as A51, A10E, etc., which are 5G phones. As for tablets, they are offering a Cintex Table at a price of $10.1.
You can apply for Cintex Wireless if eligible by following the steps below.
- To apply, visit “https://apply.cintexwireless.com/apply”
- Enter your Zip code and click on “Apply Now.”
- Choose your plan and Fill out the application form.
- Upload eligibility documents.
- Submit and wait for approval.
SafeLink Wireless
SafeLink Wireless is a Lifeline provider offering free Safelink 5G government phones to individuals who qualify.
Upon completing the Safelink application process for the Lifeline program, you can get a free phone and receive 350 free minutes every month. However, if you need unlimited monthly phone service, check if you qualify for the Lifeline+ACP combo plan.
Assurance Wireless
Assurance Wireless also participates in the federal government’s Lifeline program, providing qualifying customers with free Android mobile phones and plans.
Once you apply for Assurance Wireless, you are given the option of selecting a free Assurance Wireless phone, and you’ll also get a free SIM card along with Assurance Wireless free internet and phone services such as Unlimited Talk and Text.
Here are the steps you need to follow.
- Visit the official website of Assurance Wireless and click on “Apply Now.”
- Fill out the application form and attach the necessary documents.
- Submit and wait for approval.
AirTalk Wireless
Airtalk Wireless free government smartphones with free monthly phone services are available through its Lifeline +ACP Combo Plans.
You can also get 5G phones and tablets through this combo deal if you are eligible and if 5G devices are available at the time of your application.
We can say surely that this provider offers a 5G smartphone, as they are one of the biggest free government iPhone providers in the United States.
You can learn more and apply for the provider’s Lifeline and ACP benefits at its official website at “airtalkwireless.com.” Here are the steps to do so.
- Visit the official website of AirTalk Wireless and click on “Apply.”
- Enter your zip code and complete the application form.
- Make sure to choose the Lifeline+ACP combo plan.
- Upload the eligibility documents.
- Apply and wait for approval.
Top Free 5G Phones & Tablets You Get From The Government
The providers do not reveal their phone models through the Lifeline or ACP programs. Upon qualifying for these programs, the phone you receive depends on factors such as availability at the time of your application, your state of residence, the provider, etc.
As such, it is difficult to specify the exact phone models you get under these programs. However, according to the sources, you can get one of the following 5G phones and tablets from the government for free or at a discounted price.
Free 5G Government Phones Model
Here are the Top free 5G Government phones you can expect via the free Government phone program:
iPhone 13 Pro Max
The iPhone 13 Pro Max features a 6.7-inch Super Retina XDR OLED display with HDR10 and Dolby Vision, complemented by a 120Hz refresh rate for smooth visuals. It’s powered by the A15 Bionic chip, which includes a 6-core CPU, 5-core GPU, and 16-core Neural Engine, ensuring top-notch performance.
The device boasts a triple-camera setup consisting of 12 MP wide, ultra-wide, and telephoto lenses, enhanced with Night mode, Deep Fusion, and Apple ProRAW capabilities. Additionally, it supports 5G connectivity, offering faster download and streaming speeds.
Samsung Galaxy S20
The Samsung Galaxy S20 features a dynamic 6.2-inch AMOLED display with a 120Hz refresh rate, ensuring vibrant and smooth visuals. Depending on the region, it’s powered by the Exynos 990 or Snapdragon 865 chipset. The device includes a versatile triple-camera system for high-quality photography.
Samsung Galaxy A32
The Samsung Galaxy A32 boasts a 6.4-inch Super AMOLED display and is equipped with the MediaTek Helio G80 processor. It comes with a quad-camera setup, including a 64 MP main sensor, offering a solid photography experience.
Motorola Edge+
Motorola Edge+ stands out with its 6.7-inch Endless Edge display and Snapdragon 865 processor. It offers a 108 MP primary camera, delivering stunning photo quality, and supports 5G connectivity.
Sony Xperia 1 II
Sony Xperia 1 II is designed for multimedia enthusiasts, featuring a 6.5-inch 4K HDR OLED display, and is powered by the Snapdragon 865 processor. It has a triple-camera system co-developed with Sony’s Alpha camera engineers.
Samsung Galaxy S21 Ultra
Samsung Galaxy S21 Ultra showcases a 6.8-inch Dynamic AMOLED 2X display with a 120Hz refresh rate. It includes an advanced camera system with a 108 MP main sensor and is powered by the Exynos 2100 or Snapdragon 888 chipset.
Google Pixel 4A 5G
Google Pixel 4A 5G offers a 6.2-inch OLED display and runs on the Snapdragon 765G chipset. It’s known for its excellent camera capabilities, including a 12.2 MP dual-pixel main camera, and it supports 5G connectivity.
