: 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
Getting a "free" phone typically involves choosing between for those who qualify or carrier promotions that require long-term service commitments. While these offers can eliminate upfront costs, they often come with specific obligations like premium monthly plans or 36-month contracts. 1. Government Assistance (Lifeline Program) buy free phone
: These phones are typically "locked" to the carrier for a set period (often 12 months) before they can be used with another network. Summary of Popular "Free" Device Offers Typical Offer Primary Requirement Verizon Galaxy S26 36-month plan; often requires trade-in AT&T iPhone 17 Pro Go to product viewer dialog for this item. Trade-in of any eligible device on premium plan Metro by T-Mobile Galaxy A17 5G Go to product viewer dialog for this item. New line on a qualifying plan Assurance Wireless Budget Android Phone Lifeline eligibility (SNAP, Medicaid, etc.) : If you leave the carrier before the
: 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 . While these offers can eliminate upfront costs, they