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.
JANICE SHELBY says
I WOULD LIKE TO APPLY FOR PHONE
Free Government Cell Phones says
Then that’s exactly what you should do, Janice.
Trena Shows says
I am eligible for a government phone
Free Government Cell Phones says
Good for you, Trena.
Yisel says
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
Free Government Cell Phones says
Have you attempted to contact customer service by email or online chat through the company’s website?
DonnaMae Heiden Allen says
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.
Free Government Cell Phones says
It’s impossible for us to know the inner workings of AT&T, DonnaMae.
Rosa says
Which iPhone is compatible with true wireless??
Jennifer Flores says
So does that mean that I can have my Sprint phone activated to my Q link wireless # since they are the same network?
Free Government Cell Phones says
That should be correct, Jennifer, but you should still confirm by contacting Q Link customer service.
Gloria Hernandez says
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.
Free Government Cell Phones says
“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.
sandy says
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
Free Government Cell Phones says
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.
Leah says
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
Free Government Cell Phones says
No, Safelink and Q Link are two completely different, competitive companies that both offer free government cell phones.
If you can’t get a larger, better, smarter phone from your current Lifeline free government cell phone company, you can always switch to a new company. That will make you a new customer and all new customers are supposed to receive smartphones. Here’s an article that tells you how easy it is to switch:
https://www.freegovernmentcellphones.net/faq/how-do-i-switch-lifeline-providers
And here’s an article that tells you which free government cell phone companies offer the program in your state:
https://www.freegovernmentcellphones.net/states
Whitney says
Im on the lifewirelrss free phone service. Will my free phone service work with a tracfone
Free Government Cell Phones says
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.
paula says
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
Free Government Cell Phones says
You have a comple choices, Paula. First, you can pay to upgrade to a different phone. Most of the Lifeline companies make upgraded phones available at pretty reasonable prices. Second, you can switch to any other service provider that does business in your state. All new customers (and you would qualify as a new customer if you sign up with a different company) are supposed to receive smartphones.
Here’s an article that will tell you who all the companies are in your state:
https://www.freegovernmentcellphones.net/states
And here’s an article that tells you how easy it is to make the switch:
https://www.freegovernmentcellphones.net/faq/how-do-i-switch-lifeline-providers
Angie says
I have a Straight talk ZTE can I switch to IT.
Free Government Cell Phones says
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.
Donella VanArsdale says
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
Free Government Cell Phones says
You can find phone cases with great prices on eBay or Amazon, Donella. Probably better and cheaper than you can find them anywhere else.
Robie Robinson says
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.
Free Government Cell Phones says
The phones available vary from day to day, Robbie. So there’s no way for us to know what’s being offered.
Judy Bochette says
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.
Free Government Cell Phones says
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).
Taren says
I have T-Mobile life wireless so that is compatible with iphone6??
Free Government Cell Phones says
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.
Paula Lee Hall says
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
Jessica says
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?
Free Government Cell Phones says
What do you mean when you say it doesn’t have a SIM card? Was it delivered to you missing a SIM card?
YO says
THANK U FOR THE INF,
Vincent Howell says
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
Free Government Cell Phones says
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.
Karen Bruce says
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?
Free Government Cell Phones says
We can’t send him another phone because this isn’t Q Link, Karen. Your friend needs to contact Q Link customer service.
Lucy says
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?
Free Government Cell Phones says
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.
Anna Arce says
Great information thank you so much. I learned alot.
Free Government Cell Phones says
You are definitely welcome, Anna. We’re here to help.
Shawna says
Can i switch my qlink phone number to another phone
Free Government Cell Phones says
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.
phillp ray says
I have ZTE phone can I switch phone to another wink phone
Free Government Cell Phones says
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.
LJ says
Is safelink wireless in washington 3G or 2G?
Free Government Cell Phones says
That’s a question best answered by Safelink customer service, LJ.
Alice Mathews says
send this info to my cellphone please and thaNK YOU
Free Government Cell Phones says
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.
STEVEN J CORREA says
Hello this is way to confusing. Is there an easier way too find out if the phone I want to use is compatible?
Free Government Cell Phones says
Sure, Steven. Call your favorite Lifeline company’s customer service team and ask them if your make and model is compatible.
Alex says
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
Free Government Cell Phones says
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.
Tammy Reynolds says
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?
Free Government Cell Phones says
We don’t get into any tech details of the phones, Tammy. Contact Q Link customer service to get your question answered.
Ray Klapal says
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
Free Government Cell Phones says
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?
Kayla says
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.
Free Government Cell Phones says
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.
Marquee says
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
Free Government Cell Phones says
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.
Joan Schaper says
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.
Free Government Cell Phones says
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?
