Is your tight budget impeding you from buying your dream iPhone 12? It’s usual that when you’re scrambling to meet your monthly expenses, dreaming of an iPhone is unreal. Now your dream is going to come true.

Free Government iPhone 12 & 12 Pro Max [How to Apply] 2024

Thanks to the free government Phone 12 program. Yes, it’s true. You may be astonished and want to know how! Basically, the government is offering a brand-new iPhone 12 for free to those who don’t have the funds to buy one.

This initiative is a dream come true for those who are unable to buy an iPhone 12. Perhaps you are wondering whether you are eligible for this latest iPhone model and how to grab this deal. That’s where we can help.

We come with a complete guide for you, including different ways to get an iPhone 12 free government phone. You will get to know everything from qualifying to getting your iPhone 12 for free in this article. Without any further ado, let’s get started.

Is The US Government Really Offering iPhone 12 for Free?

iPhone 12, released in 2020, is a highly proficient smartphone. It features a sleek and modern design, lightning-fast 5G connectivity, MagSafe technology, a powerful A14 Bionic chip, and more.

Owning such a feature-enriched smartphone is out of the reach of many, especially low-income groups. This keeps them away from the opportunities of the digital world.

Considering this, the US government provides iPhones to eligible low-income individuals and households. The chances of getting a free iPhone 12 from the government are low, as it is a relatively new model.

Usually, the government provides older versions of iPhones for free. But never give up! As technology advances, the iPhone 12 will become outdated in a few years. The government might consider offering it anytime.

So, all is not over. You can still try your luck on getting a free iPhone 12 government phone. Let’s explore different ways to obtain a free or discounted iPhone 12 Pro Max.

Read also: Free Government iPhone 8 Plus [Apply Now] 2023-2024

Goals of iPhone 12 Free Government Phone Program

Let us explain if you are wondering what the government’s motive is in offering iPhones for free. So, the government took this initiative to promote affordable access to phone and internet services for eligible groups.

The primary goal of the government iPhone program includes:

Affordability

Thinking of getting an iPhone is beyond imagination for low-income people. The government is making this possible by providing free or subsidized iPhones. Besides, the program makes phone and internet services more affordable by delivering monthly discounts on service bills.

Communication Access for All

The program aims to ensure all citizens have access to basic communication services regardless of their economic status. Providing free or subsidized phones enables individuals to stay connected with family, friends, and essential services.

Access to Essential Services

By offering affordable communication services, the program ensures that eligible individuals can access healthcare, employment opportunities, education, emergency services, etc.

Access to Government Services

Many government services are now provided electronically. A government phone program ensures that individuals can access essential government services, receive updates, and stay informed about relevant programs.

Promoting Technological Literacy

Providing individuals with phones encourages digital literacy and familiarity with technology. Users can learn to navigate mobile interfaces, use apps for various purposes, and develop essential digital skills.

How Can You Get Your Free Government 12 iPhone?

The US government provides free iPhone 12 through the Lifeline and Affordable Connectivity Program. Lifeline and ACP are both federal assistance programs established by the Federal Communications Commission (FCC).

These programs aim to make phone and internet services more affordable for eligible low-income consumers. Lifeline provides up to a $9.25 monthly discount on services for eligible low-income consumers and up to $34.25 for eligible Tribal land subscribers.

On the other hand, ACP offers up to $30/month on internet service for eligible subscribers and up to $75/month for qualifying Tribal lands households. ACP benefits provide up to $100 to purchase a tablet, laptop, or desktop.

However, they must pay more than $10 and less than $50 toward the purchase price. Through the Lifeline and ACP, eligible households can receive a discount on qualifying smartphones and monthly phone and internet services.

Are You Eligible for a Government iPhone 12 for Free?

The free government iPhone 12 is not for everyone. It’s primarily aimed at low-income individuals or households. Not all low-income individuals qualify for free government iPhone 12 Pro.

You may qualify for getting an older iPhone model or a discounted iPhone 12. Wondering how? You must fulfill certain requirements to be eligible for the free government phone program.

A few common criteria exist to qualify for a free government iPhone program. Besides, you need to fulfill requirements for Lifeline and ACP separately, depending on which program you are participating in.

Common Eligibility Criteria

  • You must be a US citizen or legal resident of the US
  • You must be 18 years old or older
  • You should have a valid Social Security Number
  • You need to have a clear credit history
  • You must have an active mobile number
  • People with disabilities or under special conditions may qualify

Lifeline Eligibility Criteria

First of all, you must be employed or have a verifiable income source. Your household’s annual income should be at or below 135% of the Federal Poverty Guidelines.

Or a member of your household participates in one or more of the following government assistance programs.

  • Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP)
  • Supplemental Security Income (SSI)
  • Medicaid
  • Veterans Pension and Survivors Benefit
  • Federal Public Housing Assistance (FPHA)
  • Bureau of Indian Affairs General Assistance
  • Head Start
  • Tribal Temporary Assistance for Needy Families (Tribal TANF)
  • Food Distribution Program on Indian Reservations

ACP Eligibility Criteria

A household is eligible for ACP if the household income is at or below 200% of the Federal Poverty Guidelines. Also, a member of the household must meet at least one of the criteria;

  • Received a Federal Pell Grant during the current award year

Participate in one of the following programs, including the above-mentioned government assistance programs;

  • Free and Reduced-Price School Lunch Program or School Breakfast Program
  • Special Supplemental Nutrition Program for Women, Infants, and Children (WIC)

Read also: Free Government iPhone 11 & 11 Pro Max [Apply Now]

Required Documentation to Prove Eligibility

You must prove your eligibility while applying for a free government iPhone 12 pro max. Certain documents are required to confirm your eligibility. We have already discussed what it takes to verify your eligibility.

