Readers often ask us the same question over and over again in a very short period of time. Right now our mailbox is full of emails from readers asking, “How do I switch from one Lifeline company to another?”
Some of them ask because they were left with no Lifeline service when Budget Wireless suddenly went out of business. Some of them ask because the rules of the Lifeline program changed back in December of 2016. And, of course, a lot of them ask because they’re just not happy with their service.
So in answer to all those questions, here’s the complete information directly from the Universal Service Administration Company (USAC) website:
Change My Company
Customers may transfer the Lifeline benefit to a new company once every sixty (60) days for telephone service, and once every 12 months for internet service.
Customers may be allowed to transfer their benefit sooner if:
- They move to a new address,
- The company no longer offers Lifeline service, or
- The company charged late fees greater than the customer’s monthly out of pocket cost for service.
How to Transfer Your Lifeline Benefit
To transfer your benefit to another company, contact a different company that offers Lifeline and ask them to transfer your Lifeline benefit to them.
The new company will need this information to process the request:
- Name
- Date of birth
- Last four digits of your Social Security number
- Address
- Phone number
- Your consent (verbal or written)
You will be required to give your consent acknowledging that once the transfer is complete, you will lose your benefit with the previous company.
You will need to acknowledge that the new company has explained that customers may not have more than one Lifeline benefit per household.
In most cases, customers will not experience an interruption in service. There are certain instances when customers may be asked to provide Proof of Identity.
So there you have it, readers. Everything you need to know about how to transfer your service from one free government cell phone company to another.
It’s simple.
So if you need a new Lifeline company because your old one went out of business, or if you need a new Lifeline company because your current one sucks, or if you need a new Lifeline company for ANY reason, now you know how to make the change.
Saundra Hale says
i need to switch from qlink free government mobile service to entouch free mobile service provider
Free Government Cell Phones says
Follow the instructions in the article on this page, Saundra.
Kaitlyn Eiden says
I had SafeLink for several years, then applied for free wifi for my computer and they disenrolled me from SafeLink. Nobody told me you can only have one data company. So now I’m trying to get back to SafeLink, where I had unlimited data, calling for the last 2 days. Every time they give a different answer and can’t transfer my benefits back. So incompetent. They want to test the phone, which is new, they don’t seem to understand anything. nobody knows nothing. Bunch of operators who don’t speak english. Then they transfer me to somebody else, either they know nothing or I get disconnected. So freaking annoying. Spent 5 hours on the phone today and they transfer me and I get disconnected.,
Free Government Cell Phones says
Here’s the strategy we recommend: Use Lifeline benefit to get a free government cell phone. Use your ACP benefit to enroll in an internet plan with almost any internet service provider. But DO NOT enroll in an internet/data plan with a Lifeline free government cell phone company. (It sounds as if that is what you did.)
Joe Schaffer says
I’ve had my services for a couple of years and I got switched to Unlimited to SafeLink and now every month my service gets shut off at the end of the month and it happened two days ago and I called them and they said my service was canceled due to non usage for 60 days. Now I’m losing out on job opportunities and I don’t understand how can records just say I haven’t used the phone in 60 days when they just set me up for a year renewal in July
Free Government Cell Phones says
Unfortunately, Joe, those two rules exist side-by-side. You get renewed annually, but you must still use your free government cell phone at least once every 30 days.
Henry says
Note that the requirement about using the service means that you call or send a text message OUT from your phone. Receiving calls and incoming text messages are NOT treated as using your service at least once every month.
Note that some banks treat accounts as being dormant or inactive if you do not initiate a deposit or withdrawal from it. Monthly social security ACH direct deposits and automatic monthly scheduled transfers to merchants or external banks do NOT qualify to prevent the account from being placed in dormant status.
Free Government Cell Phones says
Just to clarify, going online also qualifies as “using your phone.”
Nancy E Ruth says
I have an Assurance account . Moved to Texas from St Louis Mo. Need to know if I transfer or stop and start a new account?
Free Government Cell Phones says
Your phone should continue to work until its time for your annual renewal.
Henry says
Lifeline service is nationwide. However, each service provider may not offer service in certain states. Check to see if you can get a signal at your new location. If yes, then no change is needed and you only need to notify them about your new address. If you don’t get a signal, then you will need to apply to another service provider who services your new location.
Suzan McAuliffe Hill says
I want to switch providers. My current provider (Assurance Wireless) outsources their Customer Service calls and I think Tracfone does as well.
The customer service reps are unfailingly polite, but I just cannot understand heavily accented speech. It’s frustrating on both sides and makes the calls last much longer than need be. I’m using a “burner” (lost my phone) so the considerable delays really eat up available minutes.
Free Government Cell Phones says
You are free to switch at any time, Suzan. Hope you’re happy with your new service provider.
NICOLE lister says
How do I (switch) over my lifeline phone overto air talk
Free Government Cell Phones says
Read the article, Nicole, read the article.
Ajja says
How do I switch to a different lifeline phone program I currently have airtalk . I originally just wanted a new phone because they just mailed the wrong one
Free Government Cell Phones says
Read the article on this page, Aija.
Martha Scott says
I have been VERY disappointed with Assurance Wireless.
Can anyone recommend a Lifeline phone service provider that is not absolute garbage? I am in North Central Florida.
Free Government Cell Phones says
Readers? Any advice for Martha.
Chrystal Starr Beale says
Help me
Free Government Cell Phones says
We need a little more info, Chrystal. What kind of help do you need?
Janet says
What do you do if you
just signed up and have no service in your area?
Free Government Cell Phones says
You switch to a different service provider as explained in the article on this page.
Heather Tarter says
I have the same problem, all this was a waste of my time. 60 days without service is way too long to wait to get a new carrier that works! T mobile has 99.9% NO SERVICE in my area.
Kris says
I believe mine as well. It will never register on a network
Henry says
If T-Mobile signal cannot be received where you are, you have only two other alternatives – Verizon and AT&T. If all three do not work, then you have to move or just use a landline or satellite service.
Tracey Wilcoxen says
I was approved today for lifeline and air talk but I don’t care for air talk it’s just too confusing and I don’t need a Kenya number especially one I got to pay for so how can change
Free Government Cell Phones says
Read the article on this page, Tracey.
Iran louge says
How can I change my cell phone plan to a free internet plan with a new company
Free Government Cell Phones says
Keep in mind that you can have both a free government cell phone and a free or very cheap ACP internet plan. You are better off getting the cell phone from a Lifeline free government cell phone company and getting your internet from almost any internet service provider.
Joshua says
Can you transfer my service from qlink to cintex wireless better service and need free phone
Joshua says
Qlink didn’t provide me free phone sent me SIM card and don’t have a phone to use service
Free Government Cell Phones says
Did you mistakenly enroll in a SIM card-only plan instead of a free phone plan? Have you spoken to Q Link customer service?
Henry says
I read through the QLink website information, and they do not provide a FREE phone under the regular Lifeline program and the combined Lifeline and ACP (referred to as Always On Plan). Under the ACP program, they provide the Scepter 8 tablet ($10.01 copayment) to access the internet through Wi-Fi tethering from your smart phone. Under both enrollments, you are responsible for BYOD, OR buying a phone from their online store. If some subscribers did a free phone, they got it from the company as a “freebie” that is not officially stated on their website.
Free Government Cell Phones says
We can’t do it because we are not a service provider. Follow the steps outlined in the article on this page to make the switch.
Ash says
Kinda confused., I was frustrated with my service, terracom wireless, so I applied to SafeLink, and was approved. I just got the email yesterday that my new phone is on its way, but now my current service has been disconnected! I was under the assumption that I could keep my original service with terracom,until I recurved my new phone/ service with safelink, then call customer service to switch everything and keep my phone number, what am I missing? Currently now without any phone service and waiting for my new phone in the mail! Please explain what I did wrong lol
Free Government Cell Phones says
Doesn’t sound like you did anything wrong, Ash. Contact your new service provider’s customer service team or clarification.
Kimberly Leal says
If i have phone service with ASSURANCE WIRELESS and a device from AIRTALK wireless how can i transfer my phone acp service to Airtalk Wireless
Free Government Cell Phones says
Start by reading the article on this page.
FredH says
I have lifeline through Safelink which was purchased by Verison.
After switching to the Verison network I have very bad signal strength.
When Safelink was on T Mobile reception was great. I called Assurance,
asked about a transfer of service, and was told that without an Assurance
phone number a transfer was not possible. This is kind of a catch 22.
To obtain an Assurance number, I would have to apply for a second benefit,
which is against the rules. BTW my phone is unlocked and GSM, CDMA capable.
Free Government Cell Phones says
We’re not quite sure what they were telling you. But keep in mind that any Lifeline customer can switch service providers at any time. Here’s an article that tells you how to make the switch from one provider to
another:
https://www.freegovernmentcellphones.net/faq/how-do-i-switch-lifeline-providers
You can find all the providers and plans available in your state here:
https://www.freegovernmentcellphones.net/states
FredH says
The Assurance wireless customer service number menu/merry go round prompts for
your Assurance number. The only other option given is applying online. There are no
transfer options online. There is a number online to call for questions. I called that,
it took me to the same voice menu, which of course asked for my Assurance number!
How could I have an Assurance number during the application process? I then called the
customer service number, hit 0#, then 5, followed by 0 after every voice prompt. After a
long wait, I was finally connected to a live representative. I explained more than once
that I wanted to switch my Lifeline benefits from Safelink to Assurance. She kept asking
for my Assurance number. Again, I explained more than once, since I was still with Safelink
I did not have an Assurance number. She made it very clear that it was impossible to switch
from Safelink to Assurance, without an Assurance phone number. Q Link Wireless seems to have.good reviews. They are on T Mobile. So I’m gonna give the a try.
Henry says
The representative apparently is not familiar with transferring Lifeline service from another provider. I had a similar issue regarding Health Savings Accounts (HSA) versus Health Reimbursement Accounts (HRA) with Aetna. I told the representative that I was ineligible for the HSA and needed to be switched to a HRA due to my enrollment in the FSA program. The representative insisted that it was not possible to do that. I referred her to the insurance document plan information, but she still insisted that it was not possible to do it. I gave up trying to argue with her. Several weeks later, I got a letter saying that due to my HSA ineligibility that I would be provided the HRA as a substitute..
QLink wireless has good reviews? I do not know about that.
Free Government Cell Phones says
There was a movie back in the 60s called Thoroughly Modern Millie. They should make a sequel called Always Helpful Henry.
Henry says
The Assurance wireless person who you spoke to apparently doesn’t have a clue. Here is the transfer information from the Assurance website.
———————————————————————————————
You will first need to check if Assurance Wireless is providing Lifeline service in your state by clicking here and entering your ZIP Code. If Lifeline service is available in your state, submit an application online.
If you are approved, you can keep your current phone number by contacting Customer Care when you receive your new device at 1-888-321-5880 and a representative will help you. Just call from a different phone and have your account number and password from your previous carrier handy.
Once your Lifeline discount is transferred to Assurance Wireless, you will no longer receive a Lifeline discount from your current carrier since you can only get one Lifeline discount per household. By applying to Assurance Wireless service, you are consenting to this Lifeline benefit transfer.
Leticia mosqueda says
Hi my name is leticia mosqueda i was with safelink i could not take there servhce anymore i vant 2 appy with cetex for an iphone if i may how do i do that
Free Government Cell Phones says
Did you read the article on this page, Leticia?
Tosh says
I just received a Lifeline Smart Phone as an upgrade to my previous Lifeline cheap phone. My question is, what do I do with the cheap phone?…throw it away, send it back? I sent them an email asking, but I received no reply.
Free Government Cell Phones says
The phone is yours to keep and do with as you please.
Ron Alexander says
I am helping a friend who is hard of hearing with her LifeLine service with SafeLink. The agent who first came to her apartment, explained the plan and left her with a phone that worked for a coupe weeks and then beganio to fail. Neither my friend nor the SafeLink agent could fix it. But the agent said she had another phone in her car and got it. It did not work. The agent said that was all she had to give her and provided no more help in getting a working phone for her. My friend tried calling the 611 number for help and could not understand the agents. After a few conversations with the SafeLink agents, I found their accents difficult to understand over a phone. I tried and also had to admit, it was difficult. Neither of us are anti-immigrant or oppose people getting jobs. It just seemed that the skills these folks had were not sufficient to the job, especially for working with elderly folks, some hard of hearing, many technically challenged. The combo of these issues, in this case made helping my friend with her questions very difficult, as I found out myself trying to intervene. Finally, I asked if I gave my friend an old v. 10 iPhone, could she use that? After two transfers, the first who said she could not use an iPhone (my friend was able to do a search and find that she COULD use an iPhone with SafeLlink.) , the second tech(?) person, said, yes, but I had to unlock the phone and buy a SIM card for it. That’s when I ran off to CVS, bought a SIM card and then drove to OUR carrier, AT&T, to ask how to unlock the iPhone and install the SIM card. (I had an hour to get back to my friend’s place to call Safelink back before they closed for the night.). All that done, I returned and we called SafeLink and another agent with an accent explained that I had bough the wrong SIM card. Great. No one had said there was a specific card I would need or that there were particular cards. This one I noticed said TMobile, when I finally looked for a business on the bag. The agent said I had to buy a BYOB(?) SIM card from them for 90 cents, which I then did. Now here is where the accent was very difficult because the agent said that we still could not use the phone for a reason I could not understand. FInally, with a nod from my friend, I said we would like to leave SafeLink and find a carrier that would allow her to use an iPhone. I was calm but clearly irritated. The agent was also aggravated, and started to ask me the same question: Do you want to speak to Customer Service? I kept saying, “Yes I do.” and he switched me to a line that said it was after hours and to call back tomorrow, Monday. That’s when he—without just saying I’d have to call the next day—had the satisfaction of literally hanging up on me by sending me to the closed office, which I am sure that he knew was closed because even for him, it was 7:35 PM on the East Coast where they said they were located. More than one person had told us they closed at 11 PM EST. Now, please, My Question: We are so dissatisfied with their service, can we use that to leave right away and find another carrier who will not have trouble with an iPhone? And, Question Number 2, Which carriers in CA can use iPhones? Thank You. R. Alexander
Free Government Cell Phones says
The good news (and you could certainly use some) is that you don’t need a reason to switch service providers. You can switch any any time for any reason. Here’s an article that tells you how to make the switch from one provider to another:
https://www.freegovernmentcellphones.net/faq/how-do-i-switch-lifeline-providers
Which provider and plan to choose? You can find all the providers and plans available in your state here:
https://www.freegovernmentcellphones.net/states
Regina kuhmund says
I do not need a new phone. Have phone.
Free phone broke. Just want my free availability can be switch to my Alcatel phone, that’s not broke. Ty
Free Government Cell Phones says
That depends on whether your specific phone is compatible with your service provider’s national network. Contact customer service and ask your question.
Angela Hutto says
Can you post a list of Lifeline cell phone providers in Tennessee? Thank you
Free Government Cell Phones says
We post a list of service providers in every state at this link:
https://www.freegovernmentcellphones.net/states
Yesenia Rayon says
Can you post a list of phone service providers in the state of Kentucky? I have enTouch wireless and everything was good until last week when I lost my data and can’t send or receive some text messages. I can’t get a hold of anybody at Entouch. I call and wait for as long as they keep me waiting until they hang up and never answer. This is very frustrating because they did not even notify me about changes to my service.
thanks Yessi
Free Government Cell Phones says
We’ve posted lists of companies and plans in every state up there at the top of the page under “States.” Here’s a link:
https://www.freegovernmentcellphones.net/states
Free Government Cell Phones who who says
Really look at my message here to help yourself out of a jam and select correct company to go with first!
Safelink Wireless is now trying to push using Verizon towers only so avoid if you have no signal for Verizon in your area. HTH COMMUNICATIONS OUT OF HOUSTON TEXAS AND ITS COMPANIES OF Newphone, Cintex, AirTalk, Airvoice Wireless. They cover up that they own AirTalk but this is the company i recently gave HTH a 2nd try and i had service for 1 week and 2 days and while on data i saw the company slam and reprogram my purchased upgrade phone from Airtalk to Airvoice. After that time, they never gave me service connection again for 26 days so i told them and the FCC complaint that i was transferring benefit to another company!
I went with Assurance Wireless which gives Tmobile service on a free phone. Depending what they send you could end up with a bad phone or a decent phone. HTH companies held up both times of me to get service close to 8 weeks without being able to text, call or use data internet!
Assurance Wireless is only company that will give you a free phone, unlimited calls texts and data along with 10 GB of data as a hotspot under the ACP/Lifeline plan (has to have both plans combined).
Safelink is only other to give hotspot data but requires you to have service on Verizon towers and only gives you some data, not unlimited!
Patricia says
Gen mobile is thru boost. Moron.
Free Government Cell Phones says
Huh?
Henry says
Based on this Sept. 2021 memo from the CEO of Gen Mobile, you are correct.
———————————————————————-
Gen Mobile’s mission to help customers stay affordably connected is at the heart of everything we do. Staying true to our mission, Gen Mobile launched our Emergency Broadband Benefit (EBB) program last month. This program provides free wireless broadband service to qualified households impacted by COVID-19. Today, we can’t be more excited to announce that we are officially joining the DISH family as part of Boost Mobile. Joining forces with Boost will enable us to accelerate our mission by broadening our distribution and ultimately connecting more Americans with our low-cost prepaid plans and free EBB plan.
Rest assured, there is nothing you need to do on your end. Our same great plans, prices, coverage, and your account and phone remain the same. Customers will continue to be serviced by the same Gen Mobile customer care team and systems. Teaming up with Boost will allow us to combine our resources and technology to deliver more value and better service to our customers. What you can expect to see in the future are new low-cost product options and new features that will allow us to better serve you.
We thank you for choosing Gen Mobile and for placing your trust in us. As always, we will continue to work hard to offer you the best deals in wireless so that you can affordably stay connected to friends and family around the world.
Sincerely,
Robert Yap, CEO & Co-Founder, Gen Mobile
———————————————————————————
But, what does this have to do with switching Lifeline service?
Free Government Cell Phones says
We always appreciate Henry’s thoughtful, perceptive comments. He has much more patience than we do.
Michael says
So I have newphone wireless and my phone broke within a week I would like to switch to Cintex which i know is like the same thing but I tried to get a replacement phone from newphone and they never sent the return label so I have been without a phone for over a week and cintex has an upgrade I can get but it won’t let me apply what do i do I tried everything I just want my phone to work
Free Government Cell Phones says
The option you outlined is completely reasonable, Michael.
Henry says
Newphone wireless is associated with Cintex wireless, but is for LA residents only. I do not live in LA, so cannot apply to Newphone, but you can. I live in the Cintex coverage area and can apply, but you cannot. Why do they have separate divisions for LA and all other states? Do not know. There are several Lifeline providers who do not accept residents of my state. It is what it is. If you don’t like the set up, then don’t apply for the service.
Free Government Cell Phones who who says
do youself a favor and not go with any of Cintex Newphone Airtalk Airvoice Wireless companies. See about long comment i gave when it populates here!
Cody says
How do i change my number
Free Government Cell Phones says
Call 6-1-1 on your free government cell phone and you will be connected to customer service. They can handle your request.
Dave says
Seems to be conflicting info here. You say in the top of this post you can change providers after 60 days for telephone and 12 months for Internet then in another post where someone has said they switched just 2 weeks ago you tell them “you can switch anytime”.
I switched from SafeLink in may because they could not fix issues with my service after the transition to the Verizon system. Now I find out my new provider standup wireless is only going to give me 10 GB of high speed data with lifeline plus ACP.
i want to switch again.
Free Government Cell Phones says
Switch away, Dave. The rules have changed since that article was written.
Kausar kh says
I just joined lifeline program 2 weeks ago on assurances wireless but the free phone they sent me is really cheap and they don’t allow to use my own phone. Since its not 60 days is there any way i can change provider? Also do i need to cancel my prior service provider before switching to new provider or it will be canceled automatically once i change provider?
Free Government Cell Phones says
Any Lifeline customer can switch service providers at any time. Here’s an article that tells you how to make the switch from one provider to another:
https://www.freegovernmentcellphones.net/faq/how-do-i-switch-lifeline-providers
Which provider and plan to choose? You can find all the providers and plans available in your state here:
https://www.freegovernmentcellphones.net/states
Carolyn says
You can’t even get in touch with another service by phone if you don’t already have their service so how can you switch to another service?
Free Government Cell Phones says
Find the company you want to switch to, then visit its website to see if you can enroll online.
Jessica Bott says
If I currently with Qlink, but want to switch to Air Talk, do I need to cancel my service with Qlink before I apply for Air Talk? Or can I apply with Air Talk and when approved, cancel with Qlink?
Free Government Cell Phones says
Read the article, Jessica.
Ashley Boga says
Can I switch my phone number to other phone if my phone has been stolen
Free Government Cell Phones says
Yes, you just need to make sure you tell the customer service agent that “I want to port over my current phone number.” Say it several times during the conversation and then before you complete your call, make sure to confirm that they have ported it over.
maximillian xanthus mc daniel III says
I fight within myself to belive someone has to care in order to survive being disabled and alone in this world* I seem to be blacklisted as well as i spent the last few months trying to get back on the program after leaving assurance wireless because they NEVER sent me a replacement phone i called californa life line and they told me they only provide the discount*I ended up back w/them only because they dont understand english i guess. unfortunatly i dropped the phone and it shattered and now im screwed AGAIN!!!AND HAVE NO IDEA AS TO WHAT TO DO as im exhausted from waiting and calling and explaining ovr and over and over and over only to get hung up on EVERYTIME they finally understand and transfer me to whomever!I now understand the homeless that stand outside screeming as if theyre talking to someone i started listening and theyre screeming at customer service !! really* i swear! all this third world CS has driven folks to homelessness!!I fight to keep my sanity as well due i’m just too old to end up back in the streets.. it’s really a horrible life being poor as u beg for whats supose to be helpect.. and they smile and lalugh at u and run u like a mouse on a tredmile. U HAVE TO WORK OVERTIME TO GET ANYTHING!! AND BY THE TIME U GET IT U WANA KILL YOURSELF FROM ALL THE STRUGGLE AND HUMILIATION*
Free Government Cell Phones says
So sorry to hear about all this, Max. We wish there was something we could do to help.
Scarlet Ferrari says
JEEZ Max! Appears Free Gov Cell Phones is agreeing with what you said an it’s a shame they themselves are admitting they don’t have an answer or any help not even another Lifeline Company for you to try like a “Top 3 Best Free CELL PHONE PROVIDERS” List to refer they always attach some 3rd party App for consumers as they get paid for referrals an hits🤔But either they forgot or more likely REALLY DONT HAVE A TRUE ANSWER 🤥because by omitting any further Info or Help they are in fact saying THERE IS NO HELP FROM ANY COMPANY since all under same Umbrella! An that Max is most probably the TRUTH 💯 I know it Sucks! An while the the Free CELL Companies are Not so Free as they cost so much in LOST Time, Energy an yes even your Very Health just trying to get Customer Service which is a thing of the past. An if you look up their parent companies you’ll find out whether you pay alot for Cell phone service or not; Customer Service has “LEFT THE COUNTRY AN NOT COMING BACK!🥴 Not unless We All Fight🦾 To Keep Our 💰an Jobs in Our COUNTRY where we really Need them Now! So while I’d like to provide some info on another company that’s somewhat better, I myself am still looking for one 😏 an so the Free CELL Phone Network could be right there just may not be a Lifeline Company that offers decent customer service or service period. But what they can an will do is take your credit card number to add more minutes, Data an fees if you don’t get disconnected because of country connection issues or Sunami😲yes true that! An these words came from several Reps spoke to. 🔸️Trade Commission appears to be dragging their feet but if everyone would send your complaints an use social media to get to those that do have the authority to make decisions an changes your protests an cry for help might be heard an while they may indeed be making $$ off brokering deals with 3rd World 🌎 Countries They Don’t like to be Called Out on It!!🧐 Be Well!
Free Government Cell Phones says
Just for the record, we do not get paid for referrals. It’s impossible for us to make any recommendations for “Top 3 Best Free Cell Phone Providers” because there are too many variables from state to state, city to city, street to street.
Rebecca Monroe says
I tried switching from Qlink to safelink and safelink refused me said I had to go through the process again. My reason for switching is because tmobile service at my home is shared Sony Qlink phone has no service
Free Government Cell Phones says
What were their exact words, Rebecca, because “You have to go through the process again” makes no sense to us.
Susan says
Yep that is what I just did and having trouble with national verifier. It’s crazy
Steven Lewis says
hi i need a replacement phone sent to (ADDRESS DElETED).
Free Government Cell Phones says
You need to speak to your service provider’s customer service team to see if they will replace it for free. Some companies will, some companies won’t.
THIS IS ME says
Sorry to hear about your problem but we cannot do anything to help you. This is an independent informational website and is NOT affiliated with any Lifeline free government cell phone service provider.
Free Government Cell Phones says
We strongly urge our readers not to enroll at a street event. They have been the scenes of far too much fraud and abuse. Instead we urge you to enroll by phone or online.
Dave says
Hi,
Thanks for the informative page (which apparently few bother to read!).
I’ve been with Safelink for a few years now in CA, and was generally happy with their service, but ran into a snag with my BYOP plan (I’m using a factory-unlocked iPhone Xs) when my phone no longer worked despite having used it the previous day.
So I called Safelink (Net-10 wireless), and was told as a MVNO they were migrating from using T-Mobile to Verizon towers, so I needed to use a new Verizon-compatible SIM which they sent to me.
No problem….
When it arrived, I inserted it and tried to activate service but phone doesn’t work, so called only to learn I needed to reapply since my service had been cancelled only a few days before (despite fact I completed an annual renewal only a few months before).
Fine.
I did so, but am now stuck in renewal purgatory: although I submitted current documents/photos to Safelink on their site, it says “pending approval”, with documents I submitted having been rejected for some unknown reason (despite them showing my current address, etc).
It’s been almost a month without call phone service/data, even after many hours spent on the phone (thank God I also have a Texture app installed on my phone so I can make and receive calls).
So I’m thinking of giving up and reapplying with another lifeline provider, since Safelink isn’t working for me.
I know: long explanation to ask a simple question:
Can I keep my prior Safelink phone number with a new Lifeline provider (ie can Lifeline numbers be ported from one provider to another?), or do I need to start from scratch with a new cell phone provider?
Or is that a provider-specific question which only the company can answer (I still haven’t looked into who: I’m in CA)?
Thanks for having the patience of Job!
Free Government Cell Phones says
Good thing we like to read novels, Dave. 🙂
In answer to your question, yes, you can keep your phone number when you switch service providers. It’s supposed to be easy, and should be, but customer service at any company can sometimes make it more difficult. Theoretically, all you need to do is tell the new service provider that you want to “port over my current phone number.” Telling them once should be enough, but sometimes/often isn’t. You should say it repeatedly during your conversation with customer service and before you hang up, make them confirm that your old number has been ported over so that it will still be your number after the switch.
Lynn says
I tried get q link and they sent me a sim card that I could not use in any device to work. So I got Cintex they sent me a nice iPhone with service but I’m having troubles with it dropping calls and no service in half my area… Looking now for a better provider…. My iPhone uses the T.mobile I guess it’s weak where I live!?!
Free Government Cell Phones says
That is the problem with cell service, Lynn. A service plan that works perfectly for your neighbor may not work for you.
Lynn says
I currently have Cintex wireless and my phone uses T.mobile network and I’m in city it’s dropping calls or not letting calls come through half time. And it has no service in half my area where I live, I’m going to be moving in to rural area and it still has no service….. Which is the best network for good service and what provider??
Free Government Cell Phones says
There is no way to answer that question, Lynn. Service that’s good on one street may be poor on the next street. Rural areas are particularly troublesome. You may need to visit the neighborhood you intend to move to and speak to several neighbors to find out which cell plans they have and what cell networks work best in that rural area.
DeeDee Anderson says
So if I change company’s will I still use same phone I’m using now?
