Other States: Free smartphone, up to 1000 minutes, unlimited texts, PLUS 2GB data.
<< All Free Cell Phone Providers
SafeLink Wireless is the largest, oldest and best known of the companies that offer free cell phones through the government’s Lifeline Assistance program. Millions of needy Americans in 40 states, the District of Columbia and Puerto Rico are already talking and texting on Safelink cell phones.
Those states are Alabama, Arkansas, Arizona, California, Connecticut, DC, Delaware, Florida, Georgia, Hawaii, Illinois, Indiana, Iowa, Kansas, Kentucky, Louisiana, Maine, Maryland, Massachusetts, Michigan, Mississippi, Missouri, Nevada, New Hampshire, New Jersey, New Mexico, New York, North Carolina, Ohio, Pennsylvania, Puerto Rico, Rhode Island, South Carolina, Tennessee, Texas, Utah, Virginia, Washington, West Virginia and Wisconsin.
SafeLink Wireless gives you the choice of enjoying free cell service on your own phone. Or you can apply to receive a new cell phone AND free service.
Safelink offers a variety of plans — one set for California, and a far less generous plan for residents of the other states it serves. (Before you ask, California residents get more of everything because the state pays an additional subsidy that other states don’t pay.)
Safelink Wireless Plans for all States other than California
Use your own Phone*, get Bonus Free Service
Plan #1 – Get a free smartphone PLUS 1,000 Voice Minutes ** PLUS unlimited texts, PLUS 1GB of Data** each month.
Also includes:
- Voicemail/Caller ID/3-way Calling
- 911 Access
- 411 Directory Assistance at No Additional Cost
- Nationwide Coverage on America’s Best Networks
Plan #2 – Get a free smart phone PLUS 350 Voice Minutes ** PLUS unlimited texts PLUS 2GB of Data** each month
Also includes:
- Free Smartphone (WiFi & Data Compatible)
- Voice Minutes & Unlimited Texts!
- Voicemail/Caller ID/3-way Calling
- 911 Access
- 411 Directory Assistance at No Additional Cost
- Nationwide Coverage on America’s Best Networks
Bring Your Own Phone (everywhere except California) and get free bonus service
Plan #1 – Get 1,000 Voice Minutes** PLUS unlimited texts, PLUS 1.5GB of Data** PLUS a free SIM card
- 1.5GB/month for the first 3 months of service and 1GB/month thereafter
- Free SIM card*
- Free Every Month
- Voice Minutes & Unlimited Texts!
- Voicemail/Caller ID/3-way Calling
- 911 Access
- 411 Directory Assistance at No Additional Cost
- Nationwide Coverage on America’s Best Networks and 4G LTE† capable
Plan #2 – 350 Voice Minutes** PLUS 2.5GB of Data** PLUS a free SIM card
Also includes;
- 2.5GB/month for the first 3 months of service and 2GB/month thereafter
- Free SIM card*
- Voice Minutes & Unlimited Texts!
- Voicemail/Caller ID/3-way Calling
- 911 Access
- 411 Directory Assistance at No Additional Cost
- Nationwide Coverage on America’s Best Networks and 4G LTE† capable
Safelink Wireless Plans for California
California Plan #1 – customers receive Unlimited FREE Voice & Unlimited FREE text each month and 2 GB of FREE data.
With the SafeLink Wireless Service, features included with the plan for free are:
- Free Android Touch Screen Cell Phone*
- Unlimited Free Voice Minutes
- Unlimited Free Texts Messages each month
- Free for Internet Usage
- Caller Id
- Call Waiting
- Voicemail
- 3-way calling
- Free 411 calling
- Free 911 Access
- Free calls to Customer Care
*Additional Data & International service are not included with the plan
California Plan #2 – Bring Your Own Phone (BYOP) Plan and get extra free service
- You get unlimited voice minutes ** PLUS unlimited texts PLUS 4GB of Data**
- 4GB/month for the first 3 months of service and 3GB/month thereafter
- Free SIM card*
- Voicemail/Caller ID/3-way Calling
- 911 Access
- 411 Directory Assistance at No Additional Cost
- Nationwide Coverage on America’s Best Networks and 4G LTE† capable
Do you qualify?
Are you eligible for a new Safelink Wireless phone number? Be aware that guidelines vary by state but you’ll probably qualify if you participate in a public assistance program such as any of the following:
- Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (Food Stamps or SNAP)
- Medicaid
- Supplemental Security Income (SSI)
- Federal Public Housing Assistance (Section 8)
- Veterans Pension and Survivor's Benefit.
- Bureau of Indian Affairs General Assistance (BIA)
- Tribally Administered Temporary Assistance for Needy Families (Tribal TANF)
- Tribal Head Start (only those households meeting its income qualifying standard)
- Food Distribution Program on Indian Reservations (FDPIR)
If you don’t receive any of these public assistance benefits, you may also qualify if your total household gross monthly income is low enough.
Need more minutes?
Run out of minutes before the end of the month? No problem. TracFone Airtime Cards are available at Wal-Mart, CVS, Kmart, Target, Radio Shack, Walgreens, Rite Aid stores, Family Dollar and Dollar General. You can also buy minutes online.
While Safelink’s most generous free plan limits you 1,000 minutes per month (except in California, where the minutes are unlimited), you can purchase more minutes whenever you need them. We’ve thoroughly covered this subject on our page, Safelink Wireless/Tracfone Minutes. And, you’ll be able to get some very good deals with Tracfone promo code.
Compare Safelink Wireless with Other Lifeline Companies in Your State
There are many other free phone service providers you your state, Reachout Wireless is just one. In every state there are many options, often over a dozen companies to choose from. Plans and phone choices often vary substantially between providers and you owe it to yourself to look at them all. To compare plans, begin with our state-by-state free phone service page and click on your state to see what’s available.
Contact Safelink Wireless:
Safelink Wireless
9700 N.W. 112th Avenue
Miami, FL 33178
Contact information for all states other than California:
Website: www.SafelinkWireless.com
For Enrollment and Plan Changes Support: 1-800-Safelink (723-3546)
For Technical Support ONLY: 1-800-378-1684
Contact information for California:
Phone: 800-SafeLink (1-800-723-3546)
Website: https://tracfone.solixcs.com/TracFoneWeb/en/index2.html#/
California FAQ: https://tracfone.solixcs.com/TracFoneWeb/en/index2.html#/faq
Further Reading on Safelink Wireless
James M Stacchi says
I qualified and had a Safelink phone up to 2016. Had Stoke this Sept 2018 and would feel much safer to be able to carry a Safelink phone with all my emergency numbers 100% of the time.
Free Government Cell Phones says
You’ll need to re-enroll, James, using the contact info we provide on the page above.
Kristen Rivera says
We need a phone for medical, doctor appointments. My husband has rare birth defect called Polymicrogyria (PMG) it’s in his brain! Thank you!
Free Government Cell Phones says
You need to contact Safelink customer service by using the contact info provided in the article above, Kristen. Best of luck.
Amanda Murphy says
Cant do captcha text keeps saying it’s wrong even when it reads it off it’s crazy need to update your page SafeLink can’t never login or do anything been having alot of problems please email me at me @ *********gmail.com TIA ITS IMPORTANT I NEED TO RE-ENROLL FOR MY CELL # benefits.. I’VE DONE IT JUST LAST MONTH.. now woman I chat with said I haven’t and I know I did a few months back someone stole my phone and just got it back in april..I CHAT with person online cause I didn’t get my mins the 5th and it’s been A month since I bought card she said everything was added and it wasn’t then ask to help me login my email didn’t work a d she said I wasn’t enrolled so don’t make sense if so how she tell me it was added lol so yeah I’m needing questions and when I get re enrolled I need the 350 mins and 2.5gb data i go through more data than mins and text.. please help me if can! ?.. 🙏🙏🙏❣️
Free Government Cell Phones says
We can’t help because we are not your service provider, Amanda. You need to contact that company’s customer service team.
Sarah says
If you start out with one plan (1000 minutes | 1 gb data) and decide you need more data, are you able to switch to the (350 minutes | 2 gb data) plan?
Free Government Cell Phones says
You should be able to make that switch, but PLEASE confirm it with Safelink customer service before making any such switch.
Shawn says
Why did there show a problem???
Free Government Cell Phones says
We’re not your service provider, so how could we possibly know, Shawn?
Claude Schliengert says
Hello,
I will be flying to the States in mid September for 10 days. My friend’s Phone has fallen several times due to his disorder and is now broken, he is only able to use it to txt-message. From what he discribed me, he has an UMX with with safelink. My question is, if I get him a new phone in September, will he be able to use the sim out of his current phone in order to have a functional phone again ? Since I have no Idea where to get one and what to get, maybe you can also give me some ideas of a good retailer or a refurbished retailer ?I would appriciate a quick responce so i can have a good surprise when i will arrive. Oh by the way, he lives in Connecticut in the New Haven area.
Free Government Cell Phones says
Ask us a question about the free government cell phone program and we can answer it, Claude. Ask us a question about SIM cards and cell phone operation and we will refer you to your service provider’s customer service team. Sorry.
Makayla Darr says
it keeps saying i need my ow smartphone how do i go about that i dont have on?
Free Government Cell Phones says
Well, Makayla, we have no problem admitting that we don’t have a clue what you’re talking about. What keeps saying you need your own smartphone?
Gale Ralston says
This is the worst customer service I have ever had. Rude, not helpful at all. It is a bother for them to answer a call. DO NOT RECOMMEND
Tracy ruffin says
I need another phone because i lost my phone 3 months ago
Free Government Cell Phones says
The rules of the Lifeline program required your former service provider to cancel your account if it goes unused for 30 days or longer. In other words, you need to enroll again with any one of the free government cell phone companies offering plans in your state. Here’s where you can find a complete list of those companies and plans:
https://www.freegovernmentcellphones.net/states
Amanda Antonelli says
I want to trade phones I have a Motorola cricket phone and I put my SIM from lifeline thru safelink and it asks me for the network SIM code how can I obtain this code. Thank you
Free Government Cell Phones says
Put your phone back the way it was originally and use it to call 6-1-1. That will connect you to customer service.
Leslie Schomer says
How would I Port my number over to safelink
Free Government Cell Phones says
We think you’re actually asking how to switch your service to Safelink from some other company. Is that correct? If so, here’s an article that tells you exactly now to do it:
https://www.freegovernmentcellphones.net/faq/how-do-i-switch-lifeline-providers
Betty Colvin says
Does Safelink Wireless have coverage in my area? Arkansas, 71671
Free Government Cell Phones says
Check with Safelink using the contact info we provide on this page.
Janet Tant says
Is it possible to get a plain flip phone instead of a smart phone? I have had a lot of issues in the past and just have a hard time using them!
Free Government Cell Phones says
Call 6-1-1 on your free government cell hone to ask customer service if they offer flip phones. If not, ask if they have a BYOP (Bring Your Own Phone) program. If so, you can purchase your own inexpensive flip phone and use it as your free government cell phone.
Yadira Cabral says
Hi. My name is Yadira Cabral how can get a free government phone for me and my daughter? Can we both qualify for a phone?
Free Government Cell Phones says
Only one phone per household, Yadira. Click around this website and you’ll find all the information you need to enroll.
elle says
Hello! I found your website while searching phone assistance for an elderly friend. Your information service is very useful and appreciated. I have also enjoyed reading some of the comments posted, it’s comical. Thank you for the courtesy and hard work.
Free Government Cell Phones says
Courtesy? You think we’re courteous? (To tell the truth, we think we’re remarkably patient and courteous, but we admit that we sometimes snap.) Thanks for the compliment.
William Reilly 71050 says
Between 11:30 and 11:50 AM Central time I applied by phone for a lifeline cell phone. I asked the man taking the application several times to check and see if your carrier provides coverage in my physical zip code of 71050 and he kept brushing it off. Finally when he completed the application I insisted he check but then he gave me some excuse about not having the information for the new phone yet and that when they get that then we can deal with it. I told him NO, we will deal with it NOW. I am not going to wait 7-10 business days for you to send me a phone with no coverage and then have to send it back and wait 15 -30 days for you to cancel my gvmnt contract so that I can re-apply with someone that does provide coverage in my area. Again he told me that he does not have that info which makes me think he KNOWS they don’t provide coverage here but just wanted to make a sale. I asked him to let me speak to a supervisor which he declined to do. I then told him to either let me speak to a supervisor or cancel my application. At that point he said he would cancel the app, however I want to make sure he did. Since he incorrectly told me he did not have access to the info to see if you cover this area and refused to let me speak to a supervisor, I have a suspicion that he did NOT cancel my application so that he could have a sale on his record with no regards to it stopping me from being able to apply with someone that can in fact service my zip code. If this is the case please cancel my app immediately and take proper action against your employee. If it turns out this app is not canceled then I will use the weeks wasted and not being able to get a phone from someone else by complaining to every gvmnt agency I can find AND the BBB and posting on social media.
Free Government Cell Phones says
It’s not OUR employee, Williams. We are an independent informational website, NOT a free government cell phone company.
Tammy larace says
I have a assurance wireless phone ,the first one i got wouldn’t stay charged ,so i send it back for a replacement. .assurance sent mean another one ,this one was heavy and it still didn’t stay charged and the guy on the phone promised i wouldn’t have any issues with it ,i only can use it in dire emergencies ,so i was thinking on going back to safe link wireless which i did have years ago ,because assurance wireless does not have good phone…blank,thanks for listening
Free Government Cell Phones says
Happy to listen, Tammy. We’d recommend that you take a look at ALL the companies and plans available in your state BEFORE you decide to go back to Safelink. Who knows — you might find another plan that fits your needs even better. Here’s where you can find that list:
https://www.freegovernmentcellphones.net/states
Laura says
Thank you for this very helpful website.
I am inquiring on behalf of my brother who lives in Connecticut. Due to his disability, he has great difficulty using a SmartPhone or any type of touch-screen device, which is all his current provider (Assurance) will provide. Do you know if it is possible with Safelink for him to either get from them a free “flip phone” or at least allow him to buy his own flip phone and still get the free minutes?
Thank you.
Free Government Cell Phones says
We doubt if any of the free government cell phone service providers still offer old-fashioned flip phones. However, you can check to see which companies offer “Bring Your Own Phone” programs and then purchase a flip phone from a phone retailer to use as your free government cell phone. One warning: Make sure the phone you purchase is compatible with whichever service provider you select.
Alan W says
I am disabled and have had a safelink phone since 2012,In 2019 they asked me to show proof ,In which i did thru e-mails and thru internet.Showed them proof then they cut off my phone,1st of all i think its a disgrace to hire illegal workers who cannot speak english,Knowing ive had my identity stolen by illegals yet our gov hires these illegals who ask you for your SSN???? Then they dont know at all what they are doing,I QUALIFY!,I get SSI and Medicaid yet they cancel my service,I need my phone in case of Emergency.I dont know if they are trying to make Donald Trump look bad or ????? Is it because im white????? I will file with the BBB ,Att General /Federal Trade Commission ETC! This is BULL!!! Im definitely not a fraud yet they claim too much fraud! WTF?Ive got a feeling lawsuits are building day by day for DISCRIMINATION!
Free Government Cell Phones says
You’re probably attributing bad results to nefarious reasons rather than incompetence, which is what we would attribute it to. But if you want to follow through with those complaints, here’s an article that tells you the most effective ways to make them:
https://www.freegovernmentcellphones.net/faq/file-official-complaint-about-your-lifeline-service
Tommy Pietzsch says
I had a lhone through assurance wireless and got it wet and i had no way of telling them. I tried to register for a new one but they wont send it because they say that i have one. Any suggestions?
Free Government Cell Phones says
That’s kind of a nutty response from customer service, Tommy, because they issue replacement phones all the time. Call in again and try once more. It’s doubtful that they’ll issue you a free replacement phone, but they will undoubtedly offer you one for a reasonably small fee.
Sandra leaver says
My phone is not working. I have had it for a number of years. I requested a replacement about 2weeks ago but have not been answered. Could you please email as to when I can expect a phone. I am 82 years old and have had some health problems. I live alone and the phone is my lifeline.thanks
Sandra Leaver
Free Government Cell Phones says
We are not your service provider, Sandra. However, we provide the contact info you need in the article above. Use it to contact Safelink’s customer service team.
Karen says
Thank you for the wealth of information provided here. I was able to resolve all of my issues with my dead government phone, including choosing and switching to a different carrier, with the information and toll free number supplied on your site. You are very much appreciated. Karen 🙂
Free Government Cell Phones says
Thanks, Karen. It’s always nice to hear from readers who appreciate all the hard work that goes into this website on a daily basis.
Terry G. Watkins says
Hello to All, I’m Terry G. Watkins’s. I live in Clarkston, Michigan, 48346. Because it is my own reasion I have lost my phone (not using it as much as I should), I was asking for your help to get be back. I had a head injury and there are time’s I don’t do thing right. I could go on and on but all I’m asking is why can I not have my phone back to working? If not, would you please let me know so I’m sure I won’t let that happen again. If not I understand. I just need to know. Thank You, Terry G. Watkins
Free Government Cell Phones says
We’re not Safelink, so we can’t answer your question with any sort of detail, Terry. You need to contact that company’s customer service team.
April M Detwiler says
Phone will not hold a charge.. lucky if a full
charge last an hour. Need a new battery, but it isn’t removable . Think I need a replacement phone .
Free Government Cell Phones says
Call 6-1-1 on your free government cell phone to be connected to your service provider’s customer service team. They can explain their own particular processes.
Matt says
When I’m applying for BYOP theough safelink it told me to text BYOP to 611611 and then gave me this message… (Txt a number below to pick a company: 1=Straight Talk 2=Simple Mobile 3=Net10 4=Walmart Family Mobile 5=Go Smart Mobile 6=TracFone 7=Total Wireless 8=Telcel)
I don’t kniw the differwnxe between each company and dont know which one i should choose… With the 1000 minutes.. 1.5 gb data and unlimited text, It will be the same with any company i choose correct? I tried researching some of the companies but i dont know what information i am looking for other than coverage statistics maybe? Idk do you have any input on the situation?
Free Government Cell Phones says
It appears that they are giving you companies that are alternatives to the free government cell phone plan. So we don’t understand it, either, unless they are rejecting your application.
It’s impossible for us to recommend one other another because there are so many variables.
Sorry that we’re unable to give you any real advice in this situation.
Travis says
You should text number 6 back, because Safelink is just Tracfone.
Bill says
All of the companies listed in the text message you received are Tracfone subsidiaries, as is SafeLink. You said you are trying to sign up for SafeLink’s BYOP (Bring Your Own Phone) service. The text message you received doesn’t explain it very well, but I think they are either:
1 – Asking you with which of those companies you wish to BYOP.
…or:
2 – Asking you with which of those companies the phone you wish to use (with SafeLink) was originally branded.
I suggest that you call SafeLink to ask about this.
Liliana Asli says
I need a free cellphone for myself to use different aps so I can train my brain to be alerted all the times. How soon can I get a free android phone from you.
Thank you
Free Government Cell Phones says
You can wait forever without getting a phone from us because we are NOT a free government cell phone company. This is an independent informational website.
Glenda Backman says
Do you offer phones that are usable by a blind person?
Free Government Cell Phones says
“We” don’t offer any phones. This is an independent informational website, NOT a free government cell phone company website. But we just happen to have an article that will give you all the info you need:
https://www.freegovernmentcellphones.net/government-cell-phones-hearing-vision-speech-impaired
Janet Delk says
I am on SSI and have Medicaid and getting food stamps, it would be easier for me to have a government program cell phone and can’t afford to buy a cell phone.
Free Government Cell Phones says
Sounds like you qualify, Janet, so we agree that you should enroll. Here’s where you can find a list of all the service providers offering plans in your state. Check them all out to find the plan that fits your needs best:
https://www.freegovernmentcellphones.net/states
Garry Russell says
i have call 3 times!!!i i do not know how to get a free phone
Free Government Cell Phones says
Who did you call, Garry? Have you attempted to enroll online?
Allan Griffith says
I would like to use my own phone
Free Government Cell Phones says
Check Safelink’s website for more information about its BYOP (Bring Your Own Phone) program. If your phone is compatible with Safelink’s national cell network, it should be doable.
Richard W. Mills III says
I am unemployed due to medical conditions and currently are on (SNAP) food stamp assistance. I have a Social
Security hearing pending. I have A iPhone but I don’t have any provider and can’t use it because I have no income. I need a phone to contact my Doctors, My Lawyers, Social Security and foe emergencies and family. Please can you help me. If its not possible to activate my iPhone for this service please send me if you can a phone that I can use.
Thank you,
Rick
Free Government Cell Phones says
If Safelink is the company you want to sign up with, you need to contact its customer service team in order to enroll, Richard. We provide the contact info on this page. Good luck.
PC says
I have a 39 year old daughter who we have helped on and off for a number of years. She has mental health issues and is at a point where she no longer works and is paralyzed with fears and anxieties. She doesn’t seem to have the ability to follow thru and get the help she needs so that she has the basic needs. Is soon to lose her apartment that the VA has helped provide for several 6 month time frames but they will not be able to help again so she is soon to be homeless. Need to find out how to get her a free phone plan. We bought her a Samsung at Walmart several months ago, but can no longer continue to pay her plan. Can you help me to do all I can to get some answers to direct her. Thank you. PC
Free Government Cell Phones says
Sorry to hear about your daughter’s problems, PC. All the information you need is right here on this website. It’s dedicated to the subject of free government cell phones. Just click on our name at the top of this page to be taken to our home page, where everything you need is clearly laid out.
Yvonne Allen says
How do I find out if SafeLink has service in my area
Free Government Cell Phones says
You call Safelink customer service and give them your home address.
Nancy watson says
How do I get the sim card for my phone? I would like to get service. I recently had entouh but lost my phone and they dont do replacement phone. I got one, now I just need to get minutes on it.
Free Government Cell Phones says
Before you do anything else, you need to speak to Safelink’s customer service team to make sure that the make and model of your phone is compatible with Safelink’s network.
Isabella York says
I need something i know how to operate.
Free Government Cell Phones says
Unfortunately, you do not get to request a particular make and model of phoned, Isabella. You get the phone they send out at random from those they have on hand. One option might be the Bring Your Own Phone program. You can purchase and use any phone that’s compatible with your service provider’s network and it will work. However, you need to confirm with customer service that your make and model is truly compatible BEFORE you purchase it.
Wanda Carlock says
how soon could I get phone,i am bedridden and need a phone despertly.
Free Government Cell Phones says
Good question, Wanda. Most companies say delivery will take two weeks, but our readers tell us it often takes three or four weeks or even longer. But the sooner you enroll, the sooner you’ll get your free government cell phone.
Cynthia says
Can I switch from Assurance Wireless free phone to SafeLink or another phone ? Assurance is “Terrible” had 5 phones in less than 2 months! Works every other day if lucky. Thanks
Free Government Cell Phones says
Yes, you can switch at any time as long as you’ve had service with the same company for at least 60 days. Here’s an article that tells you exactly how to do it:
https://www.freegovernmentcellphones.net/faq/how-do-i-switch-lifeline-providers
Em says
Yes, just switched from a reliable flip phone of four years to some unknown name piece of junk android that gets extremely hot right away and is always freezing up. Assurance Wireless has turned out to be deceptive, shady and extemely worthless and untrustworthy.
Katherine Spalding says
Hello I am inquiring about the cell phone assistance in Tennessee. If you could give me some insight into this program I would greatly appreciate it. Thank you for your time,
Katherine Spalding
Free Government Cell Phones says
You can find all the info on every company offering free government cell phones in Tennessee at this link:
https://www.freegovernmentcellphones.net/states
Michael says
I have an old flip phone, and it is hard for me to text anymore. Can my few pics be transferred to a smart phone even if I have to buy one. Can’t believe they have not upgraded that old phone. Well I guess I can’t bitch, it’s free, and only use it for emergencies. Soon to be 66, so maybe I don’t need one anyway! lol
Free Government Cell Phones says
If you were to switch to a different free government cell phone, your new service provider would give you a free smartphone, which would be a huge upgrade for you. But before you do that, it seems like it would be a good idea to speak to your current provider’s customer service team. You’ve been a long-time customer and if you’re very lucky, they may offer you an upgrade for free.
