How to Get a Free Cell Phone If One Already Has a Plan

1. Get an upgrade. Although you are not a new customer, your cell phone provider might offer you free cell phones after you have been a customer for a certain amount of time--usually after the halfway point of your contract. If you have not reached your upgrade date, your provider might move you up if you order your new phone with a customer service representative.
2. Switch providers. If another provider offers a free phone you like, consider switching providers. Your new provider can also help you keep your present cell phone number for convenience. However, you will likely have to pay a termination fee with your old service provider.
3. Trade your phone. Sites such as Craigslist.org allow you to trade or sell your phone, so you can either get a new phone or use any sales proceeds to purchase a new phone. At Flipswap (see Resources), you can get your current phone appraised, and they will send you a check or gift certificate that you can put toward a new phone.