iphone carrier unlocking options

No. Only the carrier can unlock it. I would request a refund. They sold you an iPhone that you cannot use. T-Mobil’s policy - which is the same for all carriers - is there to preserve privacy and to discourage the illegal sale of stolen iPhones. If my iPhone were stolen, I’d be happy to know that my carrier would not disclose my personal information in order to allow the thief to use my phone.

Unfortunately, you are going to be stuck with what T-Mobile has decided is best for you.

Only the carrier can remove a carrier lock on the phone. Apple....or anyone else.....would not be involved with this.

Maybe you could sell the phone on Ebay or similar to another T-Mobile customer.

It a way it’s stolen, from T-Mobile, who owns it until it is paid off.

Nope. Only the carrier can unlock a carrier-locked device. Apple won’t.

Buying used equipment from private sales is not without its risks.

You should return the phone for a refund. If the seller refuses contact eBay buyer protection.

Your task is to convince T- Mobile that they should do what you want them to do, not do what they want to do.

I agree, they should do that.