Belinda B Lance says
I just want to know if my assurance late phone can be changed to samsung galaxy on5 android
Free Government Cell Phones says
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.
Brian says
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.
Free Government Cell Phones says
Any suggestions for Brian, readers?
jen says
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/
robin r says
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
Free Government Cell Phones says
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.
Blake says
I broke my qlink phone, but it has a sim card… can I switch the sim card to a factory unlocked iphone 5?
Free Government Cell Phones says
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.
Lorry Ann Vivirito says
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?
Free Government Cell Phones says
Here’s an article for you to read, Larry.
https://www.freegovernmentcellphones.net/faq/i-lost-my-phone-how-do-i-get-a-replacement
We can’t tell you which phones are available because we’re not your service provider. You can find out either by going online to your service provider’s website or by contacting customer service.
GARY FOLLIN says
I lost my assurance wireless phone. Can I transfer my service to a Samsung note 4 ?
Free Government Cell Phones says
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.
Susan C Hawkins says
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?.
Free Government Cell Phones says
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).
Richard says
Would an iPhone 4s or iPhone 5 or 5s work with Assurance wireless? How to remove the SIM card from the free phone?
Free Government Cell Phones says
You’ll need to discuss that issue with customer service at Assurance.
Roozter says
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.
Quinn H. says
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?
Free Government Cell Phones says
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.
Kay Woodall says
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?
Free Government Cell Phones says
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.
Roozter says
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!
Belinda says
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.
Free Government Cell Phones says
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.
Sandra says
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.
Free Government Cell Phones says
Congratulations, Sandra. We’ve never heard that one before. If we were you, we’d contact customer service.
Katterine says
Can I use my Alcatel one touch phone?
Also i am VERY FRUSTRATED that i cannot speak with a live person.
Free Government Cell Phones says
What company, Katherine? Have you gone to the website to see if they offer an online chat function?
ANDI says
THANK YOU. BEING IGNORANT OF TECHNICAL WORDING AND THIER MEANING; I HAVE BEEN EDUCATED. I THINK! ASK ME TOMORROW WHAT IT MEANS. 🙂
Kathy Dugger says
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 ?
Free Government Cell Phones says
We think your computer may have autocorrected something, Kathy, because we have no idea what “small brew” is. But your message is clear enough. Here’s an article that tells you more about upgrading:
https://www.freegovernmentcellphones.net/which-lifeline-cell-phone-companies-offer-smartphones
However, all companies are now required to give their new customers upgraded smartphones. If your current service provider own’t give you one, maybe you should switch to a new provider. As a new customer, you’d get a smartphone. So here’s an article about how to switch:
https://www.freegovernmentcellphones.net/faq/how-do-i-switch-lifeline-providers
eric olsen says
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?
Free Government Cell Phones says
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.
Mee Ison says
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.
Free Government Cell Phones says
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.
Steve says
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.
Free Government Cell Phones says
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.
Steve says
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
Free Government Cell Phones says
Good to know, Steve. Hope you enjoy the nice weather. Watch out for mosquitos.
Kevin K says
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?)
Free Government Cell Phones says
This sounds like a question for Steve, our ace expert on the intricacies of the Lifeline program. Care to render an opinion, Steve?
Stewart malone says
Can I switch to Sprint wireless
Free Government Cell Phones says
Sprint does not participate in the free government cell phone program, Stewart.
Steve says
@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
Free Government Cell Phones says
Thorough as always, Steve. Thanks.
Techera Walker says
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
Free Government Cell Phones says
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.
Steve says
@ 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
Shannon says
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
Free Government Cell Phones says
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.
Steve says
@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
Raymond Barberio says
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
Free Government Cell Phones says
Call us crazy, the but thing that disturbs us most about Raymond’s rant is that he doesn’t seem to comprehend punctuation.
Steve says
@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?
DazednConfused says
I hope one of you reported this crazy SOB.
Free Government Cell Phones says
Nah. We’ve received worse.
Anita says
I have broke my phone that was issued to me will my daughters spare LG G3 phone be compatible with my gov. Assurance service?
Free Government Cell Phones says
We have no way of knowing, but you should contact Assurance customer service or tech support to get that question answered.
Josh says
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
Free Government Cell Phones says
Yes, virtually all the Lifeline companies will allow you to port over your current phone number, Josh.
Steve says
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
Steve says
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
Steve says
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
Marylin Marquez says
Access Wireless is a leading Lifeline company, but they’re not on your list. Which technology do they use?
Free Government Cell Phones says
Oops. Good catch, Marylin. We will add Access immediately. In answer to your question, Access uses the Sprint CDMA network.
LScott says
These cell phone company’s (heathens) continue to keep a NOOSE around the people’s neck.
Free Government Cell Phones says
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.
Geeky Gramma says
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?