Em says
Its not free, they make you pay a huge shipping fee and send you a mediocre phone that gets very hot right away and constantly freezes up. Assurance wireless is bad and leaves out providing important information, dismisses your questions and hangs up the phone on you. Its also okay and fraudulent for them to be recording and monitoring their conversations with you, but not okay for you to record (which they’re already doing too) and then catch them constantly lying and leaving out that information. They tell you one thing and do another.
Free Government Cell Phones says
More than 40,000 people have left comments on this website, but you are the first person to ever claim that a free government cell phone company makes customers pay any shipping fees, much less huge shipping fees. If your assertion is true, we’re pretty sure other readers will be able to confirm. Readers?
Lisa Umina says
Assurance wireless required a $5 shipping charge from me. I’m experiencing similar problems as others have mentioned. The android phone they provide simply does not function reliably ( or at all). The customer service representatives all play dumb, as if they aren’t hearing about the same problems from everyone. I’m on my third replacement. They all had the same problems. I gave up and just did a factory reset every few weeks until it crashed for good after 6 months. Their ONLY solution is to purchase a phone. The whole thing feels fraudulent because everyone would have to purchase a phone that should have been free! I’d like to hear from other Assurance wireless subscribers.
Free Government Cell Phones says
Thanks for your comment because you clarify something we hadn’t thought of in a very interesting way: It’s obvious that the customer service agents are playing dumb because, as you say, the phones suck and they obviously receive countless complaints about them day after day after day. Just look at our comments section and the same thing is true.
It’s true that most companies charge for replacement phones and then send out phones that are equally unreliable.
Your only real option here is to switch Lifeline companies. So here’’s an article that will tell you how to do it as painlessly as possible:
https://www.freegovernmentcellphones.net/faq/how-do-i-switch-lifeline-providers
Mary S. Scott says
I Filled out an App 3 Mounts Ago To Get a Free Safe Link Cell Phone About Two Or Three Mounts Ago And I Haven’t Gotten It Yet I Was Suppose To Receive In 6 to 8 Weeks But I Still Haven’t Gotten It Yet When I Sent The App Off I Did Send A Copy Of My Award Letter n My SSI # With It And a Letter From My Landlord Staten That I Live Alone At The Address I Put On The App So What’s Taken So Long For Me To Get It? I Need For Emergency’s Can You Send It Soon? I Get Unlimited Texting And Internet Wi Fir How Many GBs? Will It Have a Camera On It?
Free Government Cell Phones says
Since we are not Safelink, we cannot tell you why it’s taking so long. But if one company won’t offer you a free government cell phone, try enrolling with a different company. You can find a complete list of the companies offering plans in your state at this link:
https://www.freegovernmentcellphones.net/states
Bruce Griffin says
I no longer qualify for service through Safelink because I cancelled my food stamps. How do I now use my Safelink phone with Tracfone minutes? I want to keep using this phone and my current phone number for work.
Free Government Cell Phones says
Contact Safelink customer service. The two companies have the same owner and it should be a simple process.
S.Lopez says
Happy New Year!!!
I have a comment for the employees who read and respond to the questions posted on this site. After reading through the about 25 questions posted here, I would like to say GOD BLESS YOU GUYS!!!!!!!! It is actually unbelievable that rather than read the information posted on this site to assist people, most apparently don’t read!!! I understand that there are a lot of people who may not understand thoroughly but wow…..KEEP UP THE GOOD WORK AND THANK YOU!
Free Government Cell Phones says
Nice way to begin the new year, S. Thanks.
Joe giovengo says
I currently have qlink. The phone is terrible. Shutdown a lot and overheats. I want to change my carrier. How can I do this. I have the free government phone
Free Government Cell Phones says
It’s simple. Here’s an article that tells you how:
https://www.freegovernmentcellphones.net/faq/how-do-i-switch-lifeline-providers
Janedoe says
Safe link is so not a good company.I’ve been with them for almost 3 years,my screen went out so I called for some type of replacement phone and they told me they didn’t give replacement phone yet my sister has one she received a few days ago.
Samantha Hartwig. gSa says
I need a phone. I’m disabled.
Free Government Cell Phones says
Check out all the companies and plans available in your state and apply with the one that fits your needs best. Then enroll with that company online or by phone.
Kathy Ridgeway says
Is recertifying the same as enrolling all over again???…
Free Government Cell Phones says
No, you just need to tell them that you are still eligible. You may be required to show documentation proving that you have a home address or that you still participate in one of the qualifying Federal programs but it should be that simple.
SJ Alford says
I need a flip phone because I am very hearing impaired. A smart phone will not work for me. Can I continue to use my Samsung u360?
Free Government Cell Phones says
Not all cell phones are compatible with all cell phone networks, SJ. So you should contact your service provider’s customer service and/or tech support team to find out the answer to your question.
Debra says
Obviously I’m not the smartest star in the world, but you need to dum it down for some of us. I clicked on how to get a phone, with no explanation at all.
Free Government Cell Phones says
Really, Debra? Our “How to get one” page breaks it down into three simple steps. We don’t know how to make it any clearer.
Sue says
FGCP-why do you have to be so condescending to some of these folks?! Not everyone understands how this system works and it is a lot of info for oldler, non techies to absorb.
Please show some patience with these people…kindness means a lot.
Free Government Cell Phones says
We think we show incredible patience and explain the same things over and over and over again. Is it too much to expect people to read the information provided before they leave a comment asking how to do exactly what was described in the article above their comments?
Karen says
You are doing a wonderful job, and helping so many underprivileged people.
Free Government Cell Phones says
Thanks. It’s nice to be appreciated.
BRIAN says
Lots ‘a stoopid people out there. Look at who they voted President
Carl says
lol Yeah here you are looking for free gimmies. Let me guess you like Bernie?
Norma I castro says
How do I upgraded
Free Government Cell Phones says
Check the Safelink website, Norma. It provides info on upgrading plans and upgrading phones.
Syed I Hossain says
I am in need of a govt. cell phone
Free Government Cell Phones says
Then you need to apply for a free government cell phone.
Debra says
How do I upgrade my application?
Free Government Cell Phones says
Not quite sure what that means, Debra. Can you explain?
WAI says
I’ve been hitting a wall with the provider Safelink Wireless. They disconnected my service, and when I reapplied they declined. I asked what reason, and they said that the SNAP card I sent is not in their catalog. It’s obvious they don’t know what a SNAP card is, but I can’t get a US person to identify with me. How do I report these guys for fraud. I think they are doing this intentionally and pocket the government funding.
Free Government Cell Phones says
We’re not sure you’re dealing with fraud as much as incompetence, WAI. We’d suggest that you take this rejection as an opportunity to switch to a different service provider. Here’s where you can find all those providers in your state:
https://www.freegovernmentcellphones.net/states
Kimberly Gassaway says
How will o know the phone will work @ my house? Last free state phone I received didn’t work @ my home so I would need 2 drive almost 30miles in order 2 use it.
Free Government Cell Phones says
Ask your neighbors which cell phone company they use and if they get good signal. Then find a free government cell phone company that uses the same cell network. Here’s where you can find out which cell networks each free government cell phone company uses:
https://www.freegovernmentcellphones.net/cdma-gsm-lte-phone-compatible-with-my-free-phone-network
Michael Hamby says
Or someone there please contact me at 302-593-****. I have been trying for 11 months to verify my phone and now they tell me I have to reapply and I’ve done that several times all together I have sent paperwork over a dozen times would somebody please contact me and help me get my phone back online. I am disabled live alone that is the only phone that I can use have to you and have had to do without for close to 11 months now again my phone number is 302-593-****. it is a borrowed phone please do not send advertisement or anything to that phone thank you very much Michael L Hamby
Free Government Cell Phones says
We can’t send you anything, Michael, because we are not a free government cell phone service provider. This is an independent informational website. You need to contact the service provider directly.
Donna G says
Thanks you child molesters in helping people, another rich people helping others, a straight SCAM.
Free Government Cell Phones says
How’s the weather there in CrazyVille today, Donna?
Auggie says
Lol. what is wrong with you??? Donna-
Seek counselling, please! You are not thinking in a reasonable manner, at all.
I hope you get some help to deal with these things you imagine.
Ann says
Am I able to keep my phone number that I already have if I receive one of these phones?
Free Government Cell Phones says
Yes, but you need to tell the customer service agent that “I want to port over my current phone number.”
Leon Stewart says
How do I find out what type of free smartphone I’ll get prior to enrolling? Ie, name, model, dimensions.
Free Government Cell Phones says
Impossible, Leon. Each company offers a number of different makes and models of cell phones, and they are handed out randomly.
Billie says
I can’t find the enrollment form been looking for hours
Free Government Cell Phones says
Can cannot offer enrollment forms because this is an independent informational website that’s NOT affiliated with any of the free government cell phone companies. You must visit the website of the company of your choice in order to enroll.
Tomas R Mireles says
Lost my phone.
Free Government Cell Phones says
https://www.freegovernmentcellphones.net/faq/i-lost-my-phone-how-do-i-get-a-replacement
Tracie says
If you are already a tracfone customer can you transfer your phone and keep your same
number to safelink?
Free Government Cell Phones says
Yes.
https://www.freegovernmentcellphones.net/faq/can-i-keep-my-current-phone-number-when-i-enroll-transfer-in-the-lifeline-program
https://www.freegovernmentcellphones.net/faq/how-do-i-switch-lifeline-providers
Hank in Tennessee says
Finally had it with Safelink. Problem started 4 weeks ago when my phone disconnected during a call. Checked my minutes and it said zero. I know for a fact I did NOT use all of my free minutes during the month. I even looked back at previous call history for proof. Having no funds in the bank (I sometimes buy the $10 load up cards for Safelink directly from their website if I run out of 350 minutes) I had to run to CVS and use cash. The only Safelink cards sold there are the $15 cards for unlimited 30 day plan. I bought and activated the card. The last day of the plan was yesterday September 27. Now today, my Lifeline minutes have kicked in, 350 minutes, unlimited texts, And it says over 3 GB data. However, since I woke up this morning the data does not work. Spent almost my entire 350 minutes today talking to idiotic foreigners who just read the same script and protocols telling me to do the same thing over and over. Have you tried turning your mobile data on/off? YES Have you tried rebooting phone? YES. Have you tried removing battery? BATTERY DOES NOT COME OUT OF THIS PHONE. Have you tried calling *22890? YES. We need you to call from a different phone: DID THAT ALREADY. DID NOT SOLVE PROBLEM. NOT BORROWING MY NEIGHBORS PHONE AGAIN!! Asked them if there was someone I could speak to because I am sure it is NOT a coincidence that my data is not working the same day my previous plan stopped. No one seems to get that in their pea sized brain!! “Oh sir but we assure you it is not a problem, you see your data is there it says you have over 3 gigabytes”. SERIOUSLY? I KNOW THIS ALREADY. You would think maybe they would look beyond this and maybe find that something happened when my plan ended today?! I have to have a phone with data to report the jobs I do. Without data I will lose my jobs. I’m done with Stupidlink. Talking to these morons is like banging my head against a brick wall.
Hank in Tennessee says
UPDATE: I had an idea..I bought another Unlimited Minutes/ Unlimited Texts/ 1 GB DATA card for $15 + tax. This is the same card that once it ran out, my data problems began. Guess what? Now I have data again. So it took buying a $15 card to fix it. Which means from now on if I want data I will have to pay! I don’t know if this is some kinda glitch or if Safelink is doing this on purpose to get money from their Lifeline customers. So with that I will say BEWARE to anyone who’s phone runs out of minutes. DO NOT buy the $15 unlimited card or you will be stuck with it if you want to use your data!! The smaller $10 cards I did not have any problems with, though.
Very dissatisfied says
Safelink wireless is the absolute Worst of all of the lifeline providers! Sounds like youve went through alot of wjat i did only mine went on for 2entire years! Never being able to get the problems resolved was way too stressful for me! I decided to call on my local community,my sign read “Can you hear me now? Have Safelink Wireless?
join us this Friday at 6pm & Saturday at 2pm for a consumer discussion Right Here (because I certainly cannot CALL you)”
The response was overwhelming
& led to standing room only. I was shocked at the turn out especially considering I live in a smaller town. Although the issues were uniquely its own, by days end we all agreed 99% of the problems/issues lie soley with Safelink wireless’ CUSTOMER SERVICE AGENTS/REPRESENTATIVES & 1% cheap cellular phone quality!!
99%!! Thats when we decided to contact the b.b.b & we began writing reviews to try & help others with our experiences having dealt with thw extreme stress of simply trying to use a service that President Obama made available low income citizens in which each attending consumer Qualified for but months & years later STILL cannot successfully use this service for longer than a few minths until a problem arises & we’re forced to call customer service/support which more times than not results in the service being completely Cancelled by a ticked off Safelink Wireless CUSTOMER SERVICE AGENT. There IS NO ladder to the ones in charge that you can seek help with because when you ask for them the agent transfers you to a coworker 3 seats over or so im told. There is ABSOLUTELY NO WAY to file a complaint about poor Customer Service or an obnoxious agent. So dont atempt it or you may end up with SERVICE CANCELLED without warning nor reason & we All know how many months it takes to reapply. I wrote a review of safelink on this site too but funny, its mot on here!! my opinion the words No Customer Service or supoort would be no different as well as save the government tons of money for paying these people for a job in which they do not / can not perform. Woohoo this was a stress relief for me 🙂
Danny says
Does Safelinkstill offer only 350 free calling minutes? Checking because other providers offer 500 minutes and 1G of data
Free Government Cell Phones says
Please see the very top of the page for the minutes. In California, they give a free Android phone, unlimited minutes & texting, 500 MB data; in other states you give a free phone, 350 minutes and unlimited texts and 500 MB data.
Audrea Laney says
I need a replacement sim card for a HTC 10 evo
Free Government Cell Phones says
We’re not Safelink, Audrea. This is an independent informational website, NOT a free government cell phone cell phone company. In other words, we can’t help you, but your service provider can.
Melissa Reid says
What the best phone to get in TN,For SafeLink Sim card They sent me an At&t sim card but I have Verizon so help
Free Government Cell Phones says
You need to speak to your service provider’s customer service team, Melissa.
Zbyszek says
From time to time my phone gets disconnected. No calls in, o outs, no texting. How do I find out when it will get restarted?
Free Government Cell Phones says
Contact customer service by calling 6-1-1 on your free government cell phone. Or by calling the phone number shown in the article above.
vivian says
how do i get a free smart phone
Free Government Cell Phones says
Seriously, Vivian? How about if you take a few minutes to click around this website, because it tells you everything you need to know.
mary god says
my phone is not working well can I tranfer to an old Tracfone
Free Government Cell Phones says
Probably, but you need to check with Safelink customer service to make sure the make and model are still compatible.
rebecca weir says
I am trying to find out how i put safelink minutes on my new phone .i need my enrollment id too.
Free Government Cell Phones says
Call 6-1-1 on your free government cell phone to connect to customer service. They should be able to help you out.
Michael Keenan says
What happens when I run out of minutes?
Free Government Cell Phones says
Two choices: You can either stop using the phone for the rest of the month, or you can purchase additional minutes.
Giong Nguyen says
My phone 856 246 **** has validated for 257 days to use but I have only 7 minutes to call. What should I recover my monthly minutes. I am in life-line program. Thank you
Free Government Cell Phones says
We’re not quite sure what your problem is, Giong, but you should contact Safelink customer service. You can do that by calling 6-1-1 on your free government cell phone, but you would exhaust your few remaining minutes before you got your problem resolved. Try visiting the Safelink website to see if you can solve your problem online. If not, see if you can borrow a friend’s phone to contact customer service.
Pang says
For California, is Safelink the only company to offer a GSM sim for bring your own phone?
Are there any other companies that offer gsm SIM?
How does safelink voice and data quality compare to the other companies?
Also, Safelink offers 2gb a month data for California, not 500mb, or am I getting it wrong?
Free Government Cell Phones says
The answers to all your questions are pretty much the same, Pang: It depends on what part of the state you live in.
But here’s an article that tells you more about which companies use each national cell network:
https://www.freegovernmentcellphones.net/cdma-gsm-lte-phone-compatible-with-my-free-phone-network
Amy DiCamillo says
Need customer service to call this number 203 502-**** and help me Re activate my phone. I did not use my phone and it was shut off, but cannot activate per message I receive on my phone for weeks now. Customer service needs to call me.
Free Government Cell Phones says
Sorry, Amy, but this is an independent informational website. We can’t deactivate your phone. You need to contact your service provider’s customer service team.
Stacy D. says
Why does the government permit such dreadful service from its Lifeline providers? Even this site had difficulty getting an answer from Safelink and I have wasted countless hours trying to restore service that was term terminated in error by the company. I assume the insurance is paying for this service, why does it have to be so inferior (at least in the area of virtually non-existant customer service) to that of other more established cell phone service providers?
Free Government Cell Phones says
Our readers probably agree with your assessment by a score of about 999 to 1, Stacy. One correction though. It’s not paid for with insurance. Every paid phone bill in America has a line-item called “Universal Service Plan” which adds a few cents to a few dollars per month to everyone’s bill. It is paid for with all those pennies and dollars.
Brittney Hodges says
How do I order a new phone from safelink wireless when my doesn’t work anymore
Free Government Cell Phones says
Contact the company’s customer service team, Brittney.
Elaine Garfield says
Safe Link is just awful. Their customer service has always been bad but I ma at my wits end with them now. I sent back the paper work they sent me in in plenty of time to re-certify. Next thing I was told is that the account was cancelled. I have tried for over 6 weeks to deal with them and every time it goes bad. One rep reapplied and still I am told the account is cancelled. I called again this morning and, rather that wait on hold, I gave them my number, as requested by them and was I would get a call back in 15 to 22 minutes. It is now 1 hour and 15 minutes later and no callback. This company is the absolute worst and I am glad to be rid of them. They are making a lot of money for such terrible service and they are taking advantage of people like me who are cash strapped and cannot afford to just get a phone. It is hard enough to survive without dealing with a company who has no respect for you.
J.Striebel says
Very stright forward and informational great job
David says
Do any of the programs in New York offer a smart watch?
Free Government Cell Phones says
Sorry, but none of the programs in any state offer smart watches.
marvin dodson says
im looking to get a phone i just need information on a location to get it or how i go about getting one.
Free Government Cell Phones says
You can enroll by phone or online and they will send the phone to your home, Marvin.
Yidi Jiang says
Yidi Jiang. Columbia. MD. 21045 USA. I want free cell.
Free Government Cell Phones says
You need to enroll with the company, Yidi. This is an independent informational website (and we provide the contact info in the heart of the article on this page).
lauri piper says
its very nice to help people out with things like phones for their every day life.
Brittney N Hodges says
What do the phones look like?
Free Government Cell Phones says
Lots of different makes and models are available, Brittney. Check out a few of the service providers’ websites to see what they are currently offering.
Terry Witt says
It said to use my own device I don’t have a phone at all
Free Government Cell Phones says
Contact customer service (contact info provided on this page) to clear up the confusion.
Frederick Davidson says
When are these companies going to quit outsourcing all their customer service calls over seas? You can not understand a word they are saying!!!!!!!!!!!
Free Government Cell Phones says
C’mon, Frederick, it’s not just these companies. Damn near every company in every industry does the same thing.
amita d gandhi says
last 15 days ago i enrolled my phone in altlanticicity library office.four &six business day you will get your home address in mailbox..still idont get my wife phone?
Free Government Cell Phones says
Check the Safelink website, Amita. It has a function that allows you to “Check Your Status.”
Erica says
My husband was injured and is out of work because he needs surgery. He was our only income and now we are on SNAP. My question is: I have a small Lg smartphone that I can use and don’t need another one, I just need minutes. I just ran out this month because we can’t afford more minutes. Can I use it and could I possibly keep the number that is already assigned to it?
Thanks
Free Government Cell Phones says
Theoretically, you can use the phone and keep the number. We’ll address each of those questions separately.
Regarding the phone: You can use a phone that is compatible with your service provider’s national cell network. Here’s an article that will tell you more:
https://www.freegovernmentcellphones.net/cdma-gsm-lte-phone-compatible-with-my-free-phone-network
Contact your service provider’s customer service or tech support team to find out if the specific make and model of cell phone you have will be compatible with your service provider’s network.
Regarding keeping your current phone number: Yes, again. You can keep the number. If the phone you own is compatible with your service provider’s cell network, they will tell you how to transfer it over.
Brenda says
I would like to sign up for this phone service, so I can apply for jobs. I have an iPhone which can take a SIM card. I do not currently have phone service, only email. The link to the website comes up to,a blank page when I try to contact it. Can you help?
I am on MediCal and Snap.
Thank you,
Brenda
Free Government Cell Phones says
The link works for us, Brenda. Try it again.
john l rice says
i need sign up for a phone. i have proof i get medicaid.it wont let my info go thru
Free Government Cell Phones says
Try calling Safelink customer service, John.
Linda Saxon says
I have been with Safelink for at least 3 years now up until the 1st of June I did not receive my minutes. I can text all I want, but cannot call or receive calls. But I can call Safelimk I wish I could talk to a customer representative I get put on hold then after being on hold for up to 30 minutes I get cut off, Ileft them a text message about not receiving my minutes and have no response. My phone with them is my only means of communication and I desperately need my phone. I live by myself, in the country, I am retired medically disabled
.Is there anyway I for your phone service or advise of a phone company that can help
Free Government Cell Phones says
Have you attempted to speak to customer service via email?
emiliano ocasio says
need a new phone and tryin to redo my old but wont let me
Free Government Cell Phones says
Not sure what you mean by “tryin to redo my old.”
Steven Wakimoto says
I need a free phone. I’m a medicaid and food stamp recipient. I’m disabled senior.
Free Government Cell Phones says
You can enroll with any of the free government cell phone companies offering plans in your state, Steven. Here’s where you can find them:
https://www.freegovernmentcellphones.net/states
George says
We have had issues with this provider every month with their service not reloading the phone. We have spent hours each month with your customer service from India not understanding how to fix the problem. We have had it with your service and will be moving on.
Free Government Cell Phones says
Sorry to hear about your problems, George, but this is an independent informational website that is NOT affiliated with any of the free government cell phone companies.
Roy Eugene Gilmore says
To whom iy may concern. My nane s Roy Eugene Gilmore I am a SSI reciver of phones. I recently lost My cell phone Number 856-353-****. I live in Camden NJ. I lost my last phone. I want it to be cut off and I want A replacement phone because somebody’s using my phone and my free minutes. It’s not fair. I receive SSI and I need my cell phone very very much. This will be my second time to receive a phone. Can a manager assist me with this? I hope I Receive A replacement phone. I don’t want somebody who stole my phone to use my minutes. I need them very bad. ********@gmail.com is my email. I have to use email because you know somebody’s got mine. Plaese send me a replacement phone. I dont want to change my provider. I just want a phone. Thank you. Roy Gilmore. I’m 61 years old and I live alone. please tell how to get a replacement ASAP. Thank you. Have a nice day.
Free Government Cell Phones says
You need to contact your service provider’s customer service team directly, Roy. This is an independent informational website, NOT a Lifeline free government cell phone company.
We assume you will be required to pay a small fee to get a second replacement phone. But who knows? Maybe you’ll get the friendliest customer service agent in the world and get another one for free.
daenna montoya says
beentrying to re-certify my renewal but can not find where to do it…i did the 800 # but says i can not do it by touch phone…can anyone help me?
Free Government Cell Phones says
Have you tried the company’s website, Deanna?
Emily says
Just to give you an update, I called customer service and the lady said I’m not eligible because i cant prove I’m making less than the limit, yet, I’m making nothing! What about the unemployed who don’t get benefits?! This is b#&$&@ and they need to fix that. Anyway, thanks for helping 🙂
Free Government Cell Phones says
Wish we could have done more than give you scanty information.
Emily says
I wouldn’t call it scanty, you provide more than enough information on this website. If you listed it somewhere, I probably just didn’t see it. If not, you told me by calling it a black hole. I was just making sure I understood everything correctly. So, that being said, don’t think that I thought this information was insufficient. It is VERY helpful. So, thanks again, and I feel like I should say bye cause we’ve been talking through comments for so long 🙂 so, bye 🙂
Free Government Cell Phones says
Just for clarification purposes, Emily, we were referring to the information from the USAC as scanty, not our response to you.
