Find the best free phone and tablet providers in your area. Compare benefits, devices, and application processes to choose the right program for you.
Compare features, devices, and benefits across all major providers
Provider | Phone | Tablet | Data | Talk/Text | States | Application | Action |
---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
TM
TAG Mobile
Premium devices available
|
✓ Yes | ✓ Yes (iPad) | Up to 15GB | Unlimited | Nationwide | Online | Apply Now |
Available Devices
Additional Benefits
Free International Calling
Bring Your Own Device
Free Shipping
Note: Device availability varies by state and current promotions. The government covers service costs only; devices are promotional offers from TAG Mobile. |
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AW
AirTalk Wireless
Unlimited data plans
|
✓ Yes | ✓ Yes | Unlimited | Unlimited | Most states | Online | |
Available Devices
Plan Features
Unlimited Data
Unlimited Talk & Text
Nationwide Coverage
AirTalk Wireless offers some of the most comprehensive plans with truly unlimited data. Device selection varies significantly by location and availability. |
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SU
StandUp Wireless
Reliable service
|
✓ Yes | Limited | 10GB | Unlimited | Select states | Online/Mail | |
Service Features
Important Notes
Limited Tablet Availability
Mobile Hotspot
StandUp Wireless focuses primarily on phone service. Tablet availability is very limited and varies by location. Good option for those primarily needing phone service. |
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TC
TruConnect
Hotspot included
|
✓ Yes | ✓ Yes | 14GB | Unlimited | Nationwide | Online | |
Service Features
Unique Benefits
Free Hotspot Device
14GB Data
Nationwide Coverage
TruConnect stands out by including a free mobile hotspot device with their service. This allows you to connect other devices to the internet using your phone's data connection. |
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AS
Assurance Wireless
Virgin Mobile brand
|
✓ Yes | ✗ No | Unlimited | Unlimited | Most states | Online | |
Service Details
Limitations
No Tablets
Phone Only
Assurance Wireless, owned by Virgin Mobile, focuses exclusively on phone service. They do not offer tablets but provide excellent unlimited phone service with reliable coverage. |
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SL
SafeLink Wireless
Verizon brand
|
✓ Yes | ✗ No | Unlimited | Unlimited | Nationwide | Online/Phone | |
Network & Service
Company Background
Verizon Network
Phone Only
SafeLink Wireless is owned by Verizon and uses their extensive network. This provides excellent coverage but they only offer phone service, no tablets. |
Learn about the government assistance programs that provide free devices
The Lifeline Assistance Program, established in 1985, helps low-income households afford phone and internet service. Participants receive up to $9.25/month discount on service, and many providers offer free devices as part of their plans.
Important: The ACP program ended in June 2024 due to lack of funding. However, the Lifeline program continues to provide assistance and is now the primary option for free government devices.
Now that you've compared the programs, it's time to start your application. We'll guide you through each step of the process.