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Is any phone compatible with my free phone network?

Can I use a different cell phone in place of my free government cell phone?

Readers ask us this question (or variations of it) every single day. They don’t like the Lifeline Assistance free government cell phone they were given or it’s broken or someone gave them a new phone. Whatever the reason, a lot of people ask if it’s possible to switch.

There are lots of factors that always lead us to our standard answer: Maybe.

In addition to that we also say, “Not all cell phones are compatible with all cell phone networks, so you’ll need to ask your service provider’s customer service team if the phone you want to use is compatible with its network.”

So we thought we’d take a whack a explaining what the second part of that answer means and maybe even make it possible for you to figure out if that other cell phone is compatible with your free government cell phone company’s national cell network. And we’ll try to do it without getting neck deep in technological jibber jabber.

Step One: CDMA vs GSM

The first thing you need to know is that there are two different cell phone technologies — CDMA and GSM. When we say “Not all cell phones are compatible with all cell networks,” that means that CDMA cell phones won’t work on a GSM network. And vice versa. CDMA cell phones only work on CDMA networks and GSM cell phones only work on GSM networks.

CDMA is an acronym that’s short for Code Division Multiple Access and GSM stands for Global System for Mobiles.

In the United States, the five major cell phone networks break down like this:

CDMA = Sprint, Verizon and U.S. Cellular
GSM = AT&T and T-Mobile

Most of the rest of the world uses GSM, but that is neither here nor there so we won’t bore you with an explanation of how that came about.

Which free government cell phone companies use which networks?

There are major changes afoot in the Lifeline Assistance free government cell phone industry — mergers, acquisitions and consolidation — that will reduce the number of companies you can choose from. But at this point in time, here are the leading companies (as taken from our The 2016 List of Leaders: Who’s who in the free government cell phone business?“):

Here are the leading Lifeline Assistance companies and the cell networks on which they work. Find your service provider and you’ll quickly see which technology it uses.

  • Safelink Wireless – AT&T GSM, T-Mobile GSM, Sprint CDMA, Verizon CDMA, U.S. Cellular CDMA. Depends on geographic location.
  • Assurance Wireless – Sprint CDMA
  • Access Wireless – Sprint CDMA
  • Budget Mobile – Sprint CDMA, Verizon CDMA (NOTE: Hearing aid-compatible phones are both CDMA GMS-compatible) Boomerang, which has taken over the accounts of many Budget customers is currently negotiating a contract with a national GSM provider.
  • Life Wireless – AT&T GSM
  • Assist Wireless – Sprint CDMA, Verizon CDMA
  • Q Link Wireless – Sprint CDMA
  • TruConnect Mobile – Sprint CDMA
  • Total Call Mobile – Sprint CDMA
  • Blue Jay Wireless – Sprint CDMA, Verizon CDMA
  • Terracom Wireless – Sprint CDMA, Verizon CDMA
  • True Wireless – Sprint CDMA, Verizon CDMA
  • Tag Mobile – Sprint CDMA, Verizon CDMA, T-Mobile GSM
  • StandUp Wireless – Sprint CDMA
  • YourTel – Sprint CDMA, Verizon CDMA

What the difference means to you

Uh-oh. We better start explaining what all this means to you, because we can already see your eyes starting to glaze over.

The simple fact is, it’s much easier to switch phones if your free government cell phone company uses a GSM network. Here’s how PCMag.com explains it:

It’s much easier to swap phones on GSM networks, because GSM carriers put customer information on a removable SIM card. Take the card out, put it in a different phone, and the new phone now has your number. What’s more, to be considered GSM, a carrier must accept any GSM-compliant phone. So the GSM carriers don’t have total control of the phone you’re using.

That’s not the case with CDMA. In the U.S., CDMA carriers use network-based white lists to verify their subscribers. That means you can only switch phones with your carrier’s permission, and a carrier doesn’t have to accept any particular phone onto its network. It could, but typically, U.S. carriers choose not to.

Many Sprint and Verizon phones now have SIM cards, but that isn’t because of CDMA. The SIM cards are generally there for Sprint’s and Verizon’s 4G LTE networks, because the LTE standard also uses SIM cards. The phones may also have SIM slots to support foreign GSM networks as “world phones.” But those carriers still use CDMA to authenticate their phones on their own home networks.

What about LTE?

Now that you know about the the differences between CDMA vs. GSM, you should also know that those differences will eventually disappear. Why? Because all cell phone carriers are moving to a new technology called 4G LTE. It’s a new, globally-accepted wireless standard.

“Does that mean,” we hear you saying, “that every cell phone will be LTE-compatible and that I can use whatever phone I happen to own in place of my free government cell phone?”

In a word, no.

Here we go running the risk of getting too technical again:

Turns out that different cell phone carriers are using different frequency bands, with different 3G backup systems. And there are very few cell phones that will work will all the different LTE bands.

In one extreme example, Sprint’s new Spark network employs an esoteric LTE variant that doesn’t work with any other U.S. carrier’s phones. Genius, huh? But Sprint is not alone. Turns out that very few phones support all of the different LTE bands.

Let’s turn this over to PCMag.com for another of their excellent explanations:

A growing number of phones support all of these standards, but it can be hard to tell which ones. The iPhone 6, the iPhone 6 Plus and the Google Nexus 6 are the most flexible. iPhone 6 and 6 Plus units from AT&T, T-Mobile, and Verizon can all be used on all three carriers, but they lack Sprint’s special LTE bands. Sprint iPhones have all the bands, but Sprint has strict unlocking policies. Nexus 6 phones will technically work on all four carriers, but Sprint only allows phones purchased from Google or Sprint on its network.

HTC One (M8) and Samsung Galaxy S5 phones from Verizon will work somewhat on AT&T’s and T-Mobile’s networks, albeit with limited coverage because while they have CDMA, GSM and LTE, they don’t have all the frequency bands AT&T and T-Mobile use. Variants of those same models sold by AT&T and T-Mobile won’t work on Verizon at all, because they lack the CDMA radio needed for Verizon. It’s a mess.

As clear as mud?

Please allow us to make a bit of sense out of all of this because even after this incredibly detailed explanation, the answer to the question “Can I switch my free government cell phone for another phone I own?” is still the same.

Maybe.

If you have a GSM phone, you may well be able to switch SIM cards from one phone to another. If your free government cell phone is a CDMA model, your “other” phone will must also be CDMA-compatible. And even then it may not work.

And none of this may matter because we’re rapidly moving to an LTE-centric world.

You’re welcome. We’re glad we could help.

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Comments

  1. Don’t know how to change my.tempo.com to Quicklinks.com & keep my Lifeline & same phone Number

    Reply

    • Only if it is compatible with your service provider’s national cell network, Kimberly.

      Reply

    • Our psychic repair line is down right now, Adrian, so we won’t be able to troubleshoot your phone. In the meantime, perhaps you can contact your service provider’s customer service team.

      Reply

  5. Can anyone tell me what the heck kind of phone I can use with my assist wireless t mobile sim card I’ve tryed so many no luck help

    Reply

    • Here’s a crazy idea, Crystal: Check the Assist website to see what kind of phones they offer. You can also contact customer service.

      Reply

  6. Thank you for providing Lifeline info. I think I understand a little bit more. I am currently with Assurance Wireless who as you know, is connected to Virgin Mobile and using the Sprint network. The free phone they have sent me is the ZTE Quest N817. It says it is a CDMA/Edvo model. I am very unhappy with it’s ability to stay operational in general (I’m on my third replacement) and it’s performance when it is working. There is always at least one feature, but usually more on the blink. I want to switch my service provider to Truconnect in hopes of receiving a better free phone. I would like to keep my number as it has become established with so many entities that contact me. My question is Truconnect offers both GSM and CDMA phones with LTE on most of them. Do I have to choose another CDMA phone in order to keep my number when I switch? I think the free phone that Truconnect uses is LG K3. I read somewhere that Truconnect uses the CDMA Sprint network I will be travelling to Mexico again and would like to know what I need to do in order to have service within Mexico as well as capability to send and receive calls to/from the United States. , Is there a phone I should look into to buy or just wait and buy a cheap system when I’m in Mexico (about 10 days max) Thanks so much for your help!

    Reply

  7. MY old, God-awful free cellfone : ALMOST , almost worse than a string with 2 tin cans. Anyway it’s moot. That crapcell is broken and obviously I’m hoping my $40 LG PHOENIX 3 is compatible with your service, though I’m sure I know it’s not. I’ve tried 4, 5 different cells to no avail. Pathetic. As pathetic as charging me for a replacement crap cell u provide. Are there even T E N compatible cells to ur stellar plan? I would’ve been happier NEVER KNOWING some cells are ….. U get it. Help

    Signed, frustrated

    612-381-****

    Reply

    • It’s not “our” service, Anthony. This is an independent informational website that is NOT affiliated with any of the free government cell phone companies.

      Reply

  8. I have an iPhone 7+ and am trying to find a government SIM card that will allow me to send sms messages such as pictures through text. Which would be the best company to go though?

    Reply

    • You’ve stumped us with this question, Kellie. Any readers want to give Kellie an opinion?

      Reply

      • Kellie maybe it depends if its cdma like boostmobile sprint verizon these dont use sim sim cards there’s a list of compatible phones that might work

        Reply

  9. Perfect explanations. I wish all info could be this simple, even if it is slightly dumbed down. It’s enough info to know.

    Reply

  11. Could you give me a list of compatible phones for qlink wireless? That would be so helpful if you can . Thanks!

    Reply

    • Impossible, Mel. That list is longer than Uncle Sam’s arm on April 15. Do a little Googling for “CDMA cell phones.”

      Reply

    • What’s the problem, Pam. We provide you with the information you need and that’s not enough? Can we get you some lemonade? Some bonbons? Give you a neck rub?

      Reply

  13. I am a bit confused, i am looking at a phone that seems really good, but I’d like to find out if it is compatible with Q-Link wireless before I buy it. However their tech support is less than stellar and I can not get any answer from them without providing an IMEI number, and since it is sold online I can not do that. The network information provided by the seller is: Network type :2G;3G;4G. 2G : GSM1900/1800/850/900, 3G: WCDMA:2100/850/900,
    4G: LTE-FDD:2100/1800/2600/900/800, WLAN: 802.11 a/b/g/n(2.4G+5G), Bluetooth: 4.1. I have no more information than that, could you tell me if this phone would be compatible? Itcard availa is a large, very rugged phone, which is what I need , and it has dual Sim availability.

    Reply

    • We NEVER answer this question, Ralph, because it’s above our pay grade. We’re experts on the free government cell phone PROGRAM, but NOT on cell phone technology. Sorry.

      Reply

  14. My screen is broken it has been messing up know for a while but know it want even power on after charge it

    Reply

  15. why is sprint the only phones exceptable to transfer my qlinkservice too ? the phone they sent me is so incredibly slow i cant even use it

    Reply

    • Q Link operates on the Sprint network, so only phones that are compatible with that network can be used. It’s all explained in the article above, Gina.

      But Q Link also offers a Bring Your Own Phone program that you might want to look into.

      Reply

  16. At my location can only get service with Verizon or US Cellular. Which providers will work for me?

    Reply

    • Call 6-1-1 on your free government cell phone. That will connect you to customer service and they can tell you what your number is. Or you can call a friend’s cell phone and caller ID will show them your number and they can tell you what it is.

      Reply

  18. Can I put my chi from my free phone that’s verizon into my iPhone 8 that’s also verizon but from the verizon store

    Reply

    • To get the most accurate answer, check with your free government cell phone company’s customer service team.

      Reply

  20. Hello this Emely Gonzalez I have problem with phone because of Network No 4G LTE please help me call me 856 676 ****

    Reply

    • We can’t call you due to the volume of questions we get every day, Emely. But you should speak to your customer service team ASAP.

      Reply

    • Because no one can tell you which phones are compatible with your service provider than your service provider’s customer service or tech support team.

      Reply

  22. I just want to know if i can get a flip phone I have a new vortex free min phone but I want a flip phone I want to know where I can get one .i would like to know where I can go or call to change it .And if I can

    Reply

    • Each company offers different selection of phones, Reyna. And those selections constantly change. So it’s almost impossible for us to answer. We actually doubt if any of the free government cell phone companies are offering flip phones anymore, but many companies offer a BYOP (Bring Your Own Phone) option that would allow you to purchase your own phone and use it with the Lifeline program. You will need to call the companies offering the plan in your state to determine which of those phones are compatible with their network before enrolling. Here’s where you can find a list of all those companies in your state:

      https://www.freegovernmentcellphones.net/states

      Reply

  23. Hi. I own an AT&T LG Phoenix smartphone (prepaid). Can I switch it to a SafeLink SIM Card? If yes, will OT work, and can I keep my AT&T number?