Here is a comparison table of free 5G government phones.
| Device | Display | Processor | RAM | Storage | Battery | Camera |
| iPhone 13 Pro Max | 6.7-inch Super Retina XDR display | Apple A15 Bionic chip | 6GB RAM | 128GB, 256GB, 512GB, 1TB | 4352 mAh | 12MP triple-lens rear camera, 12MP front-facing camera |
| Samsung Galaxy S20 | 6.2-inch Dynamic AMOLED 2X display | Qualcomm Snapdragon 865 5G chip | 8GB RAM | 128GB, 256GB, 512GB | 4000 mAh | 12MP triple-lens rear camera, 10MP front-facing camera |
| Samsung Galaxy A32 | 6.6-inch HD+ Infinity-V display | MediaTek Helio G80 chip | 4GB RAM | 64GB, 128GB | 5000 mAh | 48MP quad-lens rear camera, 13MP front-facing camera |
| Motorola Edge+ | 6.7-inch OLED display | Qualcomm Snapdragon 8 Gen 1 chip | 12GB RAM | 128GB, 256GB, 512GB | 5000 mAh | 50MP triple-lens rear camera, 60MP front-facing camera |
| Sony Xperia 1 II | 6.5-inch OLED display | Qualcomm Snapdragon 865 5G chip | 8GB RAM | 256GB | 4500 mAh | 12MP triple-lens rear camera, 8MP front-facing camera |
| Samsung Galaxy S21 Ultra | 6.8-inch Dynamic AMOLED 2X display | Qualcomm Snapdragon 8 Gen 1 chip | 8GB, 12GB RAM | 128GB, 256GB, 512GB, 1TB | 5000 mAh | 108MP quad-lens rear camera, 40MP front-facing camera |
| Google Pixel 4A 5G | 6.2-inch OLED display | Google Tensor chip | 6GB RAM | 128GB | 3885 mAh | 12.2MP dual-lens rear camera, 8MP front-facing camera |
Free 5G Government Tablet Models
Here are a few free 5G government tablet models you can recieve.
Samsung Galaxy Tab A7 Lite 5G
This is a smaller tablet that connects to 5G networks. It’s made by Samsung and is good for basic tasks and some games.
Apple iPad Air (2020)
The iPad Air from 2020 is a thin and light tablet from Apple. It’s powerful and can be used for drawing, working, and watching videos.
Amazon Fire HD 10 Plus
This is a budget-friendly tablet from Amazon. It has a big 10-inch screen and can be used for reading, watching movies, and browsing the web.
Lenovo Tab P11 Plus
Lenovo’s Tab P11 Plus is a tablet good for both work and play. It has a nice screen and speakers, making it great for watching shows and doing tasks.
TCL Tab 10 5G
This tablet from TCL can connect to 5G networks. It’s designed for streaming videos and staying connected on the go.
Alcatel A7
The Alcatel A7 is a budget-friendly tablet. It’s good for basic tasks like web browsing and watching videos.
Tracfone Alcatel A3 5G
This is a simple tablet that works with Tracfone’s service. It can connect to 5G, making it good for browsing the internet and using apps.
ZTE ZPad 11
The ZTE ZPad 11 is a tablet with a big screen. It’s good for watching movies and doing work on a larger display.
Coolpad Max 5G
This is a 5G tablet from Coolpad. It’s designed for fast internet speeds and can be used for streaming, gaming, and more.
| Feature | Samsung Galaxy Tab A7 Lite 5G | Apple iPad Air (2020) | TCL Tab 10 5G | Coolpad Max 5G |
Amazon Fire HD 10 Plus
|
| Display | 10.25-inch TFT LCD | 10.9-inch Liquid Retina IPS LCD | 10.1-inch IPS LCD | 10.1-inch IPS LCD |
10.1-inch IPS LCD
|
| Processor | MediaTek Helio G80 | Apple A14 Bionic | MediaTek Dimensity 720 | MediaTek Dimensity 800 |
MediaTek Helio P60
|
| RAM | 3GB | 3GB | 6GB | 6GB | 4GB |
| Storage | 32GB | 64GB | 64GB | 128GB | 64GB |
| Rear Camera | 8MP | 12MP | 8MP | 48MP | 5MP |
| Front Camera | 5MP | 7MP | 5MP | 8MP | 2MP |
| Battery | 5100mAh | 7600mAh | 8000mAh | 8000mAh | 7000mAh |
| Operating System | Android 11 | iPadOS 14 | Android 11 | Android 11 | Fire OS 7 |
Benefits Of Free 5G Government Phones And Tablets
While free 5G government phones and tablets are a benefit, you can have these additional benefits with it.
