If all else fails, I think you can at least buy it online then add the cheapest plan then cancel since it's not a contract when you purchase full price. Unless they changed that too.
How much is it off contract?
This is exactly what I did.$360. Tell them it's a gift and they won't give you crap about a plan.
Tell them the person you are buying for will add to their plan later and that person has AT$T.