The Affordable Connectivity Program (ACP) is a federal benefit program that can help eligible households get discounted internet service and free mobile phone service. T-Mobile participates in this program, providing free smartphone service to qualified ACP recipients.
ACP Eligibility Requirements
To receive free mobile phone service from T-Mobile through the ACP, you must meet one of the following criteria:
- Have an income at or below 200% of the Federal Poverty Guidelines
- Participate in certain assistance programs like SNAP, Medicaid, Federal Public Housing Assistance, etc.
- Participate in Tribal specific programs like Bureau of Indian Affairs General Assistance
- Meet the eligibility criteria for a participating provider’s existing low-income program
So for example, a single person can earn up to $27,180 per year and a family of 4 can earn up to $55,500 per year and still qualify. Contact T-Mobile to check full eligibility requirements.
Applying for Free Phone Service with T-Mobile ACP
Applying for a free phone through T-Mobile’s ACP program involves two steps:
1. Apply for the ACP Benefit
First, you’ll need to go to Affordableconnectivity.gov and complete the online application for the overall ACP program. This verifies that you meet basic eligibility criteria.
When prompted, select T-Mobile as your desired mobile carrier. Make sure to have any required income documentation or proof of participation in qualifying programs on hand.
2. Contact T-Mobile to Finish Enrollment
Once approved for the ACP benefit, T-Mobile will send you instructions to finish enrolling in their free smartphone program. This may require:
- Providing additional documentation to verify eligibility
- Completing T-Mobile’s application process
- Picking a plan and phone option
- Transferring or porting any existing phone numbers
- Activating the free service on your new or existing phone
Follow all steps provided by T-Mobile to get your phone and monthly service set up properly.
What is Included in T-Mobile Free Phone Service?
T-Mobile provides the following services for free to ACP benefit recipients:
- Free 4G/5G smartphone (or bring your own device)
- Unlimited talk and text
- Unlimited data
- Standard calling features like voicemail, caller ID, call waiting
- Mobile hotspot capability
- Nationwide coverage on T-Mobile’s network
The free service can be used with T-Mobile branded phones or compatible unlocked devices. Contact them to check which phones options are available to you.
What Free Phone Can I Get from T-Mobile?
If eligible for the ACP program, you can choose from a selection of free Android smartphones from T-Mobile, including:
- T-Mobile REVVL V+ 5G: Features a 6.82″ HD+ display, 48MP + 2MP dual rear cameras, 16MP front camera, Octa-core processor, 64GB storage and a 5,000 mAh battery.
- OnePlus Nord N200 5G: Comes with a 6.49″ FHD+ display, Qualcomm Snapdragon 480 5G processor, 64GB storage, and a 5,000 mAh battery. Has triple rear cameras (13MP, 2MP, 2MP) and 8MP front camera.
- Samsung Galaxy A13 5G: Equipped with a 6.5″ HD+ display, MediaTek Dimensity 700 5G chip, 50MP + 2MP + 2MP triple rear camera, 5MP front camera, 64GB storage and 5,000 mAh battery.
- Motorola moto g pure: Features a 6.5″ Max Vision HD+ display, MediaTek Helio G25 processor, 48MP + 2MP + 2MP triple rear camera setup, 8MP front camera, 32GB storage and 4,000 mAh battery.
- ZTE Cymbal T: Budget friendly option with 6.53″ HD+ display, 8MP + 5MP dual rear cameras, 5MP front camera, 32GB storage, 1.6GHz quad-core processor and 4,000 mAh battery.
T-Mobile may substitute comparable models if any phones are out of stock. Contact them to check on currently available devices.
Maintaining Your Free ACP Service from T-Mobile
To keep your free T-Mobile mobile phone service active, be sure to:
- Recertify your ACP eligibility each year
- Respond to any verification inquiries from T-Mobile
- Use your phone service periodically, at least once every 30 days
- Don’t modify or resell the service
As long as you comply with ACP and T-Mobile policies, you can receive free monthly smartphone service for as long as the program is available. Be sure to stay up-to-date on any changes or renewals required.
Conclusion
Getting a free smartphone through T-Mobile’s ACP program provides reliable wireless service to eligible low-income households. With unlimited talk, text and data, recipients can stay connected for essential communication, find jobs, access educational resources and more. Following T-Mobile’s application steps and usage policies allows customers to benefit from this program long-term.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I bring my own phone?
Yes, you can use your existing unlocked phone instead of choosing a free device from T-Mobile. It must be compatible with their network.
Can I get extra data if needed?
T-Mobile does not currently offer high-speed data add-ons for ACP customers. You are limited to 5GB full-speed monthly data.
Is there a contract or credit check?
No, T-Mobile’s free ACP service does not require any contract nor do they run any credit checks.
Can I port my existing number?
Yes, you can transfer an existing mobile number to your free T-Mobile smartphone during activation.
What networks are covered?
T-Mobile provides nationwide coverage on their own network. No roaming on partner networks is supported with the free ACP service at this time.