Free Government Cell Phones says
No. The new service provider will send you a new phone.
Rita Martin says
I’m currently using safelink but I might be switching to qlink wireless. But how do I know if qlink wireless will get good reception where I live?The closest tower near me are Verizon.
Free Government Cell Phones says
You need to go to our Q Link page and read about 50 comments before you switch to Q Link:
https://www.freegovernmentcellphones.net/q-link-wireless-raided-by-fbi-irs-us-post-office-sheriffs
Wayne R says
Lol love the 4 warnings/rules. Thank for explaining how to switch providers. Mine sucks so bad!
Free Government Cell Phones says
Our pleasure, Wayne.
Jessica Bott says
what are the 4 warning/rules for switching providers?
Free Government Cell Phones says
?????
Jessica Bott says
Wayne R had said… Lol love the 4 warnings/rules in his post. I was just wondering what that meant.
Free Government Cell Phones says
We don’t have a clue, Jessica.
Jody says
Am wondering if I can use my Virginia ID here in Dallas to get a free phone. Does anyone know?
Free Government Cell Phones says
Do you have something else (like a power bill or water bill) to prove your new street address? That will be required.
Alvin Moore says
I’m trying for days now toget hold of customer service with air talk wireless to switch from qlink cause stuck with nothing but a sims card of there and no device to use it in but there service doesn’t pick up inside my home anyways cause friends got them and No service works til like two miles down from where I live and airtalk works just can’t find working info to request them transfer my service smh
Free Government Cell Phones says
We don’t know what state you’re in but there are probably lots of options other than FeelSafe. Here’s where you can find al the plans and offers:
https://www.freegovernmentcellphones.net/states
Russel Fields says
The website application for Assist phone company says I have to cancel my Assure account before I can transfer to the Assist company. Assure says they will only keep the service open for 24 hours! Are people being forced to be without phone service until a phone company processes their application?
Free Government Cell Phones says
Read the article on this page, Russel.
Peyton Chambers says
Safe link I canceled the application and so I can go somewhere else
Free Government Cell Phones says
Why did they cancel your application? Theoretically, you can go to any other service provider offering plans in your state. Here’s where you can find those plans:
https://www.freegovernmentcellphones.net/states
jjoe says
I just got lifeline started do I have to wait 60 days to change? Or can I change right away they said I was getting a phone but never sent one so now Im stuck with service but no phone.
Free Government Cell Phones says
You can switch at any time, but just for conversation’s sake, who was your service provider.
Garland Lundry says
Good info. I’m not happy with my current provider and now considering a change.
Donna Johnston says
Need to switch lifeline to another provider
Free Government Cell Phones says
Just follow the instructions on this page, Donna.
Pamela says
My boyfriend is blind and assist wireless had a phone they gave him when he first got the service but then they stop using spirit which had voice command ,and they gave him another one that doesn’t,so he can’t use it on his own like the other one,and we asked the sales guy if they had any phones that was hearing and impaired but they don’t.so why does it say that they do o them when they don’t???
Jerry Lee Huffman Jr says
I need to switch lifeline providers
Free Government Cell Phones says
Did you read the article on this page, Jerry?
Loretta says
Trucconect can I transfer benefit to you please I don’t want SafeLink
Free Government Cell Phones says
Yes, you can switch service providers at any time. Here’s an article that tells you exactly how to do it:
https://www.freegovernmentcellphones.net/faq/how-do-i-switch-lifeline-providers
Steven Coleman says
I am currently on QLink and got a new phone from them because they are updating to the new network. The problem is that all of their phones are GSM and I can’t make calls in my home with metal siding with one. I can step outside my door, but that’s inconvenient in the winter. When both GSM and CDMA become obsolete will I still have this problem? Or is that an unanswerable question?
Thanks much.
Free Government Cell Phones says
All questions of that sort are unanswerable, Steven, because there are so many variables.
JOE MARTIN says
SAFE LINK, ASSURANCE WIRELESS, TRACFONE, Q LINK, ETC ETC Who in our gov’t can we complain too to have these people investigated? They ALL do the same thing,. LIES, HANG UP ON YOU, SHUT YOUR SERVICES OFF for no reason. Tell you to b.y.o.d than AFTER you buy the phone, they say ” not compatible, Say you need to re-verify again b/4 your year is even up. lie when they say they didnt get you app.to enroll. Tell you your OUT of minutes when you still have a thousand to make you buy minutes. etc, DONT tell the the FTC ,or FCC. IS THEIR boss, they ARENT. I tried EVERYTING in the world to have these people investigated, They send me 3 broken phones already and YES, THESE GOVT phones have VIRUSES already installed in them that CAN be removed. Theres THOUSAND of complaints online on just what i was talking about, So WHOM may i call to lodge a real complaint that doesnt fall on deaf ears?
Free Government Cell Phones says
Gere us the correct link.
https://apps.usac.org/about/tools/whistleblowerForm/default.aspx
There is a link to the above page near the bottom, where it says “Whistleblower Alert Form”.
JOE MARTIN says
Sorry, i forgot to say i contacted the WHISTLE BLOWER ALERT people, reply was,, We will look into it IF more people complain.. Thats when i lost it, i said look at all the complaints, how many more people do you need to complain. AGAIN,, ANOTHER WORTHLESS ORGANIZATION in our beloved gov’t..
Free Government Cell Phones says
Most government agencies do everything possible to convince the public that they are useless.
Cindy says
I was eligible for WiFi hotspot through boost mobile but my internet company frontier left me an email stating they too have the ebb program I would rather get the help paying my frontier bills how can I switch plans
Free Government Cell Phones says
First of all, Boost is not part of the free government cell phone program. Neither is Frontier. Speak to your Frontier customer service team.
Pplrclueless says
They are too providing services thru the ebb program. Do your research
Free Government Cell Phones says
Jeez, sometimes we get so tired of dealing with morons. You, for example, Pplrclueless. Boost does not participate in the free government cell phone program. The EBB program and the Lifeline program are completely separate. Virtually every phone company and internet service provider in the nation participates in the EBB program, but to repeat, the EBB and Lifeline programs are completely unrelated. You can have one of them or both of them simultaneously, but because they are unrelated cannot switch from one to the other.
Judy Jackson says
I have a government service for Centex and I have not been able to activate my phone and I’ve had it for 3 months I can’t contact anybody they won’t contact me back I told him that this Sprint service doesn’t work out here that only service I have is AT&T out here where I live in rural Georgia could they please send me an AT&T SIM card and they just have not intended to my needs they don’t care and if you want to get a hold of somebody over there you might as well hang it up I’ve tried the online live chat and I’ll wait for 30 minutes and then it’ll tell me that no one’s available
Free Government Cell Phones says
Sounds like it’s time to switch to a different service provider, Judy. Here’s where you can find all the service providers in your state:
https://www.freegovernmentcellphones.net/states
And here’s an article that tells you how to make the switch:
https://www.freegovernmentcellphones.net/faq/how-do-i-switch-lifeline-providers
Erin McNabney says
I have read and applied all of your steps from the above post, to transfer my service back to whom I choose as my provider, Spectrum. I’m actually going through a tug of war with Q link & Cintex phone companies and I have not had service with Q link in close to 2 yes. I inquired about phone service with Cintex until I was told that it would interfere with my Spectrum service. So the same day I inquired I followed up with phone call, text message and also email and left a voice message also that I do not want to continue with an application for service with there company, after speaking with EBB Administrative Service I was told it would interfere with my Spectrum Internet. So I DO NOT WANT SERVICE WITH THERE COMPANY. I WISH TO STAY WITH SPECTRUM.
I’ve had to re-apply with Spectrum every 2 or 3:days since October 1,2021. I’ve reached out to EBB and they closed any accounts I had in the system, and had me Re-apply, Said that would prevent the phone companies from being able to transfer my service again….but it did not. I had to just do it again. Please any thoughts of what else I can do would be gladly appreciated.
********************HELP*********************
Sincerely,
Frustrated,
Erin McNabney
Free Government Cell Phones says
Wow. This is the first time anyone has commented on a problem like this. It sounds very odd to us. We are going to look into this issue.
Jennifer Green says
I don’t know my teuconnect phone number can I still transfer to quicklibk. To
Free Government Cell Phones says
Call 6-1-1 on your TruConnect phone and customer service can tell you your phone number.
Charles Merkle says
I recently requested. SIM card for. Qlink to bring my own phone before I knew about try connect.my question is this if I turn my qlink service on and my try connect phone comes in a week can i switch over to try connect then?
Free Government Cell Phones says
Yes, you can switch service providers at any time. Here’s an article that tells you exactly how to do it:
https://www.freegovernmentcellphones.net/faq/how-do-i-switch-lifeline-providers
Henry says
Who is try comment? Are you referring to Truconnect? It sounds like you applied to both Qlink and Truconnect for service. If you activate one service using another provider’s phone, I do not think that is a problem. If you decide to switch later, you should be able to, but you will need to use the other provider’s SIM card. If the FCC Lifeline program gets notified that you are enrolled to two companies, not sure what will happen.
Mandy Stohl says
I’d like to switch carriers. From truconnect to assurance wireless
Free Government Cell Phones says
Everything you need to know is right here on this page, Mandy.
Brooke Hoppler says
I want to cancelled life line I got scammed buying a lad top and my phone is now off cancelled me from you I want assurance again
Free Government Cell Phones says
Just do what the article tells you to do and it’s easy to make the switch back.
Deborah Cadle says
I am currently with qlink I have been unable to use my free phone since received a month now. Will I be penalized for not being able to talk or text. I am switching to reconnect another lifeline company
Vona Kenyon says
Please save your sanity and do not use TAG MOBILE. They sent me a piece of garbage phone but my SIM card from my old phone doesn’t fit. They have customer service phone numbers but I CANNOT CALL BECAUSE MY PHONE DOESN”T WORK. They don’t respond to e-mail.
kelly carter says
ive had a lot of diffrent gov cell services over the years ive recently got a tru connect sim but no phone
Henry says
You can only apply online for Truconnect service (not unless you go to one of their CA stores) and you should have been given the option of a free phone (if available), non-free phone, or if you have to BYOD (bring your own device) when you applied. If no phone option (for free or to purchase) was displayed during the application process, the default will be BYOD. BYOD comes with a SIM card.
Christelle L Denniston says
How do you get linternet service through government programs. I have the EBB for my phone, but I’d like to switch it to broadband and I’m not sure how to do that. ANY ADVICE OR SUGGESTIONS ARE GREATLY APPRECIATED AND MORE THAN WELCOME. Thank you.
Everybody stay safe cuz
You are very special to somebody. 💜
Free Government Cell Phones says
You do not need to switch. You can have both programs. You can find more info on EBB here on this website and you can find out more about internet plans at our other website, CheapInternet.com.
Iknow EBB says
If she does, it will only give her a $40.00 EBB benefit!
You can’t get more than $50.00 discount a month combined!
Free Government Cell Phones says
Do you have a problem with saving $50 per month? Must be nice to have that kind of money to throw around.
Ro says
What is best service for NYS.. I DEE Verizon bought Tracphone & cabn i switch to that & keep Q # from that carrier?
Free Government Cell Phones says
Anyone want to help us with a translation here?
Krystal Castle says
How can I change my Qlink wireless service to SafeLink wireless?
Free Government Cell Phones says
Seriously? Did you notice the title of the article on this page, Krystal?
Julie says
Don’t do it. SafeLink sucks
Richard Stubblefield says
Thank you for this information. It helped.
Jacquelyn clowers says
I think q link should be reported to the commission office because the don’t handle they business like they should
Free Government Cell Phones says
Get in line, Jacquelyn. Lots of people in front of you.
Report them NOW says
I haven’t found a company yet that shouldn’t be reported!
Erin McNabney says
They were investigated and offices were raided. I believe they are still being investigated. For being a government program whoever runs the company is sure getting alot of bad press about taking money and not delivering items purchased. Not a very honest or trustworthy company. company
Michelle East says
Jacquelyn: You do read? There have been several statements and an article about QLink Wireless Headquarters being raided by the FBI, USPostal Investigator, Sheriff’s Dept. etc…in Dania Beach after a 2 yr long investigation of fraud. The agencies involved removed multiple boxes of “paperwork” connected with QLink Wireless. As of today’s date, (which, I have not read anything to the contrary) the investigation is on going and no charges nor warrants have been forthcoming since the date of the raid. You have to figure now, this is many government agencies investigating another government agency, so therefore we will be considered “lucky” if we ever hear of: charges being brought, warrants being serve, cases actually brought to court, much less the names of the person’s involved, nor a conviction or overturn or dismissal of the cases brought, if any. Cases against government agencies always seem to somehow just disappear into the mist and are never heard of again.
Brandy Hunt says
While I love that you did this, I’d like to offer a word of warning, if someone is trying to switch to SafeLink from anywhere, be prepared for a headache and a half. My advice: Immediately ask for a supervisor in the Lifeline department don’t even talk to anyone else. I’ve been trying to switch for a week and their system is having issues with my address. You might want to include in here how to get proof from the National Verifier service that you are approved for Lifeline Services and let everyone know that their information with the new company HAS to match the information they applied with. I forgot to include my middle name initially when I tried to transfer and boy was it a headache to try to get it fixed.
Free Government Cell Phones says
Always a good idea to speak to a supervisor, Brandy.
Michelle E. says
I feel for you. That’s just like when, once married, (at age of 19) I was foolish enough to fIle my taxes from pre-marrital (before marriage) status (circa:1980) in 1981- for 1980, under my post-marital (after marriage) status. (I filed under my married name for the previous years taxes that were under my maiden name). I was 19. Who knew? Needless to say, IRS sent me a letter saying I did not exist because my last name did not correspond with my social security number. I didn’t know I have to change s.s. card myself, foolish me figured once marriage license was filed it happened automatically. Anyway, long story short, I explained to IRS, filed all the paperwork and copies they needed to process my Federal return…was to receive $320.00 Fed. Refund for 1980. Needless to say finally every year since 1981, I have been refiling for my $320.00 Fed. Refund that I never received, yet received letter each year telling me it will be looked into and any interest dye me will be included in my refund that is still due me from the Federal IRS. Oh, I divorced in 1989 and when I sent that paperwork to the IRS (I’ve just kept the last name, easier than changing it back to maiden name) the new divorce wrench thrown at IRS really threw them for a loop. As of today, Feb. 6th, 2022, the IRS of USA federal government owes me the original 1980 $320.00 refund, as- well-as 42 years worth of interest, simply because they were too ignorant to figure out I married between 1980 and 1981 failing to get my SS card changed into my married name. So, yes it is extremely important to have all T’s crossed and all It’s dotted, dates correct, initials added etc. If you are to prove you are who you say you are. I am 60 now, and after I am dead, My children and great great grand kids will receive a letter with check included, from the IRS statung that the problem with the name change has been resolved and original refund, plus any interest dye me has “now been paid”! LOL…imagine if if was me that owed the IRS $320.00, they would own my home, my car, my dogs, my kids, get my inheritance, my life insurance and whatever else they could get.
Sorry this was so long a reply to you stating about forgetting to sign your middle initial, it just sounds so typical if all government agencies…I couldn’t resist. QLink has been giving me the run-a-round as well.
Michelle E. says
Note to site owners: my fingers are old now and a bit clumsy on the keyboard at times, it would be great to have a chance to edit our comments before y’all post them if needed after proof-reading. Do people still proof-read? I don’t trust spell check. It depends on how you use the word in a sentence at times as to whether it is spelled correctly.bEdit button, just a thought, thank you.
Free Government Cell Phones says
Nothing in your comments needed to be edited, Michelle. We all leave a few typos in our wake. Your comments were thoughtful and really outstanding.
Free Government Cell Phones says
One of the longest, most interesting comments we’ve ever received, Michelle. Well done.
Amanda walters says
I would like to switch my lifeline service from truconnect to qlink
Free Government Cell Phones says
Just follow the directions in this article.
Chastity E Bruner says
God dont do it.
Free Government Cell Phones says
Brevity is the soul of wit.
Given Godly advice says
God could care less what provider she is with! HA HA HA HA!!!
May God bless you Chastity to not use the Lord’s name in vain!
Do like your name says and restrain from it!
Alan Edward Tuger says
Amanda, My name is Al and a longtime Q-LINK CUSTOMER on their lifeline program. What led me to your comment was MY NEED TO SWITCH Providers. I don’t have any experience with other lifeline providers due to Q-LINK quality service for 3 yrs up until 3-12-21. But, Alas, WHEN I REALLY NEEDED THEM, They were Unavailable, told Lies, Sent Wrong Product that couldn’t be ACTIVATED on a timely basis.
It is Sad, NO DOUBT, that those who are in a position to Help…Just Do Not Choose to.
IN A NUTSHELL DEAR, (and this is what I gather from reading yours and Others DISMAYED by the System We call “OURS”)
When in GENUINE Need of help from “The Powers that Be” All you can do is accept what is offered, and HOPE for the Best!
If there was better Out There, I WOULD HAVE FOUND IT.
The Needy, Will Never be NEEDED! That is the Saddest Part of all. Nutt’in More. Nutt’in Less!
Free Government Cell Phones says
Don’t give up, Alan. Here’s where you can find a list of all the providers and plans available in your state:
https://www.freegovernmentcellphones.net/states
And here’s an article that tells you exactly how to switch from one company to another:
https://www.freegovernmentcellphones.net/faq/how-do-i-switch-lifeline-providers
Michelle E. says
Michelle E says
Mr. Tiger, I truly appreciated the care with which you replied to Amandas’ predicament. You are entirely truthful in the statement against QLink’s customer service, ‘I use that term extremely loosely’ , lies, and inferior service to their customers, as-well-as the shoddy equipment from QLink. Also, in your past ‘dealings’ with QLink Customer Service have you ever actually reached anyone from America that actually spoke English well enough to be understood? It took me 15 minutes for them to understand when told, that they sent me a damaged Sim Card and needed a replacement. Of course this was after they had told me how easy it was to BMOP, bring my own phone, to their service. So, I followed their instructions, had my phone number transfered to QLink, closed my Straight Talk account, inserted the QLink Sim, reset my network connections and… … nothing, called them back…10 minutes later they answered the phone, apologized, the woman had to finish bathing her children before answering !!! This lady was in her home, as well as another country trying to go me with my problem. We went round and round, me explaining her misunderstanding, til she finally asked did I contact TracFone? I asked why? Was told, ‘oh, they have to unlock your phone! Well, imagine that? Now, TracFone told me I had not had 12 months consecutively with them, (I’ve been with them for 3 yrs, and they could not unlock my phone because I had no phone number! I explained to them! Well, they claimed I lied about time with TracFone, although they had the date I had signed up with them, and said it would cost me $42.00 to get my phone number back, then they could unlock my phone, and transfer my number back to QLink…..I asked had they fallen, and bumped their head? What a scam they have going on, anyway for 3 wks, I had no phone service, I am disabled and live off the beaten pass, definitely need phone, I had to drag myself to a service center and try once more to through the whole story, and still told no, they wanted to take my phone, me apply for a QLink phone and use use QLink Sim, I said sure! CATCH!!! Threw it at the man, he missed, it broke all to pieces, I had removed my old Sim and destroyed, so he now had a busted phone, no straight talk sim card, and a damaged when received QLink Sim. I on the other hand, had lost no money, needed a new phone anyway, and felt marvelous fir tossing and busting the old phone. Told him, maybe he could BMOP when he transfered his number!!!! Wished him a good day went next door and bought a new Samsung Galaxy S21+Ultra with a very decent plan, although I’ll be broke until March 1st now, yet, I’ll have a reliable phone, service and plan. Sometimes, it feels so good, to be so bad!!!!! Have a great evening.
Gabriel Behnen says
NO,QLINK IS SCAMING EVERYONE WITH THESE UPGRADED SIM CARDS AND WHEN YOU USE THE NEW SIM CARD THE SERVICE REDUCES DRAMATICLY I WENT FRON LTE SPEEDS AND ALMOST FULL BARS TO CONSTENTLY ROAMING…….IM HERE TO GET AWAY FROM QLINK
Free Government Cell Phones says
Well, the article on this page should help with that, Gabriel.
Darla Martinez says
not Qlink they are awful I’ve been trying to get my brother’s service fixed for over 6 months and still have not succeeded
Tommy coffman says
I have bought this phone off of Buddy a mine it had it is a TracFone it is compatible to you link I’m just trying to switch it my service end to this phone to make a qlink how can I do that or is it possible
Free Government Cell Phones says
Contact your chosen service provider’s customer service team, Tommy. It all depends on what make and model of phone you have and whether or not that specific phone is compatible with the service provider’s network.
Christelle L Denniston says
Make totally sure that it really is compatible. They told me my phone was compatible too but they sent me a SIM card that didn’t fit my Samsung. I called them and told them about it. I gave them my model number, all the information they needed about my phone to the t. I even copied down all the information from settings in the about my phone category and sent that to them. that tells them every single detail about my phone, they sent me the same @$_-?!¡*¿¿?! SIM card, AGAIN!!! NEEDLESS TO SAY I NEVER GOT A CHANCE TO USE THEIR SERVICE AND I THINK MAYBE I GOT REALLY LUCKY ABOUT THAT I JUST STAYED WITH SAFELINK I’VE NEVER REALLY HAD A PROBLEM WITH SAFELINK OTHER THAN WHEN I BOUGHT A NEW PHONE THEY WERE REDUCED TO MY PLAN BACK TO THE BEGINNING like I was a new customer. BECAUSE the longer you are aSAFELINK customer, YOU KNOW THEY GIVE YOU MORE MINUTES and MORE DATA as “thank you” REWARDS for choosing SafeLink as your phone service provider.
James O Carson says
I have already sent word about.changing my phone s lifeline provider.It never went through,only the comment message..
Free Government Cell Phones says
Rather than leaving a comment (which is what is sounds like you did), you need to speak to a customer service agent.
David Riley says
Trying to find out who a ghost provider is my service cancelled me over,will not tell me say they can’t I have no service with anyone with knowledge and established a new account with Q link only to have it cancelled ,please help
Free Government Cell Phones says
Impossible for us to say exactly what happened in your case, David. But if we had to guess, we’d say it sounds as if someone else may have enrolled at your address in the past. Call Q Link back and ask if that’s the issue. Good luck.
James O Carson says
I have tried to many times to get truconnect and they have refused to send me another phone.my phone is my own.I have used it far to long and they wouldn’t send me another phone.
Free Government Cell Phones says
Then seriously consider switching to a different service provider. The new provider will send you a smart phone because you’re a new customer.
Tonya LaFarr says
I enjoyed this article. I am planning on switching to QLIBK from Assurance Wireless. Qlink is one of the best phone companies that I love. Assurance wireless allowed someone to take a phone number and transfer it to a new company without my permission. And their representatives are not trained very well and don’t speak English when you call them.
George VanMeter says
I would like uall assurance wireless to switch my phone or unlock it n let me keep same cell# 304-237-**** n pin is 71**** n zip code 25962 n name George Vanmeter n ss#**** since it has never had coverage here … to qlink wireless who has accepted cell# n the umx u693cl android phone u hv my consent n all to transfer everything to qlink lifeline n my singerture George Vanmeter
Free Government Cell Phones says
Sorry, George, but we are not Assurance. This is an independent informational website. Read the article again to see how to switch service providers.
Linda Roman says
I have ASSurance and have had nothing but problems with them . Purchased a phone from them and they now say I can’t use it . They ripped me off when I purchased extra minutes and said I used them . They are constantly shutting me off in the middle of a conversation. I am 77 and can’t afford to purchase another phone. Their free phone is crap .Would NEVER recommend ASSurance.
Free Government Cell Phones says
Sounds like you’re on the right page, Linda. If you’re not happy with your service provider, switch to a new one.
Christelle L Denniston says
I had assurance wireless a long time ago and it was an okay program But as time went on when I get a replacement phone they’d send me this refurbished piece of crap! One of them got really super hot in my hand just talking on the phone I thought it was going to blow up so I called him they sent me another phone that one didn’t want to even activate! Then they sent me a third phone and it was just a little toy piece of crap. So I just canceled. Assurance wireless service has gone down the ttoilet
🚽🚽🚽
Tim B says
I have a Lifeline cell phone service can I trade it for Lifeline internet serviced if so what company has the Lifeline internet
Free Government Cell Phones says
Two issues here, Tim. First, you can probably change your account with your current provider so that you get limited internet. If you’re looking for more data, there is no such thing as Lifeline Internet anymore. The government killed the pilot program sometime back.
That being said, you should visit our other website, CheapInternet.com, which covers all the details of all the low-income internet plans that are available.
Maria Gonzales says
I just recieved a replacement phone because of the original stopped charging and didn’t give notifications for calls or texts. The replacement phone has been documented with a “Glitch” with a ‘network rejection cause’. It was supposed to be fixed within 48 hours, but it wasn’t. Can I change companies and get a new phone? I was with this company about a year.
Free Government Cell Phones says
You can change service providers at any time as long as you’ve been with your current provider for 60 days or longer.
Mary says
I have been attempting to obtain government cell phone service from QLINK for two months. I am applying based on income and I DO qualify, however, the system keeps kicking my application back out, saying, ” Your information could not be confirmed by the State of Texas”. I have submitted everything multiple times, via the internet AND regular mail-in-application. My question is, at this point, can I put a new application in, via another company? It’s very difficult to talk to a live person at Qlink and when I do, there is a terrible communication barrier. Please advise me.
Free Government Cell Phones says
Many readers have told us that it’s difficult to speak to a live human being at a number of the Lifeline companies. Yes, you should be free to enroll, but make sure you enroll by phone so you can discuss any issues with the customer service rep. Here’s where you can find all the service providers and plans available in your state:
https://www.freegovernmentcellphones.net/states
Rhonda Lee Johnson says
I’m in a nursing home and was trying to switch service but I had a reply saying more than one person had service at this address. How do I switch and not have problems with more than one household at this address?
Free Government Cell Phones says
It shouldn’t be too difficult, Rhonda. Give the company another call and explain that you are in a group home situation and need to fill out the exemption form.
KNOW ALL ABOUT IT says
give them the address and address line 2 say what room # your name is in and that they should not question it!
Barb Hartigan says
Tried to switch from Tracfone to Truconnect…Tru sent me a sim card…so I emailed customer service asking when I will receive a phone to put the card in…their reply: according to their Lifeline administrator…no phones, only sim cards in Washington state, but I can purchase a phone thru them (Truconnect) or BYOP if it’s compatible. What’s up with that ???
Free Government Cell Phones says
Some companies offer only SIM cards, some offer phones, some offer both. You need to be careful to make sure you know exactly what you’re signing up for.
Barb Hartigan says
Hard to be careful when companies don’t post all the information needed…. isn’t this illegal…like bad business practices?
Free Government Cell Phones says
They all say it, but sometimes they bury it on the website. You should always speak to a customer service agent and ask them to explain exactly which plan you are signing up for.
Laurie says
Searching for a new provider hoping for better internet service and I need a new phone. Reading Qlinks ad and plan I thought I would try them. Began application up to providing documents for eligibility. Next step it said bring your phone or purchase a phone. I thought we said free cell phone but it was free call service. So I decided against Qlink and chose another provider making sure I was able to receive a free phone. When I tried to go thru their application process it won’t allow it saying I already changed to Qlink and I have to wait a certain number days before I can leave Qlink. I never had service or a phone connected to Qlink and I am in Kansas so my eligibility is processed thru National Verifier. How does Qlink have a hold on me when I have not used their services? This is unfair as it was their misleading ad that created this issue. I searched free cell phone providers in Kansas.
Free Government Cell Phones says
It shouldn’t work the way you described, Laurie. If you didn’t complete the enrollment process, there should be no way for you to be categorized as any company’s customer.
Amanda says
I would like to change my life line service provider from qlink to SafeLink
Free Government Cell Phones says
Read the article on this page and follow all the instructions.
Angela d u McGraw says
I want to change from qlink to SafeLink
Free Government Cell Phones says
Did you read the article, Angela?
