Are you looking for a way to get a free government iPhone SE? If yes, then you have stumbled upon the right article.
Since the launch of an amazing iPhone SE, I have been looking for a way to get this iPhone, but I couldn’t afford one
Recently, I heard about these government assistance programs that offer iPhone SE to eligible customers. After completing a long application process, I finally got my hands on iPhone SE for free
With this article, I will provide all the information you need for a free government iPhone SE, the eligibility requirements, and how to apply.
So without further ado, let’s get started.
How To Get A Free Government iPhone SE In 2023
The federal government runs many assistance programs, such as Lifeline Assistance and Affordable Connectivity Program (ACP), to help low-income people access technology.
Many service providers participate in these programs and offer their services to eligible customers. For example, qualifying families get a $9.25 monthly Internet discount via the Lifeline program and a $30 monthly discount through the ACP program.
In addition, some providers may also offer entry-level to mid-range free smartphones and even a discounted tablet under these programs.
Getting a free government iPhone SE from these providers requires completing these simple steps.
- Check which government assistance program is operational in your state (Lifeline or ACP)
- Find out the provider offering free iPhone SE under these programs.
- Check your eligibility for the program.
- Check for the availability of necessary documents.
- Apply for the program.
Apart from iPhone SE, you also have a chance to get the free government iPhone latest models through these programs, for that read our guides on “Get free government iPhone 14“, “Get free government iPhone 13,” “Get free government iPhone 12,” and “Get free government iPhone 11“
Top 4 Free Government iPhone SE Programs
Many government assistance programs are operational in various states to offer low-income people affordable Internet services and free smartphones.
Here are the top 4 free government iPhone SE programs.
Lifeline Assistance
Lifeline Assistance is one of the oldest federal government programs established by the Federal Communication Commission (FCC) in 1985 with the aim to provide financially weak people equal access to necessary telecommunications services.
Since then, the program has been helping low-income households afford phone and internet bills. Qualified households can get a monthly discount of up to $9.25 on their phone or internet bill.
This discount is expandable up to $30 for qualified Tribal land households. This discount can be applied to any service, such as landline, cellular, and VoIP. Some providers offer free government smartphones through the Lifeline program.
Affordable Connectivity Program
The Affordable Connectivity Program (ACP) is another initiative of the FCC that began in 2021 by replacing the older FCC’s Emergency Broadband Benefit (EBB) program.
ACP offers broadband internet and home phone service discounts to eligible low-income families.
Qualified families can receive a discount of up to $30 monthly on their internet bill. This discount is up to $75 for qualified Tribal families
The ACP also offers a one-time discount of $100 to purchase Internet-using devices such as laptops, desktop computer tablets, etc. You may even get a free government iPhone SE through the ACP.
National Lifeline Association
The National Lifeline Association (NLAA) is a non-profit organization providing financial assistance to low-income households through the Lifeline program.
The NLAA also offers a free iPhone SE government phone program to low-income households with certain income and residency requirements.
You can visit the organization’s website at https://www.nalalifeline.org to get information on how to apply for their program for a free iPhone SE.
Connect America Fund
The Connect America Fund (CAF) is a government program that provides subsidies to telecommunications carriers offering voice and broadband services in rural areas.
The CAF works to provide internet accessibility in rural areas that are not adequately served. The subsidy a carrier receives under this program depends on the number of customers it serves in these rural areas and the service cost.
As of 2023, the CAF has provided broadband to over 10 million households in rural areas. The program also provides free smartphones in some rural areas.
Requirements to Get a Free Government iPhone SE in 2023?
Qualifying the set eligibility requirements by the service provider and the government’s Lifeline and ACP program is essential to get a free government iPhone SE.
To be eligible for this assistance program,
- You must be 18 or above.
- You should mandatorily be a resident of the state.
If you meet the above primary conditions, you can check the program-specific eligibility criteria below.
- The income threshold to qualify for the Lifeline program is at or below 135% of the federal poverty guideline, meaning your annual household income must not exceed this limit.
- For ACP, your yearly family income should be less than or at 200% of the federal poverty guideline.
If you don’t qualify on an income basis for Lifeline or ACP program, you may qualify if you or your family members participate in any of the government programs mentioned below.
- Medicaid
- Supplemental Security Income (SSI)
- Food Stamps/Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP)
- Special Supplemental Nutrition Program for Women, Infants, and Children (WIC)
- Veterans Pension and Survivors Benefit
- Tribal Temporary Assistance for Needy Families (Tribal TANF)
- Free or Reduced-Price School Lunch Program Food Distribution Program on Indian Reservations
- Federal Public Housing Assistance (FPHA)
- Bureau of Indian Affairs General Assistance
- Head Start (only households qualifying the income standard)
- Federal Pell Grant in the current award year.
Note: If you receive the Lifeline program benefits, you automatically qualify for the ACP program.
List Of Required Documents
You must have valid government documents to submit as proof of your eligibility at the time of application for free government iPhone SE. This document depends upon the eligibility by which you apply for the Lifeline and the ACP program.
