Documents Required for Application

Applying for free government iPhone programs requires submitting specific documentation to verify your identity, address, and eligibility. Gathering these documents before starting your application will help ensure a smooth process.

Required Documents Overview

All applications require three types of documentation:

1. Proof of Identity: Documents that verify who you are
2. Proof of Address: Documents that verify where you live
3. Proof of Eligibility: Documents that verify your income or program participation

Proof of Identity

You must provide a government-issued photo ID. Acceptable documents include:

• Driver's license
• State-issued identification card
• U.S. passport
• U.S. passport card
• Military ID
• Tribal identification card
• Certificate of U.S. Citizenship
• Certificate of Naturalization
• Permanent Resident Card (Green Card)

Important: The ID must be current (not expired) and include your photo, full name, and date of birth. The name on your ID must match the name you use on your application.

Proof of Address

You must provide documentation showing your current residential address. Acceptable documents include:

• Utility bill (electric, gas, water, sewer, trash, or landline phone)
• Rent receipt or lease agreement
• Mortgage statement
• Government-issued document with your address (tax documents, benefits statement)
• Bank statement
• Insurance statement (home, auto, or health)
• Property tax statement

Requirements: The document must be dated within the last 90 days (some providers accept documents up to 12 months old), show your full name and current address, and come from an official source.

Proof of Eligibility

You must provide documentation proving you meet eligibility requirements. The documents you need depend on how you qualify:

Income-Based Eligibility

If you qualify based on income, provide one of the following:

• Prior year's federal, state, or Tribal tax return
• Current year's statement of benefits from a qualifying program
• Three consecutive months of pay stubs
• Social Security benefits statement
• Unemployment or Workers' Compensation benefits statement
• Divorce decree, child support award, or other official document showing income

Program-Based Eligibility

If you qualify through program participation, provide documentation showing participation in a qualifying program:

• SNAP: Benefits award letter, benefits statement, or case number
• Medicaid: Benefits card, benefits statement, or award letter
• SSI: Benefits award letter or benefits statement
• Federal Public Housing Assistance: Public housing lease, Section 8 voucher, or housing assistance statement
• Veterans Pension: Pension benefits statement or award letter
• WIC: Benefits card or certification letter
• Tribal Programs: Benefits statement or award letter from qualifying Tribal program

Important: Program participation documents must be current (typically within the last 12 months) and show your name and participation status.

Document Preparation Tips

Common Issues and Solutions

Applications are often delayed due to document issues. Here's how to avoid common problems:

• Name mismatch: If names differ between documents, provide additional documentation (marriage certificate, court order, etc.)
• Expired ID: Renew your ID before applying if it's expired
• Missing documents: Contact your provider if you're unable to obtain required documents—they may accept alternatives
• Illegible copies: Ensure documents are clear and readable when scanning or photographing
• Outdated address: Update your address with relevant agencies before applying if your address has changed recently

Where to Get Documents

If you need to obtain documents:

• State ID: Visit your state's Department of Motor Vehicles
• Benefits statements: Contact the agency administering your benefits program
• Tax returns: Request transcripts from the IRS if you need copies
• Utility bills: Contact your utility provider or access your account online
• Lease/mortgage: Contact your landlord or mortgage company

Next Steps

Once you have all required documents:

1. Review the eligibility requirements to ensure you qualify
2. Choose a participating provider in your area
3. Apply through the provider or National Verifier
4. Submit all required documents with your application
5. Wait for verification (typically 7-14 business days)