Refurbished iPhones
Many providers participating in Lifeline and ACP programs offer refurbished iPhone models to eligible households. Refurbished devices provide an affordable way to access quality smartphones while meeting program requirements and quality standards.
What Are Refurbished iPhones?
Refurbished iPhones are previously owned devices that have been:
- Collected from trade-ins, returns, or other sources
- Thoroughly tested and inspected for functionality
- Repaired or restored to working condition as needed
- Cleaned, sanitized, and prepared for new users
- Verified to meet program quality standards
Quality and Standards
Refurbished devices provided through government assistance programs must meet specific quality requirements:
Functionality
- All features tested and working
- Battery performance verified
- Screen and display checked
- Camera functionality tested
Condition
- Cleaned and sanitized
- Cosmetic condition acceptable
- No major defects or damage
- Ready for immediate use
Compatibility
- Unlocked and carrier-compatible
- Network compatibility verified
- Software updated
- Full functionality guaranteed
Benefits of Refurbished Devices
Refurbished iPhones offer several advantages:
- Cost-effectiveness: More affordable than new devices, allowing providers to serve more participants
- Quality assurance: Tested and verified to work properly
- Environmental benefits: Reuses existing devices, reducing electronic waste
- Full functionality: All features work as expected
- Warranty coverage: Typically includes warranty protection (varies by provider)
Available Models
Refurbished iPhone models available through these programs vary by provider and inventory. Common models may include:
- iPhone 13 series (various models)
- iPhone 12 series
- iPhone 11 series
- iPhone XR, XS, XS Max
- iPhone 8 and 8 Plus
- iPhone SE (various generations)
Important: Specific model availability cannot be guaranteed and changes based on provider inventory. You typically cannot choose a specific model—providers assign devices based on availability.
What to Expect
Device Characteristics
- Condition: Devices may show minor wear but are fully functional
- Storage: Storage capacity varies by available inventory
- Color: Device color depends on available stock
- Accessories: May or may not include charger, cable, or other accessories (varies by provider)
- Packaging: May come in plain packaging rather than original iPhone boxes
- Warranty: Warranty terms vary by provider—ask about coverage
Warranty and Support
Refurbished devices typically include:
- Warranty coverage (terms vary by provider, typically 30-90 days)
- Technical support from the provider
- Replacement options if device fails during warranty period
- Documentation and setup assistance
Be sure to ask your provider about specific warranty terms and support options before receiving your device.
How to Get a Refurbished iPhone
To obtain a refurbished iPhone through these programs:
- Verify your eligibility for program benefits
- Research providers that offer refurbished iPhone options
- Contact providers to ask about current refurbished device availability
- Apply for program benefits through your chosen provider
- Upon approval, inquire about available refurbished iPhone models
- Receive and activate your device according to provider instructions
Considerations
Before choosing a refurbished iPhone option, consider:
- Device availability is not guaranteed—providers assign devices based on inventory
- You may not be able to choose a specific model, color, or storage capacity
- Some providers may offer new devices instead of or in addition to refurbished options
- Warranty terms and support vary by provider
- Refurbished devices may have minor cosmetic wear but are fully functional
Questions About Refurbished iPhones?
For information about refurbished iPhone availability, contact participating providers directly or visit our FAQs page. Providers can provide the most current information about available devices and warranty terms.