Emily says
Oh okay! That makes sense. Thanks for the clarification.
Emily says
Hello, I am writing because I recently enrolled to get a cell phone, I have been unemployed for over a year now and do not have proof of income for this reason. I do not get any other benefits. I received an email asking for income proof, and I replied to tell them but they sent me an email back right after saying arror message because I don’t have any attachments of proof. Can you please help me.
Emily says
replied to tell them *this* error* not arror
Emily says
After browsing through many previous comments for hours, because of your clever replies.. I have realized that my best bet is to probably contact safelink customer service. I’m sorry that you have to deal with morons assuming you are their service provider. But, at least you’re the one who replies to the idiots, rather than being one of them! 😉
Free Government Cell Phones says
You have officially been awarded “Comment of the Day,” Emily.
Free Government Cell Phones says
We wish we could, Emily, but you have unfortunately fallen into one of the black holes of the free government cell phone program. The USAC has told us that they are aware that it’s impossible to prove no income and that they are “working on a solution,” but the do not seem to have solved it.
Emily says
Haha thanks 🙂 and did they say that they’ll still approve ones without income?
Free Government Cell Phones says
Nope. That’s why we called it a black hole.
Tyler says
Erimm you are hilarious.
NN says
– How can I figure out which company has better coverage in my state/area ? I am currently with Verizon.
– Which company has an option to port my current phone number, and for how much?
– How often do I have to re-certify for the free phone eligibility? I have Medicaid right now, but am not sure for how long.
Thank you.
Free Government Cell Phones says
There’s really not a scientific way to figure out who has the best coverage in your area. The only thing you can do is ask neighbors which company they are with and who has the best signal strength and then enroll with a Lifeline company that uses the cell network of the company that gets the best reviews from those neighbors.
Yes, you can always keep your current phone number. No charge. Just make sure that when you enroll you tell the customer service agent that “I want to port over my current phone number.” Say it at the beginning of the call, repeat it several times during the call, and at the end of the call confirm that it has been done. (We just have very little confidence in most of the customer service agents, hence the repetition.)
You need to recertify annually.
mary lee says
Can I have life line discount fees on my land line AND government free cell phone?
Free Government Cell Phones says
Nope. Sorry, Mary Lee, but only one Lifeline discount is permitted per household.
Theresa maldonado says
I don’t know who my carrier is for this phone ? Wat do I do ?
Free Government Cell Phones says
Call 6-1-1 on your free government cell phone and the call will be answered by your service provider’s customer service team.
Jesse says
How do I get my phone reactivated since I haven’t used it in a month?
Free Government Cell Phones says
You’ll need to contact customer service and ask if it can be reactivated. Be prepared, because they may say you’re out of luck.
James Stratton says
Why isn’t there a way to get a replacement phone when the original phone was stolen and You have No way of Identifying Your Enrollment number or phone number ? from Safelink wireless ?
Free Government Cell Phones says
If you contact Safelink customer service, they should be able to identify you based on name, address, etc.
Ms. C says
Safelink has a way to get into your account without knowing your enrollment number. Once in, copy down your number.
Deanna Boldin says
I had a Safelink phone once but went to Qlink because they offered a Smart phone and now I regret it. I’ve replaced it once and now I’m having issues with the new one after sending it in for repairs and when I got it back nothing changed same issues with a few more I’m ready to throw it against the wall; anyway my question is am I able to get a phone through Safelink again? I’m still on Medicaid and receive SNAP benefits. Please respond back ASAP Thank you
P.S. you should have all my information from when I applied before and nothing has changed, so if I’m eligible please tell me how to reapply.
Free Government Cell Phones says
You can switch service providers after 60 days if you have data and text only. Here’s an article that tells you much more:
https://www.freegovernmentcellphones.net/faq/how-do-i-switch-lifeline-providers
Ms. C says
Wait until March 19, 2018, or afterwards!
Lora price says
Could someone please contact me
Free Government Cell Phones says
We’re not Safelink, Lora. This is an independent informational website. You need to contact the company directly.
sandy noyes says
i have a phone but it says the service runs out the end of this month january 2018 why does it say that dont mean to bother you but was wondering if i had to do something to activate again thanks sandy noyes
Free Government Cell Phones says
All free government cell phone customers must re-certify each year. That means they must prove that they are still eligible. Contact your service provider’s customer service team.
DidMyHomework says
Thanks to the resources on this sight I researched the available providers in California and decided on SafeLink SIM card due to the generous plan offered with unlimited talk and text and 2GB data/month, they use T-Mobile which works well in my area, availability of GSM phones and the plan upgrades are very competitive with, for example, unlimited data option only $27.60/month more. Received the SIM card ten days after signing up and it works fine so far in a $40 Verizon Moto E4 with $2 SIM unlock code from Ebay.
Free Government Cell Phones says
It’s always good to hear from a happy customer.
Bernadette Machnig says
How soon will I get my phone
Free Government Cell Phones says
Most of the free government cell phone companies say you’ll get your phone in about two weeks. Our readers tell us that if often takes three or four weeks and sometimes even longer.
Isadore Fields says
Hello my name is Isadore Fields my phone number is (845)293-****, I am a Safelink customer and have lost my phone here in a snow storm and can’t find it. I need a replacement phone ASAP! My address has changed…please help me! Thank You!
Free Government Cell Phones says
We are not Safelink, Isadore. This is an independent informational website. You need to contact Safelink customer service using the contact info we provided in the article above.
DARREN CASCHERA/FTLAUD/FL says
CALLING THIS COMPANY DONT WORK SO I EMAILED THEM IT WORKED…IT JUST TOOK A DAY 2 HER BACK FROM THEM.. THE NUMBER ON THIS WEBSITE THEY GIVE U IS A HOAX IT DONT GIVE U A LIVE PERSON…WELL AT LEAST TO ME IT DIDNT…I COULDNT FIND A NUMBER TO CALL TO TALK TO A HUMAN BEING..WHAT A COMPANY HUH PEOPLE!! JUST LIKE ACCESS WIRELESS THEY TOTALLY SUCK 2!! ACTUALLY THERE WORSE..1866 902 5756 THERE FAX NUMBER.. MYSPOOF@SAFELINKMAIL.COM IM TRYING TO HELP OTHERS SAFELINK HOPE U DONT HAVE A PROBLEM WITH THAT.. ALL I HAVE PEOPLE HOPE IT HELPS…
CAROL ELKINS says
Speak much ENGLISH ??
yvonne ward says
ihave an illinois phone but if i move back to west virginia how to i get a wv phone
Free Government Cell Phones says
Your current phone should work until you need to re-certify after one full year of service. Then you will need to re-enroll in the program with one of the companies that serves your new state. Here’s where you can find out all about the companies and plans available in that state:
https://www.freegovernmentcellphones.net/states
Sharon says
Is there a way to have minutes automatically added if my elderly father runs out of minutes. I know how to do it online but would be great if it was automatic . That way he doesn’t worry that it is going to shut off. Or is there a way I could check his usage I live in another town and he is useing a flip phone.
Thanks
Free Government Cell Phones says
We are unaware of such a plan, but you should definitely contact Safelink customer service to find out. You can contact them by calling 6-1-1 on your father’s free government cell phone.
Dale says
Qlink wireless emails you now and then telling you how many minutes you have left and such so it might work in your favor with them if that is an option for you but you would have to set it to your e-mail address I suppose, hope that help a little.
Will Smith says
So fake, didn’t even get a new phone. Waste of my time.
Elizabeth Sparks says
It’s FREE. The sense of entitlement astounds me when reading these forums. Why don’t you teach them a lesson and have NO phone?
Christi says
I totally agree with you Elizabeth. It is a very generous thing that these companies are doing. I came on here to see if I may qualify since I am 100% disabled. If I am then I would be so grateful but I do not feel entitled to receive anything. Many of these posts sound like people feel like they are entitled to everything and that they have every right to get mad when there is an issue with their FREE phone and service. These companies are being more than generous! Data and texting are NOT a necessity!! If your not thankful for what is given to you for free then go pay for a plan elsewhere on your own.
lori Hamilton says
we can proceed no further on your website with enrollment I’d 34814653 because it keeps saying that we cannot complete the enrollment process until I provide ss for me and my daughter Emily. We were given a fax number to send you the copies to complete enrollment but the fax number doesn’t work and I need the phone before Christmas I applied in oct can you help us by giving us a fax number that actually works? thanks Lori Hamilton
Free Government Cell Phones says
Please be aware, Lori, that the comment above came directly to FreeGovernmentCellPhones.net, NOT to Safelink. To send something to Safelink, please check the article above for the company’s contact info.
DARREN CASCHERA/FTLAUD/FL says
HI..IM DARREN..WOW! IM READING ALL THESE POSTS..UNBELIEVABLE!! U NEED TO FAX THEM OR EMAIL THEM…1 866-902-5756 FAX OR EMAIL MYPROOF@SAFELINKMAIL.COM…THATS ALL I GOT.. I A CUSTOMER SAVE AM U..JUST TRYING TO HELP SUM PEOPLE ON HERE.. WELL ITS EITHER THIS SAFELINK OR ITS ACCESS WIRELESS AND FORGET IT!! VERY BAD!! GOOD LUCK…
Bryan says
Qlink suks
Free Government Cell Phones says
Thank you for the in-depth analysis, Bryan.
Tia says
Hi! I have been researching which has the best coverage in my area (Monroeville/Frisco City, Alabama) And either I just can’t seem to understand the phone companies coverage map or they just aren’t easy to understand (I like to think it’s the latter but deep down know it’s not lol). Is there an easier way to see which ones actually have better coverage in my area? Thanks in advance
Free Government Cell Phones says
Yes, but it’s far from scientific. Ask your friends and neighbors which company they use and how their reception is.
Patricia J Shell says
My name is Patricia Shell and I was admitted into the hospital for a few days. I left my phone on the table by my bed and went to the bathroom, when I got back the phone was gone. I need a replacement phone as soon as I an get one. How do I go about getting a replacement? My number is (202) 560-3144. Thank you
Free Government Cell Phones says
Here’s an article you should read, Patricia:
https://www.freegovernmentcellphones.net/faq/i-lost-my-phone-how-do-i-get-a-replacement
Eugene Swartout says
I need to recertify. How is that done?
Eugene Swartout [swartoutgene@yahoo.com]
Free Government Cell Phones says
Go to the Safelink website. Click on “Account” and then click on “Re-Certify.”
George says
I live in Washington state and I’ve had the service for 7 months now and its been fine. There are areas where the free phone didn’t get a signal as well as the phone did crash allot. I replaced it with a discounted phone from their site and that phone works allot better. I noticed recently that they offer unlimited texts and 1gb of data which is cool. I always have only used around 1-200mb most months. it used to be that all you had to do was to make one call and now you have to still make one call and leave the phone on for 10 days. Still it works fine and I use it for one bus away allot of times.
Setup was a little confusing for the new phone (sim card) because you have to talk to machine but if you fail a real person helps you. I used my old phone to call and the helper told me I need to use a another phone since they turn off the service on the old phone/sim when they register the new sim card. I’m a bit of a novice mobile user and have only had my other prepay phone since 2005. I still use that phone but since it only has a few prepay minutes I don’t use it much. I could have used that phone for the service too but at the time I really wanted more data, didn’t want to lose that number and that’s why I kept my other.
Free Government Cell Phones says
Glad to hear things are working out well with you and your free government cell phone, George.
Joanne Rasmussen says
I requested a phone from SafeLink about 6 months ago. I haven’t received it yet!!! Surprise!!!
Free Government Cell Phones says
Did you ever receive notification that you were officially enrolled? Have you contacted customer service to find out what happened to your account.
alicia says
hello I had a free phone through you guys and you sent me the chip so I could just put it into my phone but my phone is broke and don’t work now I have no way to use it can you guys just send me a phone to put the chip in so it can work and ill have a phone to use?
Free Government Cell Phones says
We’re not Safelink, Alicia. This is an independent informational website.
DARREN CASCHERA/FTLAUD/FL says
ALICIA…WOW PRETTY NAME!! IM DARREN EITHR TRY FAXING THEM OR EMAILING THEM…I TRIED CALLING BUT, I CANT GET THRU…SO U HAVE 2 B A LITTLE PATIENT..YIP ITS HARD 2 DO..LOL I KNOW..ANYHOW, FAX:866-902-5756 EMAIL: MYPROOF@SAFELINKMAIL.COM…ALL I GOT..IF IT WORK KUL.. GOOD LUCK
RACHELLE says
MY MINUTES DID NOT REPLENISH ON THE 1ST OF NOVEMBER, I EVEN FOLLOWED THE PROMPTS OF ADDING MY AIRTIME AND THE MESSAGE CODE KEPT SAYING SYSTEM IS UNAVAILABLE CAN YOU HELP…?
Free Government Cell Phones says
We cannot help you because we are an independent informational website, NOT your service provider, Rachelle. You’ll need to contact Safelink’s customer service team by phone or online.
Narendra bhatt says
I have free phone but need smartphone. How can I apply? Advise me
Free Government Cell Phones says
One option you may not have thought of is switching service providers, Danielle. That will make you a new customer of your new service provider and all new customers are entitled to smartphones. Here’s an article that tells you how to make the switch:
https://www.freegovernmentcellphones.net/faq/how-do-i-switch-lifeline-providers
Rosemary McCormick says
When do I get my phone?
Free Government Cell Phones says
Most companies say it takes about two weeks, Rosemary, but our readers say it often takes three or four weeks or even longer.
Pam moses says
How do I cancel or get replaced its been a couple of years since my phone was lost? Can I still apply
Free Government Cell Phones says
You old account was probably cancelled for non-usage after 30 days. It was certainly cancelled when you didn’t recertify at the end of your first year. You can now re-enroll with any company offering free government cell phones in your state. Here’s where you can find them all:
https://www.freegovernmentcellphones.net/states
Vanessa says
I worked as a street agent but my manager and I had a disagreement that we both agreed we cannot work together. I have an employee code that he has been giving out to other street agents to use so business can be generated. I would like to know how and who I can contact so I can inform them that I am no longer connected to the company so no one who could not pass the background check and drug screening can ever use my code. I do not want to be responsible if someone uses my code and commits fraud
Free Government Cell Phones says
Here you go, Vanessa. Read this article:
https://www.freegovernmentcellphones.net/faq/report-lifeline-assistance-fraud-abuse-waste
allen says
hello safe link!im in need of a phone and i would be honored if u sent me one.
Free Government Cell Phones says
Two things, Allen: (1) This is not Safelink. This is an independent, informational website not affiliated with any free government cell phone company. (2) You actually need to fill out forms and apply in order to get a phone. Very pleasant and polite emails are not enough.
Ra2na says
Where are the booths in Oxnard
Free Government Cell Phones says
Since we’re not Safelink, there’s no way for us to know, Ra. But please read our answers to hundreds of similar questions below.
Lois Mayer says
When will my cell phone arrive?
Free Government Cell Phones says
You can check the Safelink website and it will tell you the status of your enrollment, Lois.
Chancie says
Why do I get a phone that is set up in Spanish ? When I read only English
Free Government Cell Phones says
Google the make and model of your phone and the words “user manual.” When you find the correct user manual, you should be able to switch it to English.
Lindsey Tortorello says
Very resourceful website, got a lot of good information about free government cellphones. Appreciate the tidbits and I am excited about exploring the various sources. Thanks, L. Tortorello
Free Government Cell Phones says
It’s always good to know that our hard work is appreciated, Lindsey.
Aerial Fuqua says
I need someone from the Cooperate office to contact me about a very serious issue going on with a company that’s been issuing out Safelink phones under false pretenses my contact number is 256-263-**** number email ********@gmail.com
Free Government Cell Phones says
You can get the corporate phone number by calling 6-1-1 on your free government cell phone, Aerial.
Welly says
Since June 2017, Safelink wireless collected all my details with the pretence to get me the free government phone. This is October running out, I didn’t see any phone. I guess they are a scam. I regret giving out my particulars to them
Free Government Cell Phones says
How did you enroll, Welly? By phone? Online? At a street tent?
Susan Santorii says
Need my PUK code
Free Government Cell Phones says
Here’s an article that tells you what to do, Susan:
https://www.freegovernmentcellphones.net/what-is-a-puk-code-and-how-do-you-find-it
Dillon Bishop says
I just moved to Mississippi about a month ago with my friend And i make about $700 a month do you think i can do this?
Free Government Cell Phones says
It definitely sounds as if you qualify, Dillon. Here’s where you can find all the free government cell phone companies and plans available in your state:
https://www.freegovernmentcellphones.net/free-cell-phone-providers
lilk says
please update this page. i use tracfone’s safelink. they increased monthly minutes from 350 a month to 500 in november 2016. . the minutes do not carry over. they also give 500mb data every month free.
Free Government Cell Phones says
We assume you are a resident of California, Lilk, because residents of that state are the only ones who get 500 minutes per month. That’s what our article says AND that’s what the Safelink Wireless website says.
Grady says
Yes I just moved down to fla and staying with a friend im disable for a few years now I only get 919.00 monthly do you think I could do this
Free Government Cell Phones says
Yes, it certainly sounds as if you qualify, Grady. You need to check out all the plans available in your state to make sure you find the one that fits your needs best. Here’s where you can find all the plans available in your state:
https://www.freegovernmentcellphones.net/states
KAY SCHULER says
I have been with SafeLink for several years and may be moving. Is this service transferable to Nebraska? If so, how do I go about doing that? I have also noted numerous comments about the phones. I have a standard old LG phone that has no fancy features. I can’t even get emoji’s to come through on texts and I see comments about everyone having Smart phones through this program. This is my second phone since the last one completely died and I never have had anything like a Smart phone. Are there other certifications to go through to get the upgrades or is there an additional cost for this?
Free Government Cell Phones says
Your phone will probably work when you move to Nebraska, but when it comes time to recertify, your account will be terminated and you will need to re-enroll with Safelink or another company. If necessary, here’s an article that will tell you how to switch service providers:
https://www.freegovernmentcellphones.net/faq/how-do-i-switch-lifeline-providers
Susan filiault says
How do i check my service plan and data usage?
Free Government Cell Phones says
Contact your service provider’s customer service team by calling 6-1-1 on your free government cell phone.
Shirley Smith says
I re certified by phone, I was deactivated shortly afterwards and they said they had no record of the call. I filled out the info on the re certify application, sent it in. Again they said I didn’t qualify, they needed some papers that I sent in and all I get is a run around, often from someone I can’t understand. It has been very frustrating for more then a month, nearly two months now, after spending hours and hours on the phone.
Free Government Cell Phones says
You might want to consider filing a formal complaint, Shirley. Readers have told us their service providers get much more responsive when the words “formal complaint” are used. Here’s an article that will tell you more:
https://www.freegovernmentcellphones.net/faq/file-official-complaint-about-your-lifeline-service
Donna Vigliotti says
I am interested in receiving a government issued cell phone. I am currently on Medicaid and unemployed due to medical problems
Free Government Cell Phones says
Here’s where you can find all the Lifeline free government cell phone companies in your state, Donna. Check them all out to find the plan that works best for your particular needs:
https://www.freegovernmentcellphones.net/states
Susan Worden says
I have already applied. When will know if i am accepted. I have heard noyhing after appled,
Free Government Cell Phones says
Visit the Safelink website and look for the “Check Your Status” function. That will allow you to find out exactly where you are in its system.
Crystal says
I recently lost my phone and just now able to find the website I’ve tried calling and don’t know where to go from there what’s the customer service number
Free Government Cell Phones says
Here’s a list of all service providers, Crystal. Scroll down until you find your provider, click on it, and you’ll be taken to a page that includes the contact info you need.
nubwaxer says
i have truconnect now. i wish i had known this before: Don’t enroll at a street tent: Check around before you choose a free government cell phone company
Free Government Cell Phones says
Over and over and over again we urge our readers NOT to enroll at a street event. Sorry to hear about your problems, Nub, but thanks for reinforcing that idea.
cindy cherpes says
i need a replacement safelink phone
Free Government Cell Phones says
Then maybe you should contact Safelink, Cindy.
Free Government Cell Phones says
Contact customer service, Cindy.
Michael Dowodzenka says
Whatever you do, DO NOT USE SAFELINK. They sure are not safe in any means. I have qualified since 07/17/17 and was going to use my own phone since it was newer android smartphone. They sent me the sim card needed which did not work. I call thjem and spend 3 hours on the phone for them to tell me that I needed a Verizon compatible sim card, So with this, I purchase 2 sim cards which dont work either. So I call again and spend nearly another 2 hours to find out that I was suppose to get a T-Mobile sim card, so I wait again to get it to find it doesnt work either and is the same sim card as the original one. So I call again for them to tell me that it is my phone and need to buy a new phone. Ok wait a minute, wasnt this suppose to be FREE???? So now since I was going to use my own phone, I now have to cancel their horrible unused service (since I dont have a working phone) and have to wait 60-90 days to apply somewhere else.
Wow what a rinky dink company that is suppose to be a bigger one to use??? I dont know what to do since I cant a english speaking customer service rep or supervisor that knows what they are doing.
Lynn George says
what ever you do don’t use Assurance.
Eadie says
What cell phone towers do they use? In my small town ATT is the only one that works.
Free Government Cell Phones says
Here’s an article that tells you all about 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
Delma Gaither says
Please advise status I>D>3277****
Free Government Cell Phones says
This is not Safelink, Delma. This is an independent informational website. You need to speak to Safelink customer service or check its website’s “Check Your Status” function.
todd wiseman says
try to avoid them , all the customer service calls go straight to INDIA and I can never understand them due to how fast they talk, I have nothing against people from india, but they are VERY HARD to deal with on the phone , it is just a different culture and they talk a mile a minute
Todd
ohio st univ
Linda French says
I want to cancel my service please thank you
Linda French
Free Government Cell Phones says
We can’t cancel it because we’re not your service provider, Linda. Contact Safelink customer service directly.
Larry says
I just received a recertification form from Safelink Wireless.
Both SNAP and Medicaid are scratched out with a line through them so I guess may no longer be qualifications for lifeline benefits.
I called Safelink and they said it’s not yet in their system so I continue to qualify but they don’t know for how long.
Wow! cutbacks are a reality.
Free Government Cell Phones says
Here’s an article that tells you which programs now make you eligible, Larry:
https://www.freegovernmentcellphones.net/basics/qualify
Frank Angelo says
I enrolled at a street tent yesterday. I received no information as to who to call for information, etc., etc. The phone has been registered but I have NEVER used it. How do I go about cancelling my service? Do I have an account??
Free Government Cell Phones says
Does the phone work? If so, you can call 6-1-1 to cancel your service. If it hasn’t been used, put it in airplane mode or turn it off and don’t use it for the next 30 days. Your account should then be terminated automatically.
Crystal vanwagner says
I lost my phone how do I get another one?
Free Government Cell Phones says
Read this article, Crystal:
https://www.freegovernmentcellphones.net/faq/i-lost-my-phone-how-do-i-get-a-replacement
Will says
Have had Lifeline land line via AT&T for couple years, pay about $4.30 month for very restricted calling plan. My apartment building has security system using only landline phones, which is why I got this setup, to let delivery people get access for deliveries.
Can I get a new smart phone and your plan, or would I have to cancel my existing Lifeline landline? I live in Federal subsidized housing and get food stamps. Thanks for your help!
Free Government Cell Phones says
Yes, you would be required to cancel your Lifeline landline. Only one Lifeline discount is allowed per household.
Scott says
How do I go about receiving a free sim card as stated under All states other than California for the BYOP Plan?
Thank you for your time.
Free Government Cell Phones says
Contact Safelink customer service.
Scott says
I did but was told to go to a retailer and purchase a sim card. I am curious as to why it states free sim card.
Thanks again.
Free Government Cell Phones says
Not a clue, Scott. That is very odd. Please call them back and ask them to explain the discrepancy between what they advertise and what they told you, and please report back. We’d love to hear the explanation.