Whitlock,Ta'Nea says
I need to change my shipping address on my lifeline phone so i can receive a sims card.
Free Government Cell Phones says
Contact your service provider’s customer service team.
Ronald Peterson says
I`m from Alaska, I`ve had a lifeline for a few years now. The area that I lived in was not covered by my carrier and they did not tell me this when I signed up and got my phone. I had no service at all. when I finely got in touch with them with my friends phone they had to set my service to roaming and use AT&T towers to get a poor at best service, and that is what I`ve have had to live with since (aprox 50% of time no service). I have since moved to Maine, I have been here more then 18 months now, and my phone company knew where I was at, sent me my monthly bills. So my phone was still on roaming and still using AT&T towers to get and send calls, still with very bad service. My old phone was getting bad in shape (fell out of pocket and cracked the screen badly, and had bugs i was not able to get rid of with any anti virus apps.) I called my phone company and asked if my phone could be replaced and was told that I`m able to have it replaced but I would have to pay up about 4 months service ahead, so I did and they sent me a brand new phone with a new sim card and told me when I get the phone in the mail to call them and they would turn off my old phone and turn on the new one. So I called when it arrived and then they turned off my service 100% , I though the problem was AT&T, but after a few days of no service at all I used a friends phone to call them and was told that they don`t allow roaming and would not turn my phone back on. So I`ve been trying to find a company here in Maine so I can use my new phone and every company that I contact tells me they don`t have any coverage in this part of the state. I live on a very low fixed income from ssi and in no way can afford to pay for a non lifeline service.
Free Government Cell Phones says
Here’s where you can find all the service providers and plans available in your state, Ronald. We hope you can find one that provides the service you need. Fingers crossed.
https://www.freegovernmentcellphones.net/states
Shelly says
Just to let you know I tried to follow these directions for transferring my lifeline benefits from assurance to safelink and safelink would not initiate a transfer for me….they said I would have to call my current company and cancel my service and then call them back. I told the agent that that’s not what it says on the NLAD (national lifeline assoc. website) web page (which is where I believe your instructions come from too). I read the instructions to them but they still insisted they cannot initiate a transfer for me. well, I then called NLAD to find out why they are giving out wrong information and they said that some companies just don’t want to do it for the customer and thats why they will tell you to cancel your own service first and then call them back to do a whole new application with them after you cancel your current service. WOW! what a bunch of lazy bast***s! So, I then get on the phone with my current company Assurance and they want to do anything to try and keep you…I had to call back again today after requesting to cancel my service yesterday because my phone was still on…they never shut it off like I requested. Its finally off now and I will call safelink back tomorrow to sign up with them, although after reading all these negative comments about safelink I’m not feeling very good about it. Unfortunately, I don’t have much of a choice because assurance and safelink are the only 2 cell phone lifeline companies that serve my state. The only reason I wanted to switch providers is that with safelink you can bring your on phone. Assurance doesnt have that option. Anyway just want to warn people that the company may not initiate your transfer if you call to request one.
Free Government Cell Phones says
Based on our readers’ comments, we fear that this happens far more often than it should. Thanks for giving everyone a chance to read about your experience.
Michael Curry says
I applied for a switch from safety net to try connect how can I find out if the switch was
Successful by using my social security number
Free Government Cell Phones says
You’ll need to contact the company you are switching to in order to ask for the status of your application.
Jb Gillis says
My name is Jb Gillis my cuts off and on I wont to cancel my qlink service and I’m returning the phone back to the company I’m changing companies
Free Government Cell Phones says
You do not need to return the phone to your service provider, JB. Not even when you cancel your service. Good luck with the new service provider. Here’s where you can find step by step plans on how to make the switch:
https://www.freegovernmentcellphones.net/faq/how-do-i-switch-lifeline-providers
Norris leblanc says
I want to change to safelink from qlink cause he cant work a smartphone
He has a flip type tracphone can you please transfer him from qlink to safelink
Thank you
Free Government Cell Phones says
Here’s an article that tells you exactly how to make the switch from one company to another:
https://www.freegovernmentcellphones.net/faq/how-do-i-switch-lifeline-providers
Alan says
Assurance Wirless ok’d my address based on the area city instead of the county! They now have me to take the phone to a FEDex drop site nearly 60 miles away! Can they make me do this or do they have to send a shipper to send through USPS instead?
They already processed the return and i am waiting for the shipper to arrive.
Also how do i go about seeking another provider because the phone with Assurance was never activated from the start?
Free Government Cell Phones says
We don’t understand why you’re taking the phone somewhere.
In regard to switching service providers, it’s pretty simple. Here’s an article that tells you step-by-stop how to do it:
https://www.freegovernmentcellphones.net/faq/how-do-i-switch-lifeline-providers
Alan says
Because the company’s sorry blank a dy blank would not send me a USPS shipper instead of making FEDEX pickup the phone! I still have the phone to the day! Isn’t Assurance the wrong title for their company? I can’t be assured of nothing!
Antonio says
How do you get a Lifeline like qlinkwireless to unlock the phone that you bought from them for $79 so that you can take it to another Lifeline provider. The lifeline is theirs but The Phone is mine. They said they can’t and also said won’t unlock it
Free Government Cell Phones says
Here’s a very complete article that just ran a few days ago:
https://www.digitaltrends.com/mobile/how-to-unlock-a-phone-on-every-carrier/
Amy Burkey says
I went from Assurance to Safelink no interruptions in service. I wanted to go back to Assurance and they told me I had to cancel with Safelink first, be without a phone for approximately 30 days. I had already completed another application. The benefits center that they told me to call 3 times said to tell them to just do a Benefit Transfer. Assurance didn’t want to hear that. I told them I entirely know that I cannot have two lifelines but I certainly cannot use their phone until I receive it and they send signals to it! If they all follow the same guidelines what is the issue? This has been going on for just about a month!!!
Free Government Cell Phones says
Here’s an updated article that tells you how to make the switch step-by-step. The steps are quoted directly from the USAC, the organization that governs the free government cell phone program. If you follow these steps, you should have no problem.
Antonio says
I dropped qlink Wireless went to SafeLink Wireless they told me after I had dropped it qlink Wireless by their instruction that I would have to wait one year so I went back to qlinkwireless they let me in no problem then I still want to get away from them
Free Government Cell Phones says
You don’t have to wait a year, Antonio. You are eligible to switch service providers every 60 days (If you wish).
Christine C. Hutchings says
I recently applied to and was accepted by Assurance as a switch from Terracom Wireless since they no longer offered service in my state. (I was grandfathered in, but service was terrible.) I have had my phone number for years and had many things attached to it, so I naturally wanted to keep it. Well, the short of it is that as soon as I was accepted by Assurance, my Terracom service was cancelled, leaving me without a phone at all for 2 weeks. Upon receiving my phone, I called Assurance customer service to switch my number over and activate it – following the explicit instructions for doing this given on their site. The rep took the number I was calling from, told me to contact Terracom for my inf and said he would phone back. I told him there was no need since I had the info handy. He put me on hold for a second, then came back on and told me I had to contact them anyway and he would call back. Terracom told me I could not transfer my number since the account was closed. The Assurance rep never called back (as I’m certain he already knew this). Things went on and on this way. WHY ARE THEY ALLOWED TO LIE, GIVE MISINFORMATION AND TREAT LIFELINE RECIPIENTS AS LESS THAN OTHER CUSTOMERS??? I finally got someone to admit that I couldn’t actually keep my old number. Why could they just not say that to begin with? Why do they not tell you your service gets cancelled immediately?? This is NOT right!
Free Government Cell Phones says
Sorry you received such horrible service and misinformation, Christine.
Chris Kautzman says
I was told I could keep my number too, the person came to my door signing me up on a Sat. and told me to call the new company first thing to transfer my number, the person at the new company told me I could not keep my old number, so I told them to cancel my new phone, he told me that if I did that, that I would be without a phone for 2 months,, so what I want to ask is , where do I go to see my lifeline account info? and the man told me I should have thought about getting the phone, and when his worker that signed me up was a liar about the number transfer. It is not right like you said Christine for these people to treat me like I am less a person because I have a free phone!
Free Government Cell Phones says
This is exactly why we tell our readers NOT to enroll from strangers at street events (or in your case, from a door to door vendor). Had you followed all the directions in this article on this page, keeping your number would have been a simple things. PLEASE PEOPLE, DO NOT ENROLL AT STREET EVENTS AND DO NOT ENROLL WDITH DOOR TO DOOR SALESPEOPLE.
Henry says
Then from this discussion, you cannot transfer your phone number from one service provider to another. Does this mean that if you want to keep the phone number for eternity, then you cannot switch to another service provider?
Free Government Cell Phones says
Not at all. You can easily switch your phone number from one phone and one service provider to another. Just follow the rules on this page. We’d suggest that you repeatedly state “I want port over my phone number from my current phone and current service provider to your service.” Make sure you confirm at the end of the conversation that it has been done and will be valid.
Dorothy C Evans says
qualification for my lifeline service ran out and I’m trying to fine out my options. do I change providers/
Free Government Cell Phones says
Lots of readers like to switch service providers because they find that better plans are available. You should check out all the plans available in your state to find out if you can find a plan that fits your needs better.
https://www.freegovernmentcellphones.net/states
J says
If I have a text and talk plan only can a switch to a data plan for free or do I have to wait a year?
Free Government Cell Phones says
Depends on what kind of plans your service provider offers, J. We don’t know what company that is, but you can find out by calling customer service at 6-1-1 on your free government cell phone.
J says
I acquired my lifeline phone through BudgetMobile a few years ago and I am just now finding out that they are no longer in business. Apparently Entouch wireless is now my service provider. Unfortunately, I was never contacted nor notified of this change. In fact, I still get TEXT MESSAGES to this day, from BudgetMobile saying, “Your voice and text bundle has been renewed. To purchase more airtime go to http://www.budgetmobile.com“.
I have been trying to get in touch with Entouch for the past week and their customer service line is impossible to get through.
What can/should I do?
The reason I asked the question above is because my phone recently broke and now I am finding out that these lifeline plans have improved DRASTICALLY since when I first signed up. That and I need a new phone ASAP!
Free Government Cell Phones says
You may be better off switching to a different free government cell phone company, J. They will automatically give you a new cell phone and you can choose from the best plans available. Here’s where you can find all the plans currently available in your state:
https://www.freegovernmentcellphones.net/states
J says
One more thing I’d like to add, this company offers 1000 minutes, unlimited texting and 500 mb of data, yet for some reason I only have 500 minutes and 500 texts? WHAT GIVES!? No one from Entouch ever tried to reach out to me to see if I’d like to upgrade my service. No calls, no texts, no nothing. Which I find just a tad bit strange considering I still get text messages from BudgetMobile…. which IS OUT OF BUSINESS!
If a company that is pretty much deceased can manage to text me from “beyond the grave”, why couldn’t Entouch? Not just to see if I want to upgrade my plan but to let me know that they are my NEW SERVICE PROVIDER!
Free Government Cell Phones says
The universe is a mystery, J.
Fayetta. Hall says
I want to change my current lifeline company of Qlink to Safelink,I have had Qlink for along time an their service an phone really suck,I have spotty service or no service,calls dropped ,the list goes on an on,I’m very dissatisfied with this service,an can’t use my phone half the time,an their phone is to small for my eyes to see well,an this is the biggest one,I have a friend that has safelink,an she said her service is great an the phone is plenty big enough for me to see the numbers an letters,I would like to switch companies if at all possible,I am a disabled woman 58 years old an am alone a lot ,so I rely on good phone service.thank you
Free Government Cell Phones says
Just do everything outlined in the article above and the switch will be easy, Fayetteville.
Denise says
Do not switch to SafeLink! They have absolutely NO CSR’s that you can speak with should an issue arise. If you do finally get one on the phone, they hang up on you. They’re very hard to understand because apparently this U.S. program for Americans had the million dollar contracts sold to places like India and the Philippines.
soulnull says
I had the opposite experience. I just switched from qlink to safelink myself and have found the support quite friendly and easy to reach. Had to get a number reactivated and the guy stayed on the phone the entire time it was in process because he wanted to make sure he could confirm the change actually went through.
Julie says
Don’t go to SafeLink!! Horrible
Jalisa says
How do i turned my phone off its stolen
Free Government Cell Phones says
Contact your service provider’s customer service team.
James L Guenther says
Is Walmart family Alcatel raven good for safe link?
Free Government Cell Phones says
Only SafeLink customer service can answer that question accurately for you, James.
Rita Xanadu says
I would like to switch from access wireless to safelink wireless..I have called both companies numerous times and get no viable answers or disconected over and over.. Same thing at their websites. I have also called California lifeline and cannot get answer. .I have spent several hours trying to change companies.. Please help me I am about to have open heart surgery and need a phone.. The access wireless phones are very bad and this last phone from them is no longer working.. I have gone to the website saying to deactivate me.. Of course the safelink said no cause of service with access. HELP!
Free Government Cell Phones says
We assume you’ve read the article on this page, which should tell you everything you need to know. You’ve also called California Lifeline, which is usually very supportive of its state’s customers. That being said, we’re out of ideas for you, Rita.
Robert Davis says
Over 3yrs of ineffective safelink lifeline services and tech.team help. Emergency lifeline question.How long should I consider a realistic excuse for not providing the function of services not received. HOW LONG WOULD IT TAKE FOR YOUR EMERGENCY TO GET PERSONAL? /Robert Davis,FaFacebok e-mail response welcome.
Free Government Cell Phones says
Due to the volume of comments and questions we receive every day, we can’t possibly respond except here in the comments section, Robert. We have a simple answer for you: You have put up with it far longer than we would have. Switch to a different service provider ASAP. Why wait?
Brave Heart Bizerk says
Ahhh.. Robert NoDenero wassup.. still penching pennies ahhh!! Ok….ok.🤭
Toni Haynes says
I would like to switch from q like k to assurance wireless and possibly keep my sane cell number 513-259-****
Free Government Cell Phones says
Easy-Peasy. Just follow the instructions in the article above and tell customer service, “I want to port over my current phone number.”
sandra souders says
I sandra souders would like to cancel my phone service please
Free Government Cell Phones says
You need to contact your service provider to cancel, Sandra. Call 6-1-1 on your free government cell phone and you will be automatically connected to them.
dorothy Hashman says
I tried to call 611 on my Wireless phone from Q=Link and it keeps giving me a wrong connections… Instead of 611, it gives me 6113 and disconnects…….. Grrrrr…..
Free Government Cell Phones says
Very annoying. Visit our Q Link page and use the 800 number we give on that page as an alternative way to reach customer service.
Robert Berwin says
I am very confused. I am currently with CA Lifeline and want to switch from SafeLink to Assurance. According to Assurance I should submit another CA Lifeline application and the switch will happen. But according to a Lifeline administrator I talked to, it is against the rules for me to submit another application for Lifeline when I am already enrolled in the program (no more than one discount per household).
Free Government Cell Phones says
Follow the steps outlined in the article above, Robert. Any Lifeline customer is eligible to switch from one company to another after 60 days.
Tasha L. Fry says
I sent in all my paperwork to switch companies from q link to assurance wireless, my q link phone does not work , can’t dial, can’t text, can’t save new contacts!!!!!!!!!!!!!
My question is, how much longer til I recieve my assurance wireless phone? ???I sent the paperwork in december, still no phone in my mail!!!!!
Breast cancer survivor since 9-10-2001.
Severe chronic depression and anxiety since 2001.
Need a phone, no body left, all gone, to needy, live in the woods by myself, need phone for security and to call doctors for appointment and call Medicaid for rides, no car either!!!!!!!!?!!!!!!
Free Government Cell Phones says
Have you called in to speak to customer service, Tasha. If not, you should. We can’t tell you how long it will take for your phone to be delivered because we are not Assurance. Most Lifeline companies say it will take two weeks to receive your phone, but our readers tell us that three to four weeks or long is not unusual. But you’ve been hanging out there without a phone for a long time. Check with customer service.
Brave Heart Bizerk says
You still have the desire to get up off your butt and make it happen yeah get get get it girl!
Molly says
😳……..🤭……😁…….🤣😂GREAT!! Now I’m going to
H€££ for laughing so hard at this comment!
Thanks a lot Brave Heart Bizerk
😂🤣😂🤣
James O Carson says
I lodged my complaints several times and you didn’t reply to me. I told you about access wireless letting goggle put illicit sex on my phone. So why haven’t you replied back to me,
Free Government Cell Phones says
We’ve been busy figuring out how to get illicit sex on our phones. On a more serious note, James, we are not your service provider so we cannot answer your question. Speak to them.
California supporter of illicit sex content on Lifeline phones says
Dear Free Government Cellphones,
You are HILARIOUS for saying that in response to him……Literally LOL-ed. I genuinely Thank you…so awesome you said that! ……lol…e’s freaking out in those woods for sure…..lol….I think Google was trying to do him a favor. As far as I can tell it’s by far the best thing he’s got going for him out there….
Molly says
🏆#1 5+STARS!
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐U BROKE THE INTERNET WITH THIS WITTY REPLY! BRILLIANT
BTW-U R WAYYYY TOOOO NICE 2 THE HIGHLY IGNORANT ONES!….(SADLY IT’S THE MAJORITY!)
After reading your comments I find myself cured of any depression & mostly any self doubt of my intelligence! Thanks My prozac!
Things that make you go hmmmmm….
Why aren’t we evolving in a upward direction anymore?
What’s in the water?
Wayne Robey says
Just because it is legally permitted does not mean any given provider will do it. It would be good to have a list of companies that do and don’t do it. My experience with Life Wireless is that they are ready to make a NEW application but don’t pay any attention when I ask to port my service. In my attempt, after emphasizing that I wanted to port my service, I was transferred to a machine that, among other things, ask me to agree to the statement “You are in a household that does not yet get a lifeline benefit.” When I replied NO, the machine said OK, goodbye
Free Government Cell Phones says
Why would the companies not want your business, Wayne? It makes no difference to them if you have never had a Lifeline account or if you are switching to their company from some other company. You are a new customer to them and they get paid the same amount either way.
Billy Snode says
I am going through this nightmare now! I am currently enrolled with qlink and trying to transfer to entouch wireless so I can use my Verizon phone because the phone qlink gave me is pretty much the most worthless piece of & $#@ I’ve ever used. When I tried to enroll with entouch online it kept giving me errors and told me to enroll over the phone. The person I talked to sounded like she only started speaking English yesterday and told me to call my state’s public utilities office.
C says
I agree. The Qlink phone is worthless, so outdated it barely functions then they try to install apps and features on top of a phone that does not function well. Even after removing the apps it is a 50/50 chance you can dial a number. Usually takes multiple attempts on a good day. Heaven forbid you want to dial 911.
I also contacted new providers to try to switch services so I can use a better quality GSM phone. I have been told that there is no way to port the service. You must first end your service with Qlink, after it is terminated then you can apply with a new provider because you do not have a lifeline service. I was told this process generally takes several weeks during which you do not have a lifeline phone.
I find it odd that there is regulation on who can have the lifeline service but that there doesn’t seem to be a check and balance system for guaranteeing that the phone company is actually providing a service that can be taken advantage of.
For instance, qlink provided a phone. It is a “smart phone” you are given data and minutes. qlink is being reimbursed for providing data and minutes. Yet the the phone is barely useful as a telephone. Using the internet is impossible.
The only solution, pay them money to get the latest qlink phone. The first one didn’t work properly straight out of the box, why should I believe the “newest” version will be any better?
Linda Roman says
my experence I purchased a better phone from ASSurance and then they tell me they will not let me use it. Lifeline is for poor people who can’t afford to throw phones away is it not?????
Free Government Cell Phones says
Why won’t they let you use it, Linda? What’s their reason?
Henry says
You did not really buy a new phone from Assurance. It was likely through a third party reseller for cell phones. The service provider has no obligation for any of the phones sold by the reseller to be compatible with their service. You could then argue why are these phone models listed in the online phone store for purchase if they are not compatible? That is because the service provider and reseller are separate entities. Neither of them are responsible for the online content of each other. Lots of loopholes in the Lifeline program.
James O Carson says
I have tried to many times to change my lifeline phone service, but all I gotten is the run around. I am tired of a phone service that is cooperating with me. This is the last time I will try before taking the battery out of the phone.
Free Government Cell Phones says
The information in this article is quoted directly from the USAC website. Thousands of people have used it to make their own switches.
Brave Heart Bizerk says
Ohhh my boy Johnny Carson. You done got hella stupid…that’s a GOOD thing.
Molly says
💀
😂😂😂😂
My Future Destination;
✈🔱🕳👹😈🔥🌡🌋⚰
CYa L8TR Roomie!😉😂
Wayne Robey says
This is out of date. The port freeze you mention ass 12 months for internet service enabled was abolished in March 2018
Free Government Cell Phones says
Read the article again, Wayne.
Wayne Robey says
Federal Register / Vol. 83, No. 10 page 2080/ Tuesday, January 16, 2018
III. Order on Reconsideration
31. By this Order, the Commission eliminates the port freeze for voice and broadband internet access services found in § 54.411 of the Commission’s rules. The Commission takes this action in response to significant concerns regarding the port freeze raised in Petitions for Reconsideration and other recent filings in the docket. In the 2016 Lifeline Order, 81 FR 33026, May 24, 2016, the Commission codified port freezes lasting 12 months for broadband internet access service and 60 days for voice telephony service. After reconsideration of certain findings in the 2016 Lifeline Order, the Commission now eliminates the Lifeline port freeze for voice and broadband internet access service.
Free Government Cell Phones says
Not sure why you’re repeating the info found in the article above, but it is what it is.
Shanda Turner says
I’m wanting to switch from Qlink toAssurance because one of their updates ruined the phone they gave me and I am not about to pay to get a new phone after their an update messed it up. So how do I go about doing so?
Free Government Cell Phones says
Seriously, Shanda? Did you happen to notice the title of this article?
Scotty Brown says
I have tried for the past week to get my cell turned off. It was stolen by a woman and she is still using it right now she hacked my account and is basically using my service for free I’ve text called and spoken with rep. For this thief to have my phone really that’s how customers are treated. I no longer wish to do service with your carrier and please take my name off the service.
Free Government Cell Phones says
We are not your service provider, Scotty. You need to contact that company’s customer service team directly.
Brave Heart Bizerk says
Ohhh my boy Johnny Carson. You done got hella stupid…that’s a GOOD thing.
Lynn Carter says
I currently have Lifeline service with SafeLink but want to switch to Q Link.
The following is at the end of sign up for QLink:
“Congratulations! You are eligible for a Lifeline benefit transfer.
By checking this box I agree to transfer my existing Lifeline Benefits to Q Link Wireless which will change my current Lifeline phone number, service and provider.”
Is there any way I can keep my current phone number? If not, I will just stay with SafeLink because it would be too much of a time consuming hassle to have to change my number on every other account I have and with all my contacts.
Thank you!
Free Government Cell Phones says
Yes. If you want to keep your current phone number, you must enroll with a customer service agent. You need to tell that agent, “I want to port over my current phone number.” Say it at the beginning of your conversation, somewhere in the middle and then confirm that they are porting over your current phone number AGAIN before you end the phone call.
Debbie Hitchcock says
I have had a account for several years,was told my account was cancelled without any notice, stating I didn’t send verification..after purchasing TracFone minutes I called &was told I could fax information &did so..Tried to check status after faxing paperwork showing I qualify for food stamp & Medicaid.. couldn’t get enrollment number through..automated system could not understand verbal or dialed in numbers.. tried back several times, now being told that I don’t have enough money on account..to call back.
Free Government Cell Phones says
Have you attempted to enroll online, Debbie? If not, make that your next attempt.
Suzzanne Carlson says
It would be great if the NEW company actually had a way for you to ask such questions. I tried to contact Access Wireless and they did not offer any information on transfering to their service from another.
Kimmie says
Thank you so much! I can always depend on your site for any questions o have! Its awesome you provide answers and clickable inks! Leep up the GREAT work fellow patriot! We sure appreciate your time in researching /gathering such valuable information and sharing it with us!! Tysvm 😊😊💜
Free Government Cell Phones says
Hey, thanks, Kimmie. We always appreciate being appreciated.
Lilia Arbuzova says
Could you please inform me which telephone company could provide me with a free of charge mobile push-button phone? I am eligible for it. Assurance telephone company serviced me with push-button phone for years, but now they do not have such phones anymore, and I am without a telephone now, because Android phones they gave me, are bad in using them, and they create headaches. I am 83 years old.
Thank you.
Free Government Cell Phones says
Unfortunately, Lilia, we do not have that information. Each company offers different makes and models of phones and they are handed out randomly, meaning that the person who enrolls just before you may get one kind of phone, you may get a different kind, and the person after you may get a third kind.
Here’s what we’d suggest: It will take a bit of research on your part, but it will help you accomplish what you need to accomplish. Look into which companies offer BYOP (Bring Your Own Phone) or BYOD (Bring Your Own Device) plans. Find the make and model of phone you want.
Keep in mind that not all cell phones are compatible with all cell networks, so you need to make sure that the company you want to enroll with has a network that is compatible with the phone you want.
Speak to your chosen service provider’s customer service team BEFORE you purchase the phone. If the service provider says the phone you want to purchase is compatible with its network, buy the phone and use it in the service provider’s BYOP program. If it’s not compatible, call a different service provider to ask if it’s compatible.
Work your way down the list of service provider’s in your state and you’ll eventually find a company with a BYOP program and a network that’s compatible with the phone you want to use.
Sorry. We know it sounds like a lot of work, but we cannot think of a simpler way to solve your problem.
Dusty H Wallace says
My qlink phone broke it’s a replacement already an my buddy gave me his replacement phone cuz he don’t use it can I switch my account over to new replacement phone cuz mine is broke
Free Government Cell Phones says
You may be able to make the switch, but it all depends on whether your phone is compatible with your service provider’s network. Not all phones and networks are compatible technically. We suggest that you speak to customer service and/or tech support to find out if that specific make and model will work with the company’s network.
bryon says
can I pick my own phone number?
Free Government Cell Phones says
You can select from a limited selection of available numbers.
Mr Cleaver says
I realize that for the most part these free phones are absolute junk. But, if you transfer your benefit to a new Lifeline provider, presumably you will need to return your old free phone. Other that that is appears there is no need to contact you old provider because transferring the benefit should cancel the old account automatically? Also, if you cancel before your number is ported will you likely lose that number?
Free Government Cell Phones says
Under most circumstances you do not need to return your free government cell phone. (But you should contact your current service provider’s customer service team to make sure you don’t fall into one of those unusual circumstances.) Yes, you will probably lose your phone number in the situation you describe.
James O Carson says
I have a phone service from access wireless and I have told them over and over that I can’t get a second account, and goggle has poor service.
Free Government Cell Phones says
You lost us, James. We’re not sure what you’re saying.
Kathleen Robertson says
I have a free phone provided by Assurance. Recently a friend gave me an iPhone 6s. I would like to be able to use the iPhone 6s with Assurance. I was told this was not allowed. Do you know if this policy will be changing in the future?
Thanks!
Free Government Cell Phones says
We cannot confirm that iPhones are not compatible with the Assurance network. But rather than relying on what “someone” told you, you should contact Assurance customer service by calling 6-1-1 on your free government cell phone. They can give you the most accurate answer.
Justina McClure says
I was just reading through the post’s and came across this one that says QLink provides all new customer’s with a free smartphone”. Well that isn’t true. I’ve been a customer for 5yrs and the phone that I was given is a plain flip phone that doesn’t have a camera and is not internet capable.So I have talked to several different customer services workers and keep getting the same response. If I want a smartphone then I have to buy it. So they suck and the service doesn’t hardly come in anywhere.. Words of caution to anyone thinking of switching to QLink ‘STOP & CHECK SOME OTHER’S BEFORE YOU MAKE A MISTAKE’.
Free Government Cell Phones says
The rules have changed in the last five years, Justina. As of December of 2017, all free government cell phone companies must provide new customers with smart phones. There is some dispute regarding this regulation in regard to Q Link because it appears that they offer smart phones in California, but only SIM cards in the other states they serve.
