Which Are The Best ACP Free Phone Providers [Updated Guide] 

The Affordable Connectivity Program (ACP) ended in 2024, and many people now ask about the best ACP free phone providers. The end of ACP left users confused about how to continue receiving free phones and internet service. The good news is that the Lifeline program continues to offer free phones and monthly subsidies to eligible users.  

In this guide, you will learn about ACP, its replacement, the best providers for free phones, and how to apply in simple steps. 

1. What Was the ACP Program? 

The Affordable Connectivity Program (ACP) was a federal benefit created to lower the cost of internet service. It helped millions of households by offering monthly discounts and, in some cases, reduced prices on devices like tablets or laptops. 

However, ACP officially ended in 2024 due to a lack of funding. Many providers that once supported both ACP and Lifeline stopped their ACP offers, but continue to provide Lifeline services. 

During its run, ACP gave: 

• Discounts on home internet or mobile data. 
• Device discounts for tablets or laptops through participating providers. 

Today, as an alternative to ACP, the Lifeline program is the main government option for free or discounted phone service. Lifeline has been active for many years and continues to support low-income and Tribal households. 

Lifeline benefits include: 

• Up to $9.25 monthly telecommunication services subsidy for eligible users. 
• Up to $34.25 monthly telecommunication services subsidy for residents on Tribal lands. 
• Free monthly talk, text, and free data, even unlimited (depending on provider). 
• Get free Lifeline smartphones, tablets, and laptops through approved providers. 
• Other extra benefits for eligible users (depending on the provider) 

In short, ACP ended, but you can still receive free phones and subsidized services through Lifeline. 

=>>> Read more: Lifeline Free Tablet: How Low-income People Get A Device At No Cost 

2. What is The Best Place to Get a Free Government Phone? 

Many people struggled with ACP, and even some Lifeline providers. Common issues included: 

• Long approval times. 
• Complicated document requirements. 
• Limited device selection. 
• Poor customer support. 

TAG Mobile helps solve all of these challenges. It was one of the top ACP providers free phones before the program ended in 2024. Today, it continues as a leading Lifeline provider, offering free/discounted phones, tablets with small co-pays, and reliable monthly service. 

2.1. TAG Mobile Plans and Features 

When you sign up with TAG Mobile, you don’t just receive a device. You also get a complete set of free telecommunication services, including: 

• Unlimited talk and text each month. 
• Free international calling to more than 200 countries. 
• Up to 16 GB of high-speed monthly data. (depending on your area) 
• Free SIM card with a new device or BYOD (Bring Your Own Device) option. 
• Great discount deals up to 70% off retail price for the latest 5G smartphones like iPhone 11-15 or Samsung Galaxy S21, A42 5G 
• Enhanced Tribal benefits for eligible residents. 

These plans give flexibility, whether you want to use your own phone or choose from TAG’s device list. 

2.2. Why Choose TAG? 

TAG Mobile is rated highly among Lifeline users because it combines affordability with good service. If you qualify for Lifeline, you can apply and receive your device quickly. 

Reasons many users prefer TAG include: 

• Fast approval: Most applications are approved in about 30 minutes. 
• Free shipping: Devices are delivered in 7–10 business days with tracking. 
• Wide device selection: Options include 5G smartphones, iPads, Chromebooks, and Android tablets. 
• Responsive support: Help available by online chat or phone. 
• Strong coverage: Reliable service even in rural and Tribal areas. 

For seniors, low-income households, and Tribal residents, TAG Mobile is one of the best providers to get a free government phone and service today. 

DISCLAIMER: The government does not cover device costs, only basic service through Lifeline. Any free or discounted devices, upgrades, or top-ups are limited-time TAG Mobile offers and may vary by state, eligibility, and availability. Terms and conditions apply.

3. Step by Step – How to Apply With TAG Mobile 

Applying for a free phone with TAG Mobile is simple if you follow the steps. This guide shows you what to prepare, where to apply, and how fast you can receive your device. 

Step 1: Check Eligibility 

To qualify for Lifeline, you must meet at least one of these requirements: 

• Income-based eligibility: Household income at or below 135% of the Federal Poverty Guidelines. 
• Program-based eligibility: Enrollment in SNAP, Medicaid, SSI, Section 8, or Veterans Pension. 
• Tribal residents: Qualify through Tribal programs such as FDPIR, BIA Assistance, or Tribal TANF. 

=>>> Read more: Free Phone Service With Food Stamps Or SNAP: What To Expect 2025 

Step 2: Visit TAG Mobile’s Website 

Go to tagmobile.com. Enter your ZIP Code to see the plans available in your area. Click “APPLY NOW” to start the online application process 

Step 3: Choose Your Plan 

The system displays eligible plans once you enter your ZIP Code. Review the options carefully. After that, click “SELECT NOW” to move to the next step. 

Step 4: Select Your Phone 

You can pick from free or upgraded models. Availability depends on your ZIP Code and provider stock. 

Step 5: Upload Necessary Documents (if required) 

You may need to provide: 

• A valid government-issued ID. 
• Proof of enrollment in government assistance programs 
• Proof of income if applying by income rules. 

Note: If your state cannot auto-verify eligibility, you will upload your documents through TAG’s secure portal. 

Step 6: Submit Application & Wait 

Most applications are approved in 30 minutes if auto-verified. If documents need reconfirmation, it may take 3–4 business days. 

Step 7: Receive Your Phone 

Your free phone ships in 7–10 business days. The package includes setup and activation instructions. Then, you can start using your free phone and service immediately. 

By applying online, users searching for the best ACP free phone providers near me can transition smoothly to Lifeline with TAG Mobile. The process is fast, simple, and reliable compared to past ACP experiences. 

4. FAQs about Best ACP Free Phone Providers 

4.1. What is the best free government phone with unlimited everything? 

There isn’t one single “best” phone for everyone; it depends on the provider’s current offer and your ZIP Code. Most Lifeline providers offer free talk and text, along with high-speed data each month. If you need more data, some carriers allow you to upgrade to higher-tier plans at a small extra cost. For example, TAG Mobile offers free talk, text, and up to 16 GB of monthly data, with upgrade options available for newer iPhones and Samsung phones. 

4.2. Which ACP program has unlimited data? 

Before ACP ended in 2024, some providers offered high-data or unlimited plans. Today, the best alternative is Lifeline. Providers such as TAG Mobile now offer up to 16 GB with options to upgrade for more. 

4.3. Who has the best ACP service now? 

ACP no longer exists. The best alternative now is the Lifeline program, which continues to provide free phones and monthly service discounts for low-income households. Through Lifeline providers, you can get free talk, text, data, and a choice of devices, including free basic phones and discounted upgrades. This program has nationwide coverage and is still active for eligible families and seniors. 

4.4. What is the list of free government phone companies? 

Common Lifeline providers include TAG Mobile, Airtalk Wireless, Q Link Wireless, Assurance Wireless, and Safelink Wireless. Availability depends on your ZIP Code, since each provider covers different regions. 

4.5. Which is best ACP free phone providers California? 

ACP is no longer active in California or anywhere else. For California residents, the best option is Lifeline. TAG Mobile is a strong choice because it offers quick approval,  generous benefits for eligible applicants, and a wide range of free or discounted devices. 

Final Words 

Searching for the best ACP free phone providers often confuses people because ACP no longer exists. Today, the Lifeline program is the main way to receive free phones and service support. For seniors, tribal members, and low-income households, it is the most reliable option.  

Check your eligibility today, select a Lifeline provider, and apply online to start using your free phone service.