The Best Free Phones for Seniors
Several carriers have ways to get free phones – and the government has a few discounts, too.
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- Large, easy-to-read display
- Runs on AT&T’s reliable network
- Built-in virtual assistant
- Slim design that is easy to hold
- Offered by T-Mobile, the largest 5G network in the country
- Has the virtual assistant Siri
- Bright 90Hz screen
- Offered by Verizon, which has the fastest all-around speeds in the U.S.
- Google virtual assistant
Our tech experts researched the best free phones and narrowed down the list to our top choices for seniors.
Our tech experts researched the best free phones and narrowed down the list to our top choices for seniors.
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At SeniorLiving.org, we’ve tested dozens of the best phones for seniors and know how pricey they can be. Paying out of pocket for a phone — even an economical one — isn’t always possible. If you’re budget-conscious like us and looking for a free phone, you’re in the right place! Our tech experts have scoured the market for the best free phone deals and tested the top devices. After hours of research and testing, we compiled our list of the best options for older adults.
In this article, we’ll cover the best free phones for seniors and what you must do to snag one. We’ll also explore which government-assistance programs offer free or discounted phones. Lastly, we’ll share the inside scoop on other ways to save on a cell phone, including valuable senior discounts and veteran benefits. Let’s get into it!
Our Methodology: How We Tested and Chose the Best Free Phones for Seniors
Testing out an iPhone with my grandma.
Not all carriers offer the same free phone. The variety of brands and models can make your head spin. After over 50 hours of extensive research, our tech experts zeroed in on the best free phones for seniors. The criteria used to decide which no-cost phones made it onto our list include the availability of senior-friendly features, customer perks, usability, carrier reputation and reliability, and camera quality.
The two main factors we focused on were ease of acquiring the phone and usability for seniors. Some carriers make you jump through several hoops or sign a contract to score a free phone. We focused on providers that clearly explained how to get the free phone and made the process as simple as possible.
Because we’re highlighting the best phones for seniors, we evaluated each device’s usability. There’s no point in getting a free phone if it’s too complicated! We looked for phones that offer senior-friendly features such as bright screens, large buttons, powerful speakers, accessibility settings, and intuitive navigation.
We tested each phone to ensure it met our standards. Here’s a closer look at our testing process:
- We researched the best phone deals for seniors and spoke with each carrier’s customer service representatives. We considered the value and any extra perks each free phone offered.
- Once we compared the top free phones from various carriers, we narrowed down the picks to our top three. We then ordered each phone and noted how to get each free phone deal and any hoops we had to jump through.
- We tested each phone for a week, evaluating its senior-friendly features, usability, reliability, service quality, and more. We recruited older adults to help us test the phones whenever possible. That allowed us to get feedback directly from seniors.
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1. Samsung Galaxy A03 from Cricket Wireless - Best free phone for vision-impaired seniors
What we like most
- Large, easy-to-read display
- Runs on AT&T’s reliable network
- Built-in virtual assistant
Samsung Galaxy A03 from Cricket WirelessOverview:
Samsung Galaxy A03
Overview
I found during testing that the Samsung Galaxy A03 smartphone delivers cutting-edge tech with a senior-friendly design. Some of us may experience eye-related disorders as we age. Around 12 million people in the U.S. aged 40 or older have a vision impairment.1 My grandma and I didn’t have to squint at a small screen with the A03. Its large edge-to-edge display is easy on the eyes. Not tech-savvy? No worries. Samsung’s Setup Wizard guided us through the basics of setting up the device.
» You Might Like: Best Android Phones for Seniors
Even if you’re not interested in a Samsung Galaxy A03, shopping for a free phone at Cricket Wireless is a breeze because there’s more than one model to choose from. My choices included a Samsung and Apple phone, plus a device from Cricket’s line. In addition, Cricket also requires no annual contracts, credit checks, or hidden fees. That makes Cricket a great choice for those on low or fixed income.
Buyer's Tip: Budget-conscious shoppers will love Cricket’s multiline discount. Get the facts in our Cricket Wireless review.
Cricket uses AT&T’s network to deliver service, covering over 99 percent of Americans. I live in an area with strong AT&T coverage, and my Cricket Wireless service was reliable while running errands, visiting friends, and hanging out at home.
A free phone is just one of Cricket’s many perks. I saved even more with a $25 credit for referring a friend. Don’t forget to sign up for autopay (like I almost did) to save up to $60 a year. Your wallet will thank you!
