Despite being over 5 years old, the Apple iPhone 11 is a great smartphone. So, if you currently don’t have one with you, getting a free government iPhone 11 in 2025 can be life-changing.
Programs Offering Free Government iPhone 11 in 2025
The government cannot give you a free iPhone directly. Instead, you can use one of the many assistance programs that the US government has launched.
These programs work with service providers like StandUp Wireless to offer cellular and internet access to those who cannot afford it. However, as most of these underprivileged people don’t have a smartphone, service providers add a smartphone to the bundle.
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Lifeline Program
We recommend checking out the Lifeline program because it offers the highest chance of getting a free iPhone 11 from the government. This program, designed to bridge the digital divide, has hundreds of partners across the US. Many of these providers are willing to bundle an iPhone 11 when you get a Lifeline-powered cellular/internet plan from them. We shall provide additional details about this program, such as eligibility criteria and application steps.
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State-specific programs
You can explore other programs as well based on your eligibility. Many US states have launched programs that will help people get digital access. However, these programs may have different procedures, and they end up offering a generic smartphone instead of something like the iPhone 11. Therefore, while you can look for these options, we recommend sticking to Lifeline whenever you can.
Eligibility Criteria for Free Government iPhone 11
The eligibility criteria for the Lifeline program by the US government are straightforward for the most part. Like many other assistance programs, Lifeline is also based on the financial income of your household. However, you have three ways to prove that you are eligible for the program.
- You can show some proof of income to qualify for the Lifeline program as long as the household income is less than the limit set by the federal poverty guidelines. The income limit differs based on where you live. For instance, a three-member household in California should have an income of less than $40,000.
- If you have already signed up for programs such as SNAP, SSI, TANF, or Medicaid, you can use the benefit letter of these programs to qualify for the LifeLine program. You can find the list of supported programs on Lifeline’s official website.
- For those who have survived problematic conditions such as domestic violence and human trafficking, Lifeline offers a quicker way to qualify for the program. Proof of the benefits you receive from survivor programs is a quick way to qualify.
If you find yourself under these circumstances, you have a chance of getting a free government iPhone 11.
Application Process and Documents
Proceeding with the Lifeline program cannot get any easier, thanks to the official website. You can always talk to a service provider first, but we recommend the following order:
- Head to the Lifeline program’s official website and apply through the appropriate category. You need to upload the necessary documents, and the review process may take up to a few days.
- Once you have a positive response from Lifeline, you can start talking with a service provider who offers an iPhone 11 as a part of the Lifeline program.
- After you have chosen the right service provider for Lifeline, you can proceed with the application on the service provider’s side. In a day or two, you will get a device along with cellular and internet access.
Depending on the eligibility criteria that you follow, you will need the following documents to apply for Lifeline:
- Proof of identification, such as the driving license
- Benefit letter for one of the assistance programs
- Income proof, such as tax stub or payment slips
You may have to go through multiple stages of verification before you get the device.
Wireless Providers Offering iPhone 11
You can try the following wireless service providers to get a free iPhone 11.
- Cintex Wireless
- StandUp Wireless
- AirTalk Wireless
These companies are likely to offer an iPhone, but you can always try talking with a nearby Lifeline partner to see if you can get a discount.
Conclusion
When you finally get an iPhone 11 from the government, make sure you make the best use of it. With the power of iOS and 4G connectivity, the device packs a punch.