Scott says
never mind ended up purchasing at local retailer and now up and running. Thank you for your time and help. 🙂
STUART HASSEL says
Life Wireless has IPASS with VPN. What is VPN? Does it have something to do with speed and do all providers have it or is this something special that Life Wireless has? (I am trying to avoid giving effusive praise but it’s tough.) Thank you again.
Free Government Cell Phones says
We didn’t know what a VPN is because it doesn’t really have anything to do with the Lifeline free government cell phone plan. Here’s what we found:
“A VPN or Virtual Private Network is a method used to add security and privacy to private and public networks, like WiFi Hotspots and the Internet. VPNs are most often used by corporations to protect sensitive data.”
We could ask our tech guru what that all means, but it’s really beyond the scope of our mission statement here at FreeGovernmentCellPhones.net.
STUART HASSEL says
So would your response be similar regarding IPASS (as stated previously)?
Also, does your tech guru take/answer any inquiries? Or can you direct me to someone or a similar resource?
Once again, thank you very much for looking into VPN for me
Free Government Cell Phones says
Tech guru will barely answer our questions. He says he’s busy doing tech things that we wouldn’t understand. He’s probably right.
Nicolas says
Need to get a replacement phone from safelink just need to talk to someone the # on their site has nothing for a replacement and no one live person to talk to is there some other way we can get a replacement
Free Government Cell Phones says
If you switch to a different Lifeline free government cell phone company, you will get an upgrade to a smartphone. Here’s where you can find all the companies and plans in your state:
https://www.freegovernmentcellphones.net/states
STUART HASSEL says
Tell me if I’m off about this: Would a newer company/provider to the ‘game’ be more likely to offer more than the older established ones in order to drum up business? And could that be trusted or would I need to be hesitant and suspicious? What would the drawbacks be? Thank you.
Free Government Cell Phones says
Interesting theory, Stuart, but we don’t see any correlation between more minutes/texts and how long a company has been in the Lifeline business.
STUART HASSEL says
Tell me if I’m off about this: Would a newer company/provider to the ‘game’ be more likely to offer more than the older established ones in order to drum up business? And could that be trusted or would I need to be hesitant and suspicious? What would the drawbacks be? Thank you.
First of all, thank you very much for responding. What I’m saying is that if the older more established providers are offering free unlimited minutes, free unlimited text and 500 MB, maybe a newer provider might offer unlimited data in order to compete, no?
Free Government Cell Phones says
Nope. No one is offering unlimited data. Not the older, more established companies nor the newer companies. It’s especially true these days, because a number of older Lifeline companies have gone out of business. That leaves plenty of customers for the remaining companies and very little reason to innovate or offer more.
STUART HASSEL says
I want to thank you for going through the trouble and doing all of this work. Previously I was frustrated that all of the info I was reading was really too general for waht I was looking for. So far this looks like what I was looking for; I’ll read on to see if it is. Again, thank you very much.
Stuart Hassel
Free Government Cell Phones says
All your compliments are making us blush, Stuart. Thanks.
STUART HASSEL says
Really? Why’s that?
STUART HASSEL says
And while we’re on a roll here, would you mind if I asked a couple of other things?
What about the ‘G’ business (Internet? Broadband?) Is it assumed that all of these deals are going to be 3G? (I guess 4G would be assuming too much?)
Tag Mobile offers unlimited 2G/3G data. What kind of deal is that? Would I be better off getting 500 MB 3G data?
And finally, at least for now, Life Wireless mentions VPN (IPASS). It seems this is good to have but that quality varies. Do all of the other providers have VPN? (I assume IPASS is exclusive to Life Wireless?) Would you mind explaining this to me? (There’s so much to consider, isn’t there?)
Once again, thank you very much!!!
Free Government Cell Phones says
The plans that offer “unlimited” data generally offer a little bit of high-speed data, but after that limit is reached, all further data is “throttled,” making it too slow to be really effective for a lot of things people want unlimited data for (such as gaming or downloading films from Netflix). So although they are correct when they say they offer “unlimited” data, much of it is not high-speed.
Free Government Cell Phones says
We’re just modest and have difficulty accepting effusive praise.
Elizabeth Sparks says
Finally, a touch of gratitude! I was also pleased to find this site as it has a wealth of relevant info. The complaints/rudeness demonstrated by recipients is staggering and disheartening. I get that people are frustrated (I am too) but is really unfair. Equally thrown by every other comment being a request for account specific questions. The staff on this site calmly reiterate “We are not a provider, we’re an information site”. I’ve never seen anything quite like it. It seems no one takes a second to READ the plethora of guidance provided. Oh well… had to vent and agree with this comment on the great service you provide. Thanks!
Free Government Cell Phones says
From you lips to God’s ear, Elizabeth.
Vera says
The thing is the person I want to apply for does not have a job, so there is no pay stub, and she also does not have any income, so there is no tax return file. I want to know what other documents I should upload to support.
Free Government Cell Phones says
Does this person participate in any government assistance programs? If so, that paperwork should suffice.
Vera says
No, she does not participate in the programs. Is there any other paperwork?
Free Government Cell Phones says
We give up. Contact customer service at any of the free government cell phone companies offering service in your state and customer service should be able to help you out.
Vera says
If I want to get a safelink wireless sim card through low-income way, what documents do I need to provide for the income?
Free Government Cell Phones says
Start with pay stubs or income tax returns.
Vera says
What if for a senior who is above 65 years old? The person who does not have income?
Free Government Cell Phones says
If you have no income, you automatically qualify whether or not you’re a senior.
Vera says
In that case, I do not need to provide any documents?
Free Government Cell Phones says
No, our prior answer was poorly worded. You still need to prove that you have no income with a tax return, a pay stub, proof that you participate in one of the government programs, etc.
Dan Pham says
Thank you. I’ll try to call that number.
Dan Pham
Dan Pham says
I am a lifeline safelink customer living in California. I have 500 MB
of data, I want to buy more data and I checked your website. It said I can buy more data ( something like 1000+500=1500) for $10.00 per 30 days. I don’t have credit card, I want to pay cash, where can I pay.
My zip code CA 91733.
Thank for your help.
Dan Pham
Free Government Cell Phones says
That’s a question only your service provider can answer, Dan. Call 6-1-1 on your free government cell phone to reach customer service.
GaryA says
How can I forward my calls until I get my phone back?
Free Government Cell Phones says
Back from where?
Frederick Allen says
Can I get me a government cell phone touchscreen Im trying for the first time.
Free Government Cell Phones says
All new customers are supposed to be given smartphones, Frederick.
Catherine Hines says
My sister is currently with Safelink. The phone is too complicated for her to use. Can she get a flip phone in lieu of this smart phone. Her phone number is 850 319-****. Her name is Mary ******.
Free Government Cell Phones says
Possibly. You’ll need to discuss it with Safelink customer service. You can contact them by calling 6-1-1 on her free government cell phone.
Lydia says
I have been on the phone for two hours trying to find out why my phone has been deactivated . Of course I’m beyond frustrated here and having to repeat my info three or four times . And on top of that the rep whom only gives out first name ( last name not allowed to give ) cursed at me . I requested to speak to a supervisor and was transferred and complained about the rep whom cursed at me and his words were ( only a first name basis given to me ) ( their last name is not allowed to give out ) you here what you want to here and he could not do anything about it . This is where I became furious . What kind of staff do they employ there . ?
Robert Young says
My gov phone was stolen couple months ago and I don’t no my enrollment I’d or number I have memory loss from having seizures . Would u Please help u can reach me at 515-421-**** this is the best way to contact me or email me at ********@gmail.com thanks for u time Robert Young
Free Government Cell Phones says
FreeGovernmentCellPhones.net is an independent informational website, Robert. We are NOT affiliated with Safelink nor any other Lifeline Assistance company. You need to contact your service provider’s customer service team directly.
Rita says
I just got a message from safelink saying I could now use my phone for the internet without using any minutes but I don’t know how to do that. It said go to home and click on WEB but I can’t find that.
Free Government Cell Phones says
Do a Google search for your make and model of phone and the words “user manual,” Rita. You’ll quickly find the user manual and you can look up exactly the info you need.
Hector says
You give me a list of providers then you list them (some) of not that good or going under. It worries me sometime down the road the provider goes belly up-then what. I realize you can’t say, but who would be the best provider?
Free Government Cell Phones says
There is just no way to answer that question because there are so many variables, Hector.
Claude says
Why is it I have dealt with your Agents for almost a month & keep getting told different thing’s to do & application never gets accepted? & to have the last agent so RUDELY > Disconnect from our conversation when telling her I wanted to try financial way as so far nothing else your agents have told me works!!!!
Free Government Cell Phones says
“Our” agents haven’t told you anything, Claude, because we are an independent informational website, not a free government cell phone company.
Claude says
With all due respect if your not safe link then your correct you did not say anything!
But safe link “Their” lying through teeth as each time I have contacted “Safe Link”/ the agent on phone or the agent on web site has instructed me to do certain action Like sending incorrect documents in & to come to find out through a manager @ safe link none of them knew what they were talking about// & I quote “” as cannot get the service with SSDI”” using as your income .
If they knew what they were talking about it would of been 2 application’s & not 3 going on 4! w/ screw-up from assurance their sister Co.
It should of only been one App.
Now why can’t one get help with a free cell phone being on SSDI? It don’t make sense ! not just for me but for a lot of other’s on fixed income who cannot work like on SSI Who can!! & still collect !
Free Government Cell Phones says
Unfortunately, we don’t make the rules, Claude. If we did, you’d be able to get a free government cell phone.
Sandra Falagan says
I lost my safe link cell phone yesterday. The cell phone number is 941-275-****. I need a replacement phone. I have a medicaid card. I am using a computer which belongs to a friend.
Free Government Cell Phones says
First read this article, Sandra, then contact customer service.
https://www.freegovernmentcellphones.net/faq/i-lost-my-phone-how-do-i-get-a-replacement
Bob Rwmr says
Are Safelink wireless Currently offering free government cell phpnes to those who Qualify ?
If so…they are sending out Android cel phones ?
The service comes with 350 anytime voice minutes.. Plus unlimited tects..plus 500 mb of data monthly (1000 mb data a month for the first 3 months if the qualifing client obtains their own unlocked gsm cel phone ) ??
Thanks in advance
Free Government Cell Phones says
You can find a complete list of available phones on the Safelink website, Bob.
Rita says
Could I get a phone number so I can get a replacement phone for the one I lost..
Free Government Cell Phones says
The contact information you need is right there in the above article, Rita.
Denise says
I put in my zip code to apply for safelink, but its not offered in my area? I live in California. How do I find a company easily without going thru site after site?
Free Government Cell Phones says
We list ALL the low-income plans in your state at the following link, Denise. Check them all out. We provide all the eligibility requirements and contact info. Good luck.
https://www.freegovernmentcellphones.net/states
Kaitlyn M, LSW says
If a phone got damaged, how do you get a replacement phone?
Free Government Cell Phones says
Here’s an article that answers that question, Kaitlyn:
https://www.freegovernmentcellphones.net/faq/i-lost-my-phone-how-do-i-get-a-replacement
Tristan says
I have a Safelink account.
I lost my phone and applied for a new phone. No problem. My new phone showed up at my door about two weeks later, but they sent me TWO PHONES. One phone has service, the other does not. Am I missing something? I tried calling Safelink, but they don’t seem to have any options for this.
Should I just harvest it for parts, or should I try to get it back to them?
Free Government Cell Phones says
Under normal circumstances, we’d tell you to return the phone, but we worry that if you return one phone they may misinterpret it and think you want to cancel your service. If we were you, we would call customer service to discuss with a supervisor. If you still can’t get any information, we’d recommend that you just hold on to the extra phone in case they ever contact you to return it. We doubt that they will, but you’d be wise to prepare for that eventuality. What a strange situation.
BAPI SARKAR says
If you kindly give me a phone so I can to use a phone.Because I do not job no income.
I have a dream that I will be use a smart phone.
This is dream no real.
and than as you wish.
Free Government Cell Phones says
Sorry, Bali, but we are not Safelink. We’re an independent, informational website. You need to contact Safelink directly using the contact info we provide on this page. Good luck.
Jane Roe says
I recently received a phone and I’m very happy with it, however, when a call is made the previous owner of the number shows up on caller I.D., therefore, no one I knew was answering the calls. I spoke with someone at Safelink yesterday and after trying to explain my situation and he advised I just keep the previous owners name. I asked he could give me a different number and he finally did, but now it only shows my city and state, not my name. He said the phone service I am using doesn’t allow my name to appear in the caller I.D. I asked him how the previous owner of the numbers name was allowed and he said it was probably a large corporation, and I informed him it was a hair braiding salon. He said there was nothing more he could do. Is there a way that my name can be listed on my caller I.D. He said to also inform everyone I call that my name won’t show up when I call them…just the city and state.
Thank you.
Free Government Cell Phones says
Did they really tell you that, Jane. What a crazy answer. How about if you Google the make and model of your phone and the words “user manual.” Once you find your user manual, you should be able to find the information you need.
Gretel Graf says
will I be able to retain my currant cell phone number on your track phone?
Free Government Cell Phones says
Yes, you can, Gretel. However, you need to make sure you tell the customer service, “I want to port over my current phone number.” Make sure they note that you’ve said those words to assure that you keep the number you want.
WILLIAM BADER says
Safelink is the worst company to deal with. I submitted my documentation for re-certification 2 weeks before the end date (4/1/2017). However, it still states “waiting for approval”. So, my phone has no service at this point. I called on the weekend (borrow my friend’s phone) and worked with an agent for (approx.) one hour and 45 minutes without any result. She suggested me to call during the week. I called during the week and the 1st agent transferred me to the 2nd one. The 2nd agent transferred me to the 3rd one. The 3rd agent transferred me to the 4th one. The 4th one was supposed to transfer me to the 5th agent but the 5th agent did not come on the line. I waited for about an hour but the 5th agent had never shown up. If you want to deal with this kind of frustration, then go ahead get your phone from this company. I am going with a different company. There are about ten companies that provide this kind of services.
Nicholas Padget says
I just received a vortex phone from a Safelink vendor, but it says that there was no way that I could use wifi and I am having a hard time trying to find out my phone number on my phone. What do I need to do?
Free Government Cell Phones says
Contact Safelink customer service by calling 6-1-1 on your free government cell phone.
paula hendrix says
I lost my safelink phone. here the number 1-573-202-**** and I saw that there a free government smart phone and I apply for it and I don’t know it the same as safelink phone I had. so please let me know if it is the same provider or not
Free Government Cell Phones says
It’s impossible for us to know if Safelink is your provider, Paula. But if you contact Safelink customer service they will be able to tell you.
Robert says
I need to be recertify for service 484 280-****
Free Government Cell Phones says
Go to the Safelink website, click on “Account” and then on “Re-certify.”
kristina k. jones says
I have a safelink phone,,,but was told I need to get new provider. have minutes but phone is turned off. how do I get new provider and why do I need to in the first place.
Free Government Cell Phones says
Tell us more, Kristina. Who told you that a new provider was necessary? Safelink? You can find all the free government cell phone providers in your state at this link:
https://www.freegovernmentcellphones.net/states
Katerina says
How do you renew your Obama phone?
Free Government Cell Phones says
Here’s an article that tells you the recertification process for each of the major Lifeline free government cell phones:
https://www.freegovernmentcellphones.net/faq/how-do-i-do-the-annual-verification-of-my-phone
denise lackey says
I really need a cell phone because I’m a fairly new widow, am handicapped and a senior citizen. I have one now but am going to have to drop it because I can’t afford it any longer. I live off my social security check which is only $950.00. I’m barely getting by.
Please, please help me!
denise lackey
Free Government Cell Phones says
Happy to help, Denise. It sounds as if you qualify for a free government cell phone, so here’s where you find a list of all the companies offering plans in your state:
https://www.freegovernmentcellphones.net/states
Click on your state to get the list. Then check every company on the list in order to find the plan that fits your needs best (most minutes, most texts, most data, best smartphone, etc). Then use the contact info we provide on that service provider’s page to reach the company’s customer service team.
Denise says
Denise, i am in similar situation and really need a phone as well. Did you find a provider you liked yet?
Leota Shimabukuro says
Can we sign up for your connection service but purchase our own phone? Costco is selling Apple i7 with rebate which makes is free right now; just have to pay taxes. Thank you.
Free Government Cell Phones says
Not all cell phones are compatible with all cell networks, Leota. Contact Safelink customer service before you buy another phone to confirm that it will work with the Safelink cell network.
Becky says
My Elderly mother who is part of SafeLink purchased a smartphone, can she also access free Wi-Fi with the smart phone such as a library? Thank you very much for your help
Free Government Cell Phones says
She should be able to access the internet in tens of thousands of places with public wifi, Becky.
Gina Skarpholl says
Hi,
My name is Gina Skarphol. I have been looking for my safelink cell. I can’t find it. That’s the reason. I don’t know my safelink number. I can’t make a call coz it was misplace and deactivate. I was calling 611 but only machine no customer service. I need help. Pls text me. Thank you. Gina
Free Government Cell Phones says
Try calling this number, Gina.
1-800-378-1684
Steven D KROUSE says
have a govt issued trac phone 570 710 **** it expired jan 31 2017 ,i wanted to add airtime bit it asks for a promo code and a pin number ,I have no idea what the pin number would be nor do i have a proo code, how do i add minutes to this phone ?
Free Government Cell Phones says
If your account has been terminated there’s no way to add minutes, Steven.
Shannon says
…first off I would like to give a huge compliment to the individuals who reply to these comments ….your patience is astounding….i found your website to bee very informative and easy to navigate…thank u
Free Government Cell Phones says
Could you please call our wives to tell them how patient we are, Shannon? Be prepared for a lengthy argument.
joanne Mansfield says
I am on medicare and medicaid and would like to have a free cell phone. I don’t think it is as easy and 1-2-3 to order a phone We have one cell phone we pay for and my husband takes it with him when he is out of the house. When I am left home alone I really feel I could use another cell in case I fall again. Then I could call for help. Please help me
Free Government Cell Phones says
It really is pretty simple, Joanne. First of all, you qualify for a free government cell phone because you are on Medicaid. Now all you need to do is select a service provider. Here’s where you can find a complete list of all the companies and plans in your state:
https://www.freegovernmentcellphones.net/states
Check each of them out carefully to find the plan that fits your needs best (most minutes, most texts, most data, best smartphone, etc). Then all you need to do is enroll (it’s a pretty simple process) using the contact information we provide on each service provider’s page.
Laura Joan Chattley says
Everytime I try to apply it says already account active. Now a while back I applied and was approved. BT I never received a phone I always receive emails saying it’s has been shipped but nothing ever comes. So what’s going on
Free Government Cell Phones says
We have no way of knowing the specifics of your account because we’re not Safelink, Laura. You need to contact the company’s customer service team by phone or online as soon as possible. Ask to speak to a supervisor.
HM says
I want to use a smartphone instead of the basic free phone Safelink sent me. So I am trying to bring my own phone to Safelink. Nothing but headaches. I have a Verizon Moto G that I previously used on PagePlus. While on the Safelink site I click upgrade phone and I get taken to the Tracfone site. I click activate. I click the Verizon compatible phone box. I then enter the MEID. It then says “Invalid ESN Number”. I asked Safelink CS and they tell me “your MEID is good you just need to activate your phone”. I told him about the invalid ESN and he says “that’s because you’re phone is already registered. Just activate it now please”. HUH? Is there something I am missing here or does this make no sense at all? Just how do I activate it when it keeps saying Invalid ESN Number and does not let me move forward from that point? Any Safelink members having the same problem? It is a CDMA phone and far as I know that means I do not need to order a SIM activation kit, correct?
Free Government Cell Phones says
We try not to give technical advice, HM, because we don’t want to lead you astray. Unfortunately, you need to contact tech support to get your question answered accurately. Have you tried calling them at 1-800-378-1684?
HM says
Contacted CS again and fortunately this guy was more knowledgeable. It took almost 8 hours for the switch to complete but it is a success. Now the only problem is my plan has 500 Data 500 Min 500 Text. I thought I was supposed to have unlimited texts?
Free Government Cell Phones says
We don’t know where you live, HM, but unlimited plans are only available in California and Oklahoma.
HM says
Thanks for clearing that up. I live in Tennessee and thought that I had read somewhere that I was supposed to get 500 MB data, 350 minutes talk, and unlimited texts.
Free Government Cell Phones says
This is more information than you asked for, HM, but the reason residents of Oklahoma and California get unlimited minutes is because the Lifeline companies are paid much more per customer than in other states.
Dravell Black says
The Best cell phone company thank you
Free Government Cell Phones says
We think you’re complimenting Safelink, but we’re not quite sure.
Vasiliy Shtefanio says
Hello, I received a letter that Safelink in Oregon will end as of April 1, If I move to Vancouver WA, will I continue having free cellphone service? Is the service ending only in Oregon?
Thank you.
Free Government Cell Phones says
Your phone will probably continue to be active and work, Vasilily. However, you’ll eventually need to re-enroll with the same company or a different one when it’s time for you to re-certify after one full year.
Gloria E Florence says
I was a safelink participant when I was in Florida. When I moved to Michigan, my phone no longer worked. Did I do something wrong?
Free Government Cell Phones says
Safelink offers service in both states, but you may be in an area that doesn’t get a Safelink signal. Or it could be a thousand other things that we could never guess. We’d suggest that you contact Safelink’s customer service team to track down the real problem.
Roy says
Do you have flip phones!? I’m to old to use a smartphone. I get 560 a mouth in SIS. I’m sure I would quaflie. I’m 71 yrs.old.
Free Government Cell Phones says
We don’t have any phones, Roy. Because we’re not a Lifeline free government cell phone service provider. We’re an independent website. You need to contact one of the companies in your state. Here’s where you can find all those companies, their plans, and their contact info:
https://www.freegovernmentcellphones.net/states
New Jersey says
I purchased a Samsung S7 Edge unlocked for USA in late November 2016 (G935U) and was pleasantly surprised to see Safelink finally allows unlocked Android phones. I signed up online, chose the Bring Your Own Device option and quickly went through the six steps in about one minute and within a week had the SIM delivered. I followed the instructions and was up and running in around five minutes. Everything works. No added software dialers. Works just like any other big service provider on your phone. I think my service is T-Mobile here in New Jersey.
Free Government Cell Phones says
That’s good to hear, New. We hope all our Safelink readers find it as simple as you did.
Carl Christy says
I have had the most excellent service with SafeLink for the past 18 months in Arizona, but the unlimited texts on the little free Alcatel phone were all but useless. Press the A key THREE TIMES to get a C? Rite. So a week ago I bought a used AT&T Android off eBay and began the BYOP switchover process. I ordered the AT&T SIM because my Droid was still LOCKED to AT&T. I worried about that, but it turned to be NO PROLLEM! My SafeLink plan was changed from the Alcatel’s T-Mobile to the Droid’s AT&T, perhaps by chance, or perhaps by the excellent TracFone staff knowing the situation??? The SIM would only be free for NEW members, but the $1 plus $6 shipping via Fedex was fine, as long as things worked… It got here in 4 days and I slapped it in and tried to follow the steps online to get it switched. I was a computer engineer for 29 years, and these steps were from TracFone, but they simply wound up in a loop. So I called TracFone support, identifying myself as an ecstatic SafeLink member. WOW, they answered two different calls right away on a weekday afternoon and bingo bango bongo, I had voice on my Droid in about 2 hours after my old Alcatel went down (in 2-3 minutes). Texts started working the next morning. I was able to get Data and MMS working myself with the texted instructions to set up an APN, pretty simple. My former minutes/texts/data were carried over as if I had bought them (although they were free), and my new monthly 350/unlim/500MB plan will ADD (without rollover) to those each month. I am happy as a clam with SafeLink, and I would do the BYOP again any time. Using UNLIMITED TEXT and MMS per month is so sweet I can taste it, since texting is 95% of my communications. Having 500MB of data per month is great for being out of the house. I’m staying with the oldest and biggest house: SafeLink.