Pros & Cons:Pros About Samsung Galaxy A03 from Cricket Wireless
- Large, 6.5-inch edge-to-edge HD+ screen
- Face- and fingerprint-recognition unlock
- High-quality multi-lens camera system
- Virtual assistant
- M3/T3 hearing aid compatible
- Runs on AT&T’s network
Cons About Samsung Galaxy A03 from Cricket Wireless
- Not 5G capable
- No wireless charging
Summary:How to Get a Free Samsung Galaxy A03
Getting a free phone from Cricket Wireless was simple. All I had to do was bring my phone number and select one of the eligible monthly plans, which starts at $55 monthly. You’ll need to have an existing number to catch that deal. If you want Cricket Wireless to give you a new number, you’ll pay $39.99. The price isn’t for the Samsung Galaxy A03 but for adding a new number.
» Related Reading: Best Samsung Phones for Seniors
There is an important caveat: The type of plan you need to purchase to avoid paying $119.99 for a Samsung Galaxy A03 varies. If you bring in an existing number, you’ll sign up for a new Cricket Wireless voice plan starting at $55 monthly. If you pay $39.99 for a new number, you can get a free phone by signing up for a new voice plan starting at $30 monthly. That means you could save more in the long run by getting a new phone number through Cricket Wireless. You’ll just have to pay a bit more upfront.
The plan you have to purchase to get a free phone also varies by the phone you choose. Some phones require only the purchase of a $40 plan when you bring your own number. I’m not a fan of those caveats, but Cricket Wireless displays the details on its website, so there are no surprises at checkout. Learning the details can help you get the best deal with Cricket, which is worth it!
Usability
The Samsung Galaxy A03 is excellent for older adults who want a user-friendly smartphone with a large enough screen to combat eye strain or fatigue. Individuals with low vision or arthritis can make the most of the virtual assistant feature. With a simple voice command, the assistant could read my texts and notifications, send messages, and set appointment reminders. Cricket’s network is 5G, but the Samsung A03 is not. That means you won’t have the fastest speeds. You’ll need a 5G-capable phone to make the most of a 5G network. Still, I had reliable 4G coverage during testing.
» Learn More: Best 5G Phones for Seniors
I was amazed at how bright and clear the screen was, especially for a free phone. I found it easy to use for texting and receiving calls and liked the main screen’s simple layout. The Google search bar is in the middle of the display, so I could easily browse the web without opening a separate app. The home screen also features large icons for calling, texting, camera, and the Google Play Store. As a bonus, the Galaxy A03 has a long battery life, with more than 19 hours of video playback on a single charge. I spent a day watching videos, taking photos, making calls, and sending texts, and the battery held strong through it all. It still can’t beat the 72-hour battery life of the Google Pixel 7a.
Camera Quality
Even if you’re willing to shell out a few hundred dollars on a smartphone, finding one with a camera as good as the Samsung Galaxy A03 is difficult. The rear-facing camera is 48 MP, four times as powerful as the iPhone 13’s. I enjoyed taking pictures and recording 1080p videos. I shot photos in the backyard, on a walk, and in the house. They always looked crystal clear, and we had virtually no issues using the camera, even in low-light environments.
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2. Apple iPhone 13 from T-Mobile - Best advanced free smartphone
What we like most
- Slim design that is easy to hold
- Offered by T-Mobile, the largest 5G network in the country
- Has the virtual assistant Siri
Apple iPhone 13 from T-MobileOverview:
Testing out the iPhone 13
Overview
The iPhone 13 is a pocket-size powerhouse. With its top-notch camera and ample storage, I could take thousands of photos and still have plenty of space! I’m all about technology that supports the needs of older adults, and the iPhone 13 doesn’t disappoint. Its straightforward accessibility features are vital for people with vision or hearing loss. With an M3/T4 hearing-aid compatibility rating, it’s no surprise the iPhone made it onto our list of best cell phones for seniors with hearing loss.
» Also Check Out: The Best iPhones for Seniors
We scored a free iPhone 13 with T-Mobile. What makes T-Mobile’s coverage stand out? It’s America’s leader in 5G. The carrier covers nearly twice the area of AT&T and four times the area of Verizon.1 If you require speed, T-Mobile has you covered. It also has competitive plan pricing and perks. The carrier offers some of the best phone plans for seniors, starting at $40 monthly for one line. They come packed with useful features such as in-flight Wi-Fi, free hotspot data, and international coverage. If you’re a frequent traveler, the extras are a huge plus!