Leo says
Hello, I was reading thru comments and found one answer which concern
me. I’m talking about if you switch provider will you get new smart phone from them as they advertising.
Your answer was yes, but today Qlink says no, you have to buy from us.
I’ve canceled service with another provider and they are using ATT network, Qlink – Sprint. So I need new phone.
Do you know Government’s regulation regard to how often one can get free phone? I’ve had previous service about two years, no data.
Thanks
Free Government Cell Phones says
Here’s a quote from the Q Link website:
“Q Link Wireless provides every new customer a free smartphone to use with their free monthly plan. With a smartphone, you can do so much more than just basic calling and text messaging. Use your smartphone to access the internet, check email, look for jobs, complete homework assignments, check social media, and much more!”
dorothy hashman says
You can do all those things I suppose if the phone works correctly….. I just recently got my phone from Q-Link and it was already activated when I got it, It had a Virus on it from the very start, I have made the few calls so I did not lose my Service, But my Phone says from time to time No Service, I have received messages from the day I got my Phone from someone , can’t get Q-Link Number 611, Lost 3 pictures I took, and the phone says I have no storage enough to take pictures, hangs up on my calls, and almost burst my ear drum twice by a Loud Noise when it turn the speaker on, even though I did not turn it on……. This phone has many Issues, Yet I could not get anyone to actually help me , I called customer service and I did get someone to tell me he was Not a Tect, But for me to do a Factory Reset… I did that But the phone still has Issues……. He also told me that I could buy another phone for 25.00 and I could buy unlimited mins…. I told him I was on the Lifeline Program….. I read where they said the Phone was under Warrent so does that Not mean that it is suppose to be fixed?/ For Free if it is a Phone that had problems before I got it??? I have not used the phone except a couple of times sense I got it and some trying to get help about it…….to No A vale……..I notice many Complaints about this Co. ????? If I try to Switch , will I get another Phone from the New Provider? I am 83 and I need a phone for emergency and keep in touch with family that is Reliable…….This phone has too many bugs in it?But for Now it is all I have, I have no Landline, as I had it taken out when I got my Q-Link…. I lost my Lifeline in June a year ago when I had my Lifeline, and I do need this cell phone for emergency.. I do not know of any other Phone Provider that had a Program like Q-Link…. Thank you.
Free Government Cell Phones says
If we were you we would switch service providers because no one should go through what you have gone through. Here’s an article that tells you how to make the switch:
https://www.freegovernmentcellphones.net/faq/how-do-i-switch-lifeline-providers
RL says
Please update your article. The USAC now says “Customers may transfer their Lifeline benefit to a new company at any time.”
See page https://www.lifelinesupport.org/ls/change-my-company.aspx
Your article says customer must wait 60 days between changes.
Free Government Cell Phones says
Try reading the front page article we updated months ago, RL. That’s exactly what it says.
David says
This exchange above between RL and FGCP is unclear, so, please clarify the following…
With a text-talk-data lifeline benefit, can consumers switch to a new company at any time, or can consumers only switch to a new company after having service with an existing company for 60 days?
Free Government Cell Phones says
The rules changed in late 2017, David. You can now switch from one company to another at any time.
toni shugart says
so does that mean i can change from assurance wirekess to qlink service?
Free Government Cell Phones says
Absolutely. Well, of course, it depends on whether Q Link offers service in your area, but other than that, the answer is yes.
Mark Petroff says
Please don’t change to Q Link….. Very cheap phones & lousy instructions… When I tried talking to a Repersentative, all I received was another foreigner.. Told them transfer another Rep…. Worse than the other.. Who spoke lousy English….Good Luck with your phone..
Brave Heart Bizerk says
What you doing on here? Hmmm.? Busy? How you know?David bring you sucker fo love ass home please..😍
Free Government Cell Phones says
We have no idea what this comment is supposed to mean.
Ashley Kay Jones says
I need to switch from safelink, have had them almost a year without being Able to make or receive ANY calls at my home. I purchased smartphone last ya thru them for upgrade and was told would work just fine, but it does NOT! Now I am without a phone completely n can’t text or make calls unless I am almost 2 miles out of town! I was supposed to get a replacement phone shipped on 6/17, got msg today that my address was incomplete on their end, when I verified with agent! So now I have to wait 3-5 more days and I bet I still won’t b able to use phone bc there is ZERO AT&T coverage where I live and that’s the phone service provider I have now that does not work! So please, HELP! I need to know which service providers I can go thru that do NOT utilize AT&T and hopefully either bring my current phone or they send me new FREE REPLACEMENT PHONE AND START NEW LIFELINE SERVICE THRU NEW COMPANY INSTEAD OF SAFELINK
Free Government Cell Phones says
Here’s an article that tells you which national networks are used by each of the free government cell phone companies:
https://www.freegovernmentcellphones.net/cdma-gsm-lte-phone-compatible-with-my-free-phone-network
And here’s where you can find a list of all the free government cell phone companies in your state. Check them all out to find the plan that fits your needs best:
https://www.freegovernmentcellphones.net/states
Monique says
I just got safe link & want to switch my lifeline service to Metro PCS (which is a paid service) just to keep my number. Is that possible?
Free Government Cell Phones says
It should be quite possible, Monique. Just tell the MetroPCS customer service rep that, “I want to port over my current phone number.” Confirm at the end of the call that your current number is being ported over to your new account.
christa wagner says
BlueJay apparently no longer gives me service (I live in Hawaii)- just looked at my phone and it says “no service”… I need to switch but there are numerous companies and it’s hard to tell how and what to do. Any help ?
Free Government Cell Phones says
Blue Jay is out of business, Christa. Your account should have been transferred to another company, but it looks like something fell through the cracks and you’ve been left without a service provider. The article on this page will tell you everything you need to know about switching to a new company.
Carey says
I’m not unhappy with assurance wireless. Im just not happy with the phone they gave me it’s got issues and since I already had a T-Mobile phone I want to switch to SafeLink because I can use it with my T-Mobile phone.
Free Government Cell Phones says
If you read the article above, you realize how easy it is to make the switch.
Jessica C Poulson says
Does anyone have Life wireless? They’re the only lifeline service still offering 500 minutes-according to their website. I have QLink, but they decreased my minutes from 500 to 350 when they added Data to the plan. I have WiFi at home, so I don’t want the damn data. Plus the phone does suck-had my first one for almost two years (hated it the whole time), paid $25 for a new one and it came with the exact same glitches my two year old one started having-reasons why I paid for a new one, the BYOP option is free and it says ‘no interruption to your service’… Well as soon as I submitted the request my phone was turned off, it always takes at least 3 weeks to get anything and it was that way with the sim card for my BYOP… Unfortunately the phone I set up for it was completely busted (got it w/out a battery, ordered that at the same time as the sim card, got the card first because I ordered the wrong battery and had to order a different one, got the battery and found out the phone was not workable=lesson learned), and when I tried to put my service back on my new, glitch-riddled phone they told me it was no longer compatible, because they just upgraded the default phone that will be used for their service-upgrade happened three days after I ordered and paid for Glitchy. I had to go without a phone for a little over two months, until I could afford another $25 for the upgraded phone, which is a good little joke all on it’s own. The best part: a friend of mine (also with QLink) completely shattered her screen on accident and couldn’t afford a new one, so curiously I decided to check and see (don’t know why I thought to try, I truly don’t)…low and behold it worked! Glitchy-one of the last of the original default phones, that I was told was NOT compatible anymore-was accepted as a BYOP and now available for my friend’s account. She is now currently without a phone while waiting for the sim card to arrive.
Don’t get me wrong…I truly appreciate the lifeline program, crappy phones and all. If not for it I would have been unable to keep contact with my kids and mother for a few years. You would like to think the US government would regulate all of the service providers actual practices better, not just if and when they’re being defrauded. Ahh, that’d be nice…anyone see that happening anytime soon? LoL
Free Government Cell Phones says
C’mon, Jessica, you don’t really think the government cares about pissing away money, do you? Both parties claim to be fiscally responsible, but spend money in a way that makes drunken sailors look like cheapskates.
Molly says
🥁🥁🥁🥁(*&again!)
Makes the above comment then…
…Drips the mic🎤.
_____________
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐🏆🏆🏆🏆🏆
(BEST WEBSITE EVER!)
👍👍👍👍👍
😂😂😂😂😂
Free Government Cell Phones says
This is not the best website ever (but it is in the top ten).
Elizabeth hale says
Need to switch cell phone companies from standup Wireless to qlink
Free Government Cell Phones says
Just follow the instructions in the article on this page, Elizabeth.
Ellie Davis says
Thank you for suggesting that you can just contact the new company and give them your info to set up a line. My husband is wanting to switch companies and I think this is a great time to do it. We’ll have to look into new plans and companies and find the best option in our area.
Scott McKay says
The reality is, that if you want to switch from one company to another, you are at the mercy of the non-English speaking people who take service calls. Also, they will give you conflicting information (like asking for IMEI’s of the phone and telling you that you have to cancel your current service first.
I have given up trying. It was just not meant to be.
Your scenario for doing this process sounds good, but the reality is that it is hopeless. Perhaps it is only SafeLink which is so screwed up, but I doubt it.
Sarah Rowell says
Somebody stole my access phone so I went and bought a new phone but I need to know how to activate it with my Access Wireless account can you please email me and let me know how to do it and who to call
Free Government Cell Phones says
Oops. Not all cell phones are compatible with all cell networks, Sarah. Contact your service provider’s customer service team ASAP to find out if the make and model you purchased is compatible with Access.
Denise Cook says
I got a Moto version phone I want to know if I can use it for my free government phone
Free Government Cell Phones says
Maybe, maybe not. Not all cell phones are compatible with all cell networks, Denise. So you should call 6-1-1 on your free government cell phone to be connected to customer service. If you give them the specific make and model of phone, they can tell you if it’s compatible.
Donald says
I’m in California, after the port freeze lift on March 19, 2018 am I able to switch providers without having to wait 60 days?
Free Government Cell Phones says
Here’s what it says on the USAC.org website, Donald:
___________________
3/13/2018 – Port Freeze Will Be Eliminated on March 19
The Lifeline Program’s port freeze rule will be eliminated effective March 19, 2018.
On that date, port freezes will be eliminated from NLAD processes and any customers in a port freeze will have the restrictions removed. USAC will release a notice to NLAD users via the NLAD Bulletin once the restrictions have been removed. USAC will not implement any administrative port freeze.
john says
my umxmxg401 phone will not go on . when it first started ,I could plug in and get phone to go on . now it says 100 per cent charge and when I unplug ,phone goes dark.it is possible I burned battery up. I took out and see no pink /red spot.
Ms. C says
I don’t care about texting and data, Can I move my lifeline number to a non-lifeline provider?
Free Government Cell Phones says
Yes. All you need to do is tell the new service provider’s customer service team and tell them that you want to “port over my current phone number.”
Brandi Kelley says
what if I have a replacement phone and just need to activate it to my account
Free Government Cell Phones says
Not all cell phones are compatible with all cell networks, Brandi. Contact your service provider’s customer service team to make sure the make and model of phone you have will work with its network.
David Butler says
How do I switch from another carrier. To SafeLink.
Free Government Cell Phones says
Did you read the article on this page, David?
Joe says
Not true. You are not able to switch like that. You have to cancel your first lifeline and wait a year. This is what Qlink said.
Free Government Cell Phones says
Either Q Link misinformed you or you misunderstood what they said, Joe. The information in the article on this page comes directly from USAC.org, the organization that governs the free government cell phone program.
Scott McKay says
I don’t recommend SafeLink. You will regret calling their ‘customer service’. They will give you bogus information, have you running around in circles, and laughing at you for being so stupid as to actually want their service.
Nicholas says
So let me get this right. I have assurance wireless service that has talk/text/1 gb data every month. I have had this provider for 2 months now. Can I switch providers or does the fact that I have data screw that up. I’d like to go with a provider that’ll let me purchase something better than the piece of junk ZTE they provided. You literally cannot switch to a different smartphone with assurance, though I was told I could. I hate having a junl phone.
Free Government Cell Phones says
Sorry, Nicholas, but you are stuck with your current service provider for one full year if your plan includes data.
sher says
well, it’s not simple. i try to switch they all say ” you already have line line service” i tell them no i dont i cancelled. they don’t care safelink hangs up every time i try to resolve. Somebody is getting my minutes but not me. Why else would my service be active but not to me. i am so frustrated. i need complaint numbers please. i am sorry for crap attitude this has been going on for six months. need to buy a minute phone or something but i don’t have the money. this service is suppose to be for the poor but i can’t get it. lies, lies and more lies, how do you stop that??
Free Government Cell Phones says
Here’s an article you need to read, Sher. It tells you exactly what to do to submit a formal complaint.
https://www.freegovernmentcellphones.net/faq/file-official-complaint-about-your-lifeline-service
maureen horan says
My phone says I have 8 service days left, I recertified months ago, also how do I find my enrolment number?
Free Government Cell Phones says
Contact your service provider’s customer service team by calling 6-1-1 on your free government cell phone. They should be able to help you solve your problem.
Heather says
I need help go go n a field agent to reactivate my number so I can Get a replacement phone soon. Can you tell me where and when there will be an agent in lakeport ca?
Free Government Cell Phones says
We urge our readers NOT to enroll or do any other business at street events, Heather. Just too many cases of fraud and abuse originate at those events. You’re much safer taking care of business by phone or on the internet.
GLO says
I am on the California Lifeline using my home landline. I want to transfer or port my landline phone# to my cell phone#. Can it be done? I called one of the cell provider and was told it cannot transfer my landline# to cell#. please help!
Free Government Cell Phones says
Confirm what you heard by speaking to another Lifeline free government cell phone company.
C Burks says
It’s not that simple….all the companies I’ve contacted don’t let you speak to anyone. They all say go to their site online. I.m not very good at online and asking a question and waiting for a reply through email.
Then when I give my email all of a sudden I get lots of emails from companies/people I don’t know.
This shouldn’t be the only way to communicate with people.
Mark says
I reside in New Jersey. I have been having a ‘nightmare’ trying to receive a replacement phone and then trying to change service carriers, due to the poor customer service received with the recently canceled carrier.
I was enrolled on January 4, 2017, with SafeLink wireless lifeline cell program. I received a free phone in the mail at the end of January, 2017. As of April, 2017, the battery would go to ‘zero percent’, and shut off, as soon as it reached 42%. I contacted SafeLink, after speaking with three females, (all named Jessica, all with Russian accents), being on the phone for 144 minutes, I was provided a case number, then told I would be receiving my replacement phone within 7 to 10 days. I had only requested a new battery for the phone, not a new phone. I have never received a new battery, nor have I received a replacement phone, as of today’s date, January 10, 2018.
I have now called SafeLink over 10 different times throughout the year. Although, your site states that I can change service after 60 days, SafeLink stated that I had to wait one year to cancel my service, and refused to cancel, and each time I contacted them, again stated that I would receive the replacement phone in 7 to 10 days. Today I read that if you have a data plan, you can’t change for 365 days. That now explains as to why SafeLink wouldn’t cancel my service prior to the 365 days, however, they wouldn’t explain that to me. Due to frustration and lack of information at the time I continued to endure the situation due to the phone being free.
Each time I called SafeLink, all the females I spoke with were named Jessica, and the three males I spoke to were all named ‘Steve’, all with Russian accents. Each phone call would usually take over an hour. This was due to being on hold and then transferred to another ‘Jessica or Steve’, and having to explain the reason I was calling all over again. All provided me with the same identical case number I received in April, 2017, all stating the same identical information about receiving the replacement phone within 7 to 10 days. After dealing with this I finally got to the point that I didn’t want be bothered because I knew this was wrong, but was at a loss what to do about it. Since the new year was approaching I decided I wouldn’t recertify with SafeLink, then switch to another carrier.
The only other company in New Jersey I can choose is Assurance. After completing my online application, I was sent a denial letter stating I am recorded as ‘having service with another company within the last 365 days’. Additionally, I was told to cancel my service with SafeLink then reapply. Afterwards, I sent Assurance, proof that I had cancelled my account with SafeLink, I also included my account status from the SafeLink website, showing that my account was canceled as of January 1, 2018. Also, on that detailed account history shows my account enrollment began on January 4, 2017. Today, January 10, 2018, I received the reply to my reconsideration request from Assurance. The email states that I am in a ‘port freeze’ meaning that I can’t change service unless I am with one carrier for 365 days, ‘per FCC regulations’ suggesting that I contact SafeLink to find out when my ‘port freeze’ would be lifted. The information I originally sent to Assurance, clearly shows that I have been with SafeLink for more than 365 days. I just shook my head and composed another email to Assurance, this time including the original application, dated for December 31, 2016, along with the same information I had already sent to Assurance when I sent the reconsideration email, from SafeLink, showing I was ‘enrolled’ as of January 4, 2017, and told them I have been with SafeLink, for 371 days. The application is still being denied by Assurance for not being with the same carrier for 365 days, although, I have more than provided them with the information proving that I have been with SafeLink for 371 days.
I am unable to resolve the issue. SafeLink, has canceled my account, however, left the phone and internet service on. Per them, I paid for extra minutes and data in March, 2017, that were never completely used. Per their policy those minutes carry over and have to be used before they can terminate the phone and internet service, although they have canceled my service? Per SafeLink, I paid for extra minutes in March, 2017, however, they blocked the text feature, stating I did not pay for any texts? This is insane. I didn’t pay for any extra minutes or data. Assurance won’t approve my application, even though they are aware I am with SafeLink for 371 days, continually stating I have to be with SafeLink for 365 days, before they will approve my application for service. I can only assume that Assurance isn’t reading anything being sent to them! Even though I provided proof, meeting Assurance’s requirements, they keep changing the terminology for their reasons of denial.
If you can provide any further information, to help make sense of all this nonsense I’m being told, I would more than appreciate the information. Sorry for the length of the ‘comment’, however, I wanted to include all the facts, in case I am not understanding something.
Free Government Cell Phones says
Horrible story, Mark. Absolutely horrible. Sorry you’ve had to live in this nightmare. It sounds like it’s far past time for you to make a formal complaint to everyone with any influence over the free government cell phone industry.
Please read this article and then do exactly as it says:
https://www.freegovernmentcellphones.net/faq/file-official-complaint-about-your-lifeline-service
Mark says
The information is greatly appreciated! Thank you for listening and your assistance!
Free Government Cell Phones says
Thanks for the thanks.
ERIK THE GREAT says
Dam that is the same problem i am having problem i lost my phone over a year ago and totally forgot who the service provider is.After a year and sum i tried to get a phone with a new provider since i heard in november that lifeline was adding internet to plans broadband. So i have applied with qlink three times and i have been tol 3 different answers.1st time i was told someone already has or i have plan with another company. 2nd time i was to i had to wait until i had been with my company a year qlinks again. 3rd answer was i on port freeze and thy gave me the dates that i could apply and that was within 90 days . what the heck are these companies doing////??? gETTING RICH OFF THE GOVERNMENT CONTRACT????or having bidding wars among the companies….Anybody know WTF IS GOING ON .EXCUSE MY FRENCH ……THE IS ONE OF MY BEST ACRONYMS THAT I USE IN THE aRMY FOR 26 YEARS.
Free Government Cell Phones says
Although it may not sound like it, Erik, all three of those answers are consistent and conform with the regulations of the Lifeline free government cell phone program. The Federal Communications Commission changed all the rules back in December 2016 and now you are stuck with your service provider for one full year.
Henry says
The bottom line is that YOU had to remove the “port freeze” on your Safelink account. Assurance would not accept the application until it was removed. Yes, you are not responsible for it being still present on your account which was closed, but you end up with the consequences when you decided to transfer your service. Some of the account updates are done by automation processes, so you cannot say when the port freeze will drop off your profile. This is similar to getting a notice of payment bill when you already sent the payment many weeks earlier. If the payment gets deposited into a “John Doe” account instead of yours, then you will keep getting balance due notices until they transfer your account to collections. But you already paid the bill.
Sharon D Jones says
How do I cancel my Lifeline application? During the holiday weekend, I applied online for Lifeline with a particular provider and received a response I’d be notified in 10-15 days whether I’m approved. Then, I realized another provider offered a plan better suited to my needs. I do not see a method to withdraw my application from the first provider. I emailed the 1st company that I want to cancel my application.
I tried to apply online with the other company. The other provider’s website canceled my in-progress application because it says the National Lifeline DB indicates I already have service (untrue) and cannot transfer service for 60 days. I also emailed that company for help with this problem.
Free Government Cell Phones says
Unfortunately, Sharon, you caused your own problem and will need to wait the entire 60 days. This is why we tell readers to check each plan available in their state VERY CAREFULLY before enrolling.
Kevin K says
If I transfer lifeline service to another provider will I get another cell phone from the new provider? Most lifeline providers give a phone in their lifeline service offer and I assume my old provider’s cell phone (a junk phone with no SIM card) may not be compatible with the new provider’s service. Thanks.
Free Government Cell Phones says
All good assumptions, Kevin. Yes, you will get a new smartphone.
Cleone Cannon says
I have been reading all these questions and answers…you say you will receive a new smartphone, but, is it a good smartphone or an crap android smartphone. I received an Android smartphone from Assurance Wireless and the phone was so difficult, I had to ask my neighbor to help me. I couldn’t get the battery out. I tried, but broke the phone. The place where you charge the phone and the place where you are suppose to get the battery out, were on top of each other. I tried to get the battery out with a tool but because they were on top each other, I broke the place to charge the phone. I couldn’t understand how to use the Android anyway, so I went back to my old phone, because they wouldn’t give me another smartphone because I broke the first one in a manner of days after receiving it. My neighbor, who has an Android Smartphone, couldn’t help me with my new Android Smartphone, and why not??? Probably because it was a crap piece of work, his was not a LifeLine Government Phone. And he loves his Android Smartphone…and even after he talked to the people at 611 to get help with my Android Smartphone, he couldn’t get, the piece of junk they sent to me, to work. I’ve had my service with Assurance Wireless for at least three years, and I talked to 611, about 1 month ago and he told me the only good and correct information I’ve received from 611. I’ve talked to him about 3 times and he has always been professional and information correct…I can’t remember his name…wish I could remember so he could get credit for a great job. He told me about this web page and that I could find out how to get a new Lifeline Service…and yes you have given me the answers to my questions…Thank You. Assurance Wireless has been a good company except for the customer service…with the acception of the man who had a professional and correct information, he was the only one in customer service who helped me. So, anyway, what do you expect for free??? I am grateful for the free service or I wouldn’t have a phone. Appreciate the free phone service. Work with the people who serve you or call later to see if someone else is on duty who will have correct info. Be patient, be happy, and grateful to have a free phone. I think it would be better to save your money and get a good smartphone that will work with the company you want to serve you. That’s what I think I will do. How would I word that so I get a phone that works with my server? Something like an open or closed line??? Thanks
Free Government Cell Phones says
Far be it from us to be self-centered, Cleone, but the most important thing we got out of your comment is that Assurance customer service is recommending our website to its customers. Wow.
Yvonne windchaser says
I had use qlink wireless. my cell was broken. i order new cell. no minutes. they told I had ones from last month. i had use the cell I had for 3 months. i finally had to buy a new one. i tried to cancel over and over again no luck. it cost 25.00 for new cell.
Free Government Cell Phones says
Is there a question buried in there somewhere, Yvonne?
Marcos says
Is there a limit to the amount of phones I can get or can I just keep transferring every 60 days to get a new one?
Free Government Cell Phones says
We know of no reason you cannot switch every 60 days (as long as your plan does not include data).
Jacki marks says
Thank you so much!! I literally just got off phone with Qlink! Asking to cancel service, my phone broke and they wanted 25$ that i don’t have for replacement. I was told NO cancellation allowed until 1 yr of service!! But if i paid 1$ now they would set up remaining balance to be paid by 19th. I still asked for cancellation was told they could not and would not do that! The phone sucked the service did as well. BYE BYE Q LINK!!
Thank you for the answers to my problems
Free Government Cell Phones says
Outrageous, Jacki. The company is required by law to cancel your account upon your request. Sounds like it’s time for you to follow through and file a formal complaint.
Beverly says
QLink refuses to answer the telephone when I called to see why I was switched to Sprint.
Free Government Cell Phones says
Have you asked Sprint? That’s a mysterious situation because Sprint does not offer a free government cell phone plan.
James Williams says
They probably switched to a company that uses the Sprint network. I am getting a new phone from QLink because my former lifeline service TrueWireless sucks, and QLink uses Sprint. Also my Freedompop phone uses the Sprint network.
Yen Tran says
My name is Yen Tran, my 60-day clock with Air voice wireless ended on 12/13/2017. I would like to switch back to Safelink wireless as of 12/16/2017, what should I do in order to get back the Safelink wireless service that I originally started in Jun 2017? A street tent agent helped me enroll therefore I do not know the enrollment ID at all. Any help is very appreciated.
Sincerely,
Yen Tran
Free Government Cell Phones says
Everything you need to know can be found in the article on this page, Yen.
Karen Duffey says
No one lives in my home that has a Lifeline phone or a Q Link I want a Q Link telephone I have filled out the application with qlink and I want it transferred over to qlink it says someone in my home has a Lifeline phone. I applied for a qlink cell phone and qlink is waiting for authorization for me to swap a Lifeline phone to qlink I don’t own a Lifeline phone maybe somebody else that lived at this address did but I don’t although the database is someone lives at this address that has a Lifeline I don’t and never have so you need to close out that Lifeline phone or transfer to whatever you need to do which I’ve never owned one
Free Government Cell Phones says
We’re not Q Link, Karen, so we cannot do what you ask. This is an independent informational website that has ZERO affiliation with any of the free government cell phone companies.
Leslie says
I absolutely hate Safelink. They cannot handle the services they offer, technical errors which are not even the customer’s fault, shutting the service off then you have to be on tech support for HOURS talking to people who barely speak English.
It took me 5 hours and 6 representatives today to find out that the Annual Verification I completed in July “failed” and that is why my enrollment canceled today WITHOUT warning! Because I can’t go out and buy a new phone and change services right now I jumped through their hoops (again!) and hopefully I will have my phone back in 24-48 hours. I’ll hold my breath. If you have no choice but to use one of these lifeline companies go with anyone other than Safelink.
Sheila says
I just tried to transfer from Qlink Wireless to Safe Link but was told I had to cancel and then wait until Jan. 9th to call Safelink back to enroll.The entire process just to get to talk to an agent was terrible.
Free Government Cell Phones says
Here’s an article that tells you the specific process you need to follow. As you might expect, some companies do everything they can to keep customers:
https://www.freegovernmentcellphones.net/faq/how-do-i-switch-lifeline-providers
Sheila says
Thanks but it was the company I was trying to switch to (Safelink) that I had the hard time with./
Free Government Cell Phones says
No matter which company you want to switch to or which company you want to switch from, the process is the same and can be found in that article.
John says
The information is not accurate. After reading those information, I called the new company which Access Wireless to transfer my benefit to them from Assurance Wireless. They can not do it. They told me to apply as a new customer even though I have been with Assurance Wireless for over 5 years. They told me to CANCEL Assurance Wireless first then apply to Access, and I would have about 2 or 3 months without phone service, and my phone number can not be hold until new application with Access Wireless is approved.
They mentioned that’s only way and the information I got from this website is not accurate or update.
Was anyone here was successful doing that transfer from Assurance Wireless to Access Wireless?
Free Government Cell Phones says
The information quoted in the article comes directly from the website of the USAC, the organization that governs the Lifeline free government cell phone program.
Luc says
I have just been approved by enTouch Wireless for lifeline; however, I have to wait 60 days to switch to Tag Mobile lifeline. At the moment, I have not activated my BYOD phone for service with enTouch Wireless, nor has enTouch Wireless given me a phone number, and, on top of that, I’m still waiting for the SIM card – but somehow I’m in a 60 day port freeze.
I wish I had waited until December 1st to apply for Tag Mobile’s lifeline because right now Tag Mobile is offering 750 talk minutes, unlimited texts, and 1 GB of LTE. Unfortunately, I have to wait 60 days now. This sucks!
