Sales tax is usually required on the full retail price of the phone at the time of purchase, even if the phone itself is "free" or $1 through credits.
Best Buy often provides an "instant" trade-in credit toward the purchase, which differs from carrier bill credits that take months to apply. High-value devices like an iPhone 15 Pro can net $500–$700 in immediate value.
As of early 2026, Best Buy’s most aggressive offers are tied to the series and the budget-friendly iPhone 16e .
Instead of paying upfront, the cost is split into 36 monthly payments. If your trade-in credit equals the monthly payment, your bill shows a $0.00/mo charge after credits.
Getting a brand-new iPhone for just a dollar (or even "free") at Best Buy typically requires a high-value trade-in and a specific carrier agreement. While Best Buy does not currently offer a flat "$1" sticker price for unlocked iPhones, you can reach that net cost through trade-in credits and carrier subsidies. Current Best Buy iPhone Promotions (April 2026)
You can save up to $1,100 with a qualified trade-in and activation on an AT&T unlimited plan .
This model is currently available for "on us" (effectively $0) with a new line or upgrade on select Verizon and T-Mobile plans. How to Get an iPhone for Effectively $1