    Reply

    • Contact Safelink customer service for the most accurate answer to that question, Michael.

      Reply

    • Only Assurance customer service or tech support can answer that question accurately. But if you go to the company’s website you can view the other phones they provide and that may help you out.

      Reply

  25. Need to upgrade phone..we are eligible for phone upgrade.
    719 671 ****. What IS the next step & what company ate we thru? I know it’s Sprint but have no idea how to do this.

    Reply

    • Seriously, Yolanda? We aren’t mindreaders, so we have no idea who your service provider is. But you can find out by calling 6-1-1 and speaking to customer service.

      Reply

  26. My phone I own is boost lg.can I change my qlink zte over to it. I am really slow at understanding what I read. So please help me out

    Reply

  27. Yes I am trying to switch over to this phone from my Qlink phone.i have put in the ONE I and MEID numbers but it gets to a certain part then just stops. I would greatly appreciate your attention and assistance in helping me resolve this matter.
    Thank you in advance
    Ken Vaughn

    Reply

    • You need to contact the customer service team for the company you are trying to switch to.

      Reply

    • Speak to your service provider’s customer service team to get the most accurate answer, Arian.

      Reply

  31. My zte n817 accutance sprint cdma the one i wanted to transfer to is a LGL62VL premier trackphone but dont no if its cdma or not i just got it only use on wifi for now

    Reply

    • That’s impossible for us to answer, Wendy. It depends on what make and model of flip phone you have, and which service provider you are enrolled with. Read the article above for the info you need.

      Reply

  33. Love the input.. I been having a problem using att unlocked gsm phone with metro pcs service.. Lte and signal data work fine..but when i make a phone call or recieve on.. Data drops off and it has the worst phone reception. And i cant use data while in the phone.. Ive googled endless ways to try and get an answer..

    Reply

  34. Also I see wearing you can get in over my phone if you are low income or no income. I got a statement from Department of Social Security showing I had no income for the whole year will this suffice? I was told when I called customer service that it was

    Reply

    • Why are you asking us to verify if customer service already gave you an answer?

      Reply

    • The best way to confirm the answer to your question is to speak to Q Link customer service, Joe.

      Reply

  36. Yes I have an old phone from Verizon that is called the note 3 which carrier should I get my government phone plan from

    Reply

    • You can narrow it down using the list shown in the article above, but then it’s a matter of contacting each of those companies in your state to determine which technology is used in your area. Here’s where you can find all the companies and plans available in your state:

      https://www.freegovernmentcellphones.net/states

      Reply

  37. My daughter has an what they called OBAMA PHONE but the phone broke so she decided to purchase a phone thru OFFER up an IPHONE 5 she went to one of those Mobile repair phone to switch the SIM card. Turned out it don’t work to his particular phone. Her dilemma is this WHICH PHONE SHE CAN USE.

    Reply

    • Check out the phones offered on your service provider’s website, Pete. That will give you a pretty good idea of which makes and models of phones might be used on your service provider’s network.

      Reply

    • Ms.Pris,
      I thank GOD for people like you asking relative and intelligent questions. I often feel like I’m on another flat earth somewher

      Reply

      • For real. I’m astonished at the amount of people leaving comment so so if this is their phone carrier or personal problem solver/researcher, and most people aren’t even giving the accurate info to even help them if they were talking to their carrier. Endless confusing and indecipherable quandaries being directed at the poor host and proprietor of this valuable website and resource! I cannot begin to imagine answering nearly the same questions thousands of times over, or reading statements from people when those questions are literally covered within the post/page they’re commenting on and the statements– contrary to what’s in the article! It’s a tiresome and thankless job but I wanted to chime in & let you know that your efforts go noticed to some, like me, and I’m incredibly thankful– not to mention, in awe– of all the time and research you constantly put in to make this a consistently-updated, thoroughly researched, and seemingly ‘the’ only resource for those using these services. Thank you for all your hard work and dedication!!

        Reply

        • Awwwww, thanks, Andrea. It’s comments like yours that keep us going. Well, that and a genetic streak of masochism.

          Reply

          • To the webmaster: I honestly adore your masochism; it’s inherent throughout the myriad replies. A side of sadism, anyone?! Keep up the good work! Anywho,I stumbled on your site while trying to find info on how to swap from one network to another… Kudos

  39. I have inherited a Verizon iPhone 8 and am having a hard time finding a provider that will accept it on the CA Lifeline program. The ZTE phone they sent is a toy…any suggestions?

    Reply

  41. I have a verizon LG Vs500pp prepaid phone. The sim card I have doesn’t fit in the LG. What do I have to do or get to make it work?

    Reply

    • The first question you need to ask is, “Is this phone compatible with my service provider’s network?” Contact your service provider’s customer service team to get the answer to the question.

      Reply

  42. can i use a zte n817 from assurance wireless as a replacement for a zte n817 from qlink wireless ?? and keep qlink wireless service ??

    Reply

    • This is one type of question we always shy away from answering. You best best is to contact Q Link customer service or tech support to get your question answered most accurately.

      Reply

    • Contact Q Link customer service or tech support to get your question answered most accurately, Marcella.

      Reply

    • Probably. But you need to contact Safelink customer service to confirm that your specific make and model will be compatible with its network.

      Reply

  46. I have a new never used trac phone lg82vl. Will it work with Safelink? it came with a trac phone sik so im hoping it will. Thank you.

    Reply

    • This is one type of question we never answer, Valerie. You need to contact Safelink customer service to get your question answered.

      Reply

      • I wouldn’t recommend contacting Safelink customer service about anything, ever, under any circumstances.
        You’ll get directed to a call center in India for Tracfone, who don’t even know what Safelink is.
        I can’t even explain to you in any Earthly language how many times I had to call over the course of 5 months, how many hours I spent talking to people who kept redirecting me.
        Safelink CS does not exist… it’s just a labrynth of nightmares.

        Reply

        • Same experience here. Safelink is such a joke and in Florida thats all we have along with assistwireless which uses a screwy version of CDMA. A $10/month account with Red Pocket is less pain than trying to work with the idiots at Safelink/Tracphone. Tracfone is actually owned by a Mexican Telecom company and operates under several different names. They will make you HATE cell phone industry.

          Reply

  47. I still don’t understand why our Cellular phones are not communicating with each other. I call my wife from my phone, and there is no answer, the call is received by an answering machine.

    When she calls me, the same thing happens. I want to know what is the reason this is happening? Can anyone explain?

    Reply

    • Sounds like you should call 6-1-1 on your free government cell phone to connect with tech support.

      Reply

      • First thing you need to know, Antonio, is that Metro PCS does not participate in the free government cell phone program.

        Reply

    • You might want to give us a little more detail, Loretta, because enTouch does a great job monitoring the comments on this site. They can’t help you if they don’t know what the problem is.

      Reply

  49. i have a flip phone from q link that i used a while back, samsung can i use it again .i have aerterisis and cannot use a smart phone. please reply

    Reply

    • You can use it IF it is compatible with your service provider’s network. Speak to customer service or tech support to find out if it is.

      Reply

  50. Hi I was wondering if this phone would work with Q-link Wireless I’m pretty sure it will but it never hurts to double check.

    Apple iPhone 6S 16GB GSM/CDMA Unlocked

    Unlocked: Will work with all carriers
    Model: A1688
    Processor: 1.84 GHz Twister
    Storage: 16 GB
    Memory: 2 GB
    Display: 4.7 in
    Resolution: 750 × 1334 pixels
    Camera (rear): 12 MP
    Camera (front-selfie): 5 MP
    Dimensions: 5.44 × 2.64 × 0.28 in
    Weight: 5 oz
    Operating system: iOS 9 (upgradable to iOS 11.2)
    Color variations: Black, White, Gold, Rose Gold
    Includes charging hub and cable

    Reply

    • You need to speak to Q Link customer service or tech support to get a definitive answer to your question, Nick.

      Reply

  52. Ok I have a ultimate Mobile Xperience (UMX- MXG401) Government phone what are compatible cell phones I can switch to?

    Reply

    • Speak to your service provider’s customer service or tech support team by calling 6-1-1 on your free government cell phone.

      Reply

    • We’re not quite sure what your question is, James. That being the case, yes, you should probably contact your service provider’s tech support team.

      Reply

  54. What I really need to know is how can I upgrade my cdmc qlink phone so it will be 4G or at least a little faster.

    Reply

    • We’re experts on the free government cell phone program, Kale, but NOT on cell phone technology. We’d suggest that you call 6-1-1 on your Lifeline phone and ask to speak to your service provider’s tech support team.

      Reply

  55. If I’m buying a phone off line and it say sprint only but (CDMA + GSM) can I use the phone on a Verizon network because I typed the imei on Verizon, at&t , and T-Mobile and all of them accepted the imei number except for T-Mobile

    Reply

    • Way over our heads technically, Timia. The best idea is for you to contact customer service at whichever service provider you are enrolled with. They should be able to tell you which makes and models are compatible with its network.

      Reply

  57. Hi my qlink phone is still active but i cant see who is calling because the screen is shattered i have call to see if it can be re-placed without having to pay the $ 25.00 dollars

    Reply

    • It may well depend on how long you’ve been a customer and if you happen to end up with a customer service agent who’s in a good mood when you speak to him/her. Give it a try. You have nothing to lose.

      Reply

  58. Alrite, I’ve got a Samsung Galaxy 8 plus phone. Its from T-Mobile.
    Which company will take this as my free phone? If any at all. Someone please point me in the right direction. I’m loving my phone and would love to continue to use it.

    Reply

    • It’s impossible for us to answer that question, Teresa. It will be up to you to contact your preferred service provider to find out if your particular make and model of phone will be compatible with its cell network.

      Reply

  59. You explained differences in networks and all this additional tech stuff, but you didn’t answer the question, nor did you attempt to do so. QUESTION: Which (types, name some) phones can I use with Qlink Wireless?

    Reply

    • We always decline to answer that question directly because there are so many variables for each individual make and model of phone, BC. Rather than give our readers potentially incorrect information, we urge them (and you) to contact the customer service team at your service provider (or your potential future service provider) for the most accurate answer.

      Reply

    • We urge you to contact Assist and Easy Wireless customer service teams to get the most accurate answer to that question, Alyssa.

      Reply

  61. How do we make our 4G work or turn LTE on because my 4G doesn’t work and sometimes my LTE work for a bit then it’s gone.

    Reply

    • Impossible for us to answer tech questions, Cindy. Call 6-1-1 on your free government cell phone to be connected to customer service and tech support.

      Reply

    • We never comment on tech issues, Gary. Your best best is to contact your service provider’s customer service or tech support team.

      Reply

    • Only Safelink customer service or tech support can answer that question accurately, Anita.

      Reply

  64. I have qlink wireless as my phone provider and I want to upgrade to a newer phone with more memory can I use about any type of Android phone as long as it is a CDMA will it work.

    Reply

    • This is such a tricky area that we always recommend speaking to your service provider’s customer service team instead of taking our word. You can contact them by calling 6-1-1 on your free government cell phone.

      Reply

      • QLink Wireless Support Services are non-existent! They suck! Once I wanted to know if I replaced my phone would my number be replaced. Nobody will ever answer the phone. It’s a circular nightmare! You look through Customer Service Website. If you’re lucky you’ll find an email address for customer service and support services. You send an email, with a simple yes or no question. Will my phone number be replaced, if I replace my phone? Can it possibly get any simpler than that? They will respond to the email with pre-written templates that send you back to the support site, that didn’t answer your question in the first place. Over and over again, no matter how you revise your email, you get the same circular response. I was freaking out. They pose as support. Yes or no? that’s all I wanted to know. QLink never answered the question. Now, I can’t get an aswer regarding which phones are compatble with the “Bring Your Own Phone Program.” Circular nightmare again. Their phones, which I;ve 4 of them now, SUCK! But, they can’t produce a list of phones that will definetly word.