Free Government Cell Phones says
Unfortunately, Luc, those 60 day port freezes are standard in the industry. It’s a regulation imposed by the USAC and FCC.
Yen Tran says
My name is Yen Tran, I am wondering how to switch to another phone company when the 60-day period comes to an end. Thanks.
Free Government Cell Phones says
You should start by reading the article on this page, Yen.
Lamika says
I have cool pad service how do I switch to safelink
Free Government Cell Phones says
You start by reading the article on this page, Lamika.
Seth says
I was wondering if there is any way for me to switch local area code with my current service? The phone i had is from a long distance area code.
Free Government Cell Phones says
Why change, Seth? Speaking from personal experience, my cell phone number has had the same number in Southern California, Central California, and now Texas. Why do you nee a local area code?
Seth says
Oh well, I could not make any few phone call in my local area with a long distance cell phone number. I tried calling 6-1-1 number with my cell phone. It won’t be able get through the process and just ended my call with a goodbye so I was wondering if I could be able to switch to a different number with the same provider.
Free Government Cell Phones says
You should be able to get a new phone number, but we cannot guarantee that. Only customer service can confirm the answer.
Wayne Brown says
Hi, my ex wife received a lifeline phone through Qlink. She received the phone about 1 1/2 months ago only to find out that the service DOES NOT WORK inside her home. The service is Sprint and their service is not good at all in our area. My ex is legally blind so having to go outside to make or receive calls is not a option.
I read in Qlinks Terms that if you have 500mb data their is a 60 day port freeze. 1gb or more is a12 month port freeze.
My question is will the new laws in 12/2016 squash those Terms on port freezing. We haven’t contacted Qlink yet. She just wanted to be prepared with the facts instead of going in blind on new laws vs old laws.
Thanks.
Free Government Cell Phones says
As we understand the regulations, you are stuck with your current provider for 12 months if you have ANY data service.
lilkunta says
Hello! I was with cintex which went backrupt and standup bought their customers. I am in MD. I was not told about being transferred to standup. Now I want to cancel and go with Assurance but I cannot. I cancelled standup but assurance says the system says I am still a standup customer. I called USAC and they did NOTHING. I spoke to Lauren and she says all that USAC does is pay. Why do they[USAC] answer the phone then?
She says her system shows I am stuck with standup until march 2018. How? If I am allowed to leave after 60days it has been 60days.
Free Government Cell Phones says
You can switch after 60 days if you have talk and text-only. If your plan also includes data, you can only switch after one year.
Heather says
In Oklahoma my provider said I have to wait 30 days before I get another provider or start new servive
Free Government Cell Phones says
60 days if you have voice and text only. One year if you have a data plan.
Donna Jo says
Something very important that I don’t see in this post is the new government regulation passed December 2016. Customers that are with a lifeline company think that by cancelling their account they can easily transfer to another provider. This is not longer the case, at least not that simple. Customers are now “locked in” with their provider for a period of 1 year if the service they receive have data included. To cancel with their current provider will do absolutely nothing except leave them without phone until the 1 year period is up. For a better reference they can go to http://www.lifelinesupport.org/ls/customer-rules-rights.aspx
Free Government Cell Phones says
The information you didn’t see is right there at the top of our article, Donna Jo.
Donna Joe says
Thanks, thing is I’ve been reading lots of people that want to switch companies, and you advice to just call them and cancel. If they are in this “contract” for a year, what good it is to cancel with your current company if you cannot switch providers?
Free Government Cell Phones says
Nothing you nor we can do about that, Donna. Those are the Federal Communications Commission rules imposed on the free government cell phone service providers. Wish we had a better answer for you.
Claudette Davis says
My service was horrible with qlink and then it was stolen now they said i have to buy a phone it took 2 months to get the phone cancelled now i have no phone and i’m job hunting smh
Cat lover says
I’m in the same boat. This girl down the street stole my free phone and the qlink bozos want me to pay $25 for a replacement. The problem is that I’m poor, and the phone provided sucks, and Wal-Mart sells the same model for $4.97. They won’t let me use the Wal-Mart phone and I can’t get service with any other company for a year!
Everyone take note: qlink is the worst company. When you sign up you get 600 minutes. A few months later they drop you down to 350 minutes, while the account page on their site says 500 minutes plan. How? Worse still is when they try to charge $25 for a phone that is so slow it can take 3 minutes just to get it to dial a number. Now these clowns are getting paid for a year for a phone I don’t have and can’t use. This usac seems to do nothing more than facilitate bad/ abusive companies.
Brave Heart Bizerk says
Economical racism. We as a people have to RISE. “GET up and STAND up for our rights and thus KNOW what those RIGHTS are.
Free Government Cell Phones says
Please tell us what those rights are, Brave.
Julie Fulton says
Yes, I really need to change my lifeline company. I am with QLink Wireless, the phone is very slow, does not keep WiFi connection. I’ve tried numerous times to call, email, nothing. Please help.
******@gmail.com.
Thank you!
Free Government Cell Phones says
You don’t need to contact Q Link to switch to another company, Julie. Just do what the article tells you to do.
Donna Jo says
http://www.lifelinesupport.org/ls/customer-rules-rights.aspx unless she’s been with that company for 1 year since the new regulation, your advice is not good.
Claudette Davis says
They hard to cancel with i just cancelled my service after trying 2 months
Free Government Cell Phones says
Yeah, that’s not right, Claudette. They should have cancelled it the moment you requested it. Sorry to hear you had this problem.
Donna says
This is not true according to lifeline representative. I was also told this by assurance wireless. One rep said cancel SafeLink and enroll with them. Guess what I follow their advice and then received a letter from Assurance Wireless stating that if I’ve had a government phone or been on Lifeline with any other company in the last 365 days that I wasn’t eligible to sign up with them. All of this stuff is so deceiving and kind of based on who you talk with on the phone I’ve spent hours talking to SafeLink folks and hours talking to Assurance Wireless folks it just goes around in circles if someone could help I appreciate it
Free Government Cell Phones says
All the facts you need are right in the article above, Donna. We usually don’t like to quote other sources too extensively, but in the article above we broke that rule to extensively quote the actual government rules of the program. You can believe what the article says.
Jaleesa says
How do I transfer my number back to assurance works from a metro pcs phone that I never received
Free Government Cell Phones says
Start by reading the article above, Jaleesa.
Michelle RamirezSmith says
As of yesterday I am now an Assurance’s customer. Previously had Safety net in which services were turned off due to them never received recertification form on time. Question is I would like to see bout getting my phone back, can I use my number and how?
Free Government Cell Phones says
We’re not quite clear on the series of events that brought you to this situation, Michelle, but under normal circumstances you should have been able to tell Assurance that you wanted to “port over my current phone number.” If you didn’t do that, contact Assurance customer service to ask if it can still be done. We don’t hold out much hope, but it can’t hurt to ask.
Deel says
I need help to switch Q Link Wireless to Safe Link (my old provider). I became Q Link customer February 2017 in the result of mistake. I do not like their phone, can not use it and absolutely shocked their service. I disconnect their phone in March 2017 and not use it after that. Many times I asked them to cancel my account without result. In September 2017 when they sent me email to update service I answered to cancel my account. Instead of that they automatically prolong service. I am 77 years old person without phone service and ask anyone who can help please help me.
Free Government Cell Phones says
Sounds like it’s time for you to go into attack mode, Deel. Read the article at the following link and do as it says. Please let us know what happens. We’d love to know (and so would our readers):
https://www.freegovernmentcellphones.net/faq/file-official-complaint-about-your-lifeline-service
Doris Williams says
I gave my information to a vendor in order to find out who my current telephone carrier was and to find out if I would qualify for an updated telephone. I did not want them to transfer my service, because they did not know if they could save my data or pictures. They sent an application in, now I have no phone service, because it says that it cannot authenticate my telephone number with my old phone and I don’t want a new phone because they lied to me and now I have no service. My old flip phone was probably donated to whoever my carrier is by Verizon. What can I do now? Wait another 6 months or will Public Aide know who my carrier is? Someone should have this information, but it is not in my phone. I’ve already tried #060# and #8899, etc.. to no avail. Can you help me find my carrier or fix this problem? I can’t send or receive calls now.
Free Government Cell Phones says
You can contact the USAC to find out who your service provider is. You can contact them at USAC.org.
Mitzi Callison says
Please help. I am or was with I wireless. They have disconnected my service. I can’t call 611. I wish to change to safelink. As I did not get good coverage with I wireless and was unable to use the phone daily. My old # was
865-282 ****. last 4 ss#****
Mitzi Callison
Free Government Cell Phones says
You can find additional contact info for your service provider on our “Providers” page. Here’s a link:
https://www.freegovernmentcellphones.net/free-cell-phone-providers
Lillian Davis says
My Qlink says Lifeline Reactivation Eligible what does that mean? I applied to QLink while using Assurance and QLink won’t send me a phone and now I have no Assurance service and QLink wont let me go so that I can get back my Assurance service..It’s a mess and I need a phone so my question is How can I transfer back to Assurance?
Free Government Cell Phones says
Are you saying that you’ve never received a phone from Q Link? According to the current rules of the Lifeline program, you may be stuck with you current service provider. But we would recommend that you check into it with the USAC at USAC.org. There may be an exception available for you since you’ve never received service from Q Link. Here’s an article that will tell you more:
https://www.freegovernmentcellphones.net/faq/how-do-i-switch-lifeline-providers
Richard Oliver says
Got lifeline service through life wireless,and I do no think there is anyway I could be less satisfied. The phone they provided did not have a functioning ringer from the day I got it. Their solution was send the phone back when they recieve it back they will process a request for a new phone. So no phone for 3 weeks or live with vibrate only.So I have a phone that only vibrates.My phone does not work at my house {I haven’t moved} it has never worked at my house but they will not let me change providers, They will not even offer me an early termination fee and let me change. Beware if you use lifewireless do not expect good customer service in any regard.
Free Government Cell Phones says
Sorry, Richard, but Life is to allowed to terminate your account for one year according to the regulations of the Lifeline free government cell phone program. So the blame goes to the FCC, not Life.
Roy Allen Jones says
My name is Rhonda Weldon and I am the manager of the Collinsville Library in Collinsville, OK. Our customer, Mr. Roy Allen Jones has asked me to help him switch his free government telephone service from Assist Wireless to your company. Mr. Jones began this process a few days ago when a friend called True Wireless for him. Mr. Jones was assigned an account number (187****) by one of your associates. The True Wireless associate told Mr. Jones that your company required that he send in a copy of his driver’s license and his food stamp card. Mr. Jones has lost the contact information (either your corporate fax or email) and cannot remember that detail. In other words, he needs an email address or fax number in order to send you the information you requested. I have asked Mr. Jones to come back to the library on Monday afternoon and I will help him look through his email for your instructions. Thank you.
Rhonda Weldon
Manager
Collinsville Library
Collinsville, OK 74021
Felicia A Menna says
Hello I’m very dissatisfied with qlink I canceled my service I wanted to transfer to SafeLink I have an email copy of the cancellation SafeLink had not authorized a new SIM card for my phone because they said I’m under contract with qlink I went back to reactivate the contract with qlink they told me how to recertify and I’m locked in until the end of this year now I have no phone I don’t know what to do
Free Government Cell Phones says
There’s not much you can do, Felicia. The Lifeline free government cell phone companies are all bound by the same federal regulations. That includes 60-day contracts for voice and text plans, and one-year contracts for plans that include data. Your only option is to work with Q Link customer service to figure out how your current service can be improved.
Lana says
When I was filling out my application for qlink wireless cell phone I put down some wrong information and I need to be able to redo my application but for some reason this thing won’t let me do it
Free Government Cell Phones says
Try contacting customer service by phone or email, Lana.
Jay johns says
Qlink is the worst service for free phone service. They sent me a phone that was used and couldnt replace the battery with a new one. 4 days later the phone died completely. I had no phone service at all the phone wouldnt even turn on. My nearest neighbor lives 2 miles from me. I sent emails and explained about phone. Their email kept saying to call 611 on my qlink phone for them to be able to help. This went on for weeks. Still no help. After 30 days of non use your suppose to canel they never did.
Candy says
Thank you!
todd borsuk says
I got my cell phone a few years ago from a vendor in Milwaukee, WI. They are not in business anymore, I can not remember which lifeline carrier I have.
I tried to dial 611 on my lifeline phone but “This call can not be reached.”
How do I find out who my carrier is so I can cancel that service, and switch to
Qlink’s service.
Thanx,
Todd Borsuk
Free Government Cell Phones says
The USAC can tell you which company you are enrolled with. To contact the USAC, call (800) 234-9473 Monday through Friday, 8:00 AM to 8:00 PM ET (press 1 for English or press 2 for Spanish).
Fred Shaffer says
I need to transfer my safelink to qlink
Free Government Cell Phones says
Then you should do it, Fred.
L says
Really?? Where’s the genuinely patient and respectful help for these government phones online?? I think you and I both know Fred was asking how to transfer his qlinks phone to a safelink phone. Why provide a website to help people with their lifeline phones when it seems you’ve grown tired of helping and instead reply with sarcastic comments like “then you should do it,Fred”smh!
Free Government Cell Phones says
For God’s sake, L, we’ve answered this same question patiently and respectfully a thousand times on THIS thread. The title of the article is “How do I switch Lifeline providers?” Do you really think we’re asking too much to expect people to read the freakin’ article. Sometimes even we get exasperated and snap. Like right now. We’re done with you. If you don’t like the way we answer questions, find another website that provides more information than we do about the Lifeline program. Go find another website that interacts with and helps its readers more than we do. What’s that? There is no other website anywhere on the internet that does that? Looks like you’re stuck with FreeGovernmentCellPhones.net.
Danielle Allen says
And who pays you? The government?
Free Government Cell Phones says
No one pays us, Danielle. Certainly no one pays us to take abuse from you.
Danielle Allen says
Call the USAC EXPLAIN TO THEM YOUR SITUATION, THEY’LL MAKE A CALL FOR YOU. THEY DID FOR ME AND I FINALLY GOT A NEW PHONE FREE IS CHARGE.18002349473
Doris Wetzel says
Sent phone back. Need another.
Free Government Cell Phones says
You’ll need to speak to customer service, Doris.
Vickey B says
Unfortunately this hasn’t been the case for me. I have been trying, in vain it seems, to switch to another lifeline service in my area since budget jumped ship. For over a month now I have been without lifeline service because I failed to keep the letter budget sent and Assist Wireless says that my account is “Locked” for the remainder of the year due to me having to wait a full year to switch carriers even though everyone knows that Budget is out of business. I’ve spoken with the 877 number twice now that distributes the funds out for this program and they’ve assured me that all Assist needs to do is a contract switch but Both True Wireless and Assist Wireless says that can’t be done. No one seems to have the correct fix for the situation and there is no one to talk with at Budget to get another letter from them stating such. Any advice?
Free Government Cell Phones says
Very odd, Vickey. It should be a simple process. Try calling those companies again and asking for a supervisor. Maybe someone more knowledgable can help you.
If none of that works, contact the USAC to ask for their help. That’s what they are there for.
Jen says
Although I am extremely thankful for this government service, it is so hard to communicate with the representatives that work for these companies. I have been with QLink for the last year, I was previously enrolled with Safelink. I noticed that Safelink now has the Bring Your Own Smartphone program so I decided to reapply because I have a smartphone just sitting there in a box and it is a huge step up from my broken QLink phone. I have been trying for the last week to cancel my service with QLink so that I can reapply with Safelink because that is what the enrollments rep at Safelink advised I should do. Turns out QLink does not have an actual customer care rep I can speak to. Their whole customer care service is an automated system. I have sent an email in hopes that someone would contact me and no luck yet. Any advice??
deb kaptain says
I’m going through the same thing,,,just try to push all till you get a person
Bridget says
call qlink customer service line and hit the button that says that your phone is lost or stolen. Then there will be a option to button to speak with a customer service representative. I believe it is #9. I just spoke with them because I am wanting to make the switch to safelink as well.
Mary Krug says
Qlink is just a horrible setup. The smartphones and service I received,along with many other people,just don’t work! No service,phone turns on&off,etc,etc,etc!! Customer service?lol. I finally sent an e-mail and said I was reporting them to the BBB….and I did! Good luck all Qlink customers….
Angela Atkins says
They never reply with helpful information. They just give you a number to call, the same number that takes you to an automated menu that you probably already called. Qlink is a constant runaround of frustration and disappointment.
Thomas Krughel says
I was with safelink and switch to assurance wireless because they said they where better in the calling area and you get a free smart phone but the phone was dropping calls and had to much static that you couldn’t here the people talking to you.So i called the assurance wireless they told me there nothing they can do about it so i canceled my phone that i was with for 7 months and told them i can’t call from it.now they want the phone back But can i switch back to safelink because it is there fault.i need a phone 24.7 because i am disabled.
Free Government Cell Phones says
If you have only cell phone service you can switch back after 60 days. If you also have data service as part of your plan, you can only switch once per year.
Yolanda says
How did you switch? Its telling me i have ti wait a year to switch
Free Government Cell Phones says
If you have voice and text service, you can switch 60 days after you enroll. If you also have data service, you can switch one year after you enrolled. Those are the rules of the program, Yolanda. Do you have data as part of your plan? When did you enroll?
Eileen Luna says
Yolanda I was able to switch from Qlink wireless to Safelink today .The government just recently clear their data banks today . Im just waiting for another phone so that i can change that number to the phone # that i want .
Melanie mayes says
I want to switch to safelink from qlink
Free Government Cell Phones says
Do what the article tells you, Melanie.
Anonymous says
Unfortunately, Safelink is not easy to switch as they claim. I found a link that said it was easy to switch and that I had to enroll again. I did it online and the application told me that someone in my household already has a Lifeline benefit. In the end, I can’t switch to Safelink because I cannot apply since I already have a Lifeline service. Is it easier, or more importantly, legal to just cancel my actual service and apply to a new one under the same name? Or should I try to call and have them do the process for me, risking misunderstandings and the same problem I have online? Thank you for your input.
Free Government Cell Phones says
It’s not unusual for this to happen, Anon. It seems that lots of people live in places that used to be occupied by other people who had free government cell phones.
Contact the USAC and ask them how to solve your problem. Call (800) 234-9473 Monday through Friday, 8:00 AM to 8:00 PM ET (press 1 for English or press 2 for Spanish), or send an email.
Monica Hoff says
I recently switched from Assurance Wireless to Q Link Wireless. Big Mistake!! Can I go back to Assurance? If so, how do I do that? I have tried calling QLink but all I get are automated responses but never a “live” Operator!!! I tried emailing but they do not respond. I am at the end of my rope and I need some help.
Free Government Cell Phones says
Unfortunately, Q Link is not the only free government cell phone company that gets complaints on this subject.
If you have only cell phone service, you can switch from one company to another every 60 days. If you have data as part of your plan, you can only switch once every year.
JC says
If I switch to one Lifeline provider to another, I understand I keep my phone number. But will I be treated as a new customer and receive a new phone (e.g. smartphone) and possibly a different plan?
Free Government Cell Phones says
Yes, you should be treated as a new customer and receive a smartphone. You won’t automatically keep your same phone number — you must tell the customer service rep “I want to port over my current phone number.” Say it several times during the call and then confirm that you are keeping that number at the end of the call.
EB says
I tried to transfer to Safelink over the phone today and was told I need to do a whole new application. The operator asked me to verify my information, but was submitting the application at the same time. When she was done, she told me I would have to wait two weeks for a form to be mailed, and then 7-12 days for it to be processed – meaning no phone for most of the upcoming month. A chat at CAlifeline.com confirmed that you need to reapply from scratch when transferring, sending in new paperwork with proof of either government service enrollment or income. CA already has my info so it’s strange that they want to double all that paperwork. My mail is not secure and waiting to switch will be hard because I get so little reception with my current phone. I wish this process were easier and did not involve reapplying.
Free Government Cell Phones says
Think of it as government in action, EB. Incompetence at its finest.
Michael Dowodzenka says
you made the same goofy mistake I did using Safelink. I have been approved and enrolled since 07/17/17 and still do not have service!
james l jowitt jr says
I wish to change phone companys because I m not pleased with there services because my cell phone has been out service since last Friday I have waited long enough this is with californialifeline.com let me know asap when you find a relable service to me thanks james l jowitt jr
Free Government Cell Phones says
Sorry, James, but this is not California Lifeline nor any other Lifeline free government cell phone company. So we cannot help solve your problem. Which company did you enroll with? We’d recommend that you contact California Lifeline to figure out what your next step should be.
Ester White says
I’m with qlinkwireless, since 5/24/2016. I tried calling tech support, but I had to email. They replied due to the problem I’m having, I need to send them $25 for another phone, I didn’t think I had to pay for a phone that I can’t hear and all I asked for is a replacement phone.
Now I want a new phone company that don’t charge for replacement phone.
Free Government Cell Phones says
Here’s where you can find a list of free government cell phone companies offering service in your state:
https://www.freegovernmentcellphones.net/states
And here’s an article that tells you how to switch to a new company. Make sure you read the article and do as it says:
https://www.freegovernmentcellphones.net/faq/how-do-i-switch-lifeline-providers
Raul says
Hi I applied for Safe Wireless 2 days ago and I was approved. When the agent started to put the phone info in his tablet, he was kicked out of my account and couldnt get back in becouse it said account not found. The agent called two different people and wasnt able to do anything. The agent told me to call safe wireless and cancelled the account and he can sign me up again that same day. So i called safe wireless and cancelled the account. I went back the next day to the same agent to sign up again and he then says i have to wait 60 days or call lifeline to see if i can get it waive since i never recieved a phone. So i did and they said i have to fill out an application they sent out in the mail two days ago to get a phone so i gave the agent the phone hoping he can explain the situation and they told him i have to wait 60 days since i have an account open whit no phon?? Makes no sense need help
Free Government Cell Phones says
No, if makes absolutely no sense. But it reemphasizes why we constantly tell our readers NOT to enroll with street vendors.
There’s not much we can do to help you, Raul, except to direct you to this article that tells you how to apply for one of those waivers. Please let us know what happens.
https://www.freegovernmentcellphones.net/faq/how-do-i-switch-lifeline-providers
Jessica says
I would like to switch lifeline companies. I’m very dissatisfied with my current lifeline provider. I’ve been with them for over a year. I like to know of how to switch from one lifeline provider to the next?
Free Government Cell Phones says
C’mon, Jessica, the article at the top of this page tells you everything you need to know. Read it.
Destiny says
What is the number you call to cancel your lifeline phone
Free Government Cell Phones says
Just call 6-1-1 on your free government cell phone. That will connect you to your service provider’s customer service team.
Christy Lynn Babin says
I need to see if I can transfer my qlink account to my new phone??? Please please let me know…. asap at 225-716-****. My phone was stolen and can’t get it back. I work and have a 10 yr old. Like I said I need a damb phone. U can’t get a real person on the phone to talk to. Please call me back as soon as you possibly can thanks
Free Government Cell Phones says
We are not Q Link, Christy, so we cannot transfer your service to another phone. Unfortunately, you need to get in touch with Q Link customer service to make that happen.
Jessica C Poulson says
I know this is a year later and you probably got it taken care of, but just in case:
https://qlinkwireless.com/BYOP.aspx
You can check to see if your phone is compatible with QLink
Terrie Ann Wallace says
I too was a Budget Mobile Customer and have a horror story. I was sent a letter by Budget, first in late April letting me know they were cancelling in May. A few weeks later I received another letter saying they had made a deal with T-Mobile in the South Eastern Idaho area and would be continuing as a provider in my state. This was then followed by another letter in the latter part of May saying they were discontinuing acting as a lifeline provider in Idaho as of the 5th of June which they actually did. After they turned my phone off, I’m not sure whether they port freezed part of the account, or what they did but whenever I apply online it continually says that I am receiving service when I am not, and that I need to wait clear until December 3rd. This is also happening irregardless of having waited a while thinking that perhaps Budget might still be straightening out their records due to having been a lifeline provider in so many states. I have now been using Text Now’s free account although I’m finding it’s only really good for phone texts and twice when I contacted Q-Link to try to obtain service and get the issue dealt with the representative I spoke with would maintain they could not hear me although I was able to hear them well.
I have also contacted Universal Administrative Service Company who said I needed to contact the provider I choose to go with and tell them I need a port freeze exception in order to complete my order and get my issue taken care of. Although I also was finally able to get through to Q-Link today the woman did not know what a port freeze exception was, put me on hold during the conversation then when she found out the meaning of the term came back and informed me that Q-Link is not allowed to put any port freeze exceptions, or over-rides through. I am now also back to trying to find a really good life-line company hopefully in Idaho, or second choice would be nearby of course- to obtain service through.
Free Government Cell Phones says
We’re always amazed by our readers’ stories about service rep incompetence. If we were you, we would call Q Link customer service again and ask to speak to a supervisor. Ask for that exception again. This should be a simple problem to clear up IF you can find a competent customer service rep.
Free Government Cell Phones says
Free government cell phones are also availalbe in Idaho from enTouch and Assurance. We’ve always had a great relationship with enTouch and they do a great job responding to reader problems here at FreeGovernmentCellPhones.net. You might want to post another comment on our enTouch page. Chad from enTouch monitors reader comments on that page and always responds with a helpful answer.
John Phoenix says
I found this topic really interesting so I looked up what a Port Freeze Exception was. Truconnect has a good article on it here: http://www.truconnect.com/blog/lifeline-free-phone-port-freeze/
In a nutshell, if you have a plan with voice only, you can normally only transfer to another Lifeline service provider once every 60 days. If you plan includes data you must stay with your provider for a year before you can transfer to another provider. However, you can get an Exception called a Port Freeze Exception for the following reasons (I will quote) :
“Customer moves and changes their residential address
Current Lifeline service provider ceases operations or otherwise fails to provide service
Current Lifeline service provider is found to be in violation of the FCC’s rules during the benefit year and the subscriber is impacted by such violation
Late fees billed by the Lifeline service provider meet or exceed the month end user charge for the supported Lifeline phone service.
In any of the above circumstances, Lifeline subscribers may cancel service and receive a new Lifeline-supported service with another provider until the end of the original 12-month period. In these circumstances, the subscriber is not required to re-verify eligibility until the end of the original 12-month period. Requests for exception are reviewed on a case by case basis by USAC.” – http://www.usac.org/default.aspx
Important to Note: “or otherwise fails to provide service” – People who have trouble with bad customer service or phones not being sent or phones not being activated by unscrupulous providers, can use this to get a Freeze Port Exception to get away from a bad provider quickly without having to wait 60 days or a year.
Thank you guys Terrie Ann and FGCP for your great comment and reply. More people should know about this important exception.
Melissa R. says
Is there a cellular service provider in L.A. County that TRULY offers Unlimited Talk and Text? I have Safetynet Wireless which offers 1500 minutes a month (25 hours a month). That is less than an hour of talk time per day, including incoming calls and voicemail, that is less than an hour each day of total voice time. That is far from Unlimited! I have many responsibilities and I have to deal with many government and medical agencies, I am a student, a parent, a patient, a custodian, and more. Needless to say I rarely have a month when my service is not interrupted. Today I need to call to schedule an ultrasound on an 800 number, I somehow have to find an ever increasingly rare working payphone to do this. I am ill, yet will have to go out in triple digit heat (no car) and try to accomplish this (and other calls) because minutes will not replenish for another 4 days. My income is not adequate to afford my old Boost plan (though it is very reasonable at $35 per month for truly Unlimited talk and text). The company offers the following:
Refill Options
$10.00 – 250 Minutes/Texts $20.00 – 550 Minutes/Texts $30.00 – 850 Minutes/Texts
$50.00 – 1800 Minutes/Texts $5.00 – 100 Minutes/Texts
That is more expensive than Boost, Metro PCS or Virgin! How is this a discount for low income/aged/disabled/homeless/vulnerable populations ????
