While mobile phones are necessary devices, they can be expensive. One has to not only spend on purchasing the phone but also pay for the service plan. These costs can quickly add up to substantial expenses, especially for those with a limited monthly budget. However, one can save on these expenses by exploring resources to get a mobile phone for free or at discounted rates. Here are some ways to get a free mobile phone.

Government assistance programs
One of the first resources that one can check out for free mobile phones is government assistance programs. Among these, one of the most popular is the Lifeline program. This initiative offers smartphones free of cost or even at discounted prices for those who are part of these federal programs –

• Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP – formerly known as Food Stamp Program)
• Medicaid
• Supplemental Security Income (SSI)
• Federal Public Housing Program
• Veterans Pension and Survivors Pension

There are several eligibility criteria one must adhere to in order to get a free mobile phone. For example, one’s earning must be less than 135% of the federal poverty guidelines of each year. This means, the earnings must be less than $16,862 for a household of one person. Also, only one person in each household is eligible to receive a free mobile phone, even if there are multiple qualifying members in the family.

Carrier promotions and deals
Another easy way to get a free mobile phone is through cell phone carriers. All major carriers frequently roll out promotions offering free mobile phones. These include deals for new as well as existing customers who are signing up to purchase a new line. Some carriers also offer free phones as part of their internet package deals. Most of these deals require consumers to meet certain criteria, which are quite simple. Thus, one can easily save up on the cost of a new phone as well as get a service plan at subsidized or discounted prices. To get access to such deals, one can check local newspapers or sign up for promotional mails from top cell phone carriers.

Trade-in programs
One can look out for trade-in programs to find free mobile phones. Many use these programs to upgrade their old phones without breaking the bank. This is because one of the most popular benefits of such programs is that they help one to save money by bringing down the price of the new phone one wants to buy. Many carriers and cell phone companies offer trade-in programs that offer significant credits or discounts on exchanging an old phone. In many cases, these credits or discounts are so high that one can get a new phone for almost $0, which is completely free.

Online contests and giveaways
Look out for online contests that are giving free mobile phones. Tech influencers, magazines, websites, as well as top smartphone brands and retailers host contests and competitions that giveaway free phones as prizes. Social media is the best place to find out about such contests. One doesn’t need to do much to participate in these, just follow the rules as specified by the host of the contest. However, be wary of scams and frauds when participating in any such giveaways and contests. Always make sure to check that the host is legitimate and there are no risks of identity theft or financial fraud.

Charitable organizations and nonprofits
Many charities and nonprofit organizations take initiatives to provide free mobile phones to those in need. These initiatives are often part of their community outreach programs. Most of the time, these free mobile phones are refurbished or used phones that have been donated by the patrons of the charitable organization. Such organizations usually provide phones to specific groups such as high school students from low-income communities, people who need phones to only dial 911, veterans, and so on. One can connect with their local organizations that assist individuals in need to know about ongoing free mobile phone initiatives.

Trade shows or tech events
One of the easiest ways to get a free mobile phone is through trade shows and tech events. Many brands and manufacturers showcase their latest products in such events and may host promotions and contests that give free phones as prizes.

Employee benefit programs
Some organizations offer benefits to their employees that may include free or heavily discounted mobile phones. Also, some employers offer mobile stipends as part of their employee incentive programs. One can check with the HR department of their organization to check if such benefits are available.

Referral programs from smartphone manufacturers and carriers
Many smartphone manufacturers and mobile carriers often have referral programs. Through these programs, one can refer friends or family to the services of the carriers or the manufacturers. This gives access to referral codes. If anyone among one’s family or friends uses these codes to make a purchase, one can become eligible for free phones or account credits, which can be used to buy a new phone at low cost.

Special promotions during holidays or birthdays
The holiday season is another perfect time to watch out for deals that give free mobile phones. Many popular cell phone carriers and top smartphone brands roll out special promotions during this period. One may get some steep discounts, a free phone on purchase of another phone, or a free phone on signing up for a new carrier service, and many such money-saving deals. Moreover, one can look out for special promotions offered on their birthday.

Online platforms and classifieds
An easy way to get free mobile phones is to explore online platforms or local classifieds where people often offer their old phones for free. However, be wary of fraudsters and scammers who may steal identity or money under the pretext of giving away free mobile phones through these classifieds.