The documents needed for all government iPhone programs are the same. Basically, you will need to prove your income, identity, age, address, and participation in the government assistance program.

Emancipated minors must provide court documents or certificates of emancipation to prove their emancipation status. Gather all the documents as soon as possible to streamline the application process.

Different Ways to Obtain Your Free iPhone 12

Getting a free iPhone 12 from the government is facilitated through the Lifeline and ACP enrollment. There are other ways to obtain a free iPhone 12 from the government.

  • Lifeline Service Providers: Various mobile companies participate in the Lifeline program and offer free government phones. You can contact participating service providers to inquire about available plans and devices.
  • Apply Online or by Mail: You can apply through the National Verifier website online or mail your application to the ACP.
  • Local Retailers: Some service providers may partner with local retailers or offer enrollment opportunities at physical locations. You can check nearby mobile phone stores or authorized dealers for enrollment.
  • Community Outreach Events: Sometimes, community organizations organize outreach events to help eligible individuals enroll in the Lifeline program. These events may provide on-site assistance with the application process.

Step-by-Step Guide to Applying for a Free Government iPhone 12

Currently, the government is not widely providing the iPhone 12 for free. Still, you can secure your pathways to get it in the near future. The process to apply for an iPhone is straightforward. Here is a step-by-step guide to secure your free iPhone 12.

Choose the Right Government-funded Program

The first step to applying for a free iPhone 12 is to find the right government-funded program to apply through. Several government assistance programs offer free iPhones, including food stamps, Medicaid, SSI, etc. Search for the available options in your state to check eligibility.

Check Eligibility

After finding the right program in your state, review all the program’s eligibility requirements. Make sure you meet all the criteria. You should be a low-income individual or member of a family, a disabled person, or a senior citizen.

Gather Documentation

Once you meet the eligibility criteria, you will need to gather the necessary documents. You will need to provide proof of income, identity, age, address, and participation in the program.

Application Process

Now it’s time to apply for the iPhone 12. You can apply for it in different ways, such as;

Online Application

Navigate to the FCC website to apply through the Lifeline or Affordable Connectivity Program. Either way, choose your state or territory and Get Started. Provide your information, including name, date of birth, SSN number, and address.

Click how you qualify (whether by yourself or by your child or dependent). Click next and follow the on-page instructions to complete your application. Provide a copy of the necessary documents to prove your eligibility.

Apply via Email

Navigate to the Lifeline and ACP website to download the application form. Fill out the form with information such as name, number, date of birth, email address, SSN, and mailing address.

If you are applying through the ACP, you will need to attach a household sheet with the application. Provide a copy of the necessary documents with the application form. Mail the application to the following address.

  • USAC Lifeline Support Center
  • PO Box 9100 Wilkes-Barre, PA 18773

Apply Through the Mobile Service Providers

A mobile or internet company in your area can help you get a free iPhone 12. These mobile service providers provide free phones and unlimited talk, text, and data.

Find a mobile service provider offering free iPhones provided by the government. Following are a few mobile or internet service providers offering free iPhones.

  • Assurance Wireless
  • Q Link Wireless
  • Cintex Wireless
  • Copper Valley Wireless
  • Assist Wireless
  • AirTalk Wireless
  • Easy Wireless

Here is how you can apply through a mobile or internet service provider;

  • Visit the service provider’s website
  • Check if you qualify for their service
  • Choose your state or enter your ZIP code and click “Apply.”
  • Fill out the online application form
  • Choose which government assistance program you are participating
  • Provide a copy of the required documents
  • Submit the form and complete your application

Timeframe to Get Your Phone

There is no fixed timeline for processing an application for free iPhones. How long your application takes to get approved depends on your information and documents.

Usually, it takes 1 to 2 weeks to process your application after submission. The shipment and delivery takes 2 to 3 weeks from approval. You should get your phone in 4 to 6 weeks if your information is valid.

If you are applying through a mobile service provider, it takes 3 to 7 working days to get notifications. They will send your free iPhone 12 government phone within 14 working days.

How do you renew your free government iPhone program?

When you start getting free government program benefits, you are required to renew your eligibility. You will need to recertify your process annually. In this process, you will need to provide proof of income, program participation, etc.

Many service providers offer online renewal options through their websites. Log in to your account on the provider’s website. Follow the instructions for renewing your participation in the Lifeline program.

Final Thoughts

And that’s how it is done. We have discussed what it takes and all possible ways to get a free government iPhone 12. By following our guide, you can open your doors to the digital world without breaking the bank.

Even if you don’t get an iPhone 12 for free, you may still get a discount on this or other iPhone models. You can also get another iPhone model for free if you qualify for the program. So, keep trying, and best of luck!