        Reply

  66. I have a qlink cell phone now and tried to switch it to an iPhone 5s. Everything matches but it so says incompatible. Any suggestions?

    Reply

    • Not all cell phones are compatible with all cell networks, Erica. Contact your service provider’s customer service team to find out if your iPhone will work with its network.

      Reply

    • Yes you might have to log in to qlink on your account and give them your sim number or have qlink to send you there sim card that should get you up and going.

      Reply

  67. I think I used to have a straight talk a long time ago it was stolen and I never reported it how do I go about real rolling for a government Straight Talk phone

    Reply

  68. So it is good to say that my Moto e4 Sprint all in all is compatible with my assurance wireless and my Sim card should work. correct?

    Reply

    • We always answer questions like this by telling readers to contact their preferred service provider’s customer service team to get the best answer to this question.

      Reply

  69. I have a Verizon IPhone 4s ,,can you tell me what Free Gov Phone ,Co. Can I bring it to ?? So confused ,,, I guess CDMA

    Reply

    • We would strongly recommend that find your favorite service providers, then speak to its customer service teams. They should each be able to give you 100% accurate answers.

      Reply

    • That question is way beyond our area of expertise, Alex. We don’t have any idea if an unlocked cell phone can be used in Afghanistan. Maybe some of our readers have experience and can give you an answer. Readers?

      Reply

  71. Hi I am so lost ok my phone is a ZTE chapel, ZTE maven2 which is the same just different companies I assume well my bring your own.phone was unlocked in which its a at&t so I was able to set my SafeLink account on the at&t well I’m able to upgrade and I was wondering if other unlocked phones or at&t or other carriers that are.unlocked if my phone was compatible please explain thank you

    Reply

    • If you read the article on this page, Bama, you should be able to work out the answer to your question. It’s impossible for us to answer it without more specific information.

      Reply

    • Yes, you can keep your current phone number. BUT (and this is an important “but”) you must tell your new service provider that you want to “port over my current phone number.” Say it at the beginning of your conversation, several times during the conversation, and conclude the conversation by confirming that your number is being ported over to your new phone/service provider.

      Reply

    • Maybe, maybe not, Will. It depends on if the specific make and model of phone is compatible with Cricket’s network. We’d strongly recommend that you contact customer service or tech support to get an answer to your specific make/model. you can call them at 6-1-1 on your free government cell phone

      Reply

  74. I have a qlink wireless phone and the phone is crap and is to slow. I bought a lg tribute hd boost mobile prepaid phone from target. Can I use this phone with my qlink wireless government plan? From what I’m understanding they both are CDMA correct?

    Reply

    • You’ll probably be able to use it, but we absolutely hate to answer this question. PLEASE contact customer service by calling 6-1-1 on your free government cell phone. They should be able to answer your question accurately.

      Reply

  75. Hi my dad has a free phone an it pooped the bed just wondering if i can set up a phone from total wireless its a zte zmax champ or zte z917vl pretty cheap phone just wondering other was a kyocera c5215 any help would be great thanks Al pachuta

    Reply

    • Al, you have veered into one of the few areas in which we are unwilling to answer a question. We would feel awful if we lead you astray. So we suggest that you call 6-1-1 on your free government cell phone to speak to customer service.

      Reply

    • You need to contact your service provider’s customer service team to confirm that your specific make and model is compatible with the Assurance cell network.

      Reply

  78. I just want to know if I can switch my cricket # to my gov. Cell. Does cricket account have to be activated at that time I want to switch. Lost cricket phone and can recover my cricket cell # until 19th Feb. Thanks!!

    Reply

    • Theoretically, the switch can only be made when you open your free government cell phone account, but you should call your service provider’s customer service team to see if it can be done. Good luck, Julia.

      Reply

  79. I need a new phone cause mine finally gave out but I can’t buy another one. No job. Had the same phone for more than 4 years. Can I get anew one sent to me. Or use a Old Metro PC ONE.
    I TURN MY PHONE ON BUT IT STARTS AND SHUTS DOWN CONSTANTLY. SO I BORROWING SOMEONE PHONE TO TEXT YOU THIS. MY PHONE IS A EMERGENCY PHONE DO FAMILY CALLING. My Phone number is 317 200 ****. By the phone I’m useing is 317 869 **** and I put his email down below so you can tell me what to do. THANK YOU

    Reply

    • Hope you read this response, Annetta, because we are unable to personally reply to each of the comments and questions we receive. Just too many of them.

      You may be able to use that old Metro PCS phone, but you’ll need to get that verified by your service provider. Not all cell phones are compatible with all cell networks, so the ability to use it is completely dependent on whether it is compatible. Contact your service provider’s customer service team to get the specifics.

      Reply

  82. Is a SAMSUNG GALAXY S5 phone a compatible touch screen phone for my Assurance Wireless lifeline plan? The carrier is Sprint.

    Reply

    • You should get the answer to your question from Assurance customer service, Kimberly. We make a point of avoiding answers to this question because we do not want to lead any readers astray.

      Reply

      • He has an Obama flip phone that he uses but it sometimes work I called qlink wireless they said the only phone they have is a smart phone they have no flip phones an he can’t use a smart phone can I go to Sprint an get him a flip phone an will they put his service on it

        Reply

        • Not all cell phones are compatible with all cell networks, Mia. So before you buy a phone, contact Q Link customer service to find out if the specific make and model you want to buy is compatible and can be used as part of its Bring Your Own Device program.

          Reply

    • This is an area where we defer to the Lifeline companies’ customer service and tech support teams, because we do not want to lead you astray. Contact your customer service team by calling 6-1-1 on your Lifeline phone.

      Reply

    • No, you can’t because we are NOT a free government cell phone company. This is an independent informational website.

      Reply

    • Speak to Q Link’s customer service team and be prepared to give them the specific make and model of phone so they can tell you if your phone is compatible with its network.

      Reply

    • Did you read the article, Robert? It depends on which service provider you’re talking about because not all cell phones are compatible with all cell networks.

      Reply

  90. I had my free phone fone sometime now until it just blissed out one day. Now i can’t use it at all so i would like to know what phones are compatible with Q-link $

    Reply

    • The list goes on and on and on forever, Kathryn. We’d suggest that you do an online search for the words “cdma phones.”

      Reply

  91. I’m on Qlink. I appreciate the free phone they sent me but it’s huge. ZTE max plus. I’m been wanting a new one. But don’t want to buy another the one they have. I see they have bring your own phone program now. But you have to enter some stuff on back of phone to see if it works on their system. Which makes it difficult if you wanna order a phone online from Amazon or any store. What I read from your site is Sprint phones might work on Qlink? I guess they have to be unlocked. Just wish Qlink would post a list of phones that would work so I would know what to get.

    Reply

    • I check my old Galaxy because i just updated to a newer one. It was from sprint but it says it is not compatible. I just got sent the new ZTE from qlink because the previous phone was acting up, but the new phone they sent is way worse than the old one!

      Reply

  92. I got a smartphone from assurance wireless and I want to use the SMS in a iPhone but every time I put the SMS into the iPhone it say SMS will get locked someone please help me

    Reply

  93. He also tried Assurance, but they sent him a Smartphone and he can’t use one.
    So I contacted them and asked what flip phone I could get him and they told me
    a Alcatel one touch retro. I purchase one. Than another manager told me I couldn’t use it
    I had to purchase one from them. So I called to purchase a phone. Than they said the government only wants them to use smartphones. My father is 85 years old with know knowledge of a smartphone. HELP, HELP PLEASE

    Reply

    • We think the last customer service rep gave you incorrect information. All the free government cell phone companies are required to give you a free smartphone, but you can use a flip phone if you have one that is compatible with the service provider’s cell network.

      Reply

  94. I have My 2nd Qlink phone and it also sucks. First one stopped working and the one now has crappy service. Too many.drop calls and doing things on it’s own. Need a different provider that works in Yuma Arizona

    Reply

    • Contact your service provider’s customer service team to get the answer to your question, Sandi.

      Reply

  97. I just wanted to compliment all of you for your amazing utilization of patience. I would just like to comment on the task of just trying to get the tech people on the phone. They don’t want to talk to anyone obviously, so why don’t they just put the compatible models on their website(qlink) is my provider.. I refuse to word service. This is a service. Thank you very much for your help and Happy New Year& God bless!

    Reply

    • That’s a very good question you ask, Petra. Listing the compatible makes and models would certainly make things simpler for customers, and the companies could save the cost of sending out phones, so it seems like it would be a good idea. We’ll ask some of our contacts and see what they have to say.

      Reply

      • I’m excited for a reply on this. I’ve been trying to get information from Qlink on compatible “bring your own phone” phones and don’t provide any info other then “ask the sales rep for the MDEI (or something similar), go to our website, put in the # and see if it’s compatible.” I’m not going to waste the time of a store clerk to get a bunch of numbers to find a phone that will work and I’m not wasting money to buy 40 different phones just to find one that will work. Very frustrating.

        Reply

  98. Thank you for the information that you have provided. It gets a little hard to follow sometimes, but it is very detailed and thorough.
    I do have a question but I am not sure if you’ll have the answer. However, I’m confident that you’ll point me in the right direction. If you have “free service” with a provider (i.e. Safelink) and after 3 months would like to switch to a different “free service” provider (i.e.Life Wireless) , is that ok? If not, then why?

    Reply

  99. I have a smartwatch ,It stopped working I called in and she said I could get a Sims card for MI I phone ,I have to order it .where do I order from?

    Reply

  100. Great read. I’m curious to find out which carrier offers the best rate for adding data. Most offer 2GB with plan. I’m currently on access just found out its $25 per gig if you run out

    Reply

  101. GOT Safelink Wireless PLAN I SEEN ABOVE THAT Verizon IS CDMA, IM NOT SURE CDMA IS DOES OR DOES NOT DO AND GSM MY ISSUE IS MY 5-6 YR FLIP STYLE CELL IS NOT DOING VARY WELL NEEDING A NEW PHONE Seen WaterProof Type Is On Amazon FLIP TYPE I LIKE BEST I ONLY USE 10 MIN Month TO CALL OUT I DONT DO Fancy Tricks Likes TEXTS or Dont Plan On It SEEING Some $20-90 AMAZON I DID CALL MY PROVIDER LAST NITE THEY WAS ABLE TELL ME ABOUT LG L442G AS LONG Phone WAS A TRACFONE They Told ME It HAD 2 BE UNLOCKED FOR IT TO WORK MY Old Flip open CelL Don’t Have a SIM Card That Removes Ill Needs ONE Sent To me I’m guessing My OLD Tracfone the Service Is THRU Verizon Here Pennsylvania it is Not Thru AT&T LIKES MOST OF ONES Seen or is ADVERTISED I SEEN 100’s Cell Phones ONLINE TRACFONE What I SEEN HAS AT&T Will Work With Verizon ? I’m Not Sure AS LONG Cell Phone Was UNLOCKED I’m Sure These Likes Ford & Chevy & Not Same Sorry I’m A Lo Tech Red Neck The Only Reason Im Asking B4 I goes Order The Wrong Cell End Up $$ Useless Paper Wt Just Hate Waste My $$ That $ I doesn’t Got Waste Or I not Needs A SafeLink Cell Any Help It Be MOST Appropriate I’m Dumb When Comes To These New Gadgets Never Knew It Was So Hard Get A Phone Read About Others Buy Ones Wont Work 4 there Plans Issue Now Days They Come With Out Buttons Why I has Buy Me A Old Man Me Its A Simple To Use This Flip Type Online Seeing Few Not Sure What Best 4 $

    Reply

  102. I talked to someone from safelink they said to get a phone with a new sim card I told them I had a unlocked phone in my friend had a new sim card but it was from att the guy told me he could put my account from safelink over on the sim card from att to call back when my friend gets home with the new sim card so I did I talked to a lady this time she saying it want work I don’t have the money to go out in buy a new sim card what can I do

    Reply

    • Call in again. When you get customer service on the line, ask to speak to tech support. They should be able to give you an accurate answer.

      Reply

  103. I want to know how if I can transfer my qlink wireless account to a coolpad phone and keep my qlink account just wanna stay with qlink is there anyway?

    Reply

    • We always ask readers to contact their service provider’s customer service team to get the correct answer to this question, Jason. Not all devices are compatible with all cell networks and they are the best ones to answer your question.