IF ANYONE KNOWS A TRULY UNLIMITED LIFELINE SERVICE, PLEASE, PLEASE POST!
Melissa R. says
P.s. and what about when Job Seeking?!
Free Government Cell Phones says
That’s one of the primary reasons the Lifeline Assistance program was established, Melissa.
Free Government Cell Phones says
All you need to do is look at our California listing and you’ll find a number of Lifeline companies that offer unlimited minutes and texts, Melissa. Here’s where you (and anyone else) can find the plans available in your (or their) state:
https://www.freegovernmentcellphones.net/states
Rhonda R. says
Melissa, I live in Los Angeles and have Assurance Wireless Lifeline.
Unlimited talk, text and 500 MB data per month. Plus the smartphone
Is not bad either. This provider is perfect 4 u 🙂
Maravic De Jesus says
I used to have American assistance free android phone, but I lost it 3 months ago. I was calling the costumer service number to report and cancel my plans at the same time but never answer at all. That’s the reason why I am cancelling their service first they never answer their hotline no., second the phone easily die you have to plug it all the time, but I do want to thank even though the service isn’t good at least I did have something to use for emergency calls, and it’s free so I don’t have worries to pay. My point/ concern is to cancel my plan to American Assistance.
Steve says
When it comes to being with a provider for a year because of internet connection, when does that year start? My application to Q-Link was accepted at the end of August but I didn’t get the phone until a month later. I want to switch back to Safelink because Q-Link reception is terrible where I live and all I want is a flip phone, not a smart phone.
Free Government Cell Phones says
Unfortunately, your one year started on the date of your enrollment. Not fair, we know, but that’s how the system works. If you want a basic flip phone, you should discuss it with Safelink customer service BEFORE you switch companies and enroll. The new rules of the program require that all new customers be given smartphones, so you may need to get some sort of exemption to make that happen.
Domingo says
Can transfer a Universal Service Administrative Company (free government issued phone number) to a paid cell phone service provider like Boost Mobile, Metro PCS, Sprint etc… And be able keep the lifeline issued number?
Free Government Cell Phones says
Yes. You just need to make sure that you tell the customer service rep that you want to “port over my current phone number.” Say it repeatedly during the conversation and confirm that it has been done before you end your conversation.
Marcia Pasthing says
Please CANCEL MY Q LINK SERVICE IT HAS NO RECEPTION AT 44644
Free Government Cell Phones says
We cannot cancel your Q Link service, Marcia, for the simple reason that we are NOT Q Link. This is an independent informational website. You’ll need to contact Q Link.
Marcia Pasthing says
Thank you I see.that after researching. U surely hope to get help by the 15th. U have many medical problems and expenses coming and trying to cut.budget to bones. Thanks for good website and info m pasthing. U get ZERO reception on q link Safelink works good here.but.im not getting far
Free Government Cell Phones says
Thanks for the kind words, Marcia. Just keep trying. Eventually you’ll reach someone in customer service who can help.
Jerry G says
Has anyone else encountered insurmountable difficulties trying to activate their Assurance cell phone? My first phone locked up, could not set it up, second one furnished a non working number, and I cannot communicate with Assurance without a phone number. Extremely frustrated.
Free Government Cell Phones says
Readers?
Kriss says
Not only have I had this issue with Assurance I have had to call 3 times over this last month because of a bare basic phone (not even a flip phone no camera etc) that I just got in May. First call after I had done a reset through phone menu which did not work, I went through all the codes and steps they require with no results. They stated they had to send a ticket for tech support (thought that was who they were) and would take 3 days. Also was told I would be compensated for the days not able to use the phone (it is a free phone?) After 5 days I hadn’t heard anything so called again. Had to go through everything again.. First time I asked for a supervisor was put on hold, (yet I heard him breathing in the phone) the guy came back and claimed no one was available and tried to do the same things again. I again asked for the supervisor and he tried to claim he couldn’t get any… I promptly informed him that was bull and I had heard him breathing-which he never denied. He then pretended again to locate one of course with no luck. Of course he attempts again to do more of the same. the third time he finally said he would have one call me. By the end he assured me it would be with in the hour. About 2 weeks later (today) I again called and from the first person in customer service I explained the bs she told me that the phone was still under warranty, and sent me to tech support. The woman in tech support listened to my story and stated I would be getting a new one in 7-10 days! I asked about the first call’s promise of compensation and attitude started. Went on to wrong address when she was confirming my address (changed in the first call almost a month ago?) Anyway this was the last straw with this company and I am trying to find another one which brought me back to this site.They have the absolute worst customer service ever. It will be a month on the 6th and I can’t even access my email account or any accounts that need to send me a text for more secure sign in. I am filing complaints with all agencies I can
Free Government Cell Phones says
Terrible story, Kriss. If you want to file a complaint, here’s an article that tells you how to do and to whom you should complain — complete with all contact info.
Jackie says
My husband is having the same problem. His phone is froze up!! Don’t have a number to contact them. These phones sound like a lot of trouble! They are good-looking phones too bad they don’t work!!
Sincerely
Jackie
corey boettcher says
qlink said i have to be with them a year, i dont know how to get by this or switch , no signal in the town i live, also many dropped calls
Free Government Cell Phones says
Do you have internet as part of your Q Link plan? If so, they are correct that you must stay with them for a year, no matter what. If your plan does not include internet, you are free to switch service providers after 60 days.
Carmen says
I have been with safe link for several years. My service has been deactivated for more than 4 months because I can’t afford to buy another phone. I tried going with another company and they won’t release and says it is because of fcc regulations. I am very upset that I have to forego my benefits because I can’t switch to another company. Any suggestions?
Free Government Cell Phones says
If you’ve been with Safelink for more than 60 days, you should be accepted by any other Lifeline company. If you have internet as part of your plan, you should be accepted if you’ve been with Safelink for one year. In other words, based on what you told us you are 100% eligible to switch companies. There must be more to the story.
Jerry Pufg says
At the moment,I’m stuck with a qlink phone that is the total pits.
It wont connect to the internet.
It won’t prosecute my apps.
All it does is make phone calls. sometimes.
I don’t want them to send me another LEMON.
I want a perminant DIVORCE.
I’ve notified them of my wishes electronically AND by Snale Mail.
And; NO! I have NOT damaged the phone in any shape, for or fashion.
A little assistance,PLEASE?
Free Government Cell Phones says
Not much we can do, Jerry, because you’re already taking all the right steps. One question: Have you been with Q Link for a full year? If not, you will run into a problem because you can only switch service provider’s after a full year of service.
jack wennstrom says
but how do i switch providers?
Free Government Cell Phones says
Here are the specifics, Jack:
https://www.freegovernmentcellphones.net/how-to-i-switch-lifeline-phone-companies
Vicki Zagone says
I am currently with budget for my emergency cell phone. I went by two of there locations yesterday only to find out they are out of business. How can I get another phone thru another carrier? When I try it shows I already have an account.
Please help. I need a phone.
Free Government Cell Phones says
This is not an uncommon problem for former Budget customers, Vicki. It should be relatively easy to solve (we hope). Choose a new plan you want to go with. You can find all the plans available in your state at this link:
https://www.freegovernmentcellphones.net/states
After you choose a company, contact its customer service team. Ask to speak to a supervisor. Explain that you are a former Budget customer and that you want to clear up the error on the National Lifeline Assistance Database (NLAD). The supervisor should be aware of this issue and should be able to solve your problem. (We’ll keep our fingers crossed.)
Renee Watkins says
I have had my phone for awhile . Since i first got it my vision has gone bad and i cant see the small numbers . Can i get a phone with larger numbers ?
Free Government Cell Phones says
Here’s an article that covers the vision-speech-hearing impaired policies of each of the major Lifeline companies:
https://www.freegovernmentcellphones.net/government-cell-phones-hearing-vision-speech-impaired
tvas says
what provider do u have?
Telicia Lewis says
Does any have any info on porting a qlink number
Free Government Cell Phones says
Porting a number to or from Q Link?
Bflo. Tank says
I have fought with SAFE-LINK wireless for over 2 months for a new phone that ONLY LASTED 2 WEEKS. The phone stopped working, it kept DISPLAYING ” MESSAGE BLOCKING ACTIVE”. Well I tried calling them to resole the problems to NO AVAIL. I was on the phone with them for 3 HOURS at a time! I was told that the phone HAD A VIRUS IN IT and IF THEY couldn’t resolve the problems that they would REPLACE MY PHONE. A month later when I called safe-link back they stated to me that THEY ARE NO LONGER replacing phones from their WEB-SITE & BRING YOUR OWN PHONE PROGRAM. Well they told me that if I wanted another phone that I would have to ORDER IT FROM THEIR WEB-SITE. A month later I ordered a NEW PHONE and can you believe they sent me A USED PHONE SOMEONE ELSE HAD ALREADY. It was sent in a TAN ENVELOPE!!!!!
christine says
safelink has give me the run around over a phone that has stopped ringing incoming calls and the texts are showing up days later. i decided to switch companies and desperately trying to transfer my phone from safelink to assurance and am getting the run around. i have tried to apply but it wont go through, was told computer glitch so sent an application from assurance, the application is simple but before signing you have to initial boxes and i cant seeing as i have safelink and it asks if i know i have another lifeline service. anyway after waiting for 30 minutes and clicking various buttons i was able to reach customer service which was very bad, told due to rules i had to have it a year before i could transfer benefits or i could cancel and apply in two months. this is all very upsetting, i read the fcc rule she was referring to and it speaks of landline and internet service, i have neither from safelink. any help or advice would be appreciated
Free Government Cell Phones says
The customer service agent told you the truth, Christine. You rule used to be that you could cancel and switch service providers every 60 days. But as of late last year that was changed and you must now stay with your service provider for 12 months before switching.
Shale says
Does this apply if the company you’re stuck with doesn’t cover your area? I live in the country and was told they covered our area. Tried all of their carriers with no success. But now I’m not allowed to transfer to the one carrier that works out here, AT&T. So the whole point of having a life line is useless to me where I live. I couldn’t even transfer it back to our old landline. So now we pay $40 a month for our landline and still have no emergency cell phone. I totally understand the reason for this change, but there has to be some kind of exception if the provider is unable to fulfill their end of the contract.
Free Government Cell Phones says
Unfortunately, we are unaware of any exceptions to the rule, Shale. And your problem is even worse if AT&T is the only company with a signal in your area, because AT&T does not participate in the free government cell phone program.
Rick says
Not likely to actually print a TRUE statement of how horribly ineffective THIS site is as well as all the companies that contract . THEY get their money & provide **** service…. BUt you won’t PRINT THAT… but it’s the truth & YOU KNOW IT… but like it or NOT… you don’t give a shit either or they’ll fire your ass too… admit it… NOBODY really give a ****… just pass the buck , cancel the email, drop the call.. just DON”T deal with it>
You’re all just moochers… taking money for a job you don’t even DO.
WTF … America is pretty f****d now… Our govt makes contracts with companies who are buddies of the gov’t officials and they’re making big bucks & f*****g over all of us regular workers…
THIS SERVICE SUCKS TOO>>> and No I don’t expect you to print this… have a good life… keep in mind… KARMA DOES come back… Keep doing THIS **** & you’ll see how f***** up YOUR life will be SOMEWHERE..
Good LUck you NEEEED it… You don’t actually DO anything in your job & you KNOW it… PLACATING comments that DO nothing to really help people get the service they are TOLD they WILL receive… Yeah… bull ****
Wasted enough time with you a******* too. At least with T mobile I could call into tech support & ALWAYS had a REAL PERSON & if things didn’t work out I”d ask for a credit for poor service & guess what… they’d admit their inefficiency & credit… THESE a****** wipe companies have NOTHING TO LOSE>.. they’re getting paid by their relative/govt officials in contracts that are for s***.
Free Government Cell Phones says
Did someone get up on the wrong side of the bed this morning, Rick?
Zach says
You are so right they gave me the same BS I trusted this site which is beyond worthless they wont even edit it so you know you cant switch every 60 days anymore you are stuck for a year i switched now I have NO phone this site was the worst thing I have found on the net in 30 years
Free Government Cell Phones says
Damn, we’re horrible.
Rick says
After reviewing all the RESPONSES about customer complaints… THIS site is obviously very ineffective as well… comments like BAD STORY just don’t cut it… THIS idea of the govt contracting with companies & then the companies NOT providing service in MANY ways… I have Q LINK & you can NEVER EVER talk to a person.. Sent an email 2 WEEKS AGO that my phone isn’t charging & they send a response saying CALL technical support and be SURE YOUR PHONE IS CHARGED… OBVIOUSLY nobody really gives a ****.. yeah… NOBODY.> These free gov’t phone plans are a waste… absolutely HORRENDOUS phone service and NO customer service & the GOV”T obviously doesn’t give a shit either… woooopeee our tax dollars at work.
To tell me to wait 3-5 BUSINESS days for a reply when I am a senior with only ONE phone that is now not working… SHOULD be grounds to cancel that company’s gov’t contract… If I drop dead because I can’t call for medical assistance nobody will apparently give a flying FUCK ..
This is a a waste… GOVT programs are for ****…just look at all the complaints.. and we’re told to get another company… PASSING THE BUCK… They ALL suck … THIS ONE TOO>
Roger L. Carson Jr. says
after following your suggestion to contact the FCC this is what happened I called them to complain about my issue it is apparent that this government agency is under funded because when I asked to make a complaint I was switched to a voice message that said it would be faster if I made the complaint I was directed to a web site and also told that if I would like to speak to some one I was to hit the zero button and when I did they hung up on me so sorry that’s a waste of time and then when I tried to contact the usac I found that the number had been disconnected and not given a new number so another waste of time the only option that you gave me that I was connected to and was able to make a complaint was the BBB now I know that our gov agency’s tend to be ineffective but this just seems to be a waste of time and will not get me any help with my complaint and I still am left with a phone that does not work like it should and my only option is to pay the twenty five dollars that the service provider wants and I feel very disappointed that as a consumer I am left with a defective phone and no other option but to pay for another defective phone this is not how it’s supposed to work. Roger L. Carson Jr.
Free Government Cell Phones says
Bad story, Roger. That must have been incredibly frustrating. Chalk it up as another example of the government in action.
Roger L. Carson Jr. says
Think twice before you chose budget mobile IO have been a lifeline customer for over two years with budget in dec of last year my old stupid phone that they had provided died and they sent me a new phone which is a nice droidx phone my first smart phone and it took a while to learn but I managed and they had replaced the phone with no charge but I had no phone for about two weeks till I received the new phone in jan everything was fine till last monday when I went to check my messages and took my phone off of the charger and noticed that my screen had what appeared to be a large burn mark right down the middle of the screen nothing had happened to the phone it had looked fine the night before I.E. no burn mark on the screen so I called my provider and asked if they were having any other problems with this phone and was told no so I asked what my options were and was told that they only backed the phone for 30 days only and if I needed a replacement phone that it would cost me $25.00 dollars of which I don’t have,now I have only had this phone for less then four months and each day it seems that the screen keeps getting worse till now a week later I am having problems even seeing my txt messages it seems to me that the phone has a defect and has become unusable and budget refuses to replace the phone and I can’t afford the $25.00 dollars they say I have to pay for a new phone which they just replaced in jan and already broke I am sorry but Motorola says they replace their phone for free if it breaks within the first year and budget only gives you thirty days I ask you does this sound like a company you want as your provider because I no longer do and I am sitting here with a phone that I can only see part of the screen and my provider who supplied the phone refuses to do any thing to help me with out being paided for it or me finding a verizon phone that has been turn off for thirty days so I ask you to think twice about using this company to be your life line provider based on how they have handled this problem which has left me with a very bad taste in my mouth and made have to search for a new provider who stands behind their service and product like a company should. Sincerely Roger L. Carson Jr. disabled vet.
Stacy says
I like to Transfer my Account to budgetmobile
Free Government Cell Phones says
Do it, Stacy. Just follow the directions in the article.
Lisa Kelsch says
Don’t do it!!! I have to switch providers as of May because they are no longer providing service as of May 31st! So frustrating and they told me in a text message, of all things!!
Free Government Cell Phones says
Who is your service provider, Lisa?
Astrid says
I have an at&t landline phone with California lifeline now. But I want to get a cell phone from assurance. I called assurance wireless to ask for a transfer, but they told me that they would mail me a new Lifeline application form, and I have to cancel the lifeline benefit with at&t before I submitted the new form to California lifeline. I’m so confused of the whole process.
Free Government Cell Phones says
They have described the process perfectly, Astrid. Unfortunately, it may mean that you must go without phone service between the cancellation and the time your new cell phone arrives. This is what happens when government bureaucrats design a program.
Ann says
I had Budget Mobile here in Souh Western Pa.
Last June, Budget transferred my account to Safelink Wireless without my knowledge. I kept receiving airtime throughout so I never questioned my provider would have changed. Not til the year old cheap Budget free phone broke – did u even find out someone switched me to Safelink.
They won’t send me a replacement phone, let alone a smartphone or any phone with a keyboard at least.
I even called Safelink again today as I cannot use the phone due do ‘sim card puk error’. They will not send me a phone …they’re sending out a new sim card.
…sigh…
Called Feel Safe Wireless. They stated to me Pennsylvania has a port freeze right now and I cannot switch. Blah blah blah.
Then I read this blog page.
And I called FeelSafe Wireless BACK and stated -.
” and what about the Benefit Transfer Laws?
And the Feelsafe representative began babble again.
Is there any way I can switch under the new rules to finally receive a new phone? I’ll even take a refurbished smart phone!
Notes–
Budget 2015- received cheap phone.
June 2016 –
Someone somewhere decided to transfer my account to Safelink
Without knowledge and consent.
.
April 2017 – still with a broken phone. Not a smartphone. I do receive data and txt after three calls to Safelink for un-received benefits. Although, the Data/internet access has never been used because you can’t from the phone. at all. ever. And I can’t even call or txt now for 3 1/2 weeks.
I give up .
Any suggestions ?
Thanks.
Free Government Cell Phones says
You have a lot of free government cell phone choices in Pennsylvania, Ann. We’d suggest that it’s time to contact some of the other companies (or at least look at their plans to see if you can come up with something better than what you currently have). Here’s where you can find all the service providers in your state:
https://www.freegovernmentcellphones.net/states
We can’t tell you what’s going on with Feel Safe, because all free government cell phone companies are supposed to offer smartphones to new customers.
carrie says
thank you
Carla in PA says
Have been with Assurance ongoing for approx. 3 years. Oddly, my service renewed/recertified this year, in Feb. 2017, without my input or notification. Question: Do I have to wait to change Lifeline providers? If so, for how long?
I have already chosen a provider who has a BYOD/BYOP (bring your own device/phone) policy, that will meet my needs. I am also interested in “porting” my Assurance phone number to the new provider.
Your reply would be appreciated.
Free Government Cell Phones says
We’ve had several reports recently from readers who say they were automatically re-certified. If you want to switch service providers, you must stay with your current provider for a full 12 months. But since you say you did not recertify, you should contact customer service and ask to speak to a supervisor. Feel free to threaten to report the company to the FCC, USAC and Better Business Bureau for automatically recertifying you.
Carolyn Parker says
OK so I’ve had Qlink wireless for about 2yrs and absolutely loved everything about the services abit the ghetto phones but $25 to upgrade to less ghetto isn’t bad. However, trying to contact customer service is impossible!!! Over 10 email, Facebook post, and messenger provides me with the exact same response to call them. You now because it makes so much sense for me to call them and talk to someone about not being able to get out of menu prompt hell. So my question ………any tips to reach a human because my original concern has no menu option and trust me I’ve spent hours going though them. Thanks
Free Government Cell Phones says
We’re out of ideas on this one, Carolyn. It seems to be an increasingly frustrating event for many of our readers. Does anyone have any ideas for Carolyn?
Brian pugh says
How do I switch from q link to safelink service ? I’ve had my phone for nearly two months and can’t use it where I live
Free Government Cell Phones says
The new rules of the free government cell phone program require that you stay with your current provider for one full year, Brian. Sorry.
jolene summers says
I had been using Budget ut then entouch took them over I never got a notice of this but then found my minutes would run out quicker & my text messages dropped to hardly none. I went to complain & found out then it had changed over. I had bought additional minutes with entouch while I searched another carrier. Entouch just completely shut me down & I didnt get to use up what I had bought & didnt get a notice it was happening. So in mean time I was waiting on Tag to see if my contract was approved without having a phone. So about 2 weeks later I get notified Tag wont work in my area. So I tried to change to safelink to only find out that I cant get a phone till 2017..So I called USAC to find that Tag had a HOLD on me & I would need to contact them to remove me. This went on for days then Tag said they removed the HOLD. So tried safelink again to find out I still couldnt get a phone. I called USAC back again to find there is now a FREEZE on me..what???? That I needed to call Tag back & ask them to remove me. The rep. couldnt understand why herself and asked if I had received my phone from them I told her no because they cancelled the contract as it wouldnt work in my area. She said that was odd not receiving phone but having a freeze on me wasnt right. I called Tag back & argued with them saying I had to remove the FREEZE not them. I never got a phone so it was on them to remove me….they came back & said they removed me. LOL….after many headaches I tried safelink again.still cant sign up because of all of this. I have had numerous heart attacks & now been without a phone for a month due to the scamming of a few of these lifeline companies. I will be filing complaints with the state commission as I did on entouch with BBB.
Free Government Cell Phones says
You go, girl.
ali says
Hello !
I received my phone from qlinkwireless on Feb 21,2017, this is the first time i use this benefit, it was a very bad and useless zte n817 -no front camera ,always stop responding apps …-.so i returned phone to them and my service was cancelled on Mar 3 ,after that i tried to apply on safelinkwireless but the web page says: according to NLAD records you must wait for one year not 60 days ! what can i do ?
thank you
Free Government Cell Phones says
Unfortunately, Ali, you are out of luck until that one year period expires. Sorry you didn’t know that rule before you cancelled your account. What you (and other readers) should do is attempt to get a replacement phone instead of cancelling your account.
james taylor says
not satisfied withe assurance. even bought upgrade. 2 yrs now. did not go back to safelink because of possible losing service fo 2 months as told every time i have called to try to switch back, even though i read online safelink site that they do switch automatically. eventually i gave up. wasnt keen on safelink anyway. but its been major dilemma all along. extreme frustration. losing calls all the time. up to 3 day delays on received voicemail and texts. customer support is very poor. so i am very interested in trying access. but how do i work it out
Free Government Cell Phones says
Did you read the article, James? It provides the info you need.
john says
Safelink says they will not take me on because I am already enrolled and they say they are Unable to until 12/8/17. From what I read here that cannot be true cause I am well beyond the 60day mark is that correct?
Free Government Cell Phones says
Unfortunately, John, the rules of the program were changed as of December 2, 2016. You must now stay with your service provider for one full year, not the 30 or 60 days that was the rule in the past.
Kenneth Banner says
My free cell phone is not doing me any good because I have to drive 20 miles in any direction to get a signal.
There should be some way to fix this.
The cell phone provider witch is Assurance Wireless knew that I could not get a signal they signed me up anyway.
What can I do?
Free Government Cell Phones says
You are stuck in your contract for a year, Kenneth. Only when that year expires can you switch to another service provider.
Kenneth Banner says
The rule one year don’t make senses if you cannot use the phone.
Free Government Cell Phones says
You’ll get no argument from us, Kenneth.
Benton Bauer says
This whole article says that you can transfer service after 60 days. Is that information incorrect? I’m trying to transfer service and they are saying I have to wait 1 year, while the other company just says I have to cancel service and restart it through them.
Free Government Cell Phones says
The rules changed as of December 2, 2016. The new rules say you can only switch service providers once per year.
Zach says
If the rules say that then why didn’t you change the article my wife and I changed our provider from safelink to qlink on the advice of this STUPID USELESS website that we could switch every 60 days. Now we can’t get service at all anywhere we have been in a 30 miles radios. Thanks a lot for ruining my phone plan this website should be wiped from the net. You are actively participating in ruining peoples plans. Thanks a lot now if I am broke down on the side of the road I am completely screw,
Free Government Cell Phones says
Sorry you didn’t read any of our newer articles, Zach.
Zach says
They say sorry I didn’t read any new article but which ones come up when you search these questions these/ THIS IS THE WORST SITE ON THE NET. Give nothing but outdated lies that will ruin what you have// Shame on you admins tell me I should have read updated…. shame shame you have cost me many dollars already because I have now phone and know money some of us cant run scam sites that get people to switch with invalid info from years ago then post smart aleck messages. Shame on you guys this is so sad and we are stuck with nothing because of YOU and YOU alone. DO NOT TRUST THE INFO HERE PEOPLE DO NOT I BEG YOU
Free Government Cell Phones says
Hey, we’re the worst site on the internet. Do we get a brass plaque or some cool trophy like the Stanley Cup?
bill h says
hello today i bought a trackphone from samsung i had assurance wireless called them just really bad customer service told them i no longer want the goverment to pay for my phone. Right now i am on a pay per min. plan with them. who do i contact to cancel my goverment service and kept my old phone number and pay for it myself
Free Government Cell Phones says
You can call your free government cell phone company’s customer service team or you can turn your phone off and not use it for 30 days and your account will be automatically canceled.
April says
That is not true I told Qlink to cancel my service 5 months ago even turn off the phone and removed the battery and yet the phone to my surprise is still on. So that whole not use your phone for 30 day thing is a bunch of crap. I even ignored the recertification letters they sent me 4 mo ago saying I had 15 days to submit my eligibility Paperwork or my service will shut off. Yet I’ll say it again my phone is still on 5 months of not using it.
Free Government Cell Phones says
If that’s the case, Q Link is in violation of the Lifeline program regulations.
Johnn Muller says
At what point in the process of changing companies is it too late to back out? I haven’t yet received a phone, and my current service with assurance wireless is still active.
Free Government Cell Phones says
It’s too late once you submit an application to the second company.
Johnn Muller says
Then, what is the best way to cancel with them and become free to choose another company?
Am I now bound by the 60 days of service rule?
Johnn Muller says
I hadn’t read your reply to the gentleman below. So, is this true? Am I stuck for the full year?
Last question!
Free Government Cell Phones says
Yes. As of December 2, 2016 the Lifeline rules were changed. In the past you could switch service providers after 60 days, but the waiting period is now one full year.
JMIGNYC says
ALL FINE AND DANDY….NOTHING IS MENTIONED ABOUT “HOW TO CHANGE PROVIDERS”. SO WHAT SAY YOU?
ALSO NOTHING IS MENTIONED ABOUT COMPLAINT ABOUT YOUR CURRENT PROVIDER, ACCESS WIRELESS FOR INSTANCE. I’M CONFIDENT THAT THIS AGENCY THAT WATCHES OVER THE LIFELINE PROGRAM CONDONES THIS PROVIDERS CUST SERVICE TECHNIQUES, OR DOES IT.
YOUR IMMEDIATE ATTENTION IS REQUESTED.
JMIGLIORE
Free Government Cell Phones says
Yes, sir! Please let us jump to attention and do your bidding, Mr. Migliore. We’ve just been sitting here waiting for you to give us a command, because we are your humble servants, oh Lord and Master.
Read the damn article. It’s an older one so the 60 days period mentioned in the article has now been changed. You must now wait one full year before you can switch service providers.
Mare says
Hi I have a question I had link wireless and didn’t like it so I cancelled it and tried to sign up for assurance and it said I couldn’t till DEC 2017. Why?
Free Government Cell Phones says
When did you cancel your Lifeline service, Mare? New regulations that went into effect on December 2, 2016 say that you can only switch service providers once every twelve months.
JMIGLIORE says
SO WHAT ARE WE OR ANYONE TO DO….JUST SUFFER ALONG WITH THE LESS THAN BELOW SERVICE AND WING IT WHILE THEY CONTINUE TO GET PAID. ANOTHER EXAMPLE OF FLEECING IN AMERICA. THAT SAID I’M NOT EVEN GONNA WAIT FOR AN AGENCY RESPONSE, THIS NEEDS TO BE ADDRESS TO THE NEXT LEVEL.