FYI: We awarded T-Mobile’s 55-plus phone plans 4.7 out of 5 stars. For more details, check out our T-Mobile Unlimited 55-plus review.
Pros & Cons:Pros About Apple iPhone 13 from T-Mobile
- Edge-to-edge HDR screen
- Water- and dust-resistant
- Facial recognition
- Siri virtual assistant
- Wireless charging
- M3/T4 hearing aid compatible
- Advanced dual camera
Cons About Apple iPhone 13 from T-Mobile
- Heavier weight (6.14 ounces)
- No fingerprint ID
Summary:How to Get a Free Apple iPhone 13
The iPhone 13 normally retails for $629.99, but T-Mobile offers several ways to get a completely free iPhone 13 — or at least a heavily discounted one. You can get up to $730 off a phone when you trade in an eligible device and add a new voice line to an existing plan. You can also get a free iPhone 13 by trading in your old phone and switching to T-Mobile from another carrier. Either way, you’ll get 24 monthly bill credits for your trade-in, plus a free year of Apple TV+. I love the added perk of Apple TV+, which normally costs $9.99 monthly. That adds up to a savings of around $120 for the year!
Since the credits are offered over two years, it locks you into a two-year deal with T-Mobile. If you cancel your plan before the 24 months have passed, you’ll have to pay the difference for your phone. I’m not a big fan of deals that lock you in long-term. It’s not technically a contract, but it limits your freedom to leave for another carrier without sizable costs. Those deals are pretty standard when you purchase a new phone.
If you don’t have a device to trade in, you can get 50 percent off your purchase by adding a new line. You can also get a $700 credit on a second device when you purchase an eligible smartphone through T-Mobile.
Usability
The iPhone 13 offers state-of-the-art features, a durable design, and stellar storage capacity (starting at 128 GB). It earns bonus points for seamlessly integrating with other Apple products, such as the Apple Watch. The iPhone is a high-tech smartphone. It’s best for people who want extra features and are OK with a learning curve. My grandma has been an iPhone user for years and loves it! It just takes a little patience. Older adults who don’t need all the bells and whistles may want to consider a flip phone or a big-button cell phone.
» Learn More: Best Flip Phones for Seniors
When my grandma and I tested the iPhone 13, she already had experience with her own iPhone. At first, she was confused by the lack of a home button. That may throw off people accustomed to older iPhones or the iPhone SE’s fingerprint scanner. Once she realized she could sign in to the iPhone by simply looking at it — the iPhone 13 has a built-in face scanner — she felt more at ease.
The iPhone 13’s and Samsung Galaxy A03’s interfaces were equally easy to use, but my grandma preferred the speed and familiarity of an Apple phone. She saw it as a small step up from the comparatively slow Google Pixel 7a. The iPhone operating system is famously user-friendly, so it’s ideal for seniors who want an advanced smartphone without getting overwhelmed by confusing menus.
Camera Quality
The iPhone 13’s camera doesn’t quite measure up to the camera on the Samsung Galaxy A03, but I still took beautiful photos and crisp, visually clear videos. It has a dual 12 MP rear camera and a 12 MP front camera for selfies. The ample storage and easy integration with iCloud mean you can store many photos and videos. You won’t have to delete some of your favorite memories just to create room for new ones. The front-facing camera isn’t quite as good as the rear-facing camera, but my grandma and I could still take great selfies and excellent photos using both. We took photos of pups, nature, and family. They all turned out great!
A photo taken using the iPhone 13 camera
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3. Google Pixel 7a from Verizon - Best free phone with a long battery life
What we like most
- Bright 90Hz screen
- Offered by Verizon, which has the fastest all-around speeds in the U.S.
- Google virtual assistant
Google Pixel 7a from VerizonOverview:Overview
The Google Pixel 7a is a mid-range smartphone packing several surprisingly great features for a free phone. One of my favorite things about it is the extra-long battery life. You won’t have to worry about constantly charging your phone since it boasts up to three days of battery life in battery saver mode. The Pixel 7a is built to last. It can withstand accidental spills, splashes, or light rain. As an accident-prone person, I’m a big fan of that durability. I accidentally dropped the phone while walking on a rainy day. It kept on chugging despite the water exposure!