      Reply

  105. I’m curious, did one single person read all the info that is posted above? What a bunch of straight up idots!! I know that your patience has to run thin answering the SAME exact question, over and over and over and over!! Thank you for the information that you posted above, it has been very helpful.

    Reply

    • We’re not Q Link, Jasmine, so we cannot answer that question. Contact Q Link customer service by calling 6-1-1 on your free government cell phone.

      Reply

      • After the comment left RIGHT before this Ladies, and she STILL asked the same question. Wow, you are all saints. I wouldn’t have a job very long answering these questions.
        Thank you though.
        I was actually reading all the stupid questions AFTER I found my answer in about the first 3 you already answered.
        THEY ARE FREE TO BOOT, WHAT MORE DO THEY WANT? use what they GAVE you and stop bothering people with completely stupid questions people.
        That’s where we’re at these day’s though.
        ENTITLMENT

        Reply

  107. I live in the desert of Arizona and until id found the LTE app my signal was iffy now it surches for signal for my Qlink phone and it’s great it’s even coming out with a map of were it can recieve from, just thought I’d share that .

    Reply

  108. I have been getting emails from qlink about gov cell phones I put my zip code in they say I quilify then after filling out all my info they say they dont offer service in my area I just spent over an hour trying to find what network they use according to you guys they use sprint cdma so I checked sprint network coverage and according to there map we have excellent sprint coverage so whats the deal I have been trying to get the gov phone with qlink for over a year. Someone really needs to tell them that they dont know how to do there job or where there coverage areas are I dont even work for them or any phone company and I did there job in lil over an hour and its taken them over a year and they still cant get it right….

    Reply

  109. I have life wireless device now. I like to know what kinda phone can I get in the store. That will work with the SIM card that comes with the phone. It has one SIM card. The SIM card is standard size and has a mirco SIM in it. So the question I have is which phone can I get that will work with it. I’m being told that I can use any unlocked AT&T or T-Mobile devices. Then I’m told different from someone else that it has to be T-Mobile phone. So I am so confused.

    Reply

    • Have you spoken to your service provider’s customer service team? If not, that’s what you should do next. They should be able to give you the info you need.

      Reply

    • I can get any unlock t-mobile or AT&T phones that take the micro Sim card only. So does any one know where or what kind of phones that will work with that Sim card?

      Reply

      • You should be able to get that kind of info from your service provider’s customer service or tech support teams, Michele. Give them a call.

        Reply

  110. Ok I’m going to ask probably the a dumb question to most however I am trying to get my child ready for a trip and I want her to have a phone to call in case something happens and she needs to get a hold of me. Qlink states that you can check uing the imei esn numbers to check compatability and I tried a few phones that we had here. My question well 2 questions are. 1. does anyone know when you bring your own device how long it takes them to activate it. and 2. can I find the numbers needed on the box in the store before buying the phone………………….So I lied it was 3 Has anyone had to do this and how did it work out for you?

    Reply

  111. Why is Assurance so evasive on what phones will work with their network? Why don’t they just publish a list of compatible phones instead of saying ‘use the crap phone we gave you’? Other Lifeline providers are more forthcoming with phone information, but not Assurance.

    Reply

  112. Can I view my actual deleted text messages when I need to? I love that I can view the call log bc my daughter uses the phone and she’s 13, as a parent though I would like to be able to view the comtent of her texts. Can I go to a sprint store? I have a q link acct through the lifeline program. I have tried several times to ask their tech help etc but cannot get a response. Please help. Thx.

    Reply

    • We would suggest that you do a google search for the make and model of your cell phone plus the words “user manual.” Soon as you find the manual you should be able to look up the answer to your questions.

      Reply

    • as with most phone companie we have delt with in the past you can get a copy of texts from the phone company however 9 times out of 10 they want you to have a police report about someone harrassing you. otherwise they do not exist. My brother has a teenager that has gotten into trouble and the best thing to do is find a parental app that keeps anything from being deleted without a password off the app store.

      Reply

    • We always hesitate to answer that type of question, Carlos, because not all cell phones are compatible with all cell networks. We wouldn’t want to lead you astray, so we recommend that you contact Access customer service or tech support for an authoritative answer.

      Reply

  115. Since i got my phone it wont turn on or charge,i have been trying to call tech support from a different cell phone but never got a hold of anybody,so what do i need to do?

    Reply

  116. I cannot afford a new phone, however my phone has become slow and the screen is damaged. Can I get an upgraded phone sent to me? If so, what do I need to do to start this process. Thank you.
    Robbyn Hensley

    Reply

    • You may get lucky and find a customer service rep who will send you an upgraded phone for free, but it’s unlikely. You will probably be required to pay a relatively small upgrade fee.

      Another option is to switch to a new Lifeline company. All new customers must be given smartphones, and you will be a new customer and qualify for one.

      Reply

  117. I am trying to connect my lg k7 to my assurance wireless account, but they are evasive on the phone. Is it just a matter of changing over my sim car, or do i have to buy this tracphone unlocking kit that they say is available for around $25 (and why tracphone).

    If not is there other lifeline network that anyone knows works with an lg K7?

    Reply

    • We’ve never heard of an unlocking kit. Tracfone has been evasive about this issue and has even had trouble with the FCC. Do not pay the fee.

      Reply

    • That all depends, Amanda. Not all cell phones are compatible with all cell networks. Contact your service provider’s customer service team to find out about your specific phone.

      Reply

  119. I have been trying for 3 months to get my new cell phone to connect to SafeLink.Their tech support staff is useless. They hang up on you or cold transfer you back into the queue when they can’t figure out the problem. I filed complaints with the FCC and USAC. Now they are telling me that the SIM card that I bought at their BYOP web page is for T-Mobile and they have limited coverage where I live. They say I need an AT&T SIM card. One guy wanted me to pay $80 for a new SIM kit!!! This is the third time they’ve told me they are sending me out a new SIM. I don’t know if this is the solution. Every person you get transferred to tells you something different. I thought both AT&T and T-Mobile were GSM so the SIM cards are the same.
    Any suggestions on what to try next if the new AT&T SIM card doesn’t work (that’s IF it gets here at all)?

    Reply

    • The best answer we can give you is maybe. That’s because not all cell phones are compatible with all cell networks, Melissa. So you need to check with your service provider’s customer service or tech support team to find out if your specific phone is compatible with its network.

      Reply

    • Not all cell phones are compatible with all cell networks, Theresa. So we would suggest that you contact Q Link customer service or tech support to find out if the particular make and model of your Boost phone will work with its network.

      Reply

    • We did not issue the phone, Annette, because we are an independent informational website, NOT your Lifeline free government cell phone service provider.

      Reply

    • You don’t say who your service provider is and that’s really the key, Daniel. Not all cell phones are compatibl with all cell networks. So if you own a phone already or know which one you want to purchase, PLEASE contact your service provider’s customer service team before you purchase to make sure your preferred make and model is compatible with its network.

      Reply

    • You need to speak to customer service or tech support to find the answer to that question, Michael.

      Reply

  126. I got safelink service and i want to see if i can still have that service switched to an unlocked sprint galaxy note 4 model # SM-N910P

    Reply

  128. Just got mother in law a free sim card only. Thought she was getting a phone, but when all was said and done, he handed her a Sim card. ??????? Luckily I had an old Budget Mobil phone I hadn’t used in two years. It uses T-MOBILE. I put her sim card in that junk phone for her. It works. I was working on getting two FreedomPop phones released to see if I could let her use one of them? The list above says that Budget Uses Sprint, but that old phone uses T-MOBILE. The FreedomPop phones are Sprint. The phones have been released by FreedomPop. FreedomPop is the worst service possible. Should the sim card work on anything? It has two removable pieces of plastic so it can fit any sim card slot. HTC Desire and Samsung Galaxy S5. Will one of those work? My son tried earlier and he said 4G couldn’t turn on or something like that?

    Reply

    • We have no way of knowing if a specific make and model will work without more info, Mark. The only way to make sure if a specific make and model of phone will work is to contact your new service provider’s customer service team.

      Reply

    • We strongly urge our readers NOT to enroll at street events because they have been the scene of so much fraud and abuse, Jami. It’s much safer if you enroll by phone or online.

      Reply

  130. If you are unsatisfied with the company I am with,and would like to go from a CDMA phone to a GSM phone,what do I need to do?

    Reply

  131. I just tried to set up my Safelink Sim on a Att Samsung Galaxy Express 3 purchased at Walmart that I previously used on Straightalk. When I booted up the phone it requested a “network unlock code”. I’ve done some Google searches but I’m at a loss. The safelink Sim is tmobile fwiw.

    Reply

  132. When I got my phone the screen was broken I can’t afford 25 to send it back an get new one however I’ve got more phones here can I switch it over to one of them an how if so

    Reply

    • Read the article, Pamela. And then speak to your service provider to find out if any of your phones are compatible with your service provider’s network.

      Reply

  134. My smartphone is 3G N817 from Assurance Wireless which works off of Virgin Mobile/Sprint network. The thing that I have tried to tell Virgin Mobile is that when I pick up calls in my apartment, the person on the line doesn’t hear me or I don’t hear them. My phone or area where I live is so sensitive with making calls or receiving calls that it is useless to be in my apartment for doing any communications on my smart Android cell phone. My calls are dropped in my area or maybe because of my phone being a 3G. I can only text in my apartment. My google searches even drop and go offline. Why even have data plan when my phone or area doesn’t get good reception. I do not like going outside to make calls because of the noise from cars and no privacy. I put my speaker button on and still it is difficult to call when cars go by. I live by a large shopping center. Question to you: Is there a cell phone data plan that is 4G or 4G LTE that is offered from the California government free phone providers for a stronger and faster data reception and calls made and received better? My phone is CDMA. I need to keep my same cell phone number.

    Reply

    • There’s no way for us to know what each company’s signal strength is in your particular location, Susan. Ask your friends and neighbors which networks they are on and which ones have the best signals.

      Reply

    • We try to avoid answering this kind of tech question because we don’t want to lead you astray, Amy. Contact customer service for an answer to your question.

      Reply

    • Now there’s a question we’ve never been asked before. We would assume that you cannot, but you should contact Q Link customer service to confirm our guess.

      Reply

  140. i have a samsuge glaxi 7 from verizon . i put a straight talk prepaid . i just want to change my straight talk phone number and put it on my assurance phone . if i can how do i do it

    Reply

    • We always advise our readers to contact their service provider’s customer service team on compatibility issues. We’d hate to lead you astray.

      Reply

  142. I currently have an Assurance Wireless account with a ZTE phone. I have learned they are compatible with iPhones. But, I would like to use my older model Sprint iPhone 4s. Would that be compatible? Meaning: 1. Is the iPhone 4s too out of date to use? If not; 2. Assurance Wireless uses the Sprint network (both CDMA), so since my iPhone 4s was used with Sprint, is it compatible/can it be easily activated with Assurance Wireless?

    Reply

    • Only Assurance can answer that question for you, She She. Call them at 6-1-1 on your free government cell phone.

      Reply

      • I have my free service provider cell phone ZTE n817 and I don’t know how to unlock it to used with another like total wireless straight talk Verizon and at?t let me know Wich phone Is comparable

        Reply

    • We make a point of avoiding questions like yours, Tiffanie, because we don’t want to mislead any of our readers. You should contact Safelink customer service or tech support to make sure you get an accurate answer.

      Reply

  144. I have a Alcatel one touch with a SIM card slot and my safelink phone is also a Alcatel one touch with a SIM card slot and has a SIM in it can I switched from one to the other only difference is that it’s a up grade and I think it is a straight talk carrier but don’t Verizon wireless network what they bounce off right

    Reply

    • We make a point of not commenting on specialized tech questions like this, Dewayne. We’d suggest that you should call Safelink customer service or tech support to get your question answered.

      Reply

    • Metro PCS does not participate in the free government cell phone program, Craig, so we have no idea how to answer your questions.

      Reply

  147. Appreciate the inormation —-

    You kind folks ate trying to educate the Public , in a simple way to very complicated system, ——

    Thank you ——–

    Reply

  149. How can I get in my phone I forgot my password.It is a ZTE legacyN817 Please does someone know need help.Sheila F

    Reply

  150. I have an HTC One M8 T-Mobile phone. Got the T-Mobile sim card from Safelink. Put everything in for the APN and not getting anything. Tried different APN variables rate I’ve seen online and to no resolve my HTC is just a paper weight right now. I’ve had this for on straight talk before and it worked great till they started cutting my service off.