Elizabeth Sparks says
You are my hero! Having had a very rough few years, including the loss of my job while caring for my terminally ill mom. =( The storm of adversity being relentless has made going back to work quite tough. Anyway, I’ve been without a cell phone for 4+ months and recently learned I’d qualify for this program. I’m a bit behind on such things as never needed them before. I’ve scoured online for hours trying to find the right company, but hearing from a fellow Arizonan was exactly what I needed to take the plunge! Also, it seems being able to get support locally or add minutes/data would be a huge bonus. Have you had any issues with reception? I’m in north Phoenix, so am not in the boonies or anything. Now, just praying my Verizon Galaxy 7 edge will work with them! I’m not exactly customer of the year with them, so am cautiously optimistic it won’t be locked. Anyway, THANKS for posting!
Elizabeth Overcash says
I am hoping you can shed some light on Q-Link. I’ve had their service (and original, cheap flip phone) since 2014. I have tried to contact them numerous times and no one ever answers the phone. When i email with problems I get a canned response that doesn’t help. Do they actually have living people working for them? I have tried to switch to another service but can’t since I’m already listed in the database. I’m sure if I told Q-Link I want to drop their service it wouldn’t make any difference, or they would shut it off before I get a new one. This is the only phone I have, what can I do?
Thanks,
Beth
Free Government Cell Phones says
We don’t know what else to tell you, Elizabeth. Maybe some of our readers can give you better advice. Readers?
Ombeni says
I have helped my friend apply for safe Link free phone over a year ago. They sent him envelope and a form to fill. We filled it out and sent all the docs, but until now he has never get either a phone nor any correspondence from them. We called and called until we got tired. We sometimes think that they might have stolen his identity because they requested we send them copy of I.D and of social security card.
Help please!
Free Government Cell Phones says
How about if you contact one of the other free government cell phone companies in your state. Explain the situation and ask if your name shows up on the NLAD (National Lifeline Assistance Database). If it does, then you need to contact Safelink to discuss the fact that you never received a phone. If it doesn’t, you are free, that means you do not have a Safelink account and are free to enroll with someone else. Here’s where you can find that list of companies and plans in your state:
https://www.freegovernmentcellphones.net/states
J. Schusler says
I’m having the same problem with SafeLink for CA, I called Assurance Wireless, and was told I needed to contact the national lifeline. Number is 888-641-8722.
Hilda Heredia says
Deseo cancelar mi servicio telefonico ya q se me persio el celular. Como lo puedo hacer. Soy de Puerto Rico.
Free Government Cell Phones says
Póngase en contacto con el equipo de servicio al cliente de su proveedor de servicios. Podrán cancelar su cuenta.
carl glitsch says
i QUALIFY AND NEED A FREE PHONE I’M 72 and on social security with no other income
Free Government Cell Phones says
Here’s an introductory article that tells you how to enroll and get a free government cell phone, Carl:
https://www.freegovernmentcellphones.net/basics/how-do-i-get-a-free-phone
Larry B. says
Safelink is having problems with text messaging on smartphones not working properly. Not sure if it’s because of the new unlimited texting or what. But I’ve been trying to resolve this for two weeks now. I think they’re finally aware of the issue, I hope. Their customer service is awful. Makes you pull your hair out!.
J.T. says
I have a LG Tracphone that I pay $23 every three months to keep active. I am wanting to switch over to the Safelink free phone. Will I be able keep my same phone # if I make the switch? Thank you.
Free Government Cell Phones says
Yes, you can keep the same number. Just make sure you tell the service rep that you want to “port over my current phone number” in your initial call.
James D. Woodland says
I have a Android smartphone that is a Tracphone. How can I use/activate this device and use it. ?
Free Government Cell Phones says
Are you already enrolled with Safelink, James?
Mark Edison says
Hi I’m poor and I’m on Medicare and I need a phone
Free Government Cell Phones says
Then you need to find a company and a plan that fits your needs best (most minutes, most texts, most data, smartphone, etc) and enroll with that company. Here’s where you can find al it’s of all the free government cell phone companies in your state:
https://www.freegovernmentcellphones.net/states
Thomas Snycerski says
IF YOU ARE SAYING YOU CANT GET FREE PHONE, THATS INCORRECT. IVE HAD ONE FOR 8 YRS. IM DIDABLED AND ON MEDICARE OR SSDI OR SSI, FOOD STAMPS. IF YOU HAVE ONE OR MORE YOU QUALIFY. CALLING IS HORRIBLE, I SUGGEST GETTING AN APPLICATION OR DO IT ON BROWSER. READY SAFELINK.COM. ITS A B I T H!!! YOU MUST USE MODERN BROWSERS OR IT DOESNT WORK, TOM S.
Mariyn jones says
Need a new phone lost my phone
Free Government Cell Phones says
Read this article, Marilyn. It will tell you how to get your phone replaced (keep in mind, however, that you’ll probably have to pay a relatively small fee):
https://www.freegovernmentcellphones.net/faq/i-lost-my-phone-how-do-i-get-a-replacement
Timothy Esco says
Trying to get a new phone
Free Government Cell Phones says
Try applying.
Joe Leach says
Too bad they don’t offer it for those of us on Disability. I have low vision as well. I don’t get Medicaid, but I do get Medicare.
Deborah mcginnis says
I need to know how to see if my phone is on the way it has been about 2 or 3 weeks
Free Government Cell Phones says
Most companies say it will take two or three weeks for delivery, but many of our readers say it takes four weeks or een longer. The record is held by a reader who told us it took six months. But you can go to the Safelink website, click on “Account” and then click on “Check Enrollment Status” and that should give you the information you’re looking for.
Polly Ester Dolbier says
When I got out of prison in August of 2016 I applied for food stamps and got food stamps then went with Q Link and tried to get a free government phone they gave me the run around. They kept asking for verification which I sent of my SNAP benefits which I provided on three separate occasions their final answer was it was going to take 60 to 90 days for them to process my application I never heard back from them. I am currently homeless unemployed I get map which is the medical assistant program I only qualified for 3 months of food stamps so I go to food pantries to get food. If I had a phone maybe I could get a job so I could get a job that I could get an actual place to live.
I don’t know what if anything can be done to help me out but any assistance or information that you can provide me with would be much appreciated thank you
Free Government Cell Phones says
It’s outrageous that you should have gone that long without an answer. We’re going to guess that the problem revolves around the fact that you’re homeless and you must have a permanent address to qualify. Yeah, it’s a huge flaw in the Lifeline system because homeless people probably need a phone more than anyone else.
If you live in a homeless shelter, you can work around the permanent address issue. Here’s an article that explains how:
https://www.freegovernmentcellphones.net/qualify-in-group-home-shelter
Keep in mind that there are lots of other Lifeline free government cell phone companies and one of the others might offer you an even better plan than the one you applied for. You can find all those companies in your state at this link:
https://www.freegovernmentcellphones.net/states
M.perez says
I’m trying to apply for this to help me. I do get other assistance such as SNAP and TANF for my daughters and myself but am having a bit of a hard time with having to pay for a phone as well. Trying to apply for this but getting nothing but a run around its very frustrating.
Free Government Cell Phones says
What kind of runaround are you getting, MPerez? If you’re having trouble enrolling with Safelink, there are lots of other service providers you can try. Here’s where you can find all the service providers in your state. Make sure you check them all out carefully, so you find the plan that fits your needs best (most minutes, most texts, most data, etc).
https://www.freegovernmentcellphones.net/states
Marilynn J Ellison says
How do you report someone that is getting a phone but does not get any of the assistance.this is not right for people to get a cell phone and don’t get assistance that is fraud isn’t it
Free Government Cell Phones says
Good question, Marilyn. Turn the cheating son of a bitch in immediately. The money spent on that phone can be used to help someone who really needs it. Here’s an article that tells you how to report fraud:
https://www.freegovernmentcellphones.net/faq/report-lifeline-assistance-fraud-abuse-waste
Jane says
They may be making more money than their family qualifies for for other benefits but less money than that required for a free phone. It is also income based even though they may not qualify for other benefits from the govt. So be very sure before you go reporting them for fraud.
J. Cast says
I have a small phone from your company. May I get a smartphone instead?
Guy Lutes says
Sent phone that does not get cellular data in this area. Called and was told nothing can be done, asked what to do with phone and no one had answer.
Free Government Cell Phones says
Call in again and ask for a supervisor, Guy. The rep you spoke to gave you an unacceptable answer.
John says
For 9 MONTHS I have been trying to re-enroll in the Safelink program, but these ass-wipes are total clueless. I have sent all the info they have wanted 6 TIMES and they claim they have not received it, even tho the last one was signed for.
This company needs re-evaluated….
Free Government Cell Phones says
If that’s the case, John, you really should apply with one of the other free government cell phone companies in your state. Here’s where you can find a complete list of providers:
https://www.freegovernmentcellphones.net/states
Peter says
Please upgrade my safelink phone to a smartphone . Please have safelink call me 360 670 **** thanks , pete
Free Government Cell Phones says
Sorry, Peter, but we are not Safelink so we cannot upgrade your phone. You need to contact the company online or by phone.
pam says
Can anybody tell me if minutes come off of my phone automatically even if I don’t use the phone? It seems the phone loses minutes when I am not even using it.
Free Government Cell Phones says
Unless there’s something defective with your phone, minutes should not come off when the phone has not been used.
Steve says
Not that it would make a difference to most but, Who Is SAFELINK anyways. If you want a Made In The USA point of reference then.
Safelink aka Tracfone, Parent Company is América Móvil.
Safelink Wireless service is provided by Tracfone Wireless, Inc.
Tracfone is a subsidiary of Mexico’s largest telecommunications company América Móvil.
If and only if there are any profits being a Lifeline Provider then where do the profits end up? Good question Steve but, leave it up for a Lifeline subscriber of Safelink to question it themselves…
Steve
Free Government Cell Phones says
Steve is correct. We addressed that question years ago as you can see here:
https://www.freegovernmentcellphones.net/faq/is-safelink-wireless-owned-by-mexican-carlos-slim-worlds-richest-man
tory says
how do I get a smart phone from safelink. I’ve already got a very small piece of crap phone I cant hardlytext on. I don’t have the money to buy a compatible phone
tory says
I’m at a friends house barrowing his computer an really need an answer very fast as I only have like 10 mins before I have to get back home
tory says
can someone please help me asap need help bad
Free Government Cell Phones says
What kind of help do you need, Tory?
Free Government Cell Phones says
Sorry we could not get back to you in the 600 seconds you requested.
Free Government Cell Phones says
It’s all explained on this page, and their phone number and website link is at the bottom of the article on the page.
Sandra says
I,m a bit confused. I just signed up for my phone and there was a page for phone upgrades, but I thought everyone gets a smartphone after December 1, 2016?
Free Government Cell Phones says
Just because you get a smartphone doesn’t mean there are better, newer, more fully-featured smartphones available.
M. Jewett says
I tried to enroll online and my address was rejected as being invalid. I’ve been living her for 15 years and get mail delivered here daily. What’s up????
Free Government Cell Phones says
It’s impossible for us to tell you exactly “what’s up,” M Jewett, but if we had to guess we’d say that someone else has used your address to enroll for a free government cell phone. There are several other possible answers, but that would be our guess. Contact Safelink again and ask them to explain why you were rejected.
Jose M Gomez says
Our granddaugther has Safelink phone but wants a smartphone cause the phone that she has is just to hard to send texts from!! We have a Samsung S3 from AT&T that she would like to have but we don’t know if it can be used with Safelink
Free Government Cell Phones says
You’ll need to contact Safelink’s customer service or tech support team to get an accurate answer to that question, Jose. Not all cell phones are compatible with all cell phone networks.
edward simon says
where can i get this phone in corona ca
Free Government Cell Phones says
Ahhhh, lovely Corona, California, the heart of the Inland Empire. We know it well.
We strongly recommend that you do NOT enroll for a free government cell phone at a street tent or booth, Edward. There have been too many cases of fraud and abuse coming from these places. Instead, we urge you to enroll by phone or online. Much safer that way.
sandy says
i tried to get the phone and they asked for my SS and date of birth and address ,is this the procedure ?
Free Government Cell Phones says
Yes, it is, Sandy. They need your social security number and birthday to identify you and make sure you are who you say you are. And they need your address to make sure no one else at that address already participates in the program. The Federal Communications Commission requires them to do these things to curb fraud and abuse.
Bruce Keith says
My phone won’t turn on. starts to then cuts off. please send a replacement.
Free Government Cell Phones says
We’re not Safelink, Bruce. We’re an independent website. You’ll need to contact that company’s customer support or tech support team to solve your problem.
Julie Frazier says
When upgrading do you get to keep the same number?
Free Government Cell Phones says
Yes, you get to keep the same phone number when you upgrade. You can even keep the same phone number when you switch service providers IF you say, “I want to port over my current phone number.”
Debra Glenn says
i applied online but had trouble sending financial info. Please email me *******@gmail.com with so that I can e-mail versus texting.
Thank you
Free Government Cell Phones says
We’re not your service provider, Debra. We’re a website with no affiliation to the free government cell phone companies. Try getting a hold of Safelink’s customer service team.
Josh Gates says
I think Safelink has altered their service. I got message stating that on November 1st I am upgraded to 500 minutes per month (up from 350) and now visiting the web site there is the option to upgrade the phone used, which before was not possible. http://shop.safelinkwireless.com/SafeLink-Smart-Phones
Free Government Cell Phones says
It was always possible to upgrade your Safelink phone, Josh. But it’s no wonder you missed it, because Safelink has a terrible website.
Corey says
where are the street booths in california? I dont know where the street booths are and the times.
Free Government Cell Phones says
Don’t do it, Corey. The street booths and tents are the source of too much fraud and abuse. Do yourself a favor and apply by phone or online. Here’s where you can find all the California free government cell phone companies:
https://www.freegovernmentcellphones.net/states
Katie says
Hello, as a struggling single mother on SSDI and food stamps, I am thrilled to find this program!! Am I able to use the old iPhone I already own, or will I have to use a phone they issue out? Thanks for your time!
Free Government Cell Phones says
Maybe, maybe not. Not all phones are compatible with all cell networks, Katie. You’ll need to contact customer service or tech support to determine if your current phone will work. Of course, there are a number of companies offering the Lifeline program in every state, so you have choices. You can always call several companies until you find one that is compatible with your phone. Here’s where you can find all the companies in your state:
https://www.freegovernmentcellphones.net/states
Ruth Domer says
I had a safe link but my eyes are bad so now I need one I can see. that and mine got shut down so I got assurance phone that im having shut of fits to confusing.
Arion Wweatherford says
How do I see if someone else is using my name to receive a phone without my permission?
Free Government Cell Phones says
There is a National Lifeline Assistance Database that’s supposed to list everyone who receives the service. If you are rejected for service, you may be able to get the service provider to tell you if someone is using your name and social security number at a different address.
Stanley Pruett says
I qualified for the service and showed my SSDI and Disabled Veterans benefits form. After 2 weeks and no phone I found the agent and they need proof of my birth date. The ONLY form I have is a county probation ID and was told unacceptable. Really? I showed proof of my disabilities and a county govt. ID with DOB. Serial # 3100**** may help you. Could someone help me out with a phone?
Free Government Cell Phones says
Do you know what forms Safelink will accept as proof of your date of birth? Does it need to be a birth certificate or will other forms of ID work — such as drivers license or veteran’s documents?
Janice Stephenson says
Did you get my online application? I filled it out either Thursday or Friday last week. Janice l stephenson
Free Government Cell Phones says
No, Janice, we did NOT receive your application. There’s a simple reason for that — we’re not your service provider. We’re an independent website. You need to contact Safelink customer service to find out the status of your application. Good luck.
Mary says
Can’t make a call. I get the message “prepaid service disabled” How do I re-able my service? thanksi
Free Government Cell Phones says
You need to contact your service provider’s customer service and/or tech support team.
Nellie says
Hi,
What’s the deal with Budget Mobile? I went to use my phone and it was deactivated even tho I used it within the required number days. I tried to login to my account and got this message.
“Sorry, there was an Problem retrieving your full account detail. We apologize for the inconvenience. If the problem persists, please Contact Us.
Problem Details
YOUR ACCOUNT HAS BEEN TRANSFERRED TO SAFELINK.”
This happened with NO communication and no warning. Thank god I am not having an emergency. This is very shoddy treatment and is quite humiliating!
Free Government Cell Phones says
We’re getting lots of reader comments indicating that something is going on with Budget. This should be big news, but so far there is no definitive answer.
charlette devaughn says
I have lost my phone. I need a replacement or upgrade. I been calling with no success.
Free Government Cell Phones says
If Safelink is neither answering nor solving your problem, maybe it’s time for you to switch to a new service provider. Here’s an article that tells you how easy it is to make the switch:
https://www.freegovernmentcellphones.net/faq/how-do-i-switch-lifeline-providers
maria says
Hi. I’m a mother who’s trying to find my daughter. I opened up a line with an government phone for her recently.
She left out of town to work for a few days and said she will be back. My daughter never misses a day without letting me know she’s ok. But I received a call from her number and heard some strange noises on her end. And since then I havent heard from her. I’m very concerned. Is there any way I can get help to find my daughter’s location through the phone?
Free Government Cell Phones says
Maria, we’re really sorry to hear about your missing daughter. There’s nothing we can do to help you, and most likely Safelink will not be able to either. Best of luck to you.
VERONICA says
THE POLICE/DETECTIVES WOULD PROBABLY BE YOUR BEST BET. MY PRAYERS FOR YOUR DAUGHTER AND FOR YOU.
Nikele says
I thought I was going to receive a headset with my tracphone but I didn’t. Where can I buy one that works for the tracphone I was send yesterday October 4, 2016 if that means a different model for those in the know. Bless!
Free Government Cell Phones says
Amazon. EBay. Any store that sells Tracfones.
lisa m onto says
I would like to buy a replacement phone for a safelink phone that is lost.
Free Government Cell Phones says
Here’s an article that tells you all about replacements for lost, broken or stolen phones:
https://www.freegovernmentcellphones.net/faq/i-lost-my-phone-how-do-i-get-a-replacement
Dorothy says
I have a safelink phone for my oldest son but can my other 2 boys get a phone they are at the age where I need to he able to get a hold of them. I get foodstamps, LEAP, state insurance, my kids get free breakfast and lunch at school. Any feedback would be great thank you for your time.
Free Government Cell Phones says
Unfortunately, Dorothy, they cannot. The rules of the Lifeline program say you can only have one phone per household.
Joyce A Vespie says
I lost my phone and need a replacement phone please.?
Free Government Cell Phones says
Here’s an article that tells you the replacement policy of all the major Lifeline free government cell phone companies (including Safelink):
https://www.freegovernmentcellphones.net/faq/i-lost-my-phone-how-do-i-get-a-replacement
marilia says
mi mama recive food stamps and medicare y llamamos hace meses para q ella recibiera el cellular de gobierno gratis y hasta hoy no ha recibido nada q se puede hacer al respecto porque ella es senior y necesita uno.
Free Government Cell Phones says
No hablamos español, Marilia.
Karen Ciota says
I don’t understand how to sign up for this. Your website is confusing. I need to get this phone for my mother who is on social security and Medicaid. I can’t even tell what type of phone is available. I cannot call from work so I was hoping to sign her up online. Where is the link? I have already compared plans and looked at the others. This is the one I want
Free Government Cell Phones says
You have stumbled upon one of the great mysteries of the Lifeline Assistance program, Karen. Each company stocks numerous brands and models of phones and they hand them out randomly. So you never know which phone you’ll get. We’ve provided links to each company (phone AND website) on the page dedicated to that company. Like on this page, for example, down toward the bottom of the article.
Dashiki says
I live in santa clara California. I just recieved a safelink phone. How many min and text messages and data do i get free per month?
Free Government Cell Phones says
We have no way of knowing what plan you enrolled in, Dashiki. You’ll need to contact Safelink customer service to get your question answered.
Mary bervinkle says
My lifeline phone has no min
Free Government Cell Phones says
Contact your service provider’s customer service team.
sandra worthington says
I did not receive my monthly minutes. Would like to know why.
Free Government Cell Phones says
We’re not your service provider, Sandra. We’re an indepedent website. You’ll need to contact your service provider to get your missing minutes.
Jeffrey Breeding says
I didn’t get my 250 minutes this month
Free Government Cell Phones says
Only Safelink can help you with that problem. Contact its customer service team.
trina says
Where can I go to get a phone I live in selma ca that’s california
Free Government Cell Phones says
See the comments below, Trina, to see our opinion of the street tents and booths.
tina avery says
what location near the 40219 in louisville ky can i locate a tent vendor friday 8-19-16? thank you for the response.
Free Government Cell Phones says
It’s almost impossible to tell you where and when street tents or booths will be set up, Tina. The people working the booths are independent contractors which means that even the Lifeline companies themselves do not know where or when they will be set up. Your best bet — for numerous reasons — is to enroll online or by phone.
FELIX SERATE says
BUENOS DIAS QUISIERA SABER COMO PUEDO CAMBIAR MI TELEFONO SE ME CALLO Y SE ROMPIO LA PANTALLA NO PUEDO LLAMAR YA QUE SE VE LA MITAD DE LA PANTALLA ES DE SAFE LINK EL NUM ES 7875481254
Free Government Cell Phones says
According to Google Translate, Felix said, “Good morning. I would like to know how can I change my telephone and screen keep quiet broke because I cannot call half the screen in seven. Safelink is the number *********.”
Although that doesn’t make complete sense, it appears that Felix wants to know what to do about his broken Safelink phone. Read this article, Felix. It provides the information you need:
https://www.freegovernmentcellphones.net/faq/i-lost-my-phone-how-do-i-get-a-replacement
Juan Rosado Malavet says
How can I work as a rep in my area?
Free Government Cell Phones says
You must contact Safelink directly, Juan. We are not affiliated with Safelink nor any other free government cell phone company.
Donna Bolden says
My airtime was suspended. I made calls as instructed. Why?
Free Government Cell Phones says
Not a clue, Donna. We’re not your service provider.
clare wilson says
Are minors (18 & younger) able to get a cell phone if they are in foster care?
Free Government Cell Phones says
No. Regulations state that you must be 18 or older.
Joan says
Do you offer smartphones or phones that allow me to complete job applications?
Thanks
Free Government Cell Phones says
At this time Safelink offers smartphones only in California. But lots of other companies offer smartphones (even if some of them require you to pay a small upgrade fee). Here’s where you can find the smartphone policies of all the major Lifeline Assistance companies:
https://www.freegovernmentcellphones.net/which-lifeline-cell-phone-companies-offer-smartphones
Russell Outlaw says
How I get unlimited text where it don’t take time off
Free Government Cell Phones says
Can you clarify what you mean when you say, “…it doesn’t take time off?”
Wanda arnold says
I love safelink, but I see ads on Facebook about safelink smartphones, I would love to have one of those, if I can’t get one through safelink, can I use a smartphone that was given to me , it was a boost mobile phone, os there any way that I can use my safelink sim card in it? That would be awesome
Free Government Cell Phones says
Safelink will not guarantee that you’ll get a smartphone, but you can always get a smartphone by paying a small upgrade fee.
In regard to the SIM card issue, it all depends on the make and model of your phone and the network on which your service provider operates. You’ll need to talk to customer service or tech support before buying another phone.
Stephanie says
What is the upgrade fee?
Free Government Cell Phones says
Upgrade fees vary from company to company and phone to phone, Stephanie. First thing you need to do is check your service provider’s website to see if the upgrade fee is revealed there. If not, contact its customer service team to get the answer.
David Dickerson says
Need a new phone for 276-229-**** please. Prefer touch screen smart phone. Other phone is getting to where it don’t want to charge.
Free Government Cell Phones says
Here’s an article that tells you the upgrade policies of all the major Lifeline Assistance companies, David:
https://www.freegovernmentcellphones.net/which-lifeline-cell-phone-companies-offer-smartphones
david villalon says
Im looking for galaxy s smartphone do you offer it
Free Government Cell Phones says
All we offer is news and information, David, because we are an independent website that’s not affiliated with any of the free government cell phone companies. To find out which phones are offered by Safelink, you must visit its website or call it customer service team.