I got my free Google Pixel 7a through Verizon. Verizon has several unlimited talk, text, and data plans, including the Verizon 55-plus plan. The 55-plus plan is available only to Florida residents. I was disappointed that the plan isn’t available elsewhere, especially since T-Mobile’s 55-plus plans are available nationwide. There are still plenty of great plans, even if you don’t live in Florida. The company has received nearly 200 J.D. Power awards for network quality in the past 20 years. It was voted America’s best network 32 times in a row. Talk about reliable service!
» Dive Deeper: 2024 Verizon Review
Verizon’s service was reliable during my testing. One thing setting Verizon apart is its coverage in rural and remote areas. I’ve used Verizon on camping trips, at the ocean, and in rural towns — all places where I’ve had limited or no service with other carriers. With Verizon, I had reliable service every time!
Pros & Cons:Pros About Google Pixel 7a from Verizon
- Bright 90Hz display for easy scrolling and reading
- Extra-long battery life in battery-saver mode
- Excellent dual-camera system
- Water-repellent design
- Google virtual assistant
- Fingerprint reader and face unlock
- Reliable nationwide service with Verizon
Cons About Google Pixel 7a from Verizon
- Slower processing speed
- Battery can drain faster with heavy use
- Phone can get very warm with multiple apps open
Summary:How to Get a Free Google Pixel 7a
New and current customers can cash in on Verizon’s free phone offer. I could get a free phone by switching to Verizon, adding a new line, or upgrading an existing line. Verizon keeps it uncomplicated, with no trade-in required. Like Cricket Wireless, Verizon offers a variety of free phones from Apple, Samsung, Motorola, Google, and Orbic. Now, that’s what I call a deal!
Usability
The Google Pixel 7a is a solid smartphone choice. The battery is mighty, and the advanced dual-camera system and virtual assistant tech won’t cause significant battery drain. Android lovers will enjoy the Google interface, featuring voice assistance and control. As you shop for your free phone, consider how and where you’ll use it. If you’re looking for a phone with a lightning-fast interface, the Google Pixel 7a may not be the best fit. Its processing power isn’t as powerful as the iPhone 13 or other high-end smartphones.
I enjoyed using the Google Pixel 7a. The Android system was easy to use and similar to other models I’ve tried, like the Galaxy A03. That said, I noticed a little lag when opening apps and trying to run more than two applications simultaneously. The phone also felt very warm when we wanted to multitask, and the battery life wasn’t quite as good if I wished to use it for watching HD videos or other high-energy-consumption activities. However, I found the Pixel 7a easy and fun to use with some patience.
Camera Quality
The Pixel 7a features an impressive 64 MP main camera and 13 MP ultrawide lens, a major upgrade from the iPhone 13 and Galaxy 03. The quality of the photos was incredible, but the slow operating system sometimes affected my ability to get the perfect shot. The phone would sometimes experience a very slight delay when taking the picture, so I had to remain still for a second afterward to ensure it wasn’t blurry or unfocused.
Free Government Cell Phones for Seniors
If you’re living on a low income, you can get a free phone through government programs. According to the Center for Social and Demographic Research on Aging at UMass Boston, around 50 percent of older adults living alone and 23 percent of older couples have annual incomes falling below the amount necessary to meet their basic needs. Multiple government assistance programs provide seniors with free or discounted phones, internet service, and computers.
Assurance Wireless
Assurance Wireless is part of the federal Lifeline phone assistance program. Qualifying households receive a free smartphone and accompanying benefits each month. Assurance Wireless is part of the T-Mobile network, which covers 99 percent of Americans. The Assurance Wireless Lifeline service is free to qualified consumers. Extra voice minutes, data, international calling, and international texting are available (for a fee).
If your household is eligible, you can receive:5
- A free Android smartphone
- Free unlimited data
- Free unlimited texts
- Free unlimited minutes
- 10 GB of free mobile hotspot data
Eligibility requirements for Assurance Wireless Unlimited are based on federal or state-specific eligibility criteria. Qualifications may be based on household income or participation in a government assistance program, such as Medicaid, Veterans and Survivors Pension Program, and Supplemental Security Income.
Lifeline
Lifeline is a program offered by the Federal Communications Commission for low-income consumers. Qualifying individuals receive discounts on phones, broadband internet, or bundled voice-broadband packages from participating providers. The Lifeline discount is available in every state, territory, commonwealth, plus on tribal lands.