    Reply

    • It needs to be unlocked, Keoni. But that’s a simple process (It must be simple because this comment moderator just did it and I am technologically ignorant).

      Reply

    • Depends on the make and model of the phone, Kenya, because not all cell phones are compatible with all cell networks. Contact your service provider to find out if your specific phone is compatible.

      Reply

  153. I have an alcatel phone thru at & t.it does have a sim card where my qlink goverment phone doesnt. Can i put my qlink service on it?

    Reply

  154. Considering the question can not be answered definitively, I am impressed with information given. I am not sure I have any better idea if I can make the change I would like to, but I am sure I have the information I need to research it further. Thank you.

    Reply

  157. Every time i call customer service there is no option for talk to representative i have a galaxy 3 and was once used for boost mobile it has no service and i would like to use it for my Q link service please help

    Reply

    • Have you attempted to contact customer service by email or online chat through the company’s website?

      Reply

  158. Maybe this can be explained to me. I live in an area in Texas that is mainly serviced by AT&T. From the list of providers, I find that two companies provide a free government phone based on the AT&T calling area. Yet, when I apply to those specific companies (and now, at this time, all of the companies), they all state that they are not currently servicing the area I live in and will get back to me.

    I could see if I was in a backwoods area, but I am within 9 miles of a larger city, and (as mentioned before), AT&T is a widely used service provider.

    Any explanation would help.

    Reply

  160. So does that mean that I can have my Sprint phone activated to my Q link wireless # since they are the same network?

    Reply

    • That should be correct, Jennifer, but you should still confirm by contacting Q Link customer service.

      Reply

  161. Me gustaria saber donde comprar un celular compatible con el q tengo ya q me esta dando problemas el celular es un Vortrex y me lo dio la compañia Standup wireless.

    Reply

    • “I would like to know where to buy a cell compatible with the q I have already q is giving me problems the cell phone is a Vortrex and gave me the company Standup wireless.”

      You can purchase a replacement phone from your service provider. Call 6-1-1 (customer service) to find out what kind of phones are compatible with the service provider’s network.

      Reply

  162. can i use the sims card from safetynet government phone to a sprint galaxy 4 i put it in but phone still not working how can i get the sims card to work in the galaxy4

    Reply

    • Not all cell phones are compatible with all cell networks, Sandy. We don’t know if that particular phone will work with a SafetyNet phone. You need to call customer service or tech support to find out for sure.

      Reply

  163. Hi I’m with qlink wireless is thia the same as safelink, I have a HTC 510 phone I use on that network that no longer works. I don’t want the smaller phone they are offering as a replacement so what are my options.can I keep my same number as well. Thanks

    Reply

    • You’ve hit on one area where we do not answer questions, Whitney. There are so many variables and we don’t want to steer you wrong. Your best bet is to call customer service.

      Reply

  165. Yes my assurance phone has stopped working I have called and haven’t had the problem fixed how can I replace my phone when I can not get it fixed

    Reply

    • Not all cell phones are compatible with all cell networks, Angie. You don’t mention who your service provider is, but you should call 6-1-1 on your free government cell phone. That will connect you to customer service/tech support. They will be able to tell you if that specific make and model is compatible with their network.

      Reply

  167. I have a Assurance Wireless free government phone, it is a Sprint 3G and I would like a phone case (leather) if possible.. I have been able to find one it’s like the phone itself doesn’t exist.. Please help me to figure this out or let me know which phone compares so that I can purchase a case for my phone.This is very frustrating, please email me with an answer..
    Thanks

    Reply

    • You can find phone cases with great prices on eBay or Amazon, Donella. Probably better and cheaper than you can find them anywhere else.

      Reply

  168. Do assurance wireless life line offer other upgrade phones? I was told you only have 2 choices, the phone they send you or a $25 phone that they offer. Is this true or not? Thank you.

    Reply

    • The phones available vary from day to day, Robbie. So there’s no way for us to know what’s being offered.

      Reply

  169. My Sprint phone is not working very well and I would like to upgrade it. I know I get free service and I appreciate that. I just need to be able to hear clearly on my phone. Thank you for your help.

    Reply

    • Are you saying that you have an account with Sprint? Sprint does not participate in the free government cell phone business (except to allow free government cell phone conpanies to use its national network).

      Reply

    • We make a practice of never straying into answering those questions, Taren. Your best best would be to contact your service provider’s customer service or tech support teams.

      Reply

  171. My qlink has no sim card how can I switch phones as my qlink phone now doesn’t work at allow it will not even turn on and its fully charged

    Reply

  172. Hi ! I have an Qlink free phone but it does not have a sim card, I was wondering if there is any phone i can buy and do the switch ? or am I stuck with this phone?

    Reply

    • What do you mean when you say it doesn’t have a SIM card? Was it delivered to you missing a SIM card?

      Reply

  174. Hi, I received my phone yesterday with the new phone number, but I was wondering if I could have my number ported from Cricket wireless because I will have to make so many updates with the new number? Thanks

    Reply

    • It may be possible, but it’s probably too late. If we were you we’d contact your service provider’s customer service team ASAP to ask your question.

      Reply

  175. My friend has one of your Qlink phones. Someone stole it and when he got it back, the screen is broke to where you can not read it. Is there anyway you could send him another phone or can he use the aim card in his tracfone lg?

    Reply

    • We can’t send him another phone because this isn’t Q Link, Karen. Your friend needs to contact Q Link customer service.

      Reply

  176. So I contacted Blujay wireless and they told me any phone will work as long as it is an open network phone…. So how do I know that?

    Reply

    • Here’s how the situation is described by SmartBiz.com:

      So What Does All This Mean?

      Chances are, today you buy…a cell phone by going into a store, choosing from the available phones and signing on for a contract in order to get the price on the ticket.

      All of this “locks” you into the carrier in a number of ways. You have to use the phones they certify, the applications they put on the device, the services they offer through their network and under the terms of the contract you sign (and which you can’t void without paying a hefty fee). You typically can’t use the phone on other networks (though there are SIM card exceptions) and until recently even your phone number was tied to your wireless carrier.

      In this new more open world, all of that (theoretically) changes. Imagine purchasing a phone at Best Buy or Amazon.com — the perfect phone for your needs. You then take that phone to any carrier you want and sign-up for service. If you like, you can take the phone to a second network, for instance, when you are out of town or more likely out of country. When you get the phone home, download all of the applications you want via the Web, mixing and matching just the software you need.

      Sounds great, right?

      Well, there’s a few caveats. The phone purchase is likely to be quite a bit higher, due to the lack of carrier subsidies supporting your “unlocked”, more open handset. And the services you end up buying from your carrier may be a la carte and pay-by-the-bit, which means you’ll need to be smart about what you sign up for and careful about how you use your phone.

      Reply

        • You should be able to, Shawna. There are a few quirks here and there, but in general you can take your number with you. It’s called “porting over your current phone number.” Make sure you tell the customer service rep that’s what you want to do and confirm that it has been done before you end the call.

          Reply

    • Not all cell phones are compatible with all cell networks, so we advise you to contact your service provider’s customer service team to find out if your specific make and model of phone is compatible with its network.

      Reply

    • We don’t know what information you are referring to, Alice, but it doesn’t really matter because we cannot respond to individual emails or comments. The volume that we receive is just too great. All the information you need can be found right here on this website.

      Reply

  181. Hello this is way to confusing. Is there an easier way too find out if the phone I want to use is compatible?

    Reply

    • Sure, Steven. Call your favorite Lifeline company’s customer service team and ask them if your make and model is compatible.

      Reply

  182. I have a ZTE q link foodstamp assistance phone and was just given a new unlocked iPhone 5 for my birthday can I transfer my service to it

    Reply

    • You didn’t mention which free government cell phone company you are enrolled with, Alex. To assure that you get an accurate answer to your question, it’s best if you contact your service provider’s customer service team. You can do that by calling 6-1-1 on your Lifeline phone.

      Reply

  183. My mom is eligible for a free government cell phone but she would like the capability to have photos developed.
    Is there a QLink phone or other phone with an SD card feature/slot?

    Reply

    • We don’t get into any tech details of the phones, Tammy. Contact Q Link customer service to get your question answered.

      Reply

  184. Have an old third party Kyocera Dura xt locked cell phone that was on Sprint cdma Network. Can this phone be used on Assurance program. If not can you recommend a big button phone for a Senior that has problems using his fingers?

    Thanks,

    Ray

    Reply

    • Contact customer service or tech support to find out if your Kyocera can be used on the Assurance network.

      We don’t know of any big button phones, but maybe some of our readers have some recommendations. Readers?

      Reply

  185. We just got the Ojji Life phone yesterday but it’s all its onboard memory is dedicated to the factory apps. Our SIM card can be “installed” but the Ojji Life doesn’t use SIM card memory for app usage. It’s frustrating.

    Reply

    • We know what you mean. We just had the cable company internet guy here at the office four for and a half hours yesterday and when he left, nothing was resolved. Sometimes dealing with these people is incredibly frustrating, isn’t it.

      Reply

  186. I have a coolpad 3300A version P1 i broke my LCD screen I was wondering if my boost mobile ZTE model# N9518 can replace my coolpad

    Reply

    • That’s one area in which we will not give a definitive answer, Marquee. The best thing for you to do is call your service provider’s customer service team to get an accurate answer.

      Reply

  187. I need a land line for my life line service. AT&T had dropped all of us life line customers and I cannot find a landline service. I have a iPhone 4s? 4 c cell phone. Because of hearing problems and a small speaker in my phone I can barely hear it even when set on highest volume.
    So I I really need ur help ion finding me a carrier.

    Reply

    • We don’t really cover landlines here, because they are only discounted Lifeline plans, not the free plans that we specialize in. What state are you in, Joan?

      Reply

    • Not all cell phones are compatible with all cell networks, Belinda, and we don’t want to lead you astray, so we’d recommend calling Assurance customer service to get an accurate answer.

      Reply

  189. Hi my comment is i need help i have tag moblie and i receny got a prepaid walmart t moblie phone from my brother which doesnt use it anymore i reset it to factry to but my sim never is read. I been called tag and went to t moblie just now am frustred at how t moblie just tryed to make me buy service yet im a single dad i dont have that type of income at the moment. But can anyone help me try to set my sim card up or help me get more information to see if ivan even use this galaxy opminr prime phone please and thank you i hope someone trys to help i cant run around all day just trying to figure it out nor have a phone.

    Reply

    • go to this link n follow the instructions…i just did it with safelink on a seller refurb ZTE Tracphone i got for $25 on ebay from a store that in huge alerts on EVERY phone they sell THIS IS NOT COMPATIBLE WITH SAFELINK,,,, but i went to the safelink version of this one n checked n it said it was…took the risk…VERY VERY HAPPY i got it in 3 days n i went to the site n followed how to activate link…i was up n runnin in a total of 8 mins…i DEFININATELY let em know it is compat now…form letter email repeated NOT compat….oh well, lost who knows how many sales….follow link…GOOD LUCK!!!

      https://www.tagmobile.com/blog/steps-to-bring-your-own-device-to-tag-mobile/

      Reply

  190. the only phone tower i can get a signal from is a verizon tower and sometimes not often thats iffy which company would be best to use without being hassled with being mandated with gsm phone that wont work and sprint and att do not work have tried them
    thx
    robin

    Reply

    • It’s impossible for us to know which company would offer you the strongest signal where you live, Robin. But the list on this page tells you which free government cell phone companies use the Verizon network.

      Reply

  191. I broke my qlink phone, but it has a sim card… can I switch the sim card to a factory unlocked iphone 5?

    Reply

    • We always defer to the Lifeline companies’ customer service and tech support teams on this type of question, Blake. Contact them to get the most accurate answer possible.

      Reply

  192. I would like to receive a new phone, as my phone was stolen & I now have no communication! which phone could I get & how long before I can receive one? I am looking for a new apt to rent right now, and I really have to wait to make phone calls & for anyone to get back to me? Please help me to find a new phone & which phones can I pick out?

    Reply

    • It all depends, Gary. Not all phones are compatible with all cell networks, so your best bet is contacting your service provider to find out if that phone will work with its network.