For information on the smartphone upgrade policies of each of the major companies, read this article:
https://www.freegovernmentcellphones.net/which-lifeline-cell-phone-companies-offer-smartphones
alice dingle says
I have a free cell phone and I want it turned off the number is 843-642-****
Free Government Cell Phones says
You need to contact your service provider directly, Alice. This website is not affiliated with any Lifeline Assistance company.
You can find Safelink’s contact info toward the end of the article on this page.
Brittany Dyer says
I need a PUK code to unlock my phone. The number I call keeps hanging up on me. Please I need help.
Free Government Cell Phones says
Here’s an article that tells you what to do:
https://www.freegovernmentcellphones.net/what-is-a-puk-code-and-how-do-you-find-it
Olena Lake on behalf of Galyna Militinska says
The service of Safelink is awful! I applied for my mom’s first in her life free cell phone, which she is eligible for. However, the Safelink requested the proof of her eligibility. I have her required documentation twice by all means of communications: 2 times I have attached the files and it was successfully attached. Two times I have emailed those documents following 2 different and confusing instruction about subject line and body of the email. Twice I have sent the documentation by mail. No results. The case is still on pending status by July 3 from May 27. And I keep receiving the letters with request of proof of her identity, which I have already dome 6 times.
It looks that those people just like to make a fun of my old mom, who desperately need this phone for her life safety.
This Company, Safelink, MUST be removed from this type of service and from the government’s advertising and promoting their business web site. They fail to provide this service!
Free Government Cell Phones says
Unacceptable service, Olena. Perhaps you should cancel that application with Safelink and apply with on of the other Safelink companies doing business in your state. Here’s where you can find a list of those companies:
https://www.freegovernmentcellphones.net/states
Vincent says
I just got let go from my job my wife still works. We have a 20 month old son and and we are expecting another within the month. Can I apply for a phone for the time I am looking for work and filing for unemployment in order to lower our household budget.
Free Government Cell Phones says
Yes, you can apply as long as you meet the eligibility requirements. Here’s an article that tells you how to qualify:
https://www.freegovernmentcellphones.net/basics/qualify
Audrey Gaskin says
I live in North Carolina and I am interested in becoming a distributor and signing people up that need this service. Are you hiring currently?
Free Government Cell Phones says
You will need to contact Safelink directly using the contact info provided on this page.
john w jones says
can i pick my own phone number? if so id like 412-372-••••. thanks .
Free Government Cell Phones says
You can only choose from available numbers, John. You should call Safelink customer service to discuss it.
Jose says
My phone is lock to help me pin number
PATRICIA BARRE says
where do I sent my expected Safelink cell IF i’m already on one of the government plans
PATRICIA BARRE says
i already have a free cell which i was unaware i already had one
how do i cancel my Safelink approval
Freddie Horsley says
I would like to say what I would do just to be able to go to work & always reply back is your crazy you have the life just sit home & wait for your check to deposit. Trust me it’s NOT A WALK IN THE PARK & YOU’RE NEVER PREPARED how much it affects your entire life & in ways you could never imagine. I’m very thankful for your company & being a great provider when I lost my last but of pride watching my wife each am leaving ewofk @ 4:00am 12-14 he shifts and coming home to assist me & I’m suppose to be there to take care and provide for her and then say you can finally become stay home mom & her health nearly took her from me & she lost her job by being terminated & that changed her mentally & then we would next be told were LOOSING house we bought 6 yes prior. I begged her to drop my iPhone service from her acct. & check into what info I was told about today & she did & chose your vimosby which being honest have overall been wonderful but to respect what you do for those in honest need I feel I need to make complaint about the women wk’s there which I’ve got a lot of respect for women in the working world especially if they are anything like my wife when I met her rshe was recently divorced raising 3 yr old son no support & her familtbhad lost their 17 yr old son bug depression anxiety etc was forced down while on the clock & she went above & beyond expected duties & her son doing great living like a king! Every time she has tried to help me do this request via phone every female that got our call was so rude & talked to her as if she was trash & I’d get so frustrated hearing that & her maintain professional manner until I’d beg her just cancel the call I’ll just continue to suffer & listen to Dr tell me with the disabilities affecting my hands that small type cell phone is only going to worsen your situation. So I’m being showed ads about possible opprto upgrade to a smartphone or larger type of phone. I’m willing to pay if price is as high as what we would have to pay thru at&t.Any guidance you xeoffer I thank you in advr& look forward to get your reply.
Thank YouFreddie Horsley
Free Government Cell Phones says
Hang in there, Freddie. Things will get better.
Here’s an article that answers all your questions about smartphones.
https://www.freegovernmentcellphones.net/which-lifeline-cell-phone-companies-offer-smartphones
Gadgetmang says
Safelink is great they let you use an unlocked phone and can port your number over. I live in California so my plan is unlimited talk/text with 500mb of data, similar to the MetroPCS plan for $30 I was paying. Very happy with my BYOD phone and free plan (network is At&t in my area) so in my opinion Safelink Wireless is the best.
Free Government Cell Phones says
We’re always glad to hear from happy Lifeline customers, Gadgetmang.
Gadgetmang says
Safelink cancelled my service without warning after a month, they told me at first that Lifeline cancelled it (this was a lie) and to call them. When I called Lifeline they said they don’t have control over that and that Safelink never turned in the paperwork to Lifeline” I had no account with them at all” after talking with six different customer service people I found one to actually look at my account, he stated that I had another past Lifeline account (not true Lifeline said I never had an account with them) I think he just wanted me to get off the phone. Anyways way too much trouble to get service again so just going back to my $30 a month MetroPCS plan. I thought about filling a complaint but I really don’t want the service with anymore so why bother.
Free Government Cell Phones says
You should file the complaint just to keep Safelink on its toes and to help make sure future customers get better service. Here’s an article that tells you how to file the complaint:
https://www.freegovernmentcellphones.net/faq/file-lifeline-service-complaint
Sybil Townsend says
Hello I would tp know if I can get a new safelink phone mailed out to me. My phone I have now doesnt work well. I can’t make calls only text messages. You can reach me at 302-363-**** Sybil T***** 817 ***** st wilmington, Delaware. Thank you.
Free Government Cell Phones says
If your phone doesn’t work you should contact Safelink’s customer service team by phone or online, Sybil. They are the only ones who can solve your problem.
Robert P. Stelle, Sr. says
How do I get an instruction manual for Safelink Tracfone Model A207BG Alcotel One Touch ?
Free Government Cell Phones says
You can find one online quickly and easily by Googling the make and model number and the words “user manual.”
tori says
That phone is garbage good luck
james ostrowski says
I am now a safelink customer with a new cell , the transition so far has been effortless thank you. I have come from the the now defunct Reach Out Wireless and their awful customer service and sham. I predicted one year ago that their time was limited as complaints flooded the FCC offices and the ICC and Illinois State Attorney General and the BBB. However in the last part of June of 2016 ROW would flood your phone with ads about their closing and service interruption to your area by zip code , mine was May 22 of 2016 and it would prevent you from calling , you could not use your phone each time you dialed a number it reverted to a safelink ad repeatedly that boast of 500 free mins for several months and a TOUCH SCREEN PHONE, NOT A SMART PHONE, A TOUCH SCREEN PHONE – I was very suspicious of this ad so I recorded it with a time date with safelink claiming that you would get this deal, and its on my camera as a video clip with audio and date and time. And to my surprise I received a tracfone without a sim card to port the old number into my new NON-TOUCHSCREEN phone from safelink and furthermore you offer no paid unlimited talk and text options like ROW did , and I picked you because of the false advertising you presented that repeatedly interrupted service on my row phone when I was entitled to service still for I paid for unlimited talk and text through May 29th 2016, so i had to contact row 4 times to turn my phone back on to full service as you continued to block my calls with a robo caller ad, So ROW ripped me off and now your company which is sending me a new sim card to port out my old number to a $9.95 phone that is not what you advertised , this is called bait and switch to sway choices to select your service and then you get the shaft – well im educated and this practice is its illegal in the State of Illinois and 48 other states – this practice is also actionable – so i believe you will not print this but be aware I had enough nonsense with row over the past 3 years and i contacted the FCC and ICC many times to forge a complaint that lead to the legal department of ROW and I am not going to go through this again , I want what you promised that made me choose you a TOUCHSCREEN phone and the 500 mins ( of which you have supplied but that only upholding 50% of your promise to potential clients. A advertisement constitutes a contract that should benefit both parties and this one does not by falsely advertising a touch screen phone safelink has misled the american public and unless this is corrected I will file with the FCC and send the clip of the ad where you promise services and equipment that you did not deliver or provide in any way shape or form. As I stated earlier ROW was awful and now this is not a good start with a new company and i am no one’s fool . So please do the right thing and keep your promise to provide what you claimed and deliver such. I am already looking for a class action attorney to take on ROW and their deceptive and fraudulent conduct. You don’t get shut down by the FEDS if you’re doing things right. I trust you will do the right thing, and please do not underestimate me because I have reached my saturation level with these so called lifeline providers and the sham that comes with the service and the broken promises, do the moral thing and make this right. James Ostrowski in chicago phone number 773.865.**** and or by email duffencory2012@*****.com, my enrolment ID is 2665**** today is May 5th 2016 and this dialog has been copied for further reference. Be well and good luck on your continued success. I remain, James Ostrowski
Free Government Cell Phones says
James Ostrowski is a man on a mission.
Lily says
Hi, Reachout is no longer servicing my area. Will I be able to keep my number with Safeline or Assurance? Also, when I apply it ask if I have a line already. When I put yes, it states I am not approved.
Free Government Cell Phones says
Yes, you should be able to keep your own number. Make sure you tell them you want to “port your phone number.”
Before you enroll with Safelink, are you sure Safelink is the best plan for you? We’d suggest that you check out all the companies in your state to see if you can find more minutes/texts/etc.
To do that, click on the “States” link at the top of this page. Then click on your state. You’ll find a complete list of free government cell phone providers. Click through them all to find the plan that best fits your needs. (You might even find one that allows you to speak to a live customer service rep.)
Jose aquino says
I had received a new tracfone without activation card in the package and need some help to activate this new one
By telephone I must wait more than 30 minutes and i expending to much minutes waiting.
Thanks for your attention.
Jose Aquino.
Free Government Cell Phones says
It really is unfortunate, Jose, that Safelink charges minutes for calling its customer service line and then makes customers wait so long. The only choice you have might be to borrow someone else’s non-Lifeline phone to make the call. Sorry to be the bearers of bad news.
Linda Craft says
Never mind my previous question; I guess it resolved itself for now. Sorry for the inconvenience. His phone is from Safelink.
Linda
suzette cloud says
I need a new phone the one I have does not let me get incoming calls anymore. I have tried to log into safe link but its not letting me so I am writting to you. I also was wondering if you have a safe link phone with a camera on it ? my information is suzette ***** 209 **** st johnstown pa **** last 4 of ssn. I was wondering how to recerify when I can’t get into the web site everything is the same and i still have my disability.
Free Government Cell Phones says
It’s pretty simple, Suzette. Here’s an article that tells you what to do:
https://www.freegovernmentcellphones.net/faq/how-do-i-do-the-annual-verification-of-my-phone
deb says
I would recommend budget phone service. They have way nicer phones and for a small amount you can access the internet with a touch screen phone.
Norma J. Deets says
How do I recertify, my Safe Link phone?
Free Government Cell Phones says
Read this article:
https://www.freegovernmentcellphones.net/faq/how-do-i-do-the-annual-verification-of-my-phone
Arminda R Gomez says
The phone company that provides my free service is cutting the service. They are giving us only two options: access and safelink. access is not working and safelink is not accepting my address. I live in Chicago CHA housing. The building has more than 200 senior citizens and every time I tried to fill forms on the website, I CAN NOT do it. Please I need a phone. I do not have access in case of an emergency. Thank you; Arminda
Free Government Cell Phones says
Very frustrating for you, Arminda. We assume your former service provider is ReachOut Wireless. If so, visit the company’s website. They actually show a total of seven alternate providers.
If you’re not with ReachOut please let us know who you are with and we’ll try to help.
Carol A. Harms says
Arminda, I found out when you’re applying, don’t put any symbols on the address lines, no commas or periods or number sign, etc.
Darlene Smith says
I want to get back on Safelink Wireless. I was on it before. But dumb me went to Budget Mobile.I still have my phone. The # is 870-405-****. Budget Mobile phone just fell to pieces. I was not happy at all….
Kathleen Oney says
kathleen_oney@yahoo.com
My cellphone is missing.
Free Government Cell Phones says
Read this article.
Dan Still says
I’ve had a safelink phone for awhile and the service had been good until the phone aged and became unreliable. I found an LG 306G at my local Rite Aid store. This became an adequate phone for me and I was very happy with it. Thanksgiving came and I got a fantastic deal on an Android phone for $10.I found at Giant Eagle Supermarket regular $ 60. when I tried to switch it to my account Safelink said I had to have a 3G phone so I was not able to switch phones. For the next 3 months I got IMPORTANT MESSAGES that my service would be discontinued if I did not do this or that. I did this and that. I went online to assure this or that had been done. I filled out hard copies of this and that and mailed them in and end of every month it was the same thing over again, Eventually I was disconnected end of Jan this year and have filled out applications online and faxed back proofs of this and that and mailed back proof of qualifications and cannot re-establish phone service although I am thankful that text service continues. There customer service for this program seems nonexistent and AS long as everything works that is fine as I am sure that is an expense that only continues and increases as long as you offer it, but when the information on the computer is not enough to solve your issues………….well that is another story. So while I have been very happy with Lifeline service and Safelink the future is in the air. If I can re-establish phone service Hooray !! If not I will switch vendors perhaps, or figure out how to make more money. So if your happy with your service don”t buy a better phone no matter how good of a deal it is. If safelink thinks you have enough money to buy a sixty dollar phone…………
Free Government Cell Phones says
Sorry to hear about your problems with Safelink. Keep us posted on your progress because it’s an important issue to our readers.
LAURIE ANN ALGERA says
hello. yesterday i uploaded some photos they were photos of my social security card,my drivers license, and my medicaid card. I then sent them to the email address that was listed there and so i was wondering if you could do me a favor and check and see if they were successfully sent correctly because i checked on my status today and it still said my app. is still pending due to documentation that was needed. i would appreciate it if you could email me back with the answer today. thannk-you so much! have a nice day sincerely, laurie ann algera here is my enrollment number if needed: 264*** sslast 4 digits is; ****
Free Government Cell Phones says
You’ve made a common mistake, Laurie. FreeGovernmentCellPhones.net is an independent website and is NOT affiliated with Safelink nor any other Lifeline Assistance company. You will need to contact that company’s customer service team by phone or online.
Jennifer Virgen says
I sign up to get a cell phone. Haven’t received cell phone or any think. I was at the doctors today. And one of your agency was there. I tryed to do a application. And it wouldn’t let me. It said to contact safelink I did. And it give me the run around.. My name is Jennifer ********. 421 ***** Dr Los Angeles California 90017. My contact number is. 213)804*****. Thank you
Free Government Cell Phones says
This website is not affiliated with Safelink Wireless, Jennifer. If you want to solve your problem, you must contact that company’s customer service team directly by phone or online. Good luck.
wayne springer says
I am currently with reachout wireless. I have been advised that they will no longer service the are where i live.
Can I keep my current phone and phone number when I transfer service?
Free Government Cell Phones says
Yes. But you must tell the new company that you want to “port over your phone number.” Make sure you use that phrase. Here’s an article with more information:
https://www.freegovernmentcellphones.net/faq/how-do-i-switch-lifeline-providers
Marilyn says
I just wanted to follow-up. Captel technology is available all over the United States. Hearing impaired persons can even register for a free Captel phone (however, they would have to still have to pay for a telephone carrier, so only the physical phone and caption service is free) Captel telephones are landlines. That doesn’t help the person that is away from their home, maybe using medicaid transport and calling for a pick-up.
However, the Captel application is free for downloading onto smartphones that meet certain technological requirements. Not only does Captel on a smartphone allow deaf people to make and receive phone calls, but the phones can be used as a substitute for hearing aids or sign language. For example, you can sit next to your doctor, he can call you on your smartphone, and you can read everything he is saying. You don’t need to read lips, learn sign language, or have a cochlear implant. To reply, just speak. It allows you to have a normal conversation by reading, rather than hearing, what the other person has to say.
Free Government Cell Phones says
Thanks for the very informative update, Marilyn. Many of our readers will appreciate it as much as we did.
Good luck finding a free government cell phone company that offers the service in your state. Please send us another update telling us about your progress. Once again, we know many of our readers will appreciate it.
Jeanette Jones says
I have been online trying to get recertified for my free phone, I can’t seem to find the right page, can you help me,please
Free Government Cell Phones says
Safelink has made its website harder to navigate than many sites. We cannot get to the recertification page because we are not Safelink customers. Here’s what we’d suggest: Call Safelink’s customer service team while you have your computer in front of you. Ask the agent to talk you through the steps to get to the recertification page. Good luck. Please let us know how it goes.
Deborah says
I just tried to sign up with safe link , it won’t let me put my town in the address area ? So I can’t apply
Free Government Cell Phones says
If you have run into an online glitch, call Safelink’s customer service team at the number shown in this article. Good luck.
Marilyn says
I am a deaf person who needs to use a smartphone compatible with captel requirements. How can I register for a telephone and make sure that what I receive is caption friendly (as opposed to a general cell phone).
Free Government Cell Phones says
We’ve never been asked this question before, so we did a little research. You didn’t say where you were from, but based on your IP address it appears that you are in Muskegon, Michigan. We also dug deep into the Terms & Conditions found on Safelink’s website.
We found no references to Captel (a term we’d never seen before), but we did find two references to hearing impairment:
“As required by Public Utilities Code § 2881, TracFone California LifeLine customers who are deaf or hearing-impaired or who have speech disabilities will have access to California Relay Service.”
“TracFone will provide access to two California LifeLine discounted telephone lines to Deaf and Disabled Telecommunications Program participants or teletypewriter users as required.”
Based on those two terms, it appears that Captel is available only in California. We do not want to steer you wrong, though, and would urge you to call Safelink’s customer service team to confirm our findings. Best of luck, Marilyn.
ANGELA CAIN says
The customer service is horrible.When dealing with customers, HIRE AMERICAN’S WHO CAN SPEAK AND ENUNCIATE THE ENGLISH LANGUAGE. IN ADDITION EXERCISE PROPER ETIQUETTE AND MANNERS!!!! I don’t recall being treated so rudely by any company’s customer service.
James Smith says
I liked apply for one your free phone
Free Government Cell Phones says
You must contact the customer service team by phone or online, James.
Raymond Ouimette says
I have a Safelink phone. It has been deactivated because I failed to use my phone last month. I have been unable to activate it .My phone number is 508-381-****. I tried to follow directions by phone and on line with no success.
Free Government Cell Phones says
You must speak to Safelink’s customer service team to straighten out your problems. Good luck.
John R. Bohn says
i understand I m your system. However I recived my phone through Budget Mobile. They are a terrible company who refuses to recognize that with age eye sight lessen. I am 86 my phone is so small I cant read the numbers. How can I get out of Budget Mobile and go to a responsible and responsive company. A times I to ask my neighbor to dial for me as I cant read the keys. Smaller than newsprint.
Free Government Cell Phones says
We feel your pain, John, but you are not in “our” system. FreeGovernmentCellPhones.net is not a service provider. But we’re here to give advice when we can. And you’re in luck, because here’s an earlier article that tells you exactly how to switch service providers. Good luck.
https://www.freegovernmentcellphones.net/faq/how-do-i-switch-lifeline-providers
Heather says
wheres my phone i applied a week ago at one of your vendors from a Lindsey Silveira who i also left my name, email address and phone number with for an application to b emailed to me. but its now been a weekend still no phone or even a denial letter…whats going on????
Russell says
I had a cell phone and tried to cancel it through safe link it was stolen told me they could not find me in there computer. I go and try and get another one. They told me I have one already. I’m not the only one that has this problem.
debbie salcedo says
I have had this before and my minutes just quit last yr even when I still am on assistants. so I tried to get Qlinks, and have sent my info more then twice. and still nothing is going through, all they say is pending. Well, I really would like to know why this is not going through like it should. please let me know \
Free Government Cell Phones says
Continue calling customer service until your issue is resolved. We know it’s not the answer you wanted to hear, but it is your only solution.
melissa terry says
Need to up grade phone ,i have had my phone for a very long time . I am hoping to keep my same number too ,email if you can help .
Free Government Cell Phones says
Be aware, Melissa, that FreeGovernmentCellPhones.net is not affiliated with Safelink nor any other service provider. If you want to upgrade your phone, call the Safelink customer service team.
Clarice Walker says
I need a replacement phone. I dropped mine and can barely see the screen. My address is the same. ***** Carter Drive Homer, La. *****
Free Government Cell Phones says
Call your service provider directly.
william cato says
Can I purchase a larger phone , or an android phone , a friend will give me one but will it work on the safe link system??? as I am a big man and these little phones they pass out are real hard to use?
Free Government Cell Phones says
Most companies allow you to upgrade to a smart phone. Will the specific phone and model your friend will give you work with Safelink? The only way to know for sure is to call the company’s tech support department.
estella pal says
I have a government free phone will cancel too get your phone its looks better. can I do that. I applied for yours
Free Government Cell Phones says
Please be aware that the phones shown by any company are probably not the phones you will receive. Each company stocks a variety of refurbished phones that are handed out randomly as each customer enroll in the program.
Charlee Harris says
Two weeks ago I send in a new application to update my account. I found out today, I am no longer in the system. Is there anyone who can help me through this process?
Charlene Harris
Free Government Cell Phones says
Charles, we are an informational website, not Safelink. You must contact the company directly to solve your problem. Good luck.
alisa karl says
I need a cell phone but do you give out a phone that is not a track phone? I have had track phones in the past, but they do not come in at my residence, and I need one that will work there. I have had to travel seven miles down the road to use the phones that you have sent me in the past,…….
Soi do you give phones that are not track phones???????????????
Free Government Cell Phones says
Some, but not all companies offer smart phones.
HARRY OSCAR HERSHEY JUNIOR says
I TOLD YOU BEFORE I DON T HAVE MY CELLPHONE WITH SAFELINK IT GOT STOLDING FROM ME I ASK TO SEND ME A NEW ONE YOU NEED YOU CAN CALL ME AT 301-232-**** AOUT IT OKAY MR. HARRY ****** ***** JUNIOR
Lorella Tew says
do incoming calls take away from my minutes.
Cassandra Fletcher says
Safelink is a horrible company that makes Illinios residents jump through hoops to get their service if they get it at all. I completed my first application with them 12/24/15. It is now 3/2/16 and i still have no phone. i have had to fill the application out again because my first proof was denied and i was accused of altering the information because no one with and illinois food stamp card has a name appearing on the front and hasn’t for years and they are claiming that i altered the card because it has no name and also that illinois is also saying that it is invalid which isn’t possible because i use it all the time. now i have sent in proof with a new application with my midecaid card and am being told that that is invalid as well because they don’t seem to know that illinois offers 6 different insurances (i picked harmony) for people with medicaid. they are also claiming that illinois is saying that that card is invalid as well but it’s mighty funny that it was valid at my doctor’s appointment yesterday and will be valid at my physical therapy appointment tomorrow. i have done everything they have asked of me many times over the last few months and i still have no phone and have been accused of presenting fraudulent information and lied to and of course still no phone. be careful dealing with these people and all calls are directed everywhere but the USA i’ve talked to people from India, Mexico, and even France from the accents i’ve heard so don’t let the Texas address fool you they are certainly outsourcing what should have been american jobs but taking american government funds for their services
Free Government Cell Phones says
Sorry to hear about your problems. Don’t give up. Try applying with another company if you are not getting what you need from Safelink.
Kimberly Johnson says
I lost my safelink phone How do I suspend service?
Free Government Cell Phones says
Since your comment was left on our Safelink page, we assume you are a Safelink customer. You must get in touch with Safelink to resolve your issue.
Billy Broom says
Good Day I Billy Broom Would Be Most Dearly Honored And Happy To Get A Most Wonderful Coolpad Free Government Phone It Would Be A Most Glorys Blessing To Me And Would Truely Help me To Be better Abel to Keep in Tuchman With My Family’s And Friends And Get Help If Needed Zhou Can I Best Post In Thy Needed Information To Be Blessed To Be honored To Get A most Glorys phone .