Income Document
If you apply for the Lifeline and ACP on a Low-income basis, please have one of the following documents to show your income meets the threshold level.
- Current income statement from your employer
- A retirement or pension statement of benefits
- Divorce decree
- A paycheck stub
- Worker’s Compensation statement of benefits
- A Social Security statement of benefits
- Child support award
- Previous year’s state, federal, or Tribal tax return
- Veterans Administration statement of benefits
Program Participation Proof
If you apply as a beneficiary of any government assistance program, you should have one of the following documents.
- Government Approval letter
- Benefit award letter
- Statement of benefits
- Benefit verification letter
General Documentation
Besides the above eligibility documents, you must have these valid documents to verify your age, address, or identity.
- US Driver Licence
- Passport
- Birth Certificate
- Certificate of emancipation (if emancipated minor)
- Utility bill
- Mortgage statement
- Lease agreement
How To Apply For Free Government iPhone SE In 2023?
The last step to get a free iPhone SE is to fill out the Lifeline or ACP program application form, whichever you qualify for, through a national verifier.
To apply for the Lifeline and ACP programs, you must first apply to the National Verifier online to verify your eligibility.
You can apply to the National Verifier at “nv.fcc.gov/lifeline/?id=nv_flow&ebbp=true&awsl=link-from-how-to-apply.”
The steps to do so are as follows.
- Open the above link.
- Select your state or Territory by clicking on the drop-down icon.
- Then click the “Get started” icon below after entering your state.
- The application page of the National Verifier opens up.
- Fill up the application form.
- Click on the “Next” icon when you complete the one page.
- Attach the eligibility documents.
- Finally, please submit your application after carefully reviewing it.
The National Verifier will determine your qualification for your state’s Lifeline or ACP program. If the National Verifier approves your application, you will receive the confirmation to complete the application procedure further.
Once your application is approved for either Lifeline or ACP, you must find a Lifeline or ACP service provider offering free government iPhone SE by visiting “https://cnm.universalservice.org/” and signup for their services.
If you are not comfortable with the online process, you can also apply for Lifeline or ACP via mail application. The steps to do so are:
For Lifeline
- The first step is to download and then take a printout of the Lifeline application form available at “lifelinesupport.org/wp-content/uploads/documents/get-lifeline/LI_Application_NVstates.pdf.”
- The next step is to fill out the form.
- Attach the eligibility documents’ copies with your application.
- Lastly, send the application to USAC Lifeline Support Center P.O. Box 9100 Wilkes-Barre, PA 18773
For ACP
- You can get the ACP application form at “affordableconnectivity.gov/wp-content/uploads/ACP-Application-Form-English.pdf.”
- Download and take the print of it along with a Household Worksheet, which is available at “affordableconnectivity.gov/wp-content/uploads/lifeline/images/ACP-Household-Worksheet-English.pdf.”
- The next step is to fill these two forms.
- Attach copies of your eligibility documents.
- Finally, send your application package to ACP Support Center, PO BOX 9100, Wilkes-Barre, PA 18773.
How Long Will It Take To Get A Free Government iPhone SE
Once your National verifier application is approved, you can get a free iPhone SE from your service provider in 5-10 business days, depending on your state.
The processing time may also vary based on the service provider you have applied to. However, if it takes longer than 10 days, you can contact your service provider to inquire about the free iPhone SE.
Benefits of Getting a Free Government iPhone SE
Here are the amazing benefits that you will enjoy with your free government iPhone SE
- The free iPhone SE is mainly beneficial for low-income people who cannot afford to have smartphones.
- You can access the 5G network and faster internet.
- You can have one of the high-quality smartphones without paying any charges.
- With the free iPhone SE, you can access Apple apps.
- You can use the iPhone for educational purposes.
- The iPhone can help you stay connected to your loved ones.
- The phone provides an opportunity to expand your search for online jobs.
- You can even enjoy games, videos on the smartphone.
Pros And Cons Of Getting A Free Government iPhone SE
Although a free government iPhone SE has many benefits, it has some drawbacks too.
Let’s see its advantages and disadvantages in separate sections clearly.
Pros
- There are no hidden charges included with this free iPhone SE.
- You may also get free cell phone plans from the service providers.
- Low-income people can have high-quality smartphones.
Cons
- This free government phone is only available to low-income people who qualify.
- The application process is often stressful.
- Not all applicants get a free iPhone SE.
FAQs
Can I get a free iPhone SE from the government?
You get a free iPhone SE by qualifying for the Lifeline and Affordable Connectivity Program (ACP).
What providers offer free government iPhone SE?
Some providers that provide free government iPhone SE through the Lifeline and ACP include the following.
- Assurance Wireless
- Tracfone
- Safelink Wireless
- US Cellular
- T-Mobile
Can I apply for the ACP program as a Medicaid beneficiary?
Yes. Your Medicaid eligibility is enough for you to render you qualified to apply for the ACP program.
Can I get a free iPhone replacement through the Lifeline and ACP program?
Please contact your Lifeline or ACP service provider to learn whether they offer a free iPhone replacement.
