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Can you still get a free iPhone 13 Mini? Yes, in a way: even if you think those deals are long gone, it doesn’t mean you can’t take advantage of special offers and promotions still available.
The iPhone 13 Mini is not the latest model, but there are still ways to get your hands on one without paying full price. Follow this guide, and you could walk away with a free iPhone this year.
1. Is the iPhone 13 Mini Still Available?
The iPhone 13 Mini was introduced in 2021, but didn’t have a direct successor in the iPhone 14 series.
According to Counterpoint Research, the iPhone 13 Mini didn’t reach the top 10 list of best-selling smartphones in 2022, though three other iPhone 13 models did.
In fact, the iPhone 13 Mini is not a bad device. It offers a premium design in a compact body. With its 5.4-inch Super Retina XDR OLED display, the Mini delivers vivid visuals while remaining one of the most pocket-friendly flagship phones.
The iPhone 13 Mini is powered by the A15 Bionic chip and has a dual 12MP camera system with Wide and Ultra Wide lenses. It supports advanced photography features like Night mode, Smart HDR 4, and Photographic Styles.
Is iPhone 13 Mini no longer available?
Although Apple discontinued the iPhone 13 Mini in September 2023, it is still available through select carriers, retailers, and government assistance programs like Lifeline. These units are often refurbished or surplus stock, but offer the same great performance and features.
You can find the iPhone 13 Mini in (PRODUCT)RED, Starlight, Midnight, Blue, and Pink finishes, with storage options ranging from 128GB to 512GB.
Also read: How to Get an iPhone Free Government Phone: A Step-By-Step Guide!
2. Is the iPhone 13 Mini Eligible for Free through Government Assistance Programs?
iPhone models can be available for free or discounted distribution through government programs like Lifeline, but availability depends on the provider and your location.
With the expiration of the Affordable Connectivity Program (ACP) in June 2024, Lifeline remains the most active federal program supporting access to essential communication tools for low-income individuals. The Lifeline program provides a monthly service discount of up to $9.25 on phone or internet bills for qualifying individuals, or up to $34.25 if you live on Tribal lands.
How to get free iPhone without paying? Is it possible through the help of government programs?
To get started, you’ll need to check if you’re eligible for Lifeline benefits. Once approved, you can apply through a participating provider in your area.
2.1. Eligibility for a Discounted or Free iPhone 13 Mini from the Government
To qualify for a discounted or free government iPhone, your household income must be at or below **135% **of the Federal Poverty Guidelines. The income thresholds for different household sizes. If your income falls within these limits, you may qualify for Lifeline support, and possibly a discounted or free iPhone 13 Mini, depending on what’s in stock with your provider.
Even if your income doesn’t qualify you directly, you might still be eligible if you or someone in your household is enrolled in one of these federal assistance programs:
- Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP)
- Medicaid
- Supplemental Security Income (SSI)
- Federal Public Housing Assistance (FPHA)
- Veterans Pension and Survivors Benefit
If you live on Tribal lands, additional programs that can help you qualify include:
- Bureau of Indian Affairs General Assistance
- Tribal TANF
- Food Distribution Program on Indian Reservations (FDPIR)
- Head Start (income-qualified only)
2.2. How to Apply for a Discounted or Free iPhone 13 Mini from the Government
While the iPhone 13 Mini isn’t guaranteed free through Lifeline (especially newer models like the iPhone 14 Pro Max), it’s one of the more affordable Apple options. Here’s a step-by-step guide on how to apply:
All you need to do is entering a zip code and complete application in a few minutes.
Step 2: Choose a Plan
- Free Phone + Plan: Includes a free or heavily discounted phone, including an iPhone 13 Mini, along with iPhone 13 Mini sim free, with free talk, text, and data.
- Bring Your Own Device (BYOD): If you already have a phone, you can keep it and still receive the free monthly Lifeline service.
Step 3: Pick the iPhone 13 Mini or Another Model
If the iPhone 13 Mini free is in stock, it will appear in the list of available phones for your area. Because inventory changes frequently, you might also find alternative iPhone models such as:
- iPhone 7
- iPhone XR
- iPhone SE
- iPhone 8
- iPhone 11
- iPhone 12
- iPhone 13
- iPhone 13 Pro Max
- iPhone 13 Pro
- iPhone 14
- iPhone 15
These iPhones are often available completely free or at deeply reduced prices. Also, the availability for each model depends on each customer’s area of residence.
Step 4: Verify Your Eligibility
Upload clear, readable documents to support your application.
Step 5: Submit Your Application
If you’re approved, they’ll ship your iPhone 13 Mini (or your selected phone) directly to your address, and you can begin using your free or discounted Lifeline phone service.
3. Can You Get a Free iPhone 13 Mini with a Trade-In?
You can secure an iPhone 13 Mini at a significant discount by trading in an eligible older device through programs offered by Apple, Best Buy, Verizon, and other major retailers and carriers.
These trade-in deals reward customers for returning their old phones in good working condition, and the value of the trade-in is then applied toward the cost of a new device. Apple, for example, allows you to trade in an iPhone 12 in good condition and earn up to $170 in credit.
The trade-in value mainly depends on the model, condition, and age of your device.
Newer models like the iPhone 11 or 12 hold more value, often covering a considerable portion of the iPhone 13 Mini’s base price.
**Free iPhone 13 Mini when you switch providers? **
FAQs
Is iPhone 13 Mini no longer available?
Apple discontinued the iPhone 13 Mini in September 2023. The iPhone 13 Mini was introduced in 2021, but didn’t have a direct successor in the iPhone 14 series. However, you can find the device through various retailers, carriers, and government assistance programs, mainly in refurbished or pre-owned conditions.
Conclusion
The iPhone offers are closely linked to specific providers, so you can’t always get an iPhone 13 Mini for free or at the best price. However, there are still many promotions and models available, so it’s not the end of the world if you haven’t secured your free iPhone yet. Keep an eye out, and you may still get a free iPhone 13 Mini in the future.