A BAFFLED DISGUSTED UNSATISFIED CONSUMER,
JMIGLIORE
Alexander Chancelor says
I have a current MetroPCS account that I don’t plan on renewing. Can I port over my MetroPCS phone number and have it replace my current CA Lifeline phone number from my Lifeline provider (TagMobile)?
Free Government Cell Phones says
It all depends on the make and model of your phone, Alexander. Not all cell phones are compatible with all cell phone networks. The only way to get an accurate answer to your question is to contact Tag Mobile’s customer service or tech support team.
Marita gale Gross says
How do I find out who my lifeline wireless co is. my name Marita gross. my old phone no is 513 433 ****. my phone was lost or stolen. I want to cancel out my old provider with phone no 513 433 ****
Free Government Cell Phones says
If you don’t have your free government cell phone and don’t know who your service provider was, you’ll need to do a little detective work, Marita. Go to our “States” page (link below) and look up your state. You’ll find a list of all the companies offering Lifeline free government cell phones in your state. Unfortunately, the only way to get the info you need is to start at the top of the list and contact each company until you find the one that was your service provider. Here’s that link:
https://www.freegovernmentcellphones.net/states
B Alan says
You can call the Lifeline administrator for your State and they will be able to tell you which company company you have. In California it’s the California Lifeline Administrator, with offices located in both Sacramento & SF
Carlania Leday says
Cancel services
Free Government Cell Phones says
C’mon, Joanne, even if we were your service provider instead of an independent website, don’t you think we’d need more information than your name in order to cancel your service?
jim rollings says
i am a wireless lifeline owner from free govment pohe i would like to know to cancell my phone that is shut off now
Free Government Cell Phones says
Did you shut it off or did your service provider cancel your service? The best way to cancel your service is to contact your service provider’s customer service team and ask for service termination. The other way is to make sure no calls or texts are sent or received for 30 days. The new rules of the program require service providers to terminate your phone is inactive for 30 days.
Damian says
I had just received service from Assurance wireless(virgin mobile) 65 days ago. I was told I was told this past Friday I was ineligible for service and cancelled. They removed my number and told I was removed from their system. I got my food stamp benefits updated today and there was a Access wireless so I went there and applied for a phone immediately. The guy showed me the NLAD message saying one service every 12 months and that I have service through Assurance wireless. Once NLAD gets the updated information that I am no longer with them. Will I be eligible to sign up with Access wireless? Do you know how long it takes for the information to be transferred so that I can go back to the Access Wireless Kiosk at my Department of Economic Services location. I live in Mesa, Arizona. I have no phone and really am in need. I am hoping someone who might know the process will respond to this asap and let me know. Thank you very much!
Free Government Cell Phones says
You’ve stumped us, Damian. We actually do not know what happens in a situation like yours. The rules just changed in December and we just don’t know the answer. One problem you may run into, though, is that Access and Assurance have merged, so getting canceled by one may turned out to be the same as the other.
Damian says
I’m going to email the nlad people and see what they say. Basically I am an eligible recipient for a lifeline benefit and really need a phone for emergencies and also for job opportunities to get in touch with me. I am hoping this situation has been brainstormed. If anyone has any idea and can help I would greatly appreciate it. I called Access Wireless and they told me ‘ they show me eligible for a phone with them ‘ so maybe I have to go through the online process. It is strange that they see that but the field rep for them does not and gets that rejection message. Thank you very much for your help!!!
Free Government Cell Phones says
Yeah, we have to agree that it’s a very odd situation, Damian. Please come back to CheapInternet.com and tell us (and our readers) what happens. We’d all be interested in knowing.
Damian says
Will do.
Susan Myers says
I want to switch cell phone companies and get a new phone but keep my number
Free Government Cell Phones says
Keeping your number is no problem, Susan. Just tell customer service at your new company that you want to “port over my current phone number.”
Lilia says
I have been with Assurance wireless since 2013 when I was first approved by California Lifeline. And I just had my receritification in October 2016. I want to switch to another provider and this is Tab Mobile. Tag Mobile wants me to fill up an application and submit proof of my government subsidies. Can they not just call Assurance wireless and port my phone number to them since I have just been recertified? I think Tag Mobile is doing this to those CA Lifeline customers who want to switch over to them. Can you please tell me if this is the right way?
Free Government Cell Phones says
There’s one big problem you do not seem to be aware of, Lilia. As of December 2, 2016 you can only switch Lifeline service providers once every twelve months. You will probably be required to stay with Assurance until October 2017.
Jessica says
I currently have a phone through safelink its a tracfone. I was wondering what I would have to do to get my provider switched to a different one like pure gsm? After i run out if my 350 minutes i bought a phone card to be able to call my doctors and it was 30$ for 120 minutes and pure gsm hss better deals in extra phone time. I cant afford all if that having 2 kids and another on the way in a week especially being a singke mother. If anyone could help me that would be great! Sorry for the long post
Free Government Cell Phones says
Yes, if you’ve had your free government cell phone for a year, you can switch to any other Lifeline company in your state, Jessica. Here’s an article that tells you more about it:
https://www.freegovernmentcellphones.net/faq/how-do-i-switch-lifeline-providers
And here’s where you can find a complete list of service providers in your state. Check them all out carefully to make sure you find a plan with the most minutes/texts/data, etc.
https://www.freegovernmentcellphones.net/states
Kay says
How do you recommend talking to a vendor that has tried to pull the “Cancel your old service first, then we can help you.” bs concerning benefits transfer? I called to switch to a new provider, and they wouldn’t allow me to transfer benefits over the phone. They wanted me to contact my current provider (Assurance) to cancel my lifeline service and THEN fill out an application with them (Qlink). This renders me without a phone for at least two weeks while waiting for the application to be approved and the new phone to ship. What language do you recommend I use to make them understand that I know they’re not allowed to give me that advice? I don’t care about keeping my old number. I just want a better phone, as my free phone from Assurance only works sporadically. Thanks.
Lisa Vanalstine says
Do i send safelink phone back to them
Free Government Cell Phones says
If they ask for it back.
Mackster says
Thank you for the info. I am afraid to transfer to another cell phone company because i would like to keep my same number but Customer service are so terrible in transferring. Help!!!!
Free Government Cell Phones says
Keeping your current phone number shouldn’t be a problem, Mackster. Just make sure you tell the service rep that “I want to port over my current phone number” during your initial contact.
Ashley says
I want to switch from Assurance to Safelink, but before I go through with calling to make the switch, I need to know if I will have a lapse in cell service while waiting on a new phone from Safelink, or can I continue to use my Assurance phone until I receive my Safelink phone. My reason for asking is I am single mother of 3 and this phone is my only way of making and receiving calls. My youngest has been very sick lately and I have been needed to communicate with his doctors more frequently, and a lapse in service could impact his health/medical care. Are you able to help with this? Thanks so much.
Free Government Cell Phones says
You may have a lapse in service. Contact customer service to get exact details before you attempt to switch service providers.
Ashley says
They told me I could sign up for service online and it would transfer to speed up the process since I have had my current service for almost 2 years. As I am doing this, it pops up telling me that there is already someone in my household using the lifeline service (me, of course). I then answered the household questions about no other adults in my household receiving the service. Is it safe for me to continue with the application? Will it automatically transfer me? I do not want to do anything that could cause legal repercussions or cause me to lose my service. Thanks so much!
Free Government Cell Phones says
This is a common complaint, Ashley. You didn’t say who your service provider is, but if they have live agents (some do not appear to have them), you should definitely call customer service and speak to someone ASAP. If the first agent doesn’t help you, ask to speak to a supervisor.
KC says
This is the second HIGHLY HELPFUL AND INFORMATIVE article I’ve found on this site in less than one hour! Furthermore, it exactly answered my questions about how to change phones/providers for the Lifeline free cell phone program. Whoever oversees the writing/reporting on this site is doing a FANTASTIC job in terms of providing thorough details, easy-to-understand answers, and clearly defining the topic being addressed. This particular piece impressed me to the max also by including a link to a site with specific bureaucratic details on LIfeline “benefits transfers,” which I found to be an extremely helpful and awesome addition to my “information is power” arsenal. I think you restored my faith in the internet as a source of helpful and intelligent answers. This is harder and harder to find in the ever-growing cacophony of childish diatribe.
Free Government Cell Phones says
Wow. We’re blushing, KC. We’re not used to such high praise.
Andrew B. Tiemeyer says
How do I ADD MORE MINUTES TO MY FREE GOVERNMENT CELL PHONE?
Free Government Cell Phones says
Here’s an article that tells you a very easy way to do it:
https://www.freegovernmentcellphones.net/buy-airtime-for-lifeline-phones-through-ready-wireless-new-airfair
Wafaa Nabood says
Dear Sir,
My name is Wafaa Nabood and my phone number is 619-397 **** but my phone does not working in call .
Only text messages i can send.
Regards
Wafaa Nabood
Free Government Cell Phones says
We’re not your service provider, Wafaa, so we cannot help you. You need to contact your service provider’s customer service team by phone or online.
Tasfia M. says
I am very sorry, I want to switch from Assurance Wireless to Safelink. But I’m very confused from this article. Is it possible for you to give me step by step instructions on switching services? Thank you for your time.
Free Government Cell Phones says
You don’t really need step-by-step instructions, Tasfia, because there’s just one step — call Safelink and tell them you want to switch. They should take care of cancelling your current account and beginning your new Safelink service.
Tasfia M. says
Ok. Thank you, so i dont need to fill out anything right?
Free Government Cell Phones says
Not in terms of paperwork, but your new service provider will ask you lots of questions when you enroll.
Tasfia M. says
Safelink told me i had to de-enroll from Assurance Wireless. I want to de-enroll from Assurance Wireless, but i don’t know how to. And since i signed up long ago i don’t know my pin or the security questions.
Free Government Cell Phones says
Call customer service and talk through it, Tasfia. They should be able to identify you by your phone number, your name, your social security number, your address, etc.
Susan H. says
Free government- In an earlier post you instructed that the new phone provider is bound to cancel the old service…..so why instruct this person to call customer service? Should safeline have declined to switch Tasfia’s service?
Free Government Cell Phones says
I suppose we could have answered that question differently, because upon re-reading her question it seems that she was asking how to switch service providers. But we answered the other part of her question — how to find her PIN and security questions.
John says
I’ve read the above article and following comments and am still cornfused.
I’ve talked with both my current lifeline/landline provider and my future lifeline/wireless provider. They both tell me to stop the current lifeline/landline program first…contrary to the above article’s recommendations. Should first ask my lifeline/landline provider for a benefit transfer to my future lifeline/wireless provider?
Free Government Cell Phones says
What they are telling you is incorrect. Try calling again and ask for a supervisor in an attempt to clear up the problem.
Vadim says
Where in Seattle,WA can I reapply?Addrres of office.I now enroll in CaliforniaLifeline(SafeLink),but soon is terminate I want keep my number.
Free Government Cell Phones says
It doesn’t matter where you live, Vadim, because you can apply online or by phone with any of the free government cell phone companies in your state. We strongly recommend that you do not attempt to enroll at a street tent or booth. There have been too many cases of fraud and abuse originating in those locations.
Dawn says
I’m not sure if you are the right people I need to contact; but I’m at the end of my rope. In September a guy knocked on my door & asked me if I had a free phone with free minutes & I told him yes. I told him that I had Lifeline service with Assurance & was very happy with the phone & service. He proceeded to tell me he could help me get more minutes but needed some of my personal info. Trusting him, I gave him the info he asked for & then he told me that I wasn’t approved for more minutes. I told him that was fine & he left. Well, a couple weeks later I received a phone from TracFone; so I called TracFone to ask them why they sent a phone I never asked for. They told me I was a LifeLine customer w/SafeLink & they supply the phone. I told them to please cancel the account because I had service already with Assurance & didn’t want their service or phone. I spoke to a supervisor by the name of Julio who promised me he de-enrolled me. (ref #1415128794). Then a couple of days later my service with Assurance was cancelled & I called to explain the situation to them. A rep by the name of Echo started a new app for me & then I called TracFone again to make sure the phone was de-enrolled which according to the rep it wasn’t. So once again, I had to speak to a supervisor. His name was Arnell reference # 1416882258 who also promised he de-enrolled me. I am very ill & don’t have time for this. How can the rep for SafeLink be so unethical & get away with breaking the law & literally lying to customers. Anyway, just out of curiosity I turned the TracFone on & low & behold it has 500 minutes & is activated. These people at SafeLink/TracFone have done nothing but lie & lead me on. At this point in time I told Assurance that I no longer want LifeLine with anyone& once again will call TracFone to tell them to cancel the service because it has gotten me so stressed out & sicker than I already am. How can I cancel my LifeLine when these people aren’t cooperating. I called Assurance again today & spoke to a rep by the name of Travis who transferred me to a supervisor Frances who told me she would escalate my issue to I believe USAC/NLAD. I appreciated both of their assistance. PLEASE CAN SOMEONE HELP ME! Thank you!
Free Government Cell Phones says
Looks like we have to add “Don’t enroll with people who come to your door” to our “Don’t enroll at street tents and booths.” Actually, your situation is even worse because you never intended to enroll with a new company, but an unscrupulous agent duped you.
You’re actually doing all the right things, Dawn. Don’t give up. Keep calling. Keep asking for supervisors. But if your problem isn’t resolved immediately, you may want to begin telling them that you’re going to report them to the FCC, the USAC, the Better Business Bureau and your state’s public utility commission. Use the word “fraud,” too.
Dawn says
Thank you so much for your quick response. Needless to say, the phone SafeLink/TracFone sent me is still showing the service one; so I’ll unfortunately, have to make yet another call. I did mention fraud to the supervisors I spoke to there; but they obviously aren’t taken it serious. Also, thanks for your suggestion about reporting them to FCC, the USAC, BBB & my state public utility commission. I will be sure to takes these steps if it’s not resolved this last call. You’re all great & I truly appreciate your advice & concern. 🙂
Free Government Cell Phones says
Please let us know what happens, Dawn. Our readers would find out what works and what doesn’t.
Dawn says
Hello again:
Well, SafeLink NEVER did de-enroll me & I still have the TracFone for the LifeLine account. Unfortunately, my hands are now tied because I called SafeLink/TracFone four times & each time they promised they had de-enrolled me. Also, I called Assurance four times & they told me they couldn’t re-enroll me until SafeLink/TracFone did their part. Looks like their sales rep got his bonus & I’m stuck with them as my Lifeline provider. I guess the option I have is to just let 60 days lapse without using the service so my Lifeline will just be cancelled. Such a mess the door salesman made for me. 🙁 Thanks for all your responses. I truly appreciate your concern & care. 🙂
Free Government Cell Phones says
Not using your cell phone for 60 days should do the trick, Dawn. But make sure you turn it off and keep it off, because receiving a call or text will keep the account active.
Dawn says
Oh yeah, I forgot to mention that I will be contacting all the agencies you told me to contact; since SafeLink/TracFone didn’t do as they promised & don’t seem to even care. I’ll keep you posted.
Thanks!
illyanna says
I want to transfer my number and info over to a different phone. can you help me? plus my minutes didn’t roll over from last month. my phone is acting up. I just want to use this one here is an unlocked phone.
Free Government Cell Phones says
We think your first question is asking if you can switch your SIM card over to a different phone. The answer is maybe. It depends on two things: (1) whether the new phone is compatible with your current cell phone network. Not all cell phones are compatible with all networks. And (2) If your phone is unlocked and/or if your service provider will allow it to be unlocked. To get answers to both of those questions, you’ll need to contact your service provider’s customer service or tech support team.
Dexter bazile says
I have tried to reach safe link about my lost phone but no one there to pick up my call I wonder what shall I do? my email *******@yahoo.com. my number is 281-827-****
Free Government Cell Phones says
Try calling Safelink at 6-1-1 on your free government cell phone, Dexter.
April says
I want u to take me out your system now qlink never received the phone I called yall very hateful
Free Government Cell Phones says
You don’t want “us” to take you out of “our” system, because we are not your service provider. We’re an independent website, April. You need to contact Q Link customer service. But cool off a little. it’s not surprising that you haven’t received your phone in two weeks. Most companies say they’ll get the phone to you that quickly, but our readers say that many times it takes three or four weeks or even longer.
MYUNG ROSATI says
Helpful blog post! Each Lifeline cell phone provider has different strengths and weaknesses. One may provide better quality phones, another may provide more voice minutes and texting limits, while another may provide higher quality customer service. And it’s hard to know if you are getting the best company for your specific needs at the time that you initially subscribe. And given that so many do not shop for the best company, against our recommendations, and simply pick up a phone from a street tent, a large number are likely to be disappointed. Apropos , others require a IRS W-2.
robert rodriguez says
i have a Alcatel One Touch like to get phone upgarded. and need more time
Free Government Cell Phones says
Who is your service provider? Here’s an article that tells you all about the upgrade/smartphone policies of all the largest Lifeline free government cell phone providers:
https://www.freegovernmentcellphones.net/which-lifeline-cell-phone-companies-offer-smartphones
Ronee Harrell says
I just signed up with Budget Mobil One month and 7 days now. And the reason I choose them was because they said I receive an IPhone , along with 500 min ,, an 500 texts for my first 3 months,,then it would be 350 min & 350 texts from then on……
Well my service started on Aug 23, 2016 and on Aug 30, 2016 they sent me a letter telling me the ” Exciting News” as they put it, that I will be getting a new wireless service called ” en Touch Wireless ” an that I would be notified by text when the transfer would take place….
Not only was I not notified,,,, but that my plan would now exist of
500 min
100 texts
10MB of Data…..
That is not what I need..
I need what I originally signed up for..
Plus not that I needed a new IPHONE really.
But a good working phone that I could text easily an hear better on,,,,can’t even hear that well on speaker, which I have to use all the time , which is not private very well when you need it to be….
They sent me a “muvemusic” phone…….
Which after looking it up on line is pretty much obsolete now……
My model doesn’t exist anymore an it was Hell trying to find out how to set up my voicemail, which after going thru muvemusic to Verizon , ( who told me that my phone # had nothing to do with them.) But if I try to set it up by the way Buget was telling me to all I get is this is Verizon Wireless and you have dialed a non # , then blah, blah, blah,,,,,you know the sppille…
Finally only because Verizon gave me the #611 number to get ahold of a live human to talk to at Budget Mobil…..( Cause it seems like when you have service with them, they no longer want to talk to you live anymore).
And after I don’t know how many calls an agents I got info on how to set it up and that they re- programmed my phone, ( which not any suggestions worked ) , until I finally got a sweet girl who knew her job requirements, ( which is a rare commodity these days) and told me to Dial my own phone # and then push # and it worked…..
And I might add that I am also emailing back an forth also during all of this time with a Mary ? . I won’t say her last name ,, but she was no help at all after 5 emails back an forth , except for ” I’m Sorry ” an ” I know your frustration “….
OH NO YOU DON’T ,
That woman jacked me around so much,,,,, I was almost ready to commit myself to the 5th floor at any hospital…….
Seriously…!!!!!!!!
Now the BIG Q,,,,,
Do I have a legit complaint to get new Service or Transfer an to whistleblower an to USAC an/or PSC..?????!
THANK YOU………
Free Government Cell Phones says
Do you have a legit complaint to get new service or transfer and to be a whistleblower? Those are questions for an attorney, Ronee. But it certainly seems like bait-and-switch. It cannot hurt to complain, so here’s an article that tells you how to do it:
https://www.freegovernmentcellphones.net/faq/file-lifeline-service-complaint
Beyond that, you should know that you are eligible to switch to another service provider after 60 days with your current one. That means you’d have to wait three more weeks. Here’s where you can find a complete list of alternative service proiders in your state:
https://www.freegovernmentcellphones.net/states
And if you decide you want to switch service providers, here’s an article that tells you how easy it is to do:
https://www.freegovernmentcellphones.net/faq/how-do-i-switch-lifeline-providers
Gandlaf says
Now that the rules have been changed does anyone know of a good provider in California that lets you bring your own phone over. I’ve been with Assurance wireless, and the crap smartphones they have are archaic. 5 year old cell phone models are like 20 year old computers.
D. Wade says
I need to cancel my service with Q Link wireless. They have no customer service people who will talk to you. Only a recorded message. Is there a Lifeline number I can call to cancel ?
Free Government Cell Phones says
Unfortunately, no. Try calling customer service at 6-1-1 on your free government cell phone. If you go to the Q Link website look toward the top of the page for “Help Center.” Click on it and then click on “Contact Us.” Try sending them an email.
If you still get no response, your account will be automatically cancelled if you neither send nor receive any calls or texts for 60 days. So make sure you shut the phone off and do not turn it back on until 60 days are up.
Lee H says
I had same problem getting live person with QLink until I filed complaint with BBB.
Click on option 5, then option 9. Live person in 2-3 minutes.
Deb says
Hi, I want to switch from Safelink to Tag. They say you have to have an account and to fill out the application. Once approved can take up to 7-10 business days to receive phone. Then they can port the number. I would need the account number, pin number, and address connected with safelink. I’m not even sure there is a pin number.
Is this accurate? because if so then you would temporarly have 2 lifelines at once
Free Government Cell Phones says
You should be able to get all that info from your current service provider’s customer service team. Contact them by phone or online. After you get the info, contact Tag and it will take care of cancelling your Safelink account at the same time they begin their service.
Danielle says
I have a friend that just got her q link phone & wants to keep her number from her assurance wireless how do we get ur number to the new phone thru yall
Free Government Cell Phones says
It’s probably too late already if you already have your new phone. You should have told the Q Link customer rep that you wanted to “port over your old phone number” during your initial phone call to q link.
Victoria Rogojan says
My name is Victoria Rogojan. I have a free cell phone for less than a month. I want to ask you for my neighbor who is disabled. She has free cell phone too, for two years and she wants to transfer to another company. She don’t speak English, I try to help her. What can we do and how find another company ? I will be happy if you can help me ! Please answer my questions ! Thank you .
Free Government Cell Phones says
Glad to help, Victoria. Here’s an article that explains how to switch service providers.
https://www.freegovernmentcellphones.net/faq/how-do-i-switch-lifeline-providers
You’ll probably also need to know which service providers offer Lifeline free government cell phones in your state so you know which ones you can switch to. Here’s where you can find that list. Just click on your state:
https://www.freegovernmentcellphones.net/states
Make sure you check out all the programs because each one is a little different (more minutes, more texts, maybe a data plan, etc). Find the plan that works best for your neighbor and apply to that company.
Marci Collet says
I know for sure Hillary Clinton will be the next President of the United State. On January 26 1998 when standing by her husband telling the biggest lie to the Americans people, I told my husband “look at her she is going to be the first women President of the United States of America”.
Free Government Cell Phones says
In addition to being an expert on cell phone radiation and corporate bankruptcies, Marci also appears to be clairvoyant. Can you give us Saturday night’s winning lottery numbers?
Marci Collet says
Budget Mobile went bankrupt in the mid of May/Jun or July and it’s been bought by Safelink. I know because my husband was sign up with Budget Mobile and somewhere in that time his phone didn’t worked, we didn’t really care much because we where away from home and around us were lots of phones that we could use.
Free Government Cell Phones says
You have more than your fair share of strange conspiracy theories, Marci. What you’re saying is not true. Budget Mobile did not go bankrupt nor was it taken over by Safelink.
john Carter says
I contacted Budget Mobile Life/Line to have them transfer my account to SafeLink. They said they can’t do it and because of the Problem I had with Budget Mobile canceling my account. Since I had a previous account with SafeLink, my SafeLink account was canceled by Budget Mobile .Since You can’t have 2 accounts Budget Mobile must end my account so I can open a new account with SafeLink.
Steve Evets says
“it’s in the provider’s best financial interest to keep your account active as long as possible (to get their monthly payment from the government)”
Except providers don’t get paid by the government, right?
http://www.factcheck.org/2009/10/the-obama-phone/
“But the program is funded by telecom companies, not by taxes, and the president has nothing to do with it.”
Free Government Cell Phones says
Have you noticed the name of this website, Steve?
Nicole says
I want to cancel my lifeline phone
Free Government Cell Phones says
Then you need to contact your service provider directly, Nicole. We ain’t it.
Steve says
The Lifeline program has very specific rules that instructs phone vendors on how they must proceed in a “Benefit Transfer” , see link-
National Lifeline Accountability Database (NLAD) – Benefit Transfers
http://usac.org/li/tools/nlad/benefit-transfers.aspx
A benefit transfer is when one carrier transfers a subscriber’s Lifeline Program benefit to another carrier. The benefit transfer is at the request of the subscriber.
In the normal course of business, a subscriber receives their Lifeline Program benefit from a carrier (“ETC A”). If the subscriber wants to transfer their benefit to another carrier (“ETC B”), the subscriber will contact ETC B and provide consent for the transfer.
Besides, obtaining a completed Lifeline Program eligibility certification and reviewing proof of eligibility, as of June 6, 2014, ETC B, the recipient of the subscriber, should initiate the transfer by sending either a paper or electronic consent request to the subscriber.
After gaining the consent of the subscriber.
ETC B will log into NLAD and complete the “Transfer NLAD Benefit” screen. ETC B must complete all required fields for the subscriber to be transferred.
If the benefit transfer is a success, NLAD will:
De-enroll the subscriber from ETC A = NLAD benefit transfer.
Enroll the subscriber with ETC B = NLAD benefit transfer.
Notify ETC A and ETC B of the change.
End the benefit transfer transaction.
If the benefit transfer fails, ETC B will be provided with the appropriate error codes and messages defining the reason for failure and the process will end.
In the case of a benefit transfer failure, the subscriber will stay active in NLAD under carrier ETC A.
Steve
Steve says
Hi FGCP,
Great article, wished FGCP would date it’s articles for reference of how current it is or has come down the information pike. I’ve seen some articles before you must of stopped doing the dating of them, from the year 2013.
Anyway reading the undated article above, I’ve noticed this-
“and then how it takes for the USAC to process it may vary from vendor to vendor and time to time.”
Should there of been a “TIME” used in the structure ??
My current method to find out a close date is scroll to the first comment and check its date = May 2015 here |v|.
I guess my comment is about “time” and “dates” mostly, as I’m not educated and to critique ones work – its not my bag, shoe could be on my foot just as well.
Just it sounded better placing the word [time] in it when I reread it.
Steve
Steve says
Refine this a little-
““and then how [LONG] it takes for the USAC to process it may vary from vendor to vendor and time to time.””
Should there of been a “TIME” used in the structure ??
CORRECTION: Just it sounded better placing the word [LONG] in it when I reread it. (Time-was meant as a duration – where as Time was not used when I reread it but, LONG used).
Steve
Joy says
Please do any of the lifeline providers provide smart phones or phones with camera? Or are the phones only fit for call and texts?
Also, I have not been allowed to sign up through Qlink because when I enter my zip code, an error reply tells me that my area is not covered by the plan. Please what do I do?
Thank you.
Free Government Cell Phones says
Here are two articles with the info you’re asking for, Joy. First here’s an article that tells you the smartphone policies of all the major Lifeline companies:
https://www.freegovernmentcellphones.net/which-lifeline-cell-phone-companies-offer-smartphones
Second, if Q Link doesn’t offer the Lifeline program in your area, other companies probably do. Find all those companies in your state here:
https://www.freegovernmentcellphones.net/states
Linn says
I have QLinkWireless its not a good company the cellphone is so old halft time it drops calls and it freezes to
Free Government Cell Phones says
As my old grandpappy used to say, “That’s what makes a horse race.” The comments from Tracy (below) raved about her Q Link phone and service. You, on the other hand, have trouble with both.
Clarence jeffers says
I currently have a safelink phone which i am and have had experienced difficulties with. I have contacted safelink along with no help! I had asked the lady if cancelling my service with safelink and went threw a different company is maybe what i needed to do. Her response was would you like to cancel your service now. I explained to her not at this time because I was not sure what to do next. I am very interested in changing the service provider so I would be able to use my phone properly and the way it is suppose to work. I am very much interested in a new provider and need to know what I can do next to receive a phone up to date and that works properly. What should I do?
