updated 01/27/23
Obviously, it depends on which model of phone you get, but all those features and more are generally available from every major Lifeline Assistance/Affordable Connectivity Program service provider.
What do we mean when we say “all those features and more?” Here are some of the other features you may be able to get with your free government cell phone:
Voicemail: Lets you record and listen to messages left by callers when you can’t answer your phone.
911 Calls: Most people don’t know this, but all cell phones are capable of calling 911 even if you don’t. So, yes, all free government cell phones automatically allow you to make those important 911 calls.
Text messaging: Allows you to send and receive text messages to and from other cell phone users. It’s a pretty convenient way to communicate with friends and family, especially if you are unable to talk on the phone. (And it you’re a teenager, it is apparently impossible to communicate any other way.)
Internet access: Every Lifeline/ACP plan now includes internet access, so you can browse the web, check email, and use social media and other online services on your phone.
International calling: Allow you to make calls to people in other countries without incurring additional charges. A few few free government cell phone service providers may offer it as part of their Lifeline/ACP plans, but in most cases you will need to purchase an additional package to get this service.
Roaming: All Lifeline/ACP plans will allow you to call anywhere in the United States. However, if you think you might want to use your cell phone while you are in other countries, your service provider will undoubtedly nail you with additional charges.
It’s very important for you to remember that calling features will vary depending on the company and plan you choose. So do your research up front and choose wisely to make sure your plan includes the features you want.
Cindy says
Does my phone work all over the U.S
Free Government Cell Phones says
If it is operating properly, it should operate everywhere in the USA (limited, of course, to areas covered by your service provider’s network).
Casey Peterson says
I have always applied for my Obama phone several months ago and have not received it yet
Free Government Cell Phones says
You definitely need to contact your service provider to check on the status of your application.
lawrence wallace says
Can an obama phone receive a picture text message? Or any pictures sent to the phone at all?
Free Government Cell Phones says
Free government cell phones can do anything other cell phones can do — because they are the same phones from the same manufacturers. The only difference is that they’re been refurbished.
amalia says
My mom forgot her pin number for her voicemail and she doesnt know the voicemail number, the number 1 comes out as the voicemail number what can she do?
JoAnn says
Daughter is in another country i was wondering if I could make international calls on my phone.Like can i call the country of India
BIANKA SAUER says
I CAN ONLY USE THE SPEAKER ON ANY PHONE
BIANKA SAUER says
I NEED TO KNOW IF I CAN KEEP MY REGULAR PLUG IN THE WALL PHONE BY HAVING A BUDGET GOVERNMENT PHONE, BECAUSE I CAN NOT HOLD A PHONE TO MY EARS THERE FOR I HAVE TO USE THE SPEAKER ON THE PHONE
Julie Receskey says
I can’t find the paperwork that came worth my phone. Who doo I call for support. No one recognises my number for an account.
Lori Pratt says
Thank you for my free cell it arrived within a weeks time.
Lori Pratt says
Is it possible for my cell to get voicemail? It’s a virgin mobile, if so, how ?
dianaoverman says
how do i set up my voicemail
roger peterson says
i haven’t got my phone yet , ?
Free Government Cell Phones says
How long has it been?
Michael says
Can you make long distance calls within the US
Penny says
Do any of the free government cell phone companies provide a phone that can be used by a legally blind person? Both the keypad and the display screen would need to be larger than those on a “candy bar” phone. Thanks.
Patricia Ann Coleman says
Why isn’t there email?.if I go to unlimited can I get a new.phone mine is too small f for.The web
Ashley Moreno says
I was wondering if they have touchscreen Government Phones and Also , Do they have Unlimited Text Messaging??
Susan Bonner says
Can I get 1000 text or unlimited texting with Safe link Wireless ?
Patricia Emerson says
I actually have two questions:
first question: If you are unhappy with the provider of your government provided cell phone, can you discontinue that one and sign up with another provider?
second question: My older brother is in a nursing home. Would he be able to get one of the government phones?
Free Government Cell Phones says
1. You have to finish up your current year.
2. A nursing home is okay as long has no one else at that address already has a Lifeline phone. It’s a problem for many, and a stupid rule.
Mary Heffernan says
I am writing for a Consumer. Her guardian signed her up for the free phone almost 2 months ago but hasnt’t received it yet. She can’t remember who she signed up with. Is there an 800 number she can call to find out who to contact?
Tyrone Evans says
Im with assurance wireless and I had my phone about a year now. I was wondering how I could get an up grade?
BETTY JORDAN says
I would like to know how to contact Lifeline via phone. I need to request a cancellation of Lifeline and a phone number assigned to me when I tried to request a cell phone. I originally applied with AT&T for Lifeline service on my home phone. After seeing the commercial advising Lifelife was offering free cell phone and service I applied for that service, not knowing only one service was allowed. I now have a phone number from Nexus Communication and was only made aware of this through a letter from Lifeline. I would like to cancel this Lan line number and reapply for the free cell phone and service. In looking though the providers I did not find one that serviced the Inglewood, California area. Please advise 1. how I can cancel the Nexus number 2. how/where to apply for the cell phone under the Lifeline plan that services California. I can be reached at xxx-xxx-xxxx.
Thanks
Betty Jordan
Free Government Cell Phones says
Nexus operates ReachOut Wireless, which is where you must have gotten the phone. Call them at 1-877-870-9222.
As for California, it is not approved for the state yet.