Luis A Soto says
Com o puedo comprar un telefono, safelink, yha que el que me dieron es muy pequeño y tengo problemas para leer
janine oneal says
I’ve been trying to get in contact to get one of these phones only because my mother is is sick in the nursing home.You can reach me on this # 606 909-**** my ss ***-**-**** .Thank you so much…
Michael Leonard says
Cell phone locked in my employer’s house for the next two (2) weeks. How can I call my phone and check my voice mail messages. I never created a retrieval code. Is there a default (general) code as mine has not been programed. Or, if I did can it be deleted (by you or me) and a new one created? Please advise! …and Thank You. Mike
Gail Hall says
What kind of Internet can I get
Kimberly says
I had Safelink from 2009 to 2013, but (1) it takes umpteen attempts to dial out without getting an infuriating EMERGENCY ONLY on the screen, even in emergencies; (2) coverage is spotty, calls drop a LOT; and (3) the “annual recertification” came unpredictably at anywhere from 1-9mos, never a full 12mos. It was shut off twice because they said I didn’t recertify. I didn’t get a notice or I would have done it. I need my phone to get calls for work assignments as a temp, so when it was shut off, I couldn’t take calls for work — which causes a big hassle having to contact the agency to let them know I still want work. After the 2nd time, a relative felt sorry for me and set me up with a phone, but I don’t get enough work assignments to help pay that bill, plus I need internet for my other job, but it barely pays the internet bill. The only reason I bother is because it’s wrong to take assistance without working. Really, I’d be better off not working. Anyway, I need a phone now, so I can get jobs that don’t pay enough to be able to afford a phone bill. In fact, it pays so little that Section 8 Housing doesn’t charge me rent, and gives me a check to pay part of my utilities. That’s what our country is coming to. Oh…and I have a Bachelor’s Degree. Total waste of money. I’ve been in deference on my student loans since 2003. They’ll never get paid. I was working until the aftermath of 9/11 dismantled my department.
crystal says
How do I singe up
dominick montevergine says
i have had this trackphone given to me free from the gov.t i have it now for years and years , the button on the phone hardly work and b4 it goes altogether. may i request for a replacement phone??and how do i go about doing that dominick thank you cell754 281 ****
haji muhammad says
i have valid phone number and i want to close down the servicve becuase i am out of u.s.a for mone then 180 days how i can request the safelink to close down my services.
mark says
Why the hell is this system not recognizing my address as a real address ????? I live in a two story , two apartment building in a regular neighborhood !!!!
**** Augustine Ave. 1st Fl.
MELISSA PAQUIN says
MY HUSBAND AND I AN NO LONGER IN THE SAME HOUSE HOLD AND I TOLD HIM TO SIGN UP FOR SAFELINK, WE SEEM TO HAVE A PROBLEM!!! HE HAS BEEN ASSIGNED A PHONE NUMBER BUT CANT GET PASSED THE LOG IN PAGE BECAUSE HIS ADDRESS ISNT BEING RECOGNIZED SO WE TRIED USING A DIFFERANT ADDRESS SO HE CAN HAVE ACCESS TO A CELL PHONE. TO NO AVAIL THIS IS NOT WORKING, SO WE SENT IN THE PAPER APPLICATION AND HAVE YET TO HEAR ANYTHING, I ADVICE THIS GET RESOLVED OR WE WILL USE A DIFFERANT COMPANY. HIS NAME IS CRAIG PAQUIN AND HIS HOME ADDRESS IS ******* HERMANSVILLE MI, i REALLY HOPE THIS BECOMES RESOLVED SOON!!
jessica says
im already a safe link cust. i need a new phone tho and cannot afford to buy one. is there a program that would enable me to get a new/refurbished one for free???
Bonnie Mistler says
I just tried to apply for a phone and got a notice that I had already applied with a different server? To my knowledge I Have not, I recently started getting food stamps and Medicaid due to loss of income and can no longer afford my $40. Per month cell phone.
Odney Louis says
I need a free cell phone
My adress is : ****** Blvd,orlando Florida 32801
It’s a shelter …I’m homeless please
efrin colon says
lost my phone apply for new phone
Herwen Moise says
Hi…i loss my cellphone
Please could your give me another one …the number was …813-512-****
Herwen Moise says
My address is : ***** Blvd,orlando Florida 32801…i loss my cellphone Please could your give me another one…i have to kids and I’m in the shelter…I’m a single mother
Evan says
Need new application.
efrin colon says
lost my phone waiting for replacement said 7 to 10 days to get want feedback please
Marlene Ganz Paulin says
I have assurance wireless now free life line but I get all the time drop calls can i switch to your company But its important that I keep my same number for my doctors can you help me get your service I get SSI food stamps and xhelp on my prescription I need to know how many minutes a month and I get unlimited text message sending and receiving them if I can get yours but I have to get your phone before I can Quite due to health problems and I live alone and that the only source of making and receiving calls how many minutes a month do you offer and is it unlimited text? please email me asap as I can not take these drop calls the address *************** saint lucie Fl 34983 first tell me how many minutes a month and is it unlimited text? will be waiting to hear from you My cell number now is 772 343 **** and I must have that number thank you Have a nice Day
Marlene Ganz Paulin email me or mail info to my address my new minutes **** tomorrow and I dont want to go thru another month like I did
Thank you
Marlene Ganz Paulin
Albert Shmidt says
Hello, I’m your grateful customer for some last years.
Because my old phone doesn’t work good I’d like to upgrade my free SafeLink phone number 508 202 5765 with my AT&T ZTE Z341 Unlocked GSM phone (serial number is 861831000******) with transferring my benefit to my new phone without changing my phone number.
Please inform me how to do it?
Unfortunately till now I’d not received an answer for my mail to SelfLink on 1/1/2016. I’l wait your answer to me by e-mail.
Thank you for your time.
Sincerely
Albert Shmidt 1/10/2016
Valerie says
My charger no longer works. How do I get a replacement charger?
Frank says
THIS IS A BIG SCAM!!! I received my phone and it never worked. I called support and they could’t find a problem. So i have a phone i can’t use. I waited months for the phone and it won’t work. THANKS SAFE LINK AND THANKS TRACPHONE.
dorthy says
I HAVE APPY FOR THA SAFE LINK I SENT IN MY PAPER AND YOU SAID YOU HAD RECEIVED THEM THATS BEEN TWO WEKKS AGO AND IVE STILL NOT HEARD ANY THING MORE ABOUT IT CAN YOU PLEASE EXPAIN WHY I HAVENT HEARD FROM YOU THANK YOU VERY MUCH
John lawson says
Applied, 5 weeks ago, yet to receive phone
margaret page says
i just upgraded my safelink trac phone…received my five hundred minutes but now i’m being charged for sending/receiving text messages that were once unlimited texts…can someone please tell me why i’m being charged all text messages?
Lyndrall Mosley says
My account says cancelled and i don’t know why. Can someone help me. Please call 469-616-****. Thanks.
regina johnson says
I need to known how to get a new battery for my phone. think you.
Yahir says
Thanks for the phone
Delight Craft says
I need HELP from SAFELINK. I tried twice to get the 350 minutes for $10 deal that was sent tome in a message on my phone. I have tried to buy the minutes online as directed at the link provided. It has not worked. What are you willing to do SafeLink to assist me???????
Terry Langley says
My safelink phone has been lost. I can’t get no one on the phone at customer service. How do I get a new one? Please help. Thanks Terry.
Beverly lewis says
I’m needing a new charger how do I get one…
Pam says
I buy my own phone and get 350 free min. now I’ll get add’l 350 min for just $10
Elizabethperosky says
I need a new cellphone I lost the other one it is gone it got stolen
A. West says
Was it was lost or was it stolen? Make up your mind. It can’t be both ways. Like duh.. Won’t matter what you say now, I wouldn’t believe you. What are you 12 years old? Or one of those new “refugees” ?? Do tell.
sheila cloninger says
i am unemployded and on medicade.
Jeff says
Why can’t I call Canada? I have the right plan, but it doesn’t let me.
sheila cloninger says
no need to call canada.
Camille Caggiano says
I have had so much trouble trying to activate my Safelink Tracfone…can someone help me? My case manager is not available to help me…I’m afraid of having my free phone taken away from me…It works, I can’t make phone calls…I have the activation code, it’s charged up but I can’t call on it to activate it…I have a landline and tried calling the number to get a real person to help me, but all I get is the menu run around…I don’t know how to unlock the phone and use it to call…is there a real person around who can help me? Also, there was no PIN # anywhere in my phone package…Thank you for quick response! And who is my vendor? I applied by USPS mail through, assurance/safelink…that’s all I know.
Tina Martin says
When do I get my phone
Jennifer says
I went to my local office in Lancaster Sc try to help my uncle get a government phone but they told me they no longer work in the Area of Kershaw Sc and Lancaster SC. Is this true
Takila says
How do I upgrade my phone
brenda palmer says
I have a safe link phone but will not completely charge tried a new charger but will not make a difference
brenda palmer says
i have a safe link phone for over 3 years, my problem is that my phone will not completely charge,I’ve tried several chargers and no change
Linda Henderson says
I was wondering if my mom is able to get a safe link phone for herself. She gets food stamps..
Albert Shmidt says
For some years I use free SafeLink cellphone. Now I’d like to exchange my Tracfone cellphone for my ZTE Z431 Unlocked phone without changing my phone number 508 202 ****. Please inform me how to do it? Thank you, Albert
AUDREY graham says
my phone was stolen I want it turned off
Jose A. Lopez says
I currently have a Safelink TracFone model LG 320G Serial #***********, my ID #*****. I would like to upgrade to a newer & better cell phone. I believe I qualify, but I’m not sure. Can you please help me? I’m 76 years old, get easily confused when reading all the information posted on your site.. My sole income is from Social Security which is only $1044 per month.
robert moore says
I THINK THIS IS NOT RIGHT BECAUSE YOU SEND ME A NOTICE TO REDO MY PHONE AND CALL AND YOUS GIVE SUCH A STUPID HARD TIME.BECAUSE TELL YOU PHONE I HAD GOT BROKE THATS WHY WAS NOT GETTING USED SO ASK FOR NEW ONE AND YOUS REFUSE TO EVEN THOUGH I HAVE HEALTH TROUBLE THATS NOT RIGHT SO EITHER DO SOMETHING OR WILL GET MY DR. IN ON IT .
Carolyn N Simmons says
I am already a user of the Safe Link phone service. I was eligible due to having food stamps and medicaid, in which i still have both. I have not been able to receive my minutes for this month due to my phone being stolen. && I have tried several times to call the number provided for a replacement phone and seem to get no where. I used my phone to make mine and my children’s Dr. appointments as well as having it in case of an emergency at my sons school, i could be gotten in contact with. I haven’t had a phone in a couple of weeks. & it does no good to call the number given. The number that i had was 423-314-7298. I just need a replacement phone!! Thanks in advance.
ZandaraHenry says
thank you safelink new customers 500 mintues so Happy phone:
WILLIAM BADER says
I HAVE BEEN A CUSTOMER FOR THIS COMPANY A FEW YEARS AND HAD BEEN GREAT. HOWEVER, THIS YEAR 2015), THIS COMPANY TURNS TO BE THE WORST COMPANY TO DEAL WITH. I SUBMITTED ALL MY INFORMATION (RE-CERTIFICATION WITH MY FOOD STAMP AND MEDICAID) BOTH BY MAIL AND ONLINE BUT KEEP GETTING RE-CERTIFY REQUEST EVERY MONTH. I TALKED TO SAFELINK AGENT EVERY MONTH AND HE/SHE ASSURES ME THAT MY RE-CERTIFICATION IS COMPLETED. HOWEVER, TODAY, I GET ANOTHER TEXT TO RE-CERTIFY MY ELIGIBLE AGAIN. THIS IS THE 6TH TIME THIS YEAR FOR THIS. I AM LOOKING INTO DIFFERENT COMPANY. THIS HAS BEEN A NIGHTMARE FOR ME EVERY MONTH TO DO THIS.
Tammy S Chaplin says
I have been having the same problem. When I got some one they told had to reapply and it would take 72 hours for them to get it. then they will decide if I still am able to get the phone.
Ahmed Kareem says
Thank you for the free minutes and dedicative are to help me in matters of public life, thanks so much
allie douglas says
do you get cameral
on these government phone?
Hortencia Celzo says
I received my cellphone last Monday ,thank you so much . How can I call to my home country which is not in the lists for countries for international call.? Hope you will help me .
Tina says
Ive been waiting on a replacement phone for over a month. My phone was lost. I am getting the run around. I need to no if im going to receive it or not. Going on 2 months now
Edith says
I have been waiting on my minutes and still waiting I feel I am getting the run around.
wade barker says
i recieved this phone from The VA and where told to that it will be disconinued. help
Alan Schaefer says
I have lost my charger for my phone
rickey harrington says
I have had my alcatel phone with safelink as my provider for several years. it has several scratches on the screen, so much that I can no longer see thru it. I was wondering can safelink give me a replacement phone and I keep my same phone number?
andrea thompson says
I am glad we have a option like this I need one likeknow thanks for offering a service of such
I saw my friend with the pone we both live on a fix income this would be great to have so I could make my doctors appointment and my friends and emergency calls
andrea thompson says
I am glad we have a option like this I need one likeknow thanks for offering a service of such
Dixie bigham says
I’d like to apply
carol E jimenez vendrell says
great for emergencies
Henry Wooton says
I have a tracphones can I transf my minutes to this phone the glass is broken ony Alcatel free phone
My new phone is a net10 tracphone ZTE-Z990G
Chris says
These guys are total idiots! Every time I call them for any reason, I’m told I need to re-certify because my account is cancelled. Funny, I’m calling on my free phone & my phone says I have 877 service days that expires on 4/1/2018! Then there’s this drone agent that totally ignores what you’re saying & talks over you reading what obviously is a script. You would think if someone is a representative in customer service that they could at least speak English that is understandable. So far, not impressed with Safelink Wireless & I’ve been on this program for 3 years.
Aleska says
I have a free phone but my mom would like to by my a more updated phone that can take pictures for Christmas. Am I able to switch my number to a new phone? If so does it have to be a certain type or brand?
John Hatfield says
I need to recertify my account.
Tammy says
When I try to get into my account it says I don’t have to reapply but I don’t have an enrollment ID so it won’t let me go any further. I need a replacement phone because mine no longer charges. I’ve had it for years. I go to the site on how to get a replacement phone but it doesn’t give you info on how to get one just what they will replace. And it doesn’t give you a phone number to contact so how do you actually talk to a rep.
Cheryl. Smith says
My phone did not get any minutes fir this month…my no is 586-265-4946
Sheila Cahee says
I would like to keep my same number. I would hate to go through the aggravation of having a different phone #. So if you will I would like to keep the same #.
Linda Bennett says
I have looked at the instruction card and no where does it say how to change the time. My phone did not update when the time changed recently. Please help. Thank you
How do you change the time on a Samsung phone? I cannot find any instructions.
judi duncan says
I have looked at the instruction card and no where does it say how to change the time. I only get 12hr or 24hr settings. My phone did not update when the time changed recently. Hepl!!!!
How do you change the time on a samsung phone? I cannot find any instructions.
Linda Bennett says
Ms. Duncan, have you received any instructions on how to reset the time on the Samsung phone. I’m having the same problem. Thank’s
tracy justice says
go to tools in the menu, then go to world clock move the clock to your time zone then hit options and save, then turn your phone off and on it should up date.
kathy sing says
I’m trying to apply for a free government phone for my son that is on medicaid and food stamps.
He cannot drive, he has seizures and had a couple of strokes. He lives alone and has no phone or car.
His medicaid number is ********. His birth date is *** **,1971
Shona says
Please delete this comment
FreeGovernmentCellPhones.net says
Thanks for alerting us to the commenter posting their medicaid number. We’ve redacted it. We try to catch all instances of people posting benefits numbers, social security numbers, telephone numbers, etc, but we get so many comments sometimes one slips through. People: this is a public commenting system; please DO NOT POST PERSONAL ACCOUNT NUMBERS, PHONE NUMBERS AND ADDRESSES.
Larry Brunson says
My phone is loss, I would like to replace it w/a slider phone if possible. I’ve also relocate to 23222 in RVA. How to obtain a safe link cell
Connie says
I have a phone that we no longer need. It was only used a couple times. Can I send it back
Dawn says
I got the regular minutes on my new phone but it deducts time every time I text, therefore my minutes are gone. I was informed that it would be free text and when I try to contact them it is so difficult, there is no email for help, no chat, nothing but an 800 number that gets you either on hold or they are closed. what is the dealll
Patsy Gillman says
trying to get gov phone
kenneth bravata says
low income on disability and medicaid
Richard Tovar says
My Son go to a Higscool and he realy need Internet for his homework. In the name of my Family and my self, Thank you, for any help you can ofer to ass. (the Tovar Davila’s Family).
Bridgett says
I,want a free phone for a back up for emergency And to call my family
Kenyatta Collins says
My Safelink Samsung phone is not working. My buttons are not working. Where can I get it repaired or do I have to replaced it? If I must replace it, what must I do? If I must get a replacement, I would like the same Samsung model I have now.
Isabel C Hinojosa says
I received a flyer from your company Safelink but I already filled out my application on 10/2/15, I would appreciate it very much if you could check into it. I really need the phone considering my husband was diagnosed with cancer and we have to deal with several appts and we need it for transporation. I need the help.
Vanda crump says
I’m on ssi and snap .I have medical problems so I need a phone so I can get a hold of my doctor and get Ride to go to them
Gregory Pellegrino says
I am trying to get a Kyocera smart phone from Glink wireless… not sure what service to sign up for. Please help!
Robin Iver says
I had a free cellphone for 2 months with safelink and it was stolen 1 month ago. I didn’t know the number and called to report it 7 times but the overseas people in your customer service said I have no account!
Please help me get a replacement. I need the phone desperately.
Nancy Davis says
most of my contacts is family,and doctors appointments been had this government free phone a long time can’t afford a new one,how can i get a better free government phone at no cost.
John Lazzari says
In late June 2015 I applied via internet for the free cellphone via Safelink. Shortly after that I received from Safelink a letter asking me to send in a copy of my Income statement from Social Security and I did so. We have never heard anything since then and am wondering what I need to do. I am also a Disabled Veteran.
Please let me know.
Thank you.
sue gentry says
My income is 600.00 per month. I have food stamp assistance and can no longer afford my cell phone bill. I wanted to see if I qualify for a free phone. please respond if I am able to get one.
edward kaminski says
i request a LG840G phone. you were out of stock on 8 07 15 when i called for a replacement phone.
Linda says
I’ve heard that a household can get more than one free phone. Is this true? If so, how do I apply for an additional phone for another family member?
Catherine Smith says
How can I change my address on my Safe-link phone?
jOHN KANERVA says
I NEED CHEAP MOBILE INTERNET.
Collette Cavenah says
I receive food stamps. Do I qualify for a free phone, and service?
Timothy Redman says
i am 16 years old and my mom got a phone for me but shes not letting me get it so im trying to get my own phone
Bill Gallimore says
I am having trould tex in surry country
like to talk to you about the new thinks yall put on here
Lucy Kazalee says
I’ve been researching different websites trying to familiarize myself with the free mobile services available. Due to some unexpected health issues I’m currently unable to work. A friend let me know that the government offered this free to qualified people. And your website has been very helpful. Thank you so much! But I have to say I was shocked at some of the comments people actually send you! I was so thankful and couldn’t believe that free mobile service was even available! And to see so many people complaining about something free just was so unbelievable! You people that update this site must be saints! Lol! People never seem to stop wanting more more more!
Abdullah FNU says
Dear sir or madam, I came new from Afghanistan I am refugee in Durham NC.
I need to apply for the free phone program. Thx
Michelle says
My phone says restriction with a number after it I can’t call out
Louise Bell says
I have sent in the my proof to get a phone. I have not received a phone. you gave me a id. 8272070. would you let me know what the holdup is . Thank you Louise Bell.
steve smith says
I have been trying to get this stupid safelink phone you sent me to work.. I have spent a week trying toactivate and make falls from this phone for a week.. I spent two hours on and off hold nothing was accomplished.
susan gatewood says
Who and how do I notify someone when i no longer qualify for public assistance? Case is being closed….so I do not qualify for the free phone any longer.
Richard Queener says
I need a cell because I am elderly 87, and live alone
Judy Crowley says
I am trying to help one of my mental heath patients. Please forward me an application.
kathy jones says
My safelink phone I have had for a little while and today it’s sayingUnregistered SIM , I don’t understand ….what do I need to do?
Bill Harnage says
Not a reliable phone. Constantly getting message “Emergency Calls Only”, even at home. Also getting a lot of messages from people I don’t know that I have to spend time deleting. If I accidentally view one I am charged a minute of air time. I’ll be looking for another phone service.
Lisa L says
The worst company ever! 2 months are out of my life))) Was constantly on the phone with Safelink. Every day get different information. Service is listed as active, but still haven’t received any phone from them. Do not use this horrible company!
Angie says
Their are five people in my family ,and it would sure help.
Marcia D Lambert says
I have tried repeatedly to apply for a phone through Safelink for 3 yrs. Unsuccessfully, mI might add! this last time i applied in June. submitted my proof along w the required piece of paper AND wrote my enrollment number on my proof….. Nothing! Two wks later I recieved the same letter, wanting proof AGAIN and sent it back AGAIN w my enrollment number once again…… 2months later i am still waiting w/o any explanation but my application is pending!!! this is aggrivating!! what do I need to do to get a REAL person on the customer service line? Why can’t my app EVER be processed in a timely manner?
And NOW, when I try & post a comment, this thing is SO stupid, it tells me it is a duplicate comment & wont post it! IT IS NOT!!!i am losing ALL patience w SAFELINK the longer I wait on satisfaction from them.
Linda Wilson says
I need to upgrade my phone, I have the small one, I have text but can’t use it, I have trouble with my hands , and the phone is so small I can’t text
IRhonda Pepper says
I need a valid phone number for safe link.
FreeGovernmentCellPhones.net says
It looks like they may have changed their phone number. We’ve updated the page, but here is the info:
For Enrollment and Plan Changes Support: 1-800-Safelink (723-3546)
For Technical Support ONLY: 1-800-378-1684
becky carter says
i have reduced medical thru coventryone. is that the same as medicaid? or will it help me qualify for a phone? on the income i have questions. do i have to include my husband’s income? we have a rental house but do not make much profit from it, after taxes, insurance and repairs. someone can call me at 712-210-****
Carole Allen says
I’ve heard many good things about safelink. Please help me to be able to receive my phone. I appied before and I was approved. But I never got it.
DENISE RUDDY says
I would like to know how much money is considered low income, also I don’t have any gov. help but I don,t have a car and I do have a disabled led I had a hip replaced and when I went home I fell and broke my femur and they had to wire my bone and one of the wires is growing into my bone causing extreme pain in my back down to my knee. I do take Cabarrus transportation for my DR . appointments thank you for reading and I hope you can answer this question
george webb says
how do i get a replacement phone
FreeGovernmentCellPhones.net says
See article: I lost my cell phone
don jodway says
why is it so hard to get anything done with website or on phone with safelink
J. Hammock says
What is the cost for Plan #1. I don’t understand why there would be a different plan.
Maria says
Would like to get my phone today. Where to go?
paula says
Please READ before you post your comment. It is unbelievable the questions asked here when it is clearly stated over and over that this sight is not affiliated with the individual phone service providers. This site gathered all the necessary information in one place so you can make an informed decision regarding which service provider to choose. They CAN NOT ANSWER your questions about your service, minutes or any other problems you have with YOUR service provider. Direct your questions where they can be answered. Asking how you get a phone or can you help me get a phone is completely covered on this site. It’s like asking for a glass of milk when it’s sitting right in front of you. I do not have anything to do with this site. I am just simply trying to choose a service provider and had to get this off my chest. Take a little time and inform yourself so everyone’s time is spent productively.