Free Government Cell Phones says
Here’s what we would do if we were you, Clarence. Look through the list of Lifeline companies in our state. You can find that here:
https://www.freegovernmentcellphones.net/states
You’ll need to do a little work to be an informed consumer. Check out all the companies and plans and maybe check out the companies’ websites to see which ones offer phones that best meet your needs. After you whittle the list down to some finalists, you may even want to call customer service at the companies to discuss what kinds of phones you can get. With that in mind, here’s an article that tells you about smartphones and upgrade policies:
https://www.freegovernmentcellphones.net/which-lifeline-cell-phone-companies-offer-smartphones
Good luck. We hope you’re able to get the phone and service plan you need.
Tawanda Johnson says
I was just told at MetroPcs that it is illegal to port my number with lifelink to a paid account with them. Is this true?
Free Government Cell Phones says
You should be able to port any number to any cell phone company.
Larry says
I have been trying to get hold of you are it keeps saying error Iam od ssdisably And on a heart list we can not aford the phone any more,will you are please let me know what to do
Larry Hoskinson
Free Government Cell Phones says
You have NOT been trying to get hold of us, Larry. This website is independent and not affiliated with any Lifeline service provider. You need to contact your service provider directly.
Rob Guthm says
Hiya FGCP.
Love your site and all the resources and articles. Here is my situation. I have been an Access Wireless customer for many years and have become dissatisfied with the provider. I want to switch to SafeLink because I get a much better GSM signal than CDMA, and also because I have a very nice Tracfone smart phone that I can use with Safelink.
I had gone to thw website via your link and began the application process. When it got to the “submit and place order” page I realized there had been no questions about whether I was new to Lifeline or transferring from another provider. I am not a fan of loose ends and I want to make sure that Access Wireless is notified and that the transfer is done properly. I did not submit the form. I decided to call Safelink to clarify. The rep that I got had no idea what I was asking so they checked with a supervisor. The supervisor said I need to cancel with my other company then apply at Safelink. I informed the rep that this was not correct and asked for her supervisor.
When speaking with the supervisor (overseas call center), she repeated the same thing about my needing to cancel with prior company. I told her that this is not what USAC proscribes and I was met with a whooshing sound and her comment, “USAP? Whaaa??” I asked if there was another supervisor I could speak with and was told no. I politely thanked her and hung up.
I would simply pick another provider based on this conversation with support (and perhaps that would be the smart thing because my pre-transfer experience has not been good) – however, as I said I am interested in only Safelink due to the GSM desirability and the extra iPhone I have on hand. What do you suggest? Should I just sign up and not worry about the NLAD transfer? Or should I perhaps try again at Safelink and hope the next representative and supervisor know what they are doing?
Many Thanks!
Rob
Free Government Cell Phones says
You should definitely do it the way you are attempting to do it, Rob. We’ve just heard too many cases in which the company that is losing the customer simply “forgets” to shut off service, which results in the customer having two accounts, which is illegal. Of course, it’s the customer that suffers when they get nabbed for having multiple accounts.
Seems like you have two choices: (1) Try again with another Safelink supervisor, or (2) Choose another Lifeline company from the list of the ones that offer the program in your state. Here’s where you can find a list of those companies. (By the way, check out all the companies, because you may even find one that offers more minutes, texts, data, etc.)
https://www.freegovernmentcellphones.net/states
Good luck, Rob. Do us a favor and let us (and our readers) know what’s happens in your search.
Rob Guthm says
Will do on the follow up. Another quick question to arm myself with more knowledge before I call.
I was reading your article on fraud and a few other snippets on your site and was left with the impression that NLAD was a tool to combat fraud and was referenced during the process of determining my eligibility. I am not sure if you have the answer but I am curious why people like me that are switching can get through the enrollment with the new company if I am showing service with an existing company already? I would have thought my application would be rejected because I had (have) a current phone, but I know that there is a mechanism in place with USAC to allow us to switch providers. How do they combat fraud if essentially I am transferring service before the old company is stopped. Does this perhaps mean that I HAVE to find a company that will transfer service at same time of application or else I would get declined for the new line?
I am 100% sure that my question makes no sense and is worded like a drunk monkey was handed a keyboard. But if there is anyone who will understand what I am asking it is you!
Cheers
FreeGovernmentCellPhones.net says
I believe that when you subscribe to the new company, your service with the old company will be somehow discontinued automatically.
Dean says
I guess a convoluted question receives a vague response!? 😉
Courtney Diamond says
I have a government assisted phone now & would like to transfer to QLink.. my only question is when they say I am eligible to transfer, does it shut the phone I have now off immediately or will they wait until I receive my new phone? Thanks!
Free Government Cell Phones says
Re-read the article above. It will tell you exactly what to do. Contact Q Link and they will take care of the entire transfer. It will be seamless for you.
ken bayer says
When do my new minutes come. Date please
Free Government Cell Phones says
Seriously, Ken, do you really think this website knows who you are, what date your contract started, and when minutes are added to your account? If we were able to read the minds of you and your service provider, we would also know who’s going to win the next Super Bowl and the election in November. In other words, you need to contact your service provider to get the answers to your question, not an indepedent website.
rob guthm says
Bravo! Perfect reply and more tempered than I could have ever been.
Also, fwiw, your site has been an amazing resource of information. Thanks, and please keep it up.
Free Government Cell Phones says
We’re getting embarrassed by all the complimentary comments lately. (Blush)
Mary LoVetro says
i spent nearly 6 hours trying to find a cell phone compatible to my assurance government service and was given WRONG INFORMATION, misdirected to merchants and given an incorrect type of phone which in fact was NOT compatible!! I’m fed up with assurance wireless and want to drop them.
Free Government Cell Phones says
As long as you’ve had your Assurance service for more than 60 days, you can easily switch providers. Just follow the instructions on this page.
Catrina says
I would like to keep your service but can I use a different phone
Free Government Cell Phones says
You can use many different phones, Catrina, but not all phones work on all networks so you need to contact your service provider’s customer service team to make sure the phone you have in mind will work on its network.
jhoward says
I currently have iwireless and receive no service. I wish to switch my benefits to safelink no one seems to know ,how to do this
Free Government Cell Phones says
No problem, JHoward. Here’s an article that tells you how to do it. It’s really pretty simple:
https://www.freegovernmentcellphones.net/faq/how-do-i-switch-lifeline-providers
Betsy Olney says
I am trying to transfer from Budget Mobile to tag mobile but they are giving me the run around telling me that I have to contact the California Lifeline in order to transfer service. How do I get help transferring the service.
Free Government Cell Phones says
Call Tag again and ask for a supervisor. You have been given false information. Here’s an article that tells you exactly how to switch service providers:
https://www.freegovernmentcellphones.net/faq/how-do-i-switch-lifeline-providers
Sheldon Ramagos says
I currently have Qlink lifeline service, my phone was damaged and quit working. I tried to get in touch with them for a replacement by phone and email for a month now. I have not heard back from them. I want to switch my service to a new provider. I’m not sure but I’m pretty sure it’s been over 60 days since I signed up with them. I also would like to upgrade to a smart phone with internet access since most things like sending out resumes and job finders is online now. What can I d0?BTW, I think Qlink may be a scam taking advantage of the government and poor people, I and a lot of other recipient of their’s think they should be investigate!!!
Free Government Cell Phones says
We’ll come to Q Link’s defense here, Sheldon. It’s a very good company with nearly half a million customers.
Since you want to switch service providers, here’s some information you’ll need. The first article will tell you how to switch:
https://www.freegovernmentcellphones.net/faq/how-do-i-switch-lifeline-providers
You’ll need to know all the alternative companies in your state. We strongly recommend checking them all out so you can find a company and plan that fits your needs best. Be an informed consumer. Here’s where you find the companies in your state:
https://www.freegovernmentcellphones.net/states
Finally, here’s an article that tells which of the leading customers offer smartphones:
https://www.freegovernmentcellphones.net/which-lifeline-cell-phone-companies-offer-smartphones
Lee H says
It sucks that I need this program, but complications from a hip replacement has put me out of the workforce for 5 months.
This program is a Godsend for me.
That being said, I have Q Link. I received a good smartphone, quickly, and while it may be last years model, it’s new and has everything any smartphone I’ve ever had.
I , too, had a problem getting a live person, writing emails and fruitlessly using phone line for two weeks. Problem was solved, in 2 days. I filed a complaint with BBB on day one, got a voice message on day 2. Hit on option 5, then option 9. Bingo.
Free Government Cell Phones says
Great advice, Lee. Maybe others can get the same kind of results by following your example.
Erika Aubrey says
Hi,
I have been with Assurance for years mostly because I didn’t want my to change my number but I had to get a new phone due to the Jax finally giving out.
I received the new phone and have had nothing but trouble with it. Have called forever and am always told I must use a landline in order to check to see if the phone is defective.
I don’t have a landline. If you are on Lifeline you either get the cellphone or the landline. I need the cell phone because I am disabled and need to be able to call caretakers, etc. Also, I can’t afford a landline off of Lifeline.
No one I know has a landline anymore and I haven’t seen a pay phone in years.
What can I do?
Thanks in advance!
Free Government Cell Phones says
Get in touch with Assurance customer service and demand a replacement for the defective cell phone they sent you. Ask for a supervisor. Tell that person that if your phone is not replaced you will file a complaint with the Federal Communications Commission and your state’s public utility commission. Read this article so you know what you’re talking about before making that call:
https://www.freegovernmentcellphones.net/faq/file-lifeline-service-complaint
Kelly says
PLEASE HELP!! I didn’t want any lapses in service so when I was informed that they no longer were participating in the California Life Line program, so I did as instructed, and came here and started my search for the best provider SADLY I chose Assurance that was in April I had to go out and purchase a tracfone because to date 13 phone calls 7 supervisors and I’m being told incorrect information.
I’m a bloody expert in the USAC and the Benefit transfer rules and regulations, they are requiring some application (11 times I was told they would mail me something (takes 7-10 WORKING days to arrive, THEN 7-10 for it to get to them THEN it will take them TWO WEEKS to process THEN another 7-10 ONCE I’M APPROVED????? I have had life Line for 6 years I renewed my application in March 2016 and its good till March 2017 I DO NOT NEED TO APPLY for Life Line
On the USAC.org Benefit Transfer page it CLEARLY states it take a minute ONLY to check, AND worse Assurance “application” can be denied HOW IS THIS EVEN POSSIBLE?? I have Food Stamps, Medicaid and Medicare ALL of my information regarding MY benefits have already been approved OR I WOULDN’T”T HAVE LIFE LINE….They can NOT deny me service I’m eligible I have life line WHAT IS GOING ON??
I’m sorry but i’m so frustrated and extremely ANGRY I just got off call 12 another supervisor I do NOT know why Assurance is requiring so much information and signing MULTIPLE pages of documents that VIOLATE THE PROVIDER SERVICE Laws or the rules and regulations outlined on USAC and NLAD…I followed every step BUT assurance wireless is NOT
Free Government Cell Phones says
It’s clear that you’re upset and frustrated, Kelly. If you cannot get an application from Assurance, we assume that means you have not yet applied. So why not apply with a different company? Are we missing something here?
Tiffany Golemboski says
I live in PA. I use to have Safelink and didn’t care for the service I switched to Budget Mobile had them for over seven months and loved them. However someone at Safelink used my previous account info without my consent to reregister me with Safelink causing me to lose Budget Mobile. I have fought with both companies endlessly and can’t get this resolved. I know if I wait I can try again for Budget Mobile, but how do I get my information removed from Safelink so they can’t do this to me again.
Free Government Cell Phones says
This shouldn’t be so complex, Tiffany, and we’re sorry you’re running into this roadblock.
The Federal Communications Commission has set up an organization called NLAD (the National Lifeline Assistance Database) that is designed to stop fraud by keeping track of each free government cell phone user to make sure they only have one account.
You should call Budget’s customer service team. Ask to speak to a supervisor. Be polite, but firm, explain your odd situation again, and insist that they check your name on the NLAD to find out what it says about you. These check are performed instantaneously and should be able to solve your problem.
If you do not get satisfaction from this approach, contact Safelink, ask for another supervisor, and demand that your service be cancelled immediately. Tell them that if it isn’t, you will file a complaint with the FCC and your state public utilities commission. Here’s an article that tells you how to file a complaint. Make sure you read it before you speak to Safelink so that you sound knowledgable.
https://www.freegovernmentcellphones.net/faq/file-lifeline-service-complaint
Good luck. Please let us know what happens. Our readers will appreciate hearing the details.
Drake says
I live in va I have safe link I want one I can get unlimited for about. 30-40 bucks a month which services is in the Bristol va area
Free Government Cell Phones says
We only report on free cell phones, Drake, which means we are not up to speed on plans for which you have to pay. You can check all the free government cell phone companies by clicking on this link:
https://www.freegovernmentcellphones.net/free-cell-phone-providers
SadeRenee says
I need to cancel my account. I requested that my services be disconnected but they never did it and allowed a thief to use the phone even though it was supposed to be cut off when I reported the theft. Why cant I get a live rep on the phone?
Free Government Cell Phones says
Which Lifeline Assistance company is your service provider, Sade?
Denise Hill says
I have Qlink for about 30> days. They sent me a phone that has no bars and when I finally got through to a human and confirmed that the phone did not work and my house or anywhere else in San Antonio, he responded that “yes many people are having that same problem with that model. The issue should be resolved in 72 hours,”
That was six days ago. And if they knew there was a problem with the phone why were they still sending out to people? Why not send out a replacement to those who had the phone, fix the phone, then send them out. I want to transfer to SafeLink.
Is there anyway to do that before 60 days because I know that Qlink is going to drag their heels and stretch this out as long as they can. I’m disabled, that’s why I need the phone for an emergency if something happens to me on the road I can call a relative or 911.
Free Government Cell Phones says
We are unaware of any way to cancel your account before the 60 days is up. Sorry, Denise.
april cortijo says
My service on my current phone quit loading my minutes when I asked them why they told me that I was enrolled with a different provider which I’m not I have only applied with them. I asked if they come give me anything info on who the other provider is or how to find out. They would not help me. So I do u know how to find out if ur subscribed to a life line account.
Free Government Cell Phones says
This is a common complaint, April, and there’s really no excuse for it. Call again and tell them to check the National Lifeline Accountability Database. This is something all service providers can and should do in cases such as yours. Here’s what the USAC says about the NLAD:
“The National Lifeline Accountability Database (NLAD) is designed to help carriers identify and resolve duplicate claims for Lifeline Program-supported service and prevent future duplicates. This is done by providing a means for carriers to check on a real-time and nationwide basis if the consumer is already receiving a Lifeline Program-supported service.”
Good luck. Let us know what they say.
april cortijo says
Thanks
Carolyn M Wagner says
Just went through pure hell for 5 months trying to transfer my account from Assurance Arkansas to Assurance Florida. Was told I was approved and never recieved a phone so kept checking until today and am now told I had to cancel the Arkansas account first. I’m elderly and in poor health and this is literally my lifeline!
Free Government Cell Phones says
Sorry to hear about your problems, Carolyn. It should be a much simpler process.
Linm Hough says
I have Qlinkwiress I would like to go back to safelink because. Qlink is not a very good company. THEY NEVER RETURN MY CALLS IT BEEN ALMOST TWO WEEK AND THEY STILL HAVE NOT CALL
Carol says
I switched from Reachout to Budget Mobile on April 18, 2016 by filling out an online application. I can sign into my Budget Mobile account and see my new phone number and check my account balance, but I have not received a phone from them yet. I contacted their support team and they tell me the phone was mailed out and instructed me to wait. How long should I wait? What if they never send me a phone?
Free Government Cell Phones says
You should have received your phone by now. You should call customer service or contact them by email to check your status immediately.
jin says
safelink will charge u forty bucks to keep your old phone number. THey dont say that in their ad.
Free Government Cell Phones says
We think you have been misinformed, Jin. Porting your phone number should be a free process.
NANCY DRANE says
I received a phone from safelink already activated that was equipped with a person’s name (unkown and unheard of to me) and presumably their number. I request for the phone to be changed to my name with a different number.
Tami Preavett says
I have assurance wireless but i cannot get the phone activated due to service. Ive talked to customer service but they cant get it working. Would i be able to transfer to another company and how much trouble will this be being the phone was never activated and this is my only account
Free Government Cell Phones says
Yes, you can switch. Follow the instructions laid out in the article above. Good luck.
Rebecca Rankins says
I have Frontier for my landline and I get a lifeline discount. Can I still get a free cell phone?
Free Government Cell Phones says
Unfortunately, no. Only one Lifeline discount — landline or cell phone — per household.
Brittney says
How can I change from assurance wireless to the touch screen coolpad phone please help mi
Free Government Cell Phones says
You must follow the directions described in this article. Contact customer service at company you want to switch to and ask for its help.
Perry says
thank you for this info on how long I have to wait to change plans as I live in RI as I gave up a good plan and was scammed by True wireless saying we will give you 1000 mins. instead of the 500 you get now and unl texting like I was already getting. They offered me a “SORRY” plan but now I do not trust them.I wound up receiving 250 talk mins. and 250 text a sorry excuse for lying to get business from other companies
Free Government Cell Phones says
Sorry to hear about your problems.
Bertha molinar says
I wish cancel ny budger wireless tey will not answer phone
Free Government Cell Phones says
Let’s make sure you’re calling the right number. Budget’s customer service line is 888.777.4007.
TAMMY GOODLOE says
CAN I SWITCH FROM ONE LIFELINE COMPANY TO ANOTHER
**GOODLOE.TAMMY@YAHOO.COM
Free Government Cell Phones says
Yes, you can switch. Read this FreeGovernentCellPhones.net article. It will tell you everything you need to know about switching.
https://www.freegovernmentcellphones.net/how-to-i-switch-lifeline-phone-companies
We would also suggest that you go to our “States” page (you’ll find a link in the navigation bar at the top of this page) to find a list of all the Lifeline Assistance companies in your state. Before you switch, I t would be a good idea to click through them all to see what each company has to offer before making a decision. It will make you an informed consumer.
Atara Black says
Can I Switch to another provider even though I’ve just received a replacement phone. I have been with the company over two years.
Free Government Cell Phones says
The information you need is in the article above.
Davidhusa18@gmail.com says
I know longer want the phone provider I want a diffrent one so how can I cancal my phone of another
cassandra turner says
How do I switch carriers from assurance to safelink
Ruby Farrar says
I have a safelink phone and I just got a assurance wireless I want to transfer the phone number from safelink to my assurance phone what do I need to do?
chris davies says
I want to replace my cell phone with a new one form a DIFFERENT cell providor. One with at least 350 minutes.
Crystal says
My phone broke and I wanna switch it to another phone it’s the same brand
Lynn says
I wanted to know how to switch from assurance wireless to safelink wireless.
Sue says
I work in-home for a disabled senior. Her caseworker advised her to apply for a safelink free phone, even though she has had a landline phone discounted through the lifeline program for a decade. The social worker advised her that she could have both, as she knew “a lot of people with both a cell and a landline through lifeline.” My client of course stopped receiving her discounted lifeline rate through Cox as soon as she activated her new cell, costing her $20 more a month on her phone bill. After more than two months she was still having problems with transferring her lifeline discount back to Cox (which she also uses for her lifeline button, the kind that calls ems). I finally called safelink for her, cancelled that manually and redid her Cox lifeline application. She received a letter from Cox stating that she is pre-approved pending nlad verification last month. Now she is wanting to know if there is any way to check the status of her nlad verification, and possibly expidite the process. Cox is telling her that she needs to wait, and that her discount will come back into effect within the next two months, pending approval. Does anyone have any advice on getting my client back to her previous lifeline setup sooner rather than later?
Mary C Leonard says
I need a assurance phone were I moved to my safelink doesn’t work so I would like to keep my number was talking to a lady at assurance and got disconnected from her do I need to see about applying for a assurance phone thanks.
Tyler says
I am currently with safe link and they cannot help me use my gifted iPhone. I don’t need web just talk and text. Is there any way you can help me to use my own phone? Thank you for your time. -Tyler Peckinpaugh
Glen Riley says
I have had two different phones sent to me from this provider and I’m still having problems with myphone poor signal and phone freezes up with the screen flashes in and out allso phone battery will run down in about45 minutes
whittington says
just tried to transfer lifeline service from terracom to assist wireless. Was told I had to cancel w/ terracom and then get back to assist. Also just found the info on USAC which states that this is not true! How can I get assist to follow the rules? I have been w/ terracom for about 4 years and customer service is a nightmare.
Rosalind Johnson says
I have 2 government phones. I wanted to cancel the service with one but I cannot remember the carrier. Is therea way that can be looked up by the phone number?
Prit says
Can I get a new number??
delaine monroe says
I tried to transfer my phone service from assurance wireless too safelink and they told me I cannot switch but I knew I could I been with my current carrier for years and I knew the representive war lieing. So how can I switch to safelink from assurance wireless?
Jan March says
I have a nephew that is mentally challenged. He is in his 50’s. he has always lived with my sister who died. he now lives alone and had general relief but Now they are only giving him 200.00 in food stamps. he still lives in my sisters home that was left to him. he lives about 50 miles from me and I am 81 and do not drive. I worry about him all of the time but cannot talk to him because he has no phone. I was paying his utilities but ran out of money and they turned his utilities off. he goes to the church twice a week because they serve dinner. he has no phone to apply for a Free phone so how can I do it for him or is there any place in Lancaster, California 93535 where he could go to get it himself. please Answer as it means the world to me to be able to see if he o.k.. Thank you, Jan March
Robin says
Does he receive In Home Supportive Services (Ihhs)? He should qualify if he receives MediCal. You could also look for a Service Center For Independent Life in his area, they or other organizations like them would help him get any help he might need. I hope things have improved, I know how difficult situations such as those can be. I wish you both all the best.
Sarah R Champagne says
I am in Best Buy store 187 on Harrison St. and they claim to not have any phones available for me to choose from nor do they have any inclination as to how to best service a member of Lifeline. Can you assist me with the protocol required so I may show this information to a Best Buy employee or any other store such as Target to select my new phone. Please provide for me a list of locations to actually get a new phone.
Much appreciated.
Luther Bowman says
I recently switched lifeline service from Assurance Wireless to budget mobile. I am not happy with the phone budget mobile sent me. The buttons don’t work correctly and the charger they sent me does not work. Do I have to wait another 60 days to switch providers again? Thanks
john says
no. the 60 day wait is to switch back to your original provider.
Ramona says
Hello. I have a free cell phone service through lifeline, however I am unsatisfied w/ my phone’s performance. My question is, how do I find out who my current provider is so that I may contact them.
Maria Hart says
I went to the Safe-Link Website and did a Chat with someone there. I asked and they said no.
I wonder if I should copy some of what is written here and the link that you provided, so that I
can show them, that I can switch from the Provider that I have, to them?
Maria Hart
adrian baranick says
How do i change my wireless number?it is now 484 714 **** and i was wondering how i can get that changed due to someone harrassing me via telephone……
FreeGovernmentCellPhones.net says
Give your company a call and ask if they will do that.
Maria Hart says
If you want to change your number, you have to go to your Providers Web Site. If you call them on the phone, they will charge you to do it.
Brandon Harris says
I am Safelink Wireless enrollment specialist. If you want to sign up with Safelink Wireless I can sign you up instantly and answer all your questions. Give me a call 219-805-****. My name is Brandon. Safelink Wireless does not charge to change your number it is free if you call over the phone, they will not charge you. It is free to change your number with Safe link Wireless and to order a replacement phone (Safelink will provide one free replacement phone if the original phone was lost or stolen. After that you would have to by tracfone from Kmart, Walgreens, walmart, family dollar etc. and call safelink to send you out a Sim card for the purchasedelay replacement.) More importantly, it is free to change your number call 1800-378-1684.
APRIL DAWN MENEFEE says
I have Access Wireless, and it is the worst lifeline benefit provider ever! Their plan is 250 talk and text combined, and I can never get data in emergency situations away from my home. I want to switch to Assurance Wireless ASAP. How do I do this?
FreeGovernmentCellPhones.net says
You call up Assurance and they will switch for you.
Kelly says
NO they will NOT they require some application process which is NOT what all the information including USAC and NLAD web site tells you, AND they can DENY your application?? Even though you HAVE lifeline??? The application is NOT the LifeLine eligibility its something Assurance is doing and its NOT what is suppose to happen takes then literally 1 minute to see that you have lifeline, and to switch you to them!!
Everything I have written is 100%
Maria Hart says
Don’t get Assurance, because Their Customer Service, when you
ask a question, act as if they don’t understand you. Then when you
ask for a Supervisor, they say there isn’t one.
kelly says
Assurance Wireless phone is a really cheap standard one that will break in about 5 minutes.. if you want buy a new one you can only get Virgin Mobile’s “paylo” version. The problems it VM doesn’t make Paylo phones any more and so their website only has one phone. They provide a list of retailers, but they either have not phones or just on model of flip phone. They give you the runaround if you ask about other versions. No smart phones, which is bizarre when they offer low cost data plans. Makes no sense.
Free Government Cell Phones says
There are lots of other options out there, Kelly. Here’s where you can find a list of all the Lifeline Assistance free government cell phone companies in your state:
https://www.freegovernmentcellphones.net/states
And here’s an article that tells about the smartphone upgrade policies of all the leading Lifeline companies:
https://www.freegovernmentcellphones.net/which-lifeline-cell-phone-companies-offer-smartphones
karan cummings says
I wanted data & since safelink doesn’t provide data I shopped for someone in tx who did, coming up with true wireless. I asked what I needed to do and in an email was told to de enroll with safelink & then enroll with them. so, I cancelled with safelink and when I tried to enroll with them they told me in a chat after almost an hour that my zip code wasn’t in there area. before I got on chat I put in my zip & they sent me to application page but not lifeline, paid services. now I have no service at all cause of them and I need a phone, I have a brain tumor and live alone. can anything be done about this?
FreeGovernmentCellPhones.net says
You should try another provider in your state.
Kelly says
Sorry its my 14th call 8th supervisor…My bad I had reachout and I never NEVER EVER had to fill out a form or have to be fill out a application AND be approved BY the provider??.. I called reachout them gave them 3 bits of information (Name, address, last 4 SS#) the phone arrived in 2-3 day THAT WAS IT I have been on the service from its inception in California
To date I have received NOTHING from them AND WTF can’t they have you do it online?
Tishia partchey says
I just recieved my phone thru assurance. IT SUCKS! When i signed up the person i talked to said it would be a smart phone,its not. I specifically got it for emergencies and so i could piggy back my tablet. I cant. Its offering data plans for extra $.when i asked why should i get one when the phone cant use it the response was silence. I am partially deaf so to talk on the phone i have a blue tooth headset. I asked if it has blue tooth i got a disgruntled sigh and
3min of silence be for getting a yes. I still cant find it on this phone,bah! Anyway,sorry for the bitching,i do have a questio . Can i purchace out of my one $,a smartphone and simply sign up for the actual phone plan? Thank you
Tony April says
You can purchase a new phone. But most companies DO NOT provide service for smartphones. You must check the company’s website. Or you mudt call their Customer Service department. I warn you… Most do not support smartphones because the phones operate on 2G service.
It’s best to ask first.
Kelly says
Don’t tell me Assurance Wireless?? I wanted a smartphone and data service so I chose to switch to them on April 16th….its June 4th NOTHING I had to go out and purchase a tracfone for emergencies ITS WRONG!!
Michelle says
I was very unhappy with the phone that was provided to me through your company blue Jay wireless, and to have the phone exchanged or replaced, the nearest location to do so was in Pueblo, and I’m a Denver resident. I will be switching back to budget mobile where there is convenient locations and friendly customer service.
Need a Little Humor says
Blue Jay is now Cardinal Wireless! Get Mr. Red to carry your message Pigeon Express and see if your return message comes back!
Free Government Cell Phones says
As far as we know, Blue Jay Wireless went out of business. We can find nothing telling us that it is now Cardinal Wireless.