      Reply

  194. I talked yesterday with a Safelink rep and we finally came to the conclusion that my free phone is caput(will not charge-we tried every -thing). I told Patricia that I actually have 4 cell phones and she said I might be able to use one of them if is compatible with Safelink ;.one of two I have in mind is a Motorola and the other is a Samsung.I understand that you would need the IMEI # and other info. Can you help?.

    Reply

    • We cannot help you, Susan. The Safelink rep has far more information that we do (we actually have ZERO information about the technical aspects of your specific phone).

      Reply

  195. Would an iPhone 4s or iPhone 5 or 5s work with Assurance wireless? How to remove the SIM card from the free phone?

    Reply

  196. Regarding Safelink Wireless –
    The website says “byop” program takes gsm but I know they operate on the Tracfone cdma network as well. Can I use a TF compatible cdma phone with Safelink? Do they use TF sim cards?

    Just an FYI – Access Wireless (Sprint) allows compatible, unlocked byop devices not purchased from Google/Sprint. I upgraded to a little smartphone that way.

    Reply

  197. I’m interested in going with Tag’s Lifeline phone. Am I to understand that you’ll get a phone that uses ONE of the Networks listed above? It says they use Sprint-CDMA, Verizon CDMA, and T-mobile-GSM. So basically, I won’t know which network they connect me to until I get a phone sent to me?

    Reply

    • As you may know if you’re a regular reader, we often defer on tech questions. We asked our tech guru and he said, “It’s a bit of a mystery.” He referred us over to a site called WhistleOut.com, which said this:

      “Newer model phones have been tested to work and be compatible with both software technologies – CDMA & GSM.

      T-Mobile and AT&T run their networks on GSM technology whereas Sprint & Verizon run on CDMA. Most phones are set up to work on ONE technology rather than both.”

      However – the iPhone 6, 6+, 6s, 6s+ and Google Nexus 5 models and Nexus 6 models are compatible with all carriers 4G LTE speeds. Newer model phones have been wired to be compatible with both technologies.

      Some other devices such as the Galaxy s4 is compatible with all carriers on 2G network speeds. It can’t handle 4G LTE speeds on another carrier other than its own.

      For example, a Verizon iPhone 6 will work on T-Mobile and Cricket and Sprint.”

      In other words, it depends on which phone you have and probably which free government cell phone company you are enrolled with.

      Reply

  198. So, with all of that (very informative and helpful) information taken into consideration, my final conclusion would be that if i have a 4g LTE freedom phone thru american assistance, I am unable to use its SIM card in a t-mobile phone, because of its LTE capabilities? Am i understanding (basically) the info given?

    Reply

    • We “think” T-Mobile has LTE capabilities, but this is really out of our area of expertise. We’d hate to steer you wrong, Kay. So your best bet would be to contact American Assistance customer service or tech support to get an official answer. Please come back and tell us what you learn.

      Reply

    • Comparing network sims & LTE capability is like comparing apples & oranges.
      Sim cards determine the company network on which the phone will work ie T-mobile, Vzw, etc.
      LTE refers to the wireless capability of the device ie 2G, 3G, 4G, LTE. This explains it all nicely – https://www.digitaltrends.com/mobile/4g-vs-lte/
      Two other issues impact the transferability of a phone. First most phones are “locked” to the network they were originally used with. You can buy them unlocked but they cost more. If out of contract the company will usually unlock if you call them. Read this – https://www.lifewire.com/before-you-buy-unlocked-phones-577494
      Secondly, the companies operate on different network types and bands. Tmobile, AT&T, and international networks use GSM devices. Verizon and Sprint use CDMA devices but on different bands so the devices generally aren’t compatible. Search “gsm vs cdma” for more info.
      It seems Am Assistance uses Sprint and Verizon networks (cdma) so your phone is not compatible. To be sure just search for specs on the phone with the model number.
      Hope this helps!

      Reply

  199. I called my carrier Blue Jay Wireless to find out how I could get an upgrade phone locally (I live in Hawaii) but I was informed they no longer had reps servicing my statr. I was told to purchase a tmobile phone because they were compatible with their network. And so I did. But when I tried to insert the sim card into the new phone, it didn’t work. So, now what do I do to get my service back.

    Reply

    • Speak to Blue Jay customer service, Belinda. Does your original phone work with the original SIM card? If so, you can simply call 6-1-1 to be connected to customer service.

      Reply

  200. I just received the free tag phone. It says free emergency only and that it had no cellular network plus I don’t know what the phone number is. How do I set it up to use it.

    Reply

    • Congratulations, Sandra. We’ve never heard that one before. If we were you, we’d contact customer service.

      Reply

    • What company, Katherine? Have you gone to the website to see if they offer an online chat function?

      Reply

  202. THANK YOU. BEING IGNORANT OF TECHNICAL WORDING AND THIER MEANING; I HAVE BEEN EDUCATED. I THINK! ASK ME TOMORROW WHAT IT MEANS. 🙂

    Reply

  203. I have an Assurance wireless phone, one of the small brew. No ,had it for year’s, screen is soooo messed up ,how can I get an upgrade ?

    Reply

  204. My phone broke I dont want to by a phone as I have another phone Qlink gives out and want to switch it can i do that as ive tried calling press 5 over and over and it wount send me to tech support?

    Reply

    • Visit the Q Link website, click on “Help Center,” then click on “Contact Us.” You’ll get an email form that goes directly to customer service. Keep in mind that the website warns that you may not hear back for 72 hours.

      Reply

  205. i have a “trueconnect” phone with a sim card, it says the service is from T-Mobile. I am wondering if the sim card will work in a Verizon phone or Sprint tablet, both take a sim card but smaller in size.I have trimmed down a simcard to fit before and it worked but i would like to know which is more likely to work before i do this again.

    Reply

    • Not all cell phones are compatible with all national cell networks, Mee. Only your chosen service provider can tell you if a specific phone will work on its network. So don’t purchase any phones until you know the make and model you want. Contact your chosen service provider customer service to ask if that make and model will work with their network.

      Reply

    • Hi @ Mee
      Quoting the above article-
      ” In the United States, the five major cell phone networks break down like this:

      CDMA = Sprint, Verizon and U.S. Cellular
      GSM = AT&T and T-Mobile ”

      These are import as to the radio’s that are installed in the GSM and CDMA phones – so it’s not of a fact that’s true of both network types now use a SIM card for their 4G LTE network technologies – it’s that in all of the 5 US carriers are using different bands within the radio Frequencies allowed in the US. 4G LTE is high speed DATA over the networks and phone calls will use a lesser based transmission technology like 2G, 3/3.5G – AWS UMTS, HSDPA, HSUPA, HSPA, HSPA+, CdmaOne, CDMA2000, EVDO, WiMAX,

      A CDMA only based radio phone will not work on a GSM network nor vice versa. Cell Phones work as in both voice and data on a given cellular network using the phones radio which will offer within it the different transmissions technology and frequencies bands it will works on.

      See my post- Steve says – December 17, 2016 at 7:19 pm / “Wireless Frequencies / Bands”, to where I’ve given some detail to breaking down the related of the 5 major cell phone carriers used frequencies and in operational bands they use.

      Very few cell phone manufactures cater to giving a buyer the opportunity of both radio types in the GSM/CDMA networks being on board (installed) in their phones / and then not all models of phones they’re selling offer the radio’s for both GSM/CDMA capability in a single manufactures phone line. But there are a few manufactures that do offer this – so think of a phone with only one radio type being able to spin in just one direction – and – then one offering both that of GSM/CDMA radio’s installed in it can spin in both direction then. This is my choice and requirement in a phone. These are usually upper middle to higher end phones classed units.

      Then you’ll be getting into another realm where a phone manufacture sells an unlocked phone from their factory as opposed to one they have made that’s been branded to one of the 5 major cell phone networks. These are usually SIM locked to a carrier and you’ll see a carriers splash screen logo at the phones startup showing the carriers name. And not seen when it’s been factory unlocked to accept any network SIM – again per radio’s installed and bands allowed to work on any network.

      This one type of carrier locked phone can be unlocked to accept another network carriers SIM card per the capabilities/conditions of the branded phone and carriers rules. Again dealing with radio’s on board of the specific phones bands the radio’s will accept, and then of the carriers terms/financial obligations being met too.

      Least of all to say-
      Any phone issued by an Lifeline provider won’t be in a class to these phones as I’ve tried to described above. As to what you’ll get (maybe even by upgrading to a better phone through the Lifeline providers) cause it’s an extremely budget phone being able to run on the service they offer. The phones I’ve mention above are the upper middle tier to higher level class model phones.

      So there really is more to swapping out a SIM card to the whole picture here. Lifeline is an economy class ticket on a free ride if you qualify for it. It is what it is as being free for those in need.
      BYOP people need to consider this as well with Lifeline use.
      Steve

      PS: Would be interesting to see the FCC implement the requirement for the Lifeline program to include Wi-Fi calling as the now offered broadband could benefit that Lifeline users base and since 4 of the major network carriers offer it to their customers.
      Of course that would mean Lifeline providers having to supply better Smartphones than now being offered. If you can even call the Lifeline providers phones a true Smartphone.

      Least to a work around like if your handset doesn’t support Wi-Fi calling, Apps like FaceTime, Google Voice, Line, Skype and WeChat allowing you to make voice and video calls over Wi-Fi as well as to sending text messages.

      Reply

      • Thanks, Steve. Oddly enough, we hadn’t seen your name show up in the comments recently and we were just wondering where you’d gone.

        Reply

        • Hi FGCP,
          Probable be more disappearing of myself as spring and summer come to be and I go outside. If I find a question interesting or can offer some depth in an answer then I’ll answer. I will still be a loyal reader here through out the categories I have taken an interest in.
          Steve

          Reply

          • Good to know, Steve. Hope you enjoy the nice weather. Watch out for mosquitos.

  206. Thanks for this website and comments. I live in California and given the flakiness of telecom companies I want to practice due diligence in picking a wireless cellphone provider. 2 questions:

    1) Does anyone know the current status of the lifeline benefit port freeze in California? (Still to be implemented June 1, 2017?)

    2) I’ve read the comment that a life line customer should consider opting out of data service when starting a wireless phone plan, which would allow changing providers in 60 days, but am concerned that the provider might send a free phone that is not data capable.
    Is it possible to apply for a life line voice and data wireless phone plan with a carrier (12 month port freeze), then, if the carrier is not good, quickly change service to voice only so that the port freeze period is reduced to 60 days? (Can a lifeline customer change to voice only service at any time?)

    Reply

    • This sounds like a question for Steve, our ace expert on the intricacies of the Lifeline program. Care to render an opinion, Steve?

      Reply

    • @Kenin K.

      Answers:
      2.[For example, if the customer switches their benefit from broadband to voice, the 12-month port freeze period ends “immediately”, and a new 60-day benefit port freeze begins.]
      If you get any static from your chosen provider, send them the Link I’ve supplied and quote the texts above – as USAC is under FCC, but above all Lifeline providers in the Lifeline program. . .

      Example/ at day five on a data and voice plan you opt-in to a voice only plan, then as soon as the change happens – you start your 60 day port-freeze time period/term length, and then when served that 60 days, so at day 61 your in a month to month bases with that LL provider. Theoretically you could get a new phone and LL provider every 60 some days.

      You can stay that way (M to M bases) till you have to requalify for Lifeline benefits for the next year, OR at any time you can contact a new Lifeline provider in your state and ask them to do a transfer of your Lifeline benefits over to them (possibly porting your Phone Number as well), Though I’m thinking you may not get another new phone from them with porting your number – they might just send you a SIM card for your old phone, unless going from GSM network (T-M/AT&T) to a CDMA network (Sprint / Verizon) of the networks – that these Lifeline providers use on the neighborhood towers for your cell signals.

      Benefit Port Freeze Periods:
      http://usac.org/li/program-requirements/benefit-port-freeze.aspx
      After the benefit port freeze period expires, the customer may continue using the Lifeline benefit on a month-to-month basis or transfer their benefit to another provider.

      Customers may transfer their Lifeline benefit “”to another service from the same provider at any time””. For example, if the customer switches their benefit from broadband to voice, the 12-month port freeze period ends “immediately”, and a new 60-day benefit port freeze begins.

      1. Oregon and California received waivers to delay to implementation of the benefit port freeze provision for subscribers in those states. The port freeze will begin on June 1, 2017 in California and Oregon or AS SOON as the state databases and processes are updated to comply with the Order, WHICHEVER DATE IS SOONER.