If your household is eligible, you can receive:6
- Up to a $9.25 monthly discount for eligible subscribers
- Up to $34.25 per month for eligible subscribers on tribal lands
Participation in the Lifeline program is based upon income or enrollment in federal assistance programs such as the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program, Supplemental Security Income, Medicaid, federal public housing assistance, and Veterans and Survivors Pension Program. Lifeline subscribers have to recertify their eligibility each year. If you don’t recertify, you’ll be unenrolled in the program and lose your discount.
Affordable Connectivity Program
The Affordable Connectivity Program (ACP) helps low-income households pay for broadband services and internet-connected devices. Each household can receive one monthly service discount and one device discount.
If your household is eligible, you can receive:7
- Up to $30 per month off your internet service
- Up to a $75-per-month discount if your household is on qualifying tribal lands
- A one-time discount of up to $100 for a laptop, tablet, or desktop computer (with a copayment of more than $10 but less than $50)
To be eligible for ACP, individuals must meet the income requirements or participate in a government assistance program such as Supplemental Security Income, Medicaid, or federal public housing. You’re automatically eligible for the ACP if you already received the Lifeline benefit. It is possible to receive Lifeline and ACP benefits at the same time.
Quick Tip: The choice of internet providers is based on where you live. The Federal Communications Commission provides a list of participating providers by state.
Other Ways to Save on a Cell Phone
If you can't snag a free cell phone, don’t worry! There are plenty of ways to cash in on carrier deals, perks, and discounts. Unsure where to begin? Our 2024 cell phones for seniors buyer’s guide covers everything you need to know about cell phone brands and carriers and how to get the best deal. Below are some of our top tips.
Choose a Low-Cost Cell Phone
It’s not easy to pay full price for a phone out of pocket if you’re on a limited income. Thankfully, many cell phone carriers offer low-cost monthly payment plans. Consumer Cellular, for example, offers senior-friendly flip phones starting at just $2 monthly for 24 months. Its plans start at $20 per month. Check out our Consumer Cellular review for an in-depth look at plans and pricing. You can also read our list of the cheapest cell phones for seniors to see our top wallet-friendly picks and find the right cell phone for your budget.
Capitalize on Senior Discounts
Don’t forget to take advantage of your AARP membership perks! AT&T and Consumer Cellular have partnered with AARP to offer senior discounts on cell phone plans, accessories, and upgrades. Considering AT&T? Before you lock it in, learn more about the AT&T Unlimited 55-plus plan’s pricing and value.
Money-Saving Tip: Discounts are plentiful, from grocery stores to movie theaters. Our complete list of senior discounts covers over 100 deals.
Tap Into Veteran Cell Phone Discounts
Veterans who don’t qualify for federal phone programs such as Lifeline or Assurance Wireless have other cost-saving options. Many cell phone providers, including Verizon, T-Mobile, and AT&T, offer special discounts to military and veteran families. Monetary and medical benefits may be available to qualifying veterans, surviving spouses, and dependents.
Check for Phone Plan Deals
You can pair your inexpensive (or free!) cell phone with an affordable plan. Providers sometimes offer free lines, waived fees, and monthly freebies. Mint Mobile is the cheapest prepaid mobile carrier we’ve tested. With its new-customer offer, you can try it for three months, starting at $15 monthly. If your carrier isn’t offering deals, don’t forget to ask!
Frequently Asked Questions About Free Phones for Seniors
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How do I get a free cell phone from the government?
Complete the Lifeline qualification questionnaire to determine if you meet the eligibility requirements.
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What should I consider before choosing a free cell phone?
Consider factors like cell phone features, ease of use, and compatibility with medical devices such as hearing aids and medical alert systems.
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Do all cell phone carriers offer free phones?
No. Every carrier has different deals and discounts.
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Are there free cell phones for Medicaid beneficiaries?
Yes. You can get Lifeline if you or someone in your household participates in Medicaid.
Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. (2022). Fast Facts of Common Eye Disorders.
T-Mobile. (2022). America’s largest, fastest, and most reliable 5G network.
Verizon. (2021). Verizon still number one in Network Quality according to J.D. Power.
UMass Boston News. (2019). UMass Boston Research Finds Nearly One Third Live “In the Gap” Between Poverty, Economic Security.
assurance wireless. (2022). What is the Emergency Broadband Benefit and its successor, the Affordable Connectivity Program?
USAC Lifeline Support. (2022). Get Connected to Phone or Internet Service.
USAC Lifeline Support. (2022). Stay Connected.