Buy Now Pay Later Phones: How to Get a New Device Without Credit or Deposit

Need a new phone but don’t have the cash upfront or a perfect credit score? You're not alone. Many Americans struggle to afford a smartphone when the full price is due at once — and credit checks can make things worse. Fortunately, Buy Now Pay Later phones offer a way to get a device today with $0 down, no credit check, and flexible payments. This guide explains how it works, what phones are available, and how to qualify — even with limited credit.

What Is “Buy Now Pay Later” for Phones?

Buy Now Pay Later phones let you order and receive a phone now, and pay for it in weekly or monthly installments. Unlike traditional contracts or leasing, many BNPL providers approve users without a hard credit check, and often require no deposit or credit card. This makes it accessible for:

  • People with poor or no credit history
  • Students, gig workers, or part-time employees
  • Anyone who wants to avoid paying $800+ upfront

You can apply online, get approved in minutes, and have the phone shipped to your door.

Popular Phones with $0 Down

Depending on the provider, you can get brand-new or refurbished phones, with or without a service plan. Here are some popular BNPL phone options available in 2025:

Phone Model

Monthly Payment

Credit Check?

iPhone 14

$35/mo x 24

❌ No

Samsung Galaxy S23

$28/mo x 24

❌ No

Motorola G Power

$12/mo x 12

❌ No

iPhone SE (2022)

$0 with prepaid service

❌ No

TCL 30Z

$0 with ACP program

❌ No

Some providers even offer a free phone + plan if you qualify through government-supported programs like ACP (Affordable Connectivity Program).

How to Qualify for a BNPL Phone Plan

Most programs don’t check your credit — instead, they ask for:

  • ✅ Valid U.S. ID or driver’s license
  • ✅ Proof of income (job, SSI, benefits, etc.)
  • ✅ Debit card or bank account
  • ✅ Proof of address

If you're approved, you’ll either receive your phone by mail, or pick it up in-store. Some plans start payments 14–30 days later, giving you time to budget.

Where to Get Buy Now Pay Later Phones

Here are popular platforms and carriers offering BNPL phones with $0 down and no credit:

  • Mint Mobile – iPhones and Androids with monthly payment options
  • Metro by T-Mobile – $0 phones with number port-in
  • Assurance Wireless (ACP) – Free phone with service plan
  • QLink Wireless – Free smartphone by mail for eligible users
  • SmartPay / Progressive Leasing – Pay later for phones at Walmart, Best Buy, etc.
     

Pros and Cons to Know

Benefits:

  • ✅ No upfront payment
  • ✅ No credit check
  • ✅ Quick approval process
  • ✅ Device shipped or ready to pick up within days

Cautions:

  • ⚠️ Total cost may be higher if payments are missed
  • ⚠️ Some programs require staying on a specific plan
  • ⚠️ Not all phones are brand new — check descriptions
  • ⚠️ Missed payments could disqualify you from upgrades

Quick Comparison Table

Provider

Phone Offered

$0 Deposit?

Credit Check

Assurance Wireless

Free Android Phone

✅

❌ No

Mint Mobile

iPhone 13, Galaxy

✅

Soft

Metro by T-Mobile

Budget & Flagships

✅ (port-in)

❌ No

SmartPay

Walmart/Best Buy

✅

❌ No

QLink Wireless

Free Phone + Plan

✅

❌ (ACP)

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Do I need a credit card?
No, most BNPL phone plans accept debit cards or ACH payments.

Can I really get an iPhone with no deposit?
Yes — several plans offer iPhones with $0 down if bundled with a service.

What’s the difference between BNPL and a phone lease?
BNPL usually has no long-term contract, and payments end after 12–24 months.

Is this a loan?
Some providers treat it as a lease-to-own; others use installment billing.

Can I keep the phone after I pay it off?
Yes, unless stated otherwise. Always read the terms.

Final Thoughts

Buy Now Pay Later phones give you a way to stay connected, even if you can’t afford a large upfront payment or don’t have perfect credit. With the right plan, you can get the phone you want — including iPhones — delivered to your door, with $0 down, no deposit, and no credit check.

Just compare options, read the fine print, and apply.
You might get your new phone as soon as today.