      Any questions you may still have contact your present LL provider or the new one you wish to transfer over to. NEVER let a LL provider cancel your Lifeline benefits account with them as your stuck in limbo till your port-freeze term period expires, which the BOTTOM LINE meaning – is your without Lifeline service for a spell.
      Steve

      Reply

        • Steve
          I really like that you’re just kinda here but not here..lol..Makes me feel better knowing you’re somewhere in the shadows just hanging out waiting to be needed..You have VERY informative answers..I like it!!

          FGCP
          Has anyone in theseforums ever told you that you’re funny?? Well if not then here’s your first..YOURE FUNNY..And kinda,well, a lil bit of a smart ass..I like it!!

          Sometimes if ppl would take the extra second or 3 that it takes to thoroughly read a post they would find the answer to their question was right in front of them the whole time..But I guess if they did do that there would be no need for most of that smart assness I spoke of..I don’t know who you are but I sure do like reading your responses..And yes I am that chick in the shadows with Steve that is the real creeper..LMAO..hehe
          Kidding as always
          Amanda

          Reply

  207. My ZTE dropped in puddle of water last night and now completely ruined. Screen flashes a few time, and then black! And almost week ago now found my Droid Maxx phone finally at my Brother’s. Bottom line yes or no can I transfer my QlinkWireless plan over to it? Provider would be Verizon?

    Thank You,

    Techera

    Reply

    • Different phones are compatible with different networks, Techera. The only way for you to get a definitive answer is to contact Q Link’s tech support or customer service team.

      Reply

    • @ Techera Walker

      Next time this happens put it in dry rice to dry out in a zip lock bag.
      Then you need to ask Q-link if they offer BYOD in the case of switching the SIM out and registering the MEID/ESN number of the phone in your account that you wish to use now.
      Steve

      Reply

  208. AWWWW Man!!! Okay, I’m going to try to keep this as short as I possibly can, which isn’t easy for “long-winded” me. First of all, you guys deserve an award for the endless, repetitive questions coming from a lot of folks who are either lazy, ignorant, eternally 5 years old wanting mommy to fix it, or all of the above. You, in my opinion are doing a great service…however, after spending quite a bit of time reading articles and the pleas for help over and over AND OVER again about the very thing you just took them step by step through…you have to wonder how some of these people even found you to begin with!

    That being said, I’ve been to your page before, some time last week, ended up with about four tabs open, put it off, came back, and here I am a third time. Same question in mind with no definitive answer. In fact, I’m a bit more confused now as to what to do because of the uncertainty that seems to be present about, oh geez, was it Budget or Safelink? Sorry, my brain is mush right now. At any rate, because I bought and sold cell phones for several years to supplement my rather laughable income, I’m already “knowed-up” (please excuse the poor grammar and slang) on the CDMA/GSM differences etc. I’m also pretty certain about what cellular providers I prefer, and the one I loathe, (Sprint) regardless of what their rating is. This is my problem: there is no question I qualify for Lifeline okay? There is also no question about what I need (want) from this great program. The question is can I, and with what company, and is that company worth a crap when it comes to service? I have a Samsung Galaxy Note 3 which I am quite fond of. I would like to keep it. Doing a SIM unlock is not a problem for me. Right now it would be considered an AT & T phone. When I bought it I had intended to unlock it anyway, as I prefer T-Mobile, they’ve always had superior call-quality and outstanding customer service for me in my area…though I did pay attention to yours and others reviews. Now for the question. It would be so nice if I could just go to a fairly reliable “sub-carrier/provider” if you will, that offers lifeline and operates on the GSM networks, and they won’t blow up my phone because I don’t want to use the cheap one they’re willing to give me. I would be SO grateful if you could answer this question for me because going back and forth trying to figure out which company is which and what plans they offer…it’s giving me a migraine, okay? I’m looking for unlimited everything….gotta have data…seems that it’s doable…so where do I go? I’m in Sacramento, California where the choices, as per your article, are plenty…but are they really? Seems like most of these companies lean more towards CDMA.
    In a nutshell, I guess I’m asking based on your knowledge and expertise and (cough, cough) feedback can you possibly narrow this down to maybe one or two companies who will offer unlimited/unlimited with data AND allow me the use of my phone, which being GSM shouldn’t really matter, as long as they are…should it? Gosh, I’m doing it again…please, any advice, besides 3 Excedrin would be so appreciated! (And I’ve already been up and down the lists several times too, I really need to narrow this down somewhat).

    Sorry I didn’t keep to my original desire to keep this short…there are some things that are just too difficult for me to do! You guys are doing an awesome service and I applaud you, your patience and your self-restraint…I really don’t think I could do it myself…wow!!! Oh, and by the way, I am very aware that I do have a slight problem with punctuation, but that is the ONLY thing I have in common with one of your rather irate, rambling “not sure what that guy was trying to say other than don’t mess with him!” So no need to tell me…my English professor in college already did! lol!

    Thanks so much for any advice you have to offer! And thank you also for this informative website as well!

    Okay guys, (and/or gals?) it’s Miller time…on me! AFTER you answer my question!!!

    Thanks again!

    Shannon

    Reply

    • Oh, my god, that’s the funniest (not to mention longest) comment we’ve ever received, Shannon. And thanks for the kind words. We are humbled by your effusive praise.

      We understand the problem with going back and forth between pages, but it’s unavoidable. If we didn’t break things up into easy to digest articles, we’d have one article longer than the Encyclopedia Britannica.

      You’re on the right page to determine which free government cell phone companies use which networks. Unfortunately, most of them use Spring, which appears to be your least favorite network. We’d suggest that you print out the list of Lifeline companies and their networks that you’ll find on this page, then go to our California page to find out which of those companies offer service in your state. You can find the state listings here:

      https://www.freegovernmentcellphones.net/states

      Good luck, Shannon. Let us know which company you decide to go with.

      Reply

    • @Shannon – January 27, 2017 at 7:39 am

      Gosh I’ve been beat for most words conveyed here on FGCP.
      Is Shannon from the windy city? Ha Ha. Or my relation?

      Bottom line: Shannon look at Life Wireless: You will get a cell phone plus unlimited voice and text, plus 500 MB of data, there in CA. I use them too in Midwest, and here their on the AT&T network…
      Plus they gave me free minutes on my birthday, which just happened to be of count to my age I reached. To bad I wasn’t 100 years old.

      All Lifeline providers customer support is the pits, Life Wireless ones are friendly, but you may have to seek out a supervisor to get anything done. . . Don’t believe me just read all providers pages here and see peoples report of ineffective CS.

      One word of knowledge, tell them you want to OPT-IN to a voice only plan at first – else, if you get the data part in a plan your locked in to the phrase “Port-Freeze” which you are anyway in a voice only plan, but the voice only plan is a 60 day port freeze compared to a 12 month data plan port freeze. After the port-freeze term expires you’ll then be on a month to month bases.

      This is important if you don’t like Life Wireless or any other one you’d happen to choose. If you get stuck on a plan with data included – get a written record of such as emails of your telling them you want to change your plan to an opt-in to voice only plan and after it’s been changed, you’ll only have to wait 60 days to move away and choose another provider.

      The correct way to move away, is a transfer of your Lifeline benefits over to another provider by contacting the (new) Lifeline provider and telling them you want to do a Lifeline benefits transfer over to them – from X company. NEVER CANCEL OUT YOUR LIFELINE ACCOUNT WITH THE CURRENT LIFELINE PROVIDER, or you’ll be stuck till your current port freeze term expires and without any Lifeline service to boot.

      Life Wireless covers this in changing of your plan and act as if it’s news to them, it’s on their homepage in “Changes In Your Plan”
      box, then at bottom in “What other plans are available?” See: Second, you may select a voice-only plan, and will be subjected to a 60 day port freeze. USAC has info. on it to, as they are setup by the FCC, they collect and deliver funding through four programs focused on places where broadband and connectivity needs are critical. As so basically administers the top-end of Lifeline.
      http://www.lifelinesupport.org/ls/usac-and-my-company.aspx

      Benefit Port Freeze Periods:
      http://usac.org/li/program-requirements/benefit-port-freeze.aspx
      After the benefit port freeze period expires, the customer may continue using the Lifeline benefit on a month-to-month basis or transfer their benefit to another provider.

      Customers may transfer their Lifeline benefit “”to another service from the same provider at any time””. For example, if the customer switches their benefit from broadband to voice, the 12-month port freeze period ends “immediately”, and a new 60-day benefit port freeze begins.

      Lucky you Shannon:
      Oregon and California received waivers to delay to implementation of the benefit port freeze provision for subscribers in those states. The port freeze will begin on June 1, 2017 in California and Oregon or as soon as the state databases and processes are updated to comply with the Order, whichever date is sooner.

      If a subscriber cancels service or is de-enrolled for non-usage during the benefit port freeze: The service provider cannot continue to receive reimbursement for that subscriber.
      The customer still cannot re-enroll in the program with another provider until the period ends.

      Shannon, other than finding a Lifeline Company your happy with their service all way round. The other things I’ve brought up are important to know. Hope this helps you out : )
      Steve

      Reply

  209. Hi my name is Raymond barberio where you at Army Ranger I fell on some hard times back in 2014 and I got one of your phones and I currently need that phone numbers extremely important that I get it on only for the government the VA but other government agencies I know the number ends in six zero I am not going to allow this to cost me money I have contacts you can call Sooner Roy Cooper well when he was the Attorney General now the governor as well as other do you name that Pat McCoy they all know me and I live in Wilson North Carolina and when I set out to do something dammit I do it and right now we have a president just looking to cut cut cut the entitlement bandwagon I’m speaking for myself I don’t see any reason anybody needs to have a cell phone these phones were originally because of the greatest president ever had Ronald Reagan on landline in case you need to call your doctor or a job but these people are looking for doctors and jobs are looking to deal drugs with them or sell them with this minutes and and cop a bag of dope with the remainder of the money I can get these funds every goddamn one of them and his first hundred days done and back to a landline if you want a landline will give you a landline so you don’t want to screw with me I’m in I’m not going to run my mouth I’m not going to say a goddamn thing anybody until I if I don’t get my phone number so you can call that threatening you can call it whatever but that’s just fact of the matter that’s what’s going to happen and I’ll have my car go to do you say and mingle with the old was I know up there and I know a lot of obvious now cuz I was up there that a different job now that you know when you get out of the house as soon as they all become lobbyists make a bunch of money f*** people around that’s just the way to go from it works I love them all so I can’t stand Raleigh Senator McCain he’s a great guy but don’t play with me on this number or delay it I called your office tonight several times and you have this email I just hang up on people just hanging the f****** on them like we’re not even human because people need help sometimes when they fall down I don’t need help now buddy I’ve got 3.8 million dollars in the bank now because the housing market f****** I couldn’t sell my house is from 07 you know up until recently because of the housing market collapse and now it’s picking up so I sold two of my houses and that’s what I got form and I’ve got more property in a couple more houses so I don’t need your cell phones anymore but I appreciate it when I did get it I mean you don’t think about it hard time but they can hit anywhere just like a tornado so my number and it again with six zero you can email me that number as soon as you can and I never talk to you I’ll just leave it alone and let them freaks up there on the hill you know the 436 whatever they call them down then the well there too what the hell they wanted to buy the field to going to get you all anyway I mean young you got to be on the chopping block if if if you look at it what he wants to cut already you have to be out of your mind of things to do cell phones are going to exist after his first hundred days they’re going to repair them and make it landlines cuz most of the people that have them or drug dealers or people the elderly but they dealt drugs or alcohol extra parents are alcoholics or grandfather alcohol hell when I got here in about two or drunk so don’t play no games with the ranger is I will f*** you up I mean that’s just straight-up me I’ve been locked up I’ll walk right in your office and beat your goddamn ass that’s just the way I am I have a great evening

    Reply

    • Call us crazy, the but thing that disturbs us most about Raymond’s rant is that he doesn’t seem to comprehend punctuation.

      Reply

      • @Raymond
        You should really hang with a better bunch of people.
        They’ve messed with your mind son, because you don’t know where to reach out for help.

        Free Government Cell Phones website you’ve posted on knows nothing about your rants or the number you wish to retrieve. They (FGCP) only spread news and stories (articles) about the industry behind Lifeline.