Affordability
The free 5G government phones and tablets help you save money that you would have otherwise used to purchase a brand-new phone.
Beneficial to low-earners
The free phone is especially beneficial to low-income people who can not pay for it. You can enjoy the discounted phone services with a free phone.
Enjoy online services
The free phone or tablet allows you to apply for online jobs, access emergency health care services, get online educational sources, or shop online.
Entertainment
You can have unlimited entertainment by watching videos, movies, or playing games.
High-speed Internet
With 5G smartphones, you can get access to a high-speed free government 5G internet, which is again useful in many ways. Besides, you get to enjoy the features of a 5G phone for free.
FAQs About Free Government 5g Smartphones
Why is the government offering 5G phones?
Compared to previous generations of mobile technology, 5G has numerous advantages. People will have faster access to information and programs with the introduction of 5G networks than with 4G. In addition, 5G networks outperform their predecessor in dependability and coverage.
How Much will the government pay for 5G phones?
The cost of a 5G phone will vary depending on its make and model. However, eligible citizens are expected to receive financial assistance to offset the cost of these phones.
Can I get a free 5G Government phone if I am unemployed?
Yes, you can get a free Government phone for unemployed workers under the same scheme.
Do I need to undergo the Lifeline recertification process?
Yes. The Lifeline recertification process is necessary to keep enjoying Lifeline’s services.
What are the Best free 5g Government Phones Samsung?
Samsung Galaxy S21 Ultra, S20, and S10 5G are the most suitable 5G smartphones by Samsung.
Can Existing Free 4G Phones Be Upgraded to 5G?
Existing 4G phones from government programs like Lifeline can’t be automatically upgraded to 5G. To access 5G, a specific 5G-enabled device is needed. If you have a 4G phone from these programs and want a 5G phone, you might need to cover the upgrade costs yourself, as the program typically offers basic models and not the latest 5G phones.
Closing Comments
A detailed article covers free 5G government phones & tablets, how to apply, available models, service providers, and more. We tried to cover everything about the topic. However, if you have any questions, please shoot them in the comment section below. Our team will try to respond ASAP.
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I’ve heard about the free 5G government phone program. Is this available to everyone, or are there specific requirements to be eligible?
The free 5G government phone program typically has specific eligibility requirements, often based on income level or participation in certain government assistance programs. It’s not available to everyone but aims to help those in need of telecommunication services.
What kind of phones are offered through this program? Are they basic models, or do they have modern features?
The phones provided through these programs usually include basic to modern features necessary for everyday use, including access to 5G networks. The exact model can vary based on the program’s current availability and agreements with phone manufacturers.
I’m concerned about the digital divide in rural areas. Does the free 5G government phone program extend to those living in less accessible locations?
The program aims to address the digital divide by including rural and underserved areas, although service availability can vary depending on the infrastructure and coverage in those locations. It’s worth checking the specific program details for your area.
How does the application process work for obtaining a free 5G government phone? Is it a complicated procedure?
The application process usually involves filling out a form and providing proof of eligibility, such as income level or enrollment in qualifying government assistance programs. While it aims to be straightforward, the exact procedure can vary by program.
With the introduction of 5G technology, are there concerns about privacy and security with these free government phones?
Privacy and security are important considerations for any telecommunications service. The free government phone programs adhere to industry standards for privacy and security, but users should always stay informed and practice safe communication habits.
Is there a limit to how many free 5G phones a household can receive, or can each eligible member apply for one?
There are often limits to prevent misuse of the program, typically allowing one device per eligible household or individual, but this can vary. Check the specific terms and conditions of the program for detailed information.
What happens if the phone gets lost or damaged? Is there a replacement policy, or would I need to reapply for a new one?
Most programs have a policy for lost or damaged phones, which may involve a replacement fee or process for obtaining a new device. It’s important to review the program’s terms for handling such situations.
Can I keep my current phone number if I switch to a free 5G government phone, or do I have to get a new number?
In many cases, you can transfer your current phone number to the new device. The process, known as “porting,” is a standard feature in telecommunications services, but it’s always good to confirm with the program provider.
Are there any additional benefits or features included with the free 5G government phone, like data plans or text messaging services?
Along with the phone, the program often includes a basic service plan that may feature a certain amount of call minutes, text messages, and data usage. The specifics can vary, so it’s beneficial to check what’s included in the package.
With the rapid advancement in technology, how frequently are the phone models updated in this program? Would users have access to newer models as they become available?
The frequency of updates to the phone models offered can vary based on the program’s agreements with manufacturers and available funding. While updates might not be immediate upon new releases, efforts are usually made to provide relatively current technology to users.