Free Government iPhone in Texas
Texas runs its own Lifeline application process — one of only three states to do so — and its state program qualifies households up to 150% of the poverty line, broader than the federal 135%.
Texans don’t use the federal National Verifier. Texas is one of three states (with California and Oregon) that runs its own eligibility process through the Public Utility Commission of Texas. Apply via the PUC assistance portal, by calling the Low Income Discount Administrator (LIDA) at 1-866-454-8387, or directly through a participating carrier — which can process the Texas application for you.
Texas Qualifies More Households: 150% vs 135%
The federal program cuts off at 135% of the Federal Poverty Guidelines. Texas’s own Lifeline program goes to 150% — so households that earn too much for the federal credit can still qualify for the Texas credit.
Based on the 2026 Federal Poverty Guidelines. A household member enrolled in SNAP, Medicaid, SSI, or another qualifying program can qualify for the Texas credit even where the federal credit alone wouldn’t apply.
Heads-up on recertification: Texas requires you to reconfirm eligibility more often than the annual federal norm — historically as frequently as every 7 months. Watch for LIDA notices and respond promptly, or your discount (and phone plan) stops. Keep your address current with the Texas PUC.
3 Ways to Apply in Texas
All three go through the Texas process — pick whichever is easiest for you.
💻 PUC Assistance Portal
Apply online through the Public Utility Commission of Texas consumer assistance portal at puc.texas.gov.
📞 Call LIDA
Call the Low Income Discount Administrator at 1-866-454-8387 — they’ll mail you an application and answer questions.
📡 Through a Carrier
Apply on a participating provider’s website — most Texas carriers process the state application on your behalf. Fastest route to a free iPhone.
Which Texas Provider Fits You?
Answer 3 quick questions — we’ll match you to the best carrier from our verified comparison.
🤠 Texas provider match
Your match:
Providers Offering Free iPhones in Texas
Texas’s huge footprint means strong multi-network coverage. Full provider comparison →
| Provider | Typical Free iPhones in TX | Network | Plan Highlights | Verified |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| AirTalk Wireless | iPhone 7 – 13 (incl. 5G) | AT&T / T-Mobile | $0 talk, text & data; BYOD friendly | Oct 2026 |
| Cintex Wireless | iPhone 7 – 12 (incl. 5G) | T-Mobile | $0 plan; free shipping | Oct 2026 |
| Assurance Wireless | iPhone 7 – 11 | T-Mobile | $0 unlimited talk & text + data | Oct 2026 |
| SafeLink Wireless | iPhone 7 – 11 | Verizon | $0 talk, text & data; strong rural reach | Oct 2026 |
| Q Link Wireless | iPhone 7 – 10 | Verizon / T-Mobile | $0 plan with generous data | Oct 2026 |
| TAG Mobile | iPhone 7 – 11 | T-Mobile | $0 talk & text + data | Oct 2026 |
Texas FAQs
How do I apply for Lifeline in Texas?
What is the Texas Lifeline income limit?
Can I get a free iPhone in Texas, or just a discount?
How often must I recertify in Texas?
Do Texas providers cover rural areas?
Can I keep my phone number when switching Texas providers?
Is there a Texas-specific phone number for help?
Texans: Apply Through Your State Process
Skip the federal site — Texas runs its own show. Apply via the PUC portal, call LIDA, or let a carrier handle the paperwork, then get your free iPhone.
Texas process details per the FCC and the Public Utility Commission of Texas. GovernmentiPhone.org is an independent information site — not the PUC, FCC, or USAC. ← Back to homepage · California guide · How to apply →