Every 12 and 13 we send is tested for battery health, OLED screen, Face ID, cameras and 5G connection, then cleaned and fully reset before shipping.
iPhone 12 & 13 (Refurbished)
Let us be direct, because many websites are not: no government program gives a free iPhone 12 or 13. Lifeline helps with service, not flagship phones. What we offer is a fairly priced refurbished 5G upgrade on top of your plan, with the price confirmed before you pay anything.
- Plan included: your Lifeline service runs under the same terms as our free phones. See the plans page.
- Condition: refurbished and quality-checked, 5G and Face ID tested on every phone.
- In the box: your chosen phone, USB-C to Lightning cable and SIM kit. Wall plug not included, as Apple stopped including one with these models.
Faster Downloads, Smoother Streaming
The 12 and 13 are the first iPhones with 5G. In areas with good 5G coverage, downloads and video start noticeably faster than 4G, and busy places like stadiums and city centers stay usable. Where there is no 5G yet, both phones use fast 4G automatically, nothing changes for you.
Both also bring the bright OLED screen, MagSafe magnetic charging and accessories, and Ceramic Shield glass that survives drops better than any earlier iPhone.
12 and 13, Side by Side
iPhone 12 (2020)
| Display | 6.1″ Super Retina XDR OLED |
|---|---|
| Chip | Apple A14 Bionic |
| Network | 5G and 4G LTE |
| Cameras | Dual 12MP, Night mode on all cameras |
| Unlock | Face ID |
| Storage | 64 / 128 / 256GB |
| Extras | MagSafe, Ceramic Shield, IP68 |
| Software | Runs the current version of iOS |
iPhone 13 (2021)
| Display | 6.1″ Super Retina XDR OLED, brighter |
|---|---|
| Chip | Apple A15 Bionic |
| Network | 5G and 4G LTE |
| Cameras | Dual 12MP, Cinematic mode, sensor-shift stabilisation |
| Unlock | Face ID |
| Storage | 128 / 256 / 512GB |
| Battery | Up to about 2.5 hours longer than the 12 |
| Software | Runs the current version of iOS |
Both models: dual SIM (nano-SIM and eSIM), Lightning connector, wireless and MagSafe charging.
Should You Pay for 5G?
Worth it if you…
- Stream a lot of video or download big files on mobile data
- Live in an area with good 5G coverage (check first)
- Want the phone that stays current the longest
- Choose the 13 if battery life matters, it lasts noticeably longer than the 12
Save your money if you…
- Mostly use Wi-Fi at home: 5G changes nothing there
- Mainly call, text and use light apps: the free iPhone SE or discounted iPhone 11 will feel just as good
- Live where 5G coverage is weak: your phone will sit on 4G anyway
Anyone promising you a free iPhone 13 from the government is not telling the truth. We would rather tell you that here than sell you a surprise later.
Your 5G iPhone in 3 Steps
Check Eligibility
Confirm you qualify for Lifeline through a program like SNAP or Medicaid, or by income. The plan is what Lifeline supports; the phone upgrade is your choice on top.
Apply and Choose 12 or 13
Apply and pick your model. After approval we confirm stock and your exact upgrade price before any payment.
Activate and Use
Your phone arrives with your SIM kit and simple activation steps. On 5G coverage it connects at 5G speed automatically.
12-13 vs 11 vs SE
| Model | Network | Screen | Price | Page |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| iPhone 12 / 13 | 5G | 6.1″ OLED | Paid upgrade | You are here |
| iPhone 11 | 4G LTE | 6.1″ LCD | Discounted | See iPhone 11 → |
| iPhone SE (2020) | 4G LTE | 4.7″ LCD | Free, refurbished | See iPhone SE → |
iPhone 12 & 13 FAQs
Can I get a free iPhone 12 or 13 from the government?
No, and be careful with any website that says otherwise. Lifeline is a service discount program; it does not provide flagship phones. Providers like us can offer refurbished 12 and 13 models as a paid upgrade on your plan, with the price clearly confirmed before you pay.
How much do the iPhone 12 and 13 cost?
They are paid upgrades, priced by model, storage and stock. Your exact price is confirmed with you after your Lifeline approval, before any payment. If it does not suit you, you can take a free iPhone 7 or SE, or a discounted iPhone 11, instead. Nothing is charged silently.
iPhone 12 or 13, which should I pick?
Pick the 12 for the lowest price into 5G. Pick the 13 if you can stretch a little further: brighter screen, faster A15 chip, better battery (about 2.5 hours more per day), Cinematic video mode and double the starting storage. Both run current iOS.
Will 5G work where I live?
It depends on coverage in your area. Both phones support the main US 5G bands and fall back to fast 4G LTE everywhere else, so the phone works regardless. Before paying for a 5G upgrade, check the coverage picture for your area in our coverage guide.
Are refurbished 12 and 13 phones reliable?
Yes, when they are properly checked. Every unit we ship is tested for battery health, OLED screen quality, Face ID, cameras, speakers and 5G connection, then cleaned and fully reset. Light cosmetic marks are possible; faulty phones are never sent.
Is a charger included?
You get a USB-C to Lightning cable and SIM kit in the box. Apple stopped including a wall plug with the iPhone 12 onward, so use any USB-C plug you already have, or charge wirelessly with MagSafe or any Qi pad.
Ready for Real 5G?
Apply for your Lifeline plan, choose the iPhone 12 or 13, and we confirm your exact upgrade price before you pay a cent.
Apply and Choose Your ModelThe iPhone is a private wireless service provider participating in the FCC Lifeline program. We are not Apple Inc. and not a government agency. iPhone is a trademark of Apple Inc.; the name is used to describe the devices offered. The iPhone 12 and 13 are paid refurbished upgrades, not free government phones, subject to eligibility, approval and stock. The Affordable Connectivity Program (ACP) ended on June 1, 2024.