Free phones most often come with a contract with a minimum of two years. [2] X Research source
AT&T offers that involve free phones require 2-year wireless agreements, credit checks, and once active could involve overage fees and taxes. [3] X Research source
Verizon’s free phone plans come with a 2-year contract. Certain deals from Verizon are only available online. Be careful when purchasing and ensure you get the deal you want. Special offers may be for a limited time only.
Phones range in technological capabilities, as the more advanced options offer touch screens and less expensive plans cater to simpler needs with flip phones. Offers from Sprint may not be available in all markets, and some require rebates to acquire a cell phone for free. [5] X Research source
With the globalization of modern business travel has become a standard aspect of operations, making cell phone usage a necessity for many companies. In the Internet Age there is a need for instant response times. Employees without cell phones are at a serious disadvantage in relation to competitors with cell phones. [7] X Research source
Remind your boss of the importance of being reachable, and the stress the importance of being able to reach the office. Sometimes you need tech support, product details, or a superior’s decision in a hurry. Another great point to raise is that employee cell phones are no longer taxable by the IRS![8] X Research source
Each state has its own requirements, but they don’t vary by much. If you qualify for federal assistance programs like Food Stamps or Medicaid you’re very likely to be eligible for a free phone.
Safelink plans offer up to 250 minutes and 1,000 text messages. For the first two or three months, however, the minutes are doubled to 500. Eligibility depends on enrollment in other federal aid programs, but households with low enough income may be eligible as well. This varies by state. Remember that Safelink phones are often very small, cheap or hard to use and that most smartphones aren’t compatible with the Safelink service. Many Safelink phones are also from Tracfone, of which many phones accept the Safelink program.
Like Safelink, Assurance offers 250 minutes, although they provide unlimited text messaging and double minutes in the first four months. Based on your state residence, you may be eligible depending on your income in relation to the poverty line. [11] X Research source
Budget provides a free phone with 250 minutes to qualified citizens in Arkansas, Arizona, California, Colorado, Georgia, Hawaii, Idaho, Indiana, Iowa, Kansas, Kentucky, Louisiana, Maine, Maryland, Massachusetts, Michigan, Minnesota, Missouri, Nevada, North Dakota, Ohio, Oklahoma, Pennsylvania, Rhode Island, South Carolina, South Dakota, Washington, Utah, Texas, West Virginia, Washington, West Virginia, Wisconsin, and Wyoming. [12] X Research source
If someone is hesitant to get you a cell phone as a present, remind them how you can use it to keep in touch with them. It’s like getting a gift for both of you. Lots of great deals on cell phones pop up around the holidays. Drop a few hints to family or friends and let them bring you some joy next holiday season.