        In no way do they (FGCP) have anything to do with your Lifeline account, number, or any of your personal information. I can understand your being mad – but – son your focusing on an innocent party here. You should buy them all a fat steak and bar tab, if your as rich as you say.

        If that number means money to you then you should port out that number to someone else to use it on their cell service. If you forgot your information you used then it’s all your fault really isn’t it. Be mad at yourself and not an innocent party/website – which don’t know you but only form your comment.

        Let me ask this very directly and clearly who’s fault is it?

        Reply

        • I agree that he should be reported to proper authorities..Ya know in the times we live now ppl like him are the ones who do exactly what they say they’re gonna do and walk into a hotel,rent it for 3 days then kill 58 ppl and wound 500+ others..I sure hope he finds the tell help he needs and it’s not in reference to the phones..This guy is not only obviously pissed off and has had enough but is also pretty much on point..Well about most of what he was trying to say..or what I could make of it that is..I agree also with the absolute need of grammar..But then again I could use a crash course my damn self..However that seems to be the least of the things I feel this man needs some help with..I sure hope he finds peace within himself cause if ever I have read the comments of someone who needs it I believe it would be this man..And let it be said Thank you sir for serving our nation..I see your sacrifices we’re not only many but were made in great depth..My forever respect for you..I am going to contact the ppl I know in the broken systems we have try to find him and see what can be done and hopefully save him and probably others before he either hurts himself or causes any pain to others..It’s only the right thing to do!

          Reply

  210. I have broke my phone that was issued to me will my daughters spare LG G3 phone be compatible with my gov. Assurance service?

    Reply

    • We have no way of knowing, but you should contact Assurance customer service or tech support to get that question answered.

      Reply

  211. So does anybody know about using the phone number that you get from a Lifeline company and turning (porting it) over to another cell phone company and and they cancelling the service you have Lifeline but being able to keep the phone number that you got

    Reply

    • Yes, virtually all the Lifeline companies will allow you to port over your current phone number, Josh.

      Reply

  212. Dear FGCP Admin.
    I like the Technical aspect to knowledge, as if in I don’t know something already (or forgot it mostly) I use a search engine to find out, my favorite is StartPage – as my homepage and search engine.
    It’s the most private I’ve used thus far.
    Wikipedia = informative site about most everything in a general sense.
    HowStuffWorks = insight into the way many things work.

    “Here we go running the risk of getting too technical again:
    Turns out that different cell phone carriers are using different frequency bands.”

    Wireless Frequencies / Bands

    AT&T
    Network Technology: GSM, HSPA+, UMTS
    3G Frequencies: 850, 1900 / 3G Bands: 2, 5
    4G LTE Frequencies: 700bc, 1700 abcde, 1900 / 4G LTE Bands: 2, 4, 12, 17

    T-Mobile
    Network Technology: GSM, HSPA+, UMTS
    3G Frequencies: 1900, 1700, 2100 / 3G Bands: 2, 4
    4G LTE Frequencies: 700a, 1700def, 1900 / 4G LTE Bands: 2, 4, 12

    Sprint
    Network Technology: CDMA
    3G Frequencies: 800, 1900 / 3G Bands: 1, 10
    4G LTE Frequencies: 850, 1900g, 2500 / 4G LTE Bands: 25, 26, 41

    US Cellular
    Network Technology: CDMA
    3G Frequencies: 850, 1900 / 3G Bands: 0, 1
    4G LTE Frequencies: 700ab, 850 / 4G LTE Bands: 5, 12

    Verizon
    Network Technology: CDMA
    3G Frequencies (MHz): 850, 1900 / 3G Bands: 0, 1
    4G LTE Frequencies (MHz): 700c, 1700f, 1900 / 4G LTE Bands: 2, 4, 13

    @Frequencies – where the sm. case alphabet letters are, is a representation of the BLOCKS in that Frequency used for Uplink (MHz)-(Mobile to Base), and Downlink (MHz)-(Base to Mobile), this is what I seem to understand from reading much.
    *Frequency bandwidth blocks are essentially the amount of space a network operator dedicates to a network.
    https://www.extremetech.com/mobile/110711-what-is-lte

    “As clear as mud?” – Well in the sake of water which as a lake, pond, stream, and some rivers is mostly clear unless you stir up the bottom, sometimes in understanding something the bottom does get stirred up of the mind and makes cloudy the understanding then – just seek the knowledge and give time for the silt to settle and then understand it.

    That’s the great thing about the Web – it’s full of knowledge and right in your home without having to leave it – just turn off the TV and put on your thinking cap and read-watch instructional videos.
    If you can form a question, you can find an answer most likely.

    A mobile phone operator or wireless provider is a telephone company that provides services for mobile phone users.
    There are two types of mobile operator:
    (1)a mobile network operator which owns the underlying network and spectrum assets required to run the service.
    (2)a mobile virtual network operator (MVNO) which buys wholesale service from an MNO and sells on to its own customers.

    Will My Phone Work – is a pretty good site to figure out if your specific phone is compatible on other networks. It lets you pick manufacturer, model, even specific model number, then which network you want to check its compatibility on. http://willmyphonework.net/

    Interesting Facts:
    For the last 15 years, the Democratic Republic of the Congo has been a major source of natural resources for the mobile phone industry.
    Tracking and Privacy:
    The movements of a mobile phone user can be tracked by their service provider and, if desired, by law enforcement agencies and their governments. Both the SIM card and the handset can be tracked.

    Additional Note: – for using other than a supplied or upgrade phone by a Lifeline provider you must do diligent research in understanding.
    A cell phone on one major network having the capability of some or same Bands and Frequencies for another major network (ie: AT&T going to the T-M ) will most likely have to be Unlocked for the SIM card to work or you’ll get SIM lock(ed) and similar notices.
    Then to for DATA to work like in Broadband from your Lifeline provider of your SIM card, is the APN (access point names) deep in the phones Settings that will need to be entered and correct to be able for data Internet use.

    Steve

    Reply

  213. Hello – Please observe I’m only trying to be Helpful to Lifeline users…

    As this is a FCC-mandated, government-sponsored program, called LifeLine Assistance, the financially disadvantaged can receive a cell phone and anywhere from 500 to an unlimited number of minutes and texts every month — at no charge. (I edited for Dec. 2-2016 changes)
    https://www.freegovernmentcellphones.net/ (HOME Link)

    Then if (the stats remain correct), Fifty-eight Lifeline phone providers in all, we present them in alphabetical order in the following list. Most offer close to the same plans, but the plans do vary in the number of minutes and texts they offer. So make sure you compare each one offered in your state to make sure you are getting the best plan for you.
    https://www.freegovernmentcellphones.net/free-cell-phone-providers

    It would be helpful to a Lifeline user to know if any Lifeline providers on this articles list of the 2016 Leaders, in that if any of them have been FINED by the FCC for any fraud and waste, as well as any misconduct (resulting in double billings to the Lifeline program) in their participation to offering the FCC-mandated government sponsored program of Lifeline Assistance.

    I think this is a service you should offer to your readers of printing the already publicly known information available about the fraudulent actives of any Lifeline providers. As (below) in the ruling bodies are having a somewhat of a difficult time in their endeavors to seek a resolve to the harm by fraud given in the Lifeline program providers.

    Then anything you would offer in the topic of fraud to a Lifeline users knowledge would help them to make the best decision to which of a Lifeline provider to patronize with their use in their Lifeline benefits applied to them.

    It’s simple to me, that any knowledge Free Government Cell Phone would cover in the TOPICs of Fraudulent Actives, like to also offer the Parent Company(s) of Lifeline providers and then list any and all of their Trade Names, their Founder(s), Subsidiary(s), business partners.
    For an overall picture – if there exists a monopoly by anyone Lifeline Company structured entity to have more than one offering in the Lifeline Program.

    It would help Lifeline users to put their foot down and stop patronizing bad Lifeline companies as the first step in anything that they can do personally in combating the abuse in the Lifeline program…

    Also since the FCC has added in the broadband to the Lifeline program, which now requires a (port freeze) or in simple terms a locking of the Lifeline users benefits for a period of time to their chosen Lifeline provider now -12 months before they are able to change to a new Lifeline provider when broadband is used.
    It’s a very important need to know of any prior fraud and abuse by a Lifeline company in the Lifeline program.

    A year ago last month (Nov. 2015) an article appeared and mentioned-
    Through an FCC investigated found that 12 carriers had broken rules.
    The FCC proposed about $100 million in penalties against companies involved with defrauding a low-income phone subsidy program in 2013. (Then another article pointed to noted), the FCC has yet to collect the vast majority of those fines two years later, and lawmakers have started to take notice.

    In response to political attention, the FCC “modernized” the Lifeline program in 2012, and it was under these new rules that it hit carriers with roughly $100 million in proposed fines. Few of these fines have yet been levied. The FCC’s defense is that it never issued fines to Lifeline carriers, but instead issued proposed fines, which are officially called notices of apparent liability, and can be contested by the companies they target.

    The FCC says that it conducts an intensive investigation before even proposing a fine. But actually enforcing a penalty requires the Justice Department, adding time and complexity to the process. Often, the easiest outcome for both the FCC and companies after a notice of apparent liability is reaching a settlement, which is intended to protect the consumer as well as a long and drawn-out court case would.

    Thank you,
    Steve

    Reply

    • Enforcement of the rules and the fines could maybe bankrupt some of these bad players in the Lifeline program. I think any action is long over due and a bad Lifeline Program provider should loose their eligible telecommunications carrier (ETC) status within the States where fraud has been proved, and be revoked by the FCC in general to never again have a participation in the Lifeline program ever as a lifelong ban of that company.

      They should not just be of FINEs levied against but, also of prison time as well to their Officials (Officers) in their structured Lifeline business, when of fully knowing that they were stealing indirectly from the Government, and as well as all the Americans that foot the bill in paying the federal Universal Service Fund.

      Some consumers may notice a “Universal Service” line item on their telephone bills. This line item appears when a company chooses to recover its USF contributions directly from its customers by billing them this charge. The FCC does not require this charge to be passed on to customers. Each company makes a business decision about whether and how to assess charges to recover its Universal Service costs. Companies that choose to collect Universal Service fees from their customers cannot collect an amount that exceeds their contribution to the USF. Incumbent ETCs also cannot collect any fees from a Lifeline program participant.
      https://www.fcc.gov/general/contribution-methodology-administrative-filings

      Only then with the harsh penalties will other Lifeline Companies see that the FCC means business and curve-stop-refrain to any other mis-dealings that were to hint of an abuse and/or fraud by them the Lifeline Company providers…
      Steve

      Reply

    • Oops. Good catch, Marylin. We will add Access immediately. In answer to your question, Access uses the Sprint CDMA network.

      Reply

    • To be fair, it is not the fault of the phone companies. Different technologies have been developed, and exist in different areas of the country/world. And phone service providers had to choose which network type to support. So a phone works for either one or the other (although some more expensive phones support multiple technologies).

      While the phone companies are far from perfect, they are giving you free service, so we would never call any of them “heathens.” For better service and more versatile phones, you can always pay $50+ a month for a traditional Verizon, Sprint, etc phone plan.

      Reply

      • When You say CDMA and GSM Phones aren’t Interchangeable, it isn’t completely accurate; at least not for some No-Contract Prepay Cos. (I know, these aren’t Free Gv’t Phones, but some underrated ones are pretty good–not to mention Co-operative, w/ BYOP).

        As far as Gv’t “Free” Phones, they’re progressively less usable, forcing one to “upgrade,” out of Pocket. That’s what I’m having to do with “Assurance Wireless” (“Paylo Virgin Mobile,” now, part of “Sprint” which uses CDMA)–in spite of my having a perfectly good “LG Rumor2” w/ a Slide-out QWERTY Keyboard, (I need due to Dis-Ability), and it IS a CDMA Sprint Phone–an Assurance Wireless Supervisor told me “…this phone isn’t ‘Compatible’ nor Elligible…” and to my Reply “I do Understand the Reasons you don’t, (that Phone has more Feature-Capabilities than you’re allowed to offer…”), she felt obliged to say “You’re right…” and recommended I go to “Virgin’s Paylo” site, (there, I found a Samsung slide-out QWERTY keyboard Phone which is also a Full Touch Screen, and far more Capable in all features than my 5-yr-old LG Rumor 2. What is their Problem, for cryin’ out Loud?

        Reply
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