FreeGovernmentCellPhones.net says
Thank you for that Paula. And, this is after we simply delete most of the question that simply say, “How I get phone?” In addition, we delete dozens of comments a day that have the commenter’s personal information: phone number, address, SS#, etc. Please everyone, these are public comments.
Satoshi Nakamoto says
Hi,
I qualify for a safelink phone. Any Idea if I can bring my current Tracfone into the Safelink program?
Not finding any answers on Google!
que broadnax says
I am a senior citizen and would like to know if you provide internet service ?
FreeGovernmentCellPhones.net says
Here’s an article on senior citizen internet.
Len ruthford says
How do I become an agent to sign people up for the free phone?
FreeGovernmentCellPhones.net says
Go here: How to get a job handing out free cell phones.
Elsa Navejas says
I received a flyer for the second time asking for proof of my program or incmoe and just want to follow up to make sure you received the first one I mailed out to you because the voucher number is is the number again.
Do I need to complete another one?
Thank you,
Elsa Navejas
Jack says
My local phone co. offers lifeline assistance for a landline(not sure if it’s free). Is one allowed landline assistance(local phone co.)…and a lifeline cell phone via Safelink, or do I have to go with one or the other? I’m in Kentucky.
FreeGovernmentCellPhones.net says
It’s one or the other only not both.
Heidi Leibrook says
Have had my Motorola trac phone for some time now and it’s been great. Showing signs of wear and tear and I need to get another one. How do I do that thru safelinkwireless?
Maxine McKinstry says
I received a letter from you say you want Id that I don’t have to receive and keep my phone I receive social security and medicare not medicaid
FreeGovernmentCellPhones.net says
SS and Medicare do not make you eligible.
Michael Patrick Melvin says
I am in need of a phone due to the fact I have no ability to contact employers about job oopenings. CAs well I can get friebds to transport t work. I just need an opportunitybto show mymdoo
Megan says
My sim card has been locked. How do I find the PUK or PUC code.
daniel varney says
APPLED THR U A SAFE LINK REP HE SENT A COPY OF FOOD STAMP CARD HAVE NOT HEARE OR RECEIVED ANY THING NO PHONE NOTHING THAT WAS A WEEK AGO ,DANIEL VAR EY HC ** box **** digress ** ***** 304-752_**** please reply how long does it take the REP said I w as approved and should have received phone by this,Mon or Tuesday.
daniel varney says
Was approved for a phone ,have not received it. A safe link rep sign ed me up and said I was approved have yet to receive it . Mailing add is ****** e-mail is *****@yahoo.com this was last thru . Again my name is Daniel b Carney please respond tks
daniel varney says
Bet card was presented to rep he booted it an sent it in
Tammy Wheeler says
We had this problem too. We kept calling several times to get our minutes back. They had us put in all kinds of #’s in our phone & said it would b there about 3rd of the month. That was about 3 years ago. STILL NO MINUTES! We gave up.
GG says
Why have you stopped giving US Veterans free phones? You offered it at the VA clinics with 500 free minutes a month for 5 months, then 250 minutes going forward. This was not explained to me that you could stop the promo at any time. I feel as though this was a scam and I want to know why it was done.
Robert B. Martinez says
Hello, my safelink number is 505-310-**** I just received my replacement phone at the end of july and I have not received my minutes in august nobody seems to know what to do, my d.o.b. is 12/28/68 please fix it I am a vet and I need the phone for doctors appointments and interviews. again no minutes have been added to my new replacement phone telephone # 505-310-3867 and I need them, nobody seems to be able to help. this is the one chance I got today to fix the problem of not being granted my august minutes because I have no other phone or computer access but once in a great amount of time, because it is so difficult to get a American speaking person to help in technical I have not received my minutes for August and I greatly need them. I is soo difficult to get any help with these phones because nobody seems to know what they are doing, Help please.
Thank you,
Martinez, Robert B.
Guangchao Zhou says
I applied online. it did not give an option to choose plan 1. It only offered 350 min plan with no carry over. How can chose plan 1. I live in NYC.
Michael Dameron says
wife and I have safelink phones. Applied for them at Walmart about 6 months ago. We don’t have any of the programs listed on this page. I am retired USAF and receive social security. Wife is disabled and receives social security. Are we qualified or not. If you can’t answer question, please give me a phone number or email address for a real person to discuss the criteria.
FreeGovernmentCellPhones.net says
If you aren’t on the programs listed above, or qualify based upon low income for your state, then no, you are not eligible.
ashley says
I am wondering where there is a place I can go in Ohio and get a free phone
FreeGovernmentCellPhones.net says
https://www.freegovernmentcellphones.net/states/ohio-government-cell-phone-providers
Janice SImmons says
My son has a mental illness and is unable to work full time and makes below the poverty line…He lives with us. Does he qualify for a free phone? He is not on a government plan at the moment….
Free Government Cell Phones says
This is an unusual case, but we believe the basic rule still applies: He would only qualify if he already participates in one of the qualifying government programs OR if your household income falls below 135% of Federal poverty guidelines. You can find out more information on this page:
https://www.freegovernmentcellphones.net/basics/qualify
jose gonzalez says
What are the income requirements?
FreeGovernmentCellPhones.net says
It depends upon your state. Go to the following page, and click on your state to see.
https://www.freegovernmentcellphones.net/states
Jacqulin G.Farris says
I lost my cell phone.Did not get a chance to set it up
FreeGovernmentCellPhones.net says
Read this article: I lost my cell phone
Jody Smith says
I qualify but how do I get an application
FreeGovernmentCellPhones.net says
Read the article above.
Renee Jaramillo says
I had a lifeline link phone with this company before but in a different state. I no longer have the phone though it in vegas. Is there anyway i can Get a New phone here in hawaii now that i live here in hon. Judah
fernando says
can I use a smart fhone for the line the I apply
michael mccathern says
iam interested in cheap internet for low income
FreeGovernmentCellPhones.net says
Go to http://www.cheapinternet.com
linda gibbs says
I received a cell phone however, it has stopped working the number I was given belonged to someone that person had it turned off . Someone called the phone asking for the person I told them that person did not live here even though they were told it was the person’s number, needless the next day my phone was off
thomas s boyd says
Twice I have faxed a copy of my LINK card, and the status does not reflect this. It has been a month since applying, and another seems likely before I receive a phone. Employment and social losses have occurred as a result, and I could sure use a phone. I have not heard from Safelink in any form, incl. the SASE site indicated I should have received two weeks ago. Can anything be done to expedite this process?
myrna says
I HAVE BEEN TRYING TO CONTACT SAFELINK FOR A WEEK AND CANNOT REACH A PERSON.
You can’t reach technical, you can’t email, you can’t reach customer service.
I’ll bet I can reach the Consumer Protection Agency.
cecil casto says
I had safelink wireless and I replaced the phone with a new tracfone and lost my free phone and minutes until now ihave tried to get my phone back but I was always was told I had a free phone I still qualify
K.H. Nielsen says
Safelink does not work in Blaine, WA due to its proximity to the Canadian border. I requested (online) the lower minute “Calling to Canada” plan, hoping I could then use THAT to call in the black-out area. They never changed the plan. It is IMPOSSIBLE to get through to an operator to ask a more involved question. I spent hours going through their webpage and their automated phone lines and still was not able to resolve my issue. The phone is fairly useless, therefore. But Safelink is still getting paid by our government and its hard-working taxpayers.
I finally gave up trying to contact Safelink by phone or internet. I wrote them a letter stating that I wished to cancel my service, but they did NOT cancel it. Two months went by and postcards kept coming from Safelink stating that I need to use my phone once a month to continue service.
I contacted the FCC and filed a complaint. I believe that Safelink, by not being accessible and not following through on the “use once a month” rule, is committing fraud. I filed the report on the online FCC site……and surprise! Within a couple of days I got a phone call from a Safelink representative acknowledging that my account was cancelled. It took a call from the FCC to get them to respond! Multiply my experience by the thousands and thousands of other people receiving services….or NOT receiving services as the case may be? There is definitely too much room in this wonderful and much needed program for greedy companies to take advantage of both the taxpayers and the Lifeline customers.
In addition, the Safelink representative said that there was a way to get through to a representative at Safelink. “How?” I asked her. “Well, you just have to push the right combination of buttons,” she replied. “What combination is that?” I asked her. “Uhhh….I don’t know,” she hedged.
As citizens and consumers, we need to let the FCC and our government know about the difficulties we are experiencing with the different Lifeline programs. Stand up and fight for the services our government has most generously provided for us and is PAYING for.
in the know says
so what do you do with all the recordings and manuscripts of activity on our phone? can i request a copy of all my activity on my phone? why else would you provide everyone with free cell phones? for decades all the government wants is to take take take and money money money. all of a sudden we feel in the giving spirit? look i dont mind i have nothing to hide and its your perogative and also im knowingly and gratefully accepting your services. however we have rights to request all personal documents and i would greatly appreciate if someon ecould contact me via email and direct me on how to receive these per personal files. thank you so much and god bless our nations forefathers.
Araceli juarez says
I have a cell phone from you but it’s been almost a month that I don’t have service can you check and let me know what I need to do. Thanks
charles says
need to replace my phone was lost
TINA SMYTH says
HELLO MY NAME IS TINA SMYTH…. SO I WOULD LIKE TO GET FREE CELL WIRELESS BY SAMSUNG INCLUDES WITH CAMERA AND VIDEO AND TEXTS TOO WOULD YOU PLEASE CAN YOU GIVE NEW CELL SAMSUNG AS SAME PHONE NUMBER 585-969-**** BUT I JUST WANNA THAT ONE INCLUDES CAMERA,VIDEO,TEXTS TOO PLEASE SAFELINK ? THANK YOU .. FROM TINA SMYTH…..
kelly says
ive been with you all for four years and never had trouble until these last five months trying to get minutes on my phone is like pulling teeth you all said you needed my proof i have sent it twice and im still waiting where are my minutes? can someone please help me in this company!!
Hansa Amin says
I am 75 and have applied last month for safelink freeGovernment Cell phone and yet I have not heard / received anything from the company.Doesn’t this company believe in courtsey call to its customers? My husband had such phone from Assurance but he discarded it last year since the model was so disgusting that he threw it off and is without for nearly 15 months.His number was 978-305-****. Is it for this reason that my application hasn’t been attended? Let me assure that this will be the only phone between us. We do not have any free/ otherwise any phone with us.
maria garcia says
por favor que debo hacer si mi celular se me perdio
Barbara Knight says
I want to apply on line. I qualify under low income
FreeGovernmentCellPhones.net says
Sounds good. Go for it. Good luck.
Karen Tocher says
Sounds good? Good luck? she does not need luck, she was clearly reaching out for help navigating the system and you failed to respond appropriately
FreeGovernmentCellPhones.net says
Everything needed to get a phone in every state from multiple companies is on this site in clear, easy to understand instructions. Every free hundred times we see a version of the question, “I want a phone” or “How do I get a phone” we can’t help but reply in a lighthearted fashion, rather than once again tell someone to read the page they are on.
BETHZAIDA GONZALEZ DOMINICCI says
I lost my Safelink phone some time ago. I called to get a replacement one, and they are asking for the Telephone Number. I don’t remember it. All I have is my Customer Number. How can you help me get a new unit if I don’t remember the phone number? It should show up when I give my personal information and/or the Customer Number. Do I have to purchase a new unit? It doesn’t make any sense.
FreeGovernmentCellPhones.net says
It doesn’t make any sense to us either, but there’s nothing we can do to help since we are not associated with any cell phone company. Sorry.
Sharon Dotson says
I have made many calls and I was either told my phone didn’t come from there, or auto. Service stops? I have the box, serial number etc. I have had trouble with phone stopping(sticking in place) have to reset by taking battery out? It will not let me do correct spelling, or how I want to spell (and it is not because of misspelling).I am on disability and appreciate having the phone on when I go anywhere. I text because my daughter says it uses less minutes and I always have some minutes left over monthly. I have had to call road service a couple of times. I do wish it was more in date, my daughter uses a phone she has to look up coupons etc. at a store ,it really saves money. I am thankful though for what I have if it can get fixed. I have been away to Doctors and it wouldn’t work. Thank You for your time I hope I can get help with this. Sharon
Sharon Dotson
verneta friday says
I didn’t receive my July Monthly minutes what do I do
Christina says
Try going to add airtime on your phone and when it asks for the airtime pin just enter 555 & answer no to the question do you have a promo code. That should force any minutes available to you onto your phone.
crystal says
my phone was turned off the night before the 1st, I turned it on this morning at 7am but my minutes didn’t show up. I have plan 3 and I was wondering how do I get my 250 minutes to show up today?
angela says
I lost my phone I need help.
FreeGovernmentCellPhones.net says
Click Here to learn what to do about a lost or stolen phone.
adel ghannam says
how much the cost for internet for the low income people and how I can get it
Earlene says
I am looking for a flip phone, which companies have flip phones. I do not need anything fancy, just a phone to have when I am outside of the house or in my car for emergencies
Matthew says
I’d like to check on my application . My ex-wife and I lost our phone. I would like another, please.
Thanks
Mike Carr says
I washed my phone and have been trying to call you guys to get another one. But I cant seem to get a call in to a human. Please Help!
Mike Pontius says
I’ve received my new phone and activated it. I have a question regarding the number. When I try to call the phone from my land line, I have to enter 1 and the area code. Is there some way I can localize this so those who call me from nearby will not have to use the 1 and area code?
melisa says
I need to recertify how do i do that online
FreeGovernmentCellPhones.net says
https://www.freegovernmentcellphones.net/faq/how-do-i-do-the-annual-verification-of-my-phone
stella west says
sent in paper work about a month ago.just wanted to see how long it takes before you find out if i qualify
Julie LaPlante says
I’m still waiting for my minutes. you ask me to let known if didn’t get my minutes.
FreeGovernmentCellPhones.net says
That seems to be too long. Wish we could help but you have to contact Safelink.
Sharon Riddle says
I am interested in learning about the government subsidized cell phone program. I live in I live in Illinois and meet the qualifications. I wanted to know if I can keep my current phone number and the quality of the reception.
Steven Holland says
I’ve fallen on hard times and a phone would greatly be appreciated as it would be of help in finding a job.
Thank you for your consideration
Steven Holland
bonnie laplant says
I HAVE BEEN TRYING TO GET THE FREE LOW INCOME PHONE, BUT SOME ONE KEEPS TELLING ME THAT I DONT” QUALIFY, BUT i DO , SO I JUST WANT TO TELL YOU THAT YOU HAVE BEEN THE WOSTED COMPANY I HAVE EVER DEALT WITH @ I AM GOING TO LET PEOPLE KNOW AS WELL,
harold ayers says
i have been waiting over 2 months and no phone or answer i have sent all paper work as you wanted still no response from you i have talked to people who are still waiting after 4 months why
Zoann Smith says
I have been holding for over 45 minutes to take to a representatives it’s about some document they want me to mail in. Obama didn’t state that i his speech, about these documents you all stated is there a CORPORATION OFFICE I CAN REACH ASAP THANKYOU
Amy says
I have no one living within my house who has a safe link cell phone. Living with acute liver disease, why can’t I apply? Amy Springer **** Westminster street apartment one.
Sharon Ashworth says
I applied for your free cell phone and have not received the envelop for the information in order to get the free cell phone. HOW COME????????????
Jason Champlin says
Want to see how cheap I can get internet and free phone services.I have medacad.
FreeGovernmentCellPhones.net says
Not sure what medacad is but if you are on Medicaid, you qualify for a free phone. CLICK HERE to begin with a list of providers for your state.
To learn about broadband internet for under $10 a month, CLICK HERE.
tiffany cottrell says
I need this phone so i can make sure important poeple such as family and doctors can get ahold of me.
LaTisha Donson says
I need this phone to use for my kids and family, because I don’t have a house phone.
cynthia griffin says
i need internet service. i am on disability
FreeGovernmentCellPhones.net says
Try this website: http://www.cheapinternet.com
evelyn says
I have two kids, teens with autism, who get SSI. Would it be possible for them to get a phone each?
Sandra says
I tried to get a safe link phone but they said I applied to another co. and I didn’t now they say I have to wait til. July to reply for safe link is not fair
Sandra says
I want to know do you all have touch stream cell phone.
sharon snipes says
Today I called to activate my phone with safelink and was told it was already activated. So I asked if I could keep my number from my assurance phone and was told they had to deactivate my safelink phone so they could get in touch with assurance so I could keep my assurance number, and when my assurance number was turn off, then I could try to make a phone call. I tried to make a phone call and was told my phone was deactivated. I have tried many time and couldn’t get a person. Now both phones are turn off. I need customer service to email me with a number that I can speak with a live person.
FreeGovernmentCellPhones.net says
It sounds like you have Safelink’s phone number. For contact information on Assurance Wireless, please CLICK HERE.
Gary White says
Need large dial phone. Mother n nursing home, no text required does not have to be portable
denise perry says
I submitted a application in Nov 2014 with a Salvation Army logo on it and never got it.
I am unemployed, and because of medical condition I need one.
The address was ****** Street Northwest, Washington D C 20001-2782
Denise L Perry
So can you send two application forms to me with a self addressed stamp envelope..
*****@gmail.com
FreeGovernmentCellPhones.net says
We’re sorry, but we cannot send applications as we are not a phone company. You will need to contact Safelink.
david lara says
troubleshoot load my mobile minutes pin code problem I don’t know code puk
FreeGovernmentCellPhones.net says
You need to contact your provider (Safelink?) to ask them for the PUK. Have the serial# of your phone ready.
Edward Jimenez says
this so confusing i just need a govenment phone without all the head ach
Heather kinder says
I only work two days a seek do I stillvget a Phone
FreeGovernmentCellPhones.net says
If you qualify according to the criteria in the article above.
carolsusan angel says
Somebody stole my safe link phone my number for the phone is 706347**** can I please get a replacement phone and please cut the service off of this phone
FreeGovernmentCellPhones.net says
We cannot do that for you. But here are instructions. Basically, you just need to contact Safelink.
https://www.freegovernmentcellphones.net/faq/i-lost-my-phone-how-do-i-get-a-replacement
Stephanie Bruni says
I put my app. in several days ago, I have been awaiting for the envelope so I can mail in my proof of income. I have yet to hear anything so I can get closer to being able to get a phone. I am disabled and have been since 2007. I only have an income of 832.00 a month. How long will it be before I know if I’m eligible for a phone?
Mark Rushing says
Recently, on Thursday May 7th, I accidently lost my Samsung cell pocket phone on a city bus. It must have slipped out of my pocket that day. I was very satisfied with it for over 5 years. Now, I’m very worried that I wont be able to stay in touch with my family because of what happened. What do I do? I’ m physically disabled in a wheelchair . I don’t have a landline at all. Most of my SSI (85%) goes to my rent. That leaves me with $85 dollars per month. I never had to pay monthly service for cell phones at all. Could you please help me?? I cannot get a part time job to help pay bills and expenses. Please help me.
FreeGovernmentCellPhones.net says
You will need to contact your cell phone provider to ask for a replacement phone. We assume it’s a Safelink Wireless phone since you asked the question on the Safelink page. Information on doing this can be found on this page, or just call the number for Safelink listed in the article above.
https://www.freegovernmentcellphones.net/faq/i-lost-my-phone-how-do-i-get-a-replacement
Dianne Sullivan says
I have a Safe Link phone # 941 225 ****. My phone has been misplaced for months I couldn’t find it anywhere. It just showed up after my 12 year old cleaned her room!!! Is there any way to receive my missed out minutes. If not I understand but I was hoping. Please Advise.
Thank-you,
Dianne Sullivan
Robin says
Does any TracFone brand phone work? Are they all compatible?
Betty Russell Carter says
I lost my phone and I’m having a hard time getting a number then your telemarketer acted as though she didn’t care can someone help me find this number so I can get replacement phone thank you in advance
Billy ray Jackson says
I would love to get a phone. My income is ssi
brittany bible says
can you get a smartphone?
kelly bossie says
I have three children and am in dire need of a cell phone. Thank you for your time. I had one last year 2014 but won’t renew my phone at this time. Could I please get another phone
brittany says
Hi,my name is Brittany Davis.How can i get another safelink phone because my year is done gone on my phone..My year was Jan 1,2015 on my safelink phone.I been trying to get a new safelink but they say i can’t over the internet.
FreeGovernmentCellPhones.net says
We don’t know why they would say you cannot get one over the internet. You can try another company.
mary haithcock says
my cell phone charger sometime does not work when i plug it in to charge i have to kinda move it till it ctonnects so it will charge is it the charger going bad or what? help!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!thank you for your help.
Elaine Rainbolt says
I have a assurance phone that runs on Sprint but I can’t get signal at my house. It always cuts my phone calls. How do I get a different service and change phone
Ullesis Howard says
I have a safe link wireless phone and the minutes are no being reloaded to the phone monthly should I reapply for another phone?
j.a says
These F’kers never answer the phone. constant phone loops. total BS. waste of time.
Iraida says
I have not been able to get my minutes on account my phone is damaged. I have charged it, it does not turn on. I am inquiring about how to get another one since the current phone is so old & one of the first that was out. I have been trying to call in numerous times and your automated systems is horrible. My Safelink # is 786-953-****. Please advise of what I need to do or if another phone can get sent out.
Best regards,
Iraida ******
*****@yahoo.com
FreeGovernmentCellPhones.net says
You need to call Safelink, your phone provider.
KEITH says
I AM DONE FILLING OUT THE APPLICATION,AND ITS SAYING MY ADDRESS IS INVALID,I GET MAIL EVERYDAY AT THAT ADDRESS IVE CALLED CUSTOMER SERVICE AND THEY ARE SAYING THAT MY ADDRESS IS NOT IN THE US POSTAL SYSTEM? I GET MAIL THERE EVERYDAY!!!! WHAT CAN I DO?
Sandra says
Hello I am the same Sandra who commented below. My phone service was cut off this month without warning, and SafeLink/Lifeline/whomever did not contact me to tell me that it was time for my annual recertification which is why I am only guessing that that’s the reason I haven’t gotten my minutes this month. I believe that is against the law will somebody please help? I have a lot of health issues, and I need minutes so that I can make doctors appointments this is very urgent somebody please get back with me please!!!
Sandra says
Hi my phone number is: 682203****
I I am in the same boat as Allen Williams. I am a low income individuals on food stamps/Medicaid, what have been cut off without warning. I CANT CALL anybody not to customer service or anyone else! someone please help? Will somebody please help me? Please? Where are my minutes at???I have gone to the TracFone website, and tried to use their chat feature–because I can’t call the customer service–and that link of course does not work so I cannot speak to a live agent. I need somebody to help me please!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! Do I need to re-certify or what? Help!!
allen williams says
my cell number is 478-299-**** I have not received my minutes since February I am on food stamps and should get 250 minutes but have not PLEASE add my minutes nothing has changed and all information is still correct
cannot seem to connect to any department that will tespond can anybody do anything ?
robert says
lost phone
FreeGovernmentCellPhones.net says
Go here to learn about getting a replacement phone:
https://www.freegovernmentcellphones.net/faq/i-lost-my-phone-how-do-i-get-a-replacement
sabrina says
im 17 with a baby i get food stamps and medicad for him and myself why cant i get the phone?
FreeGovernmentCellPhones.net says
There is no reason you cannot get a phone. You qualify, unless someone else at your address already has a Lifeline phone.
Victoria Jackson says
If all possible I would like to change my plan from 125 minutes to the 250 minute plan if I can.
tammy oconner says
my mom has a safelink phone but its about six years old it has quit working and she lives along I was wondering if she could get a replace ment incase she had emercery so could call 911
nandi sankofa says
on march 31, 2015 the 250 mins. was loaded at 11:50 and took 11 mins. from the 250. It’s suppose to load after midnight. The folk that control these government phones treat the poor however they choose. There is no one can be called concerning their illegal practices. It’s sad My complaints may never be seen.
Toni Lyn says
I received a LG306G Tracphone for my birthday, December 16, 2014…
The saddest part of that is, I have not had service since….
It is now April 2015 and I have to make another call to customer service….
I was told that I could not keep my phone number, although, pitch says I can…
I had to get a new sim card programmed with my number…I had to use a temporary number until I received this Sim card in via FedEx…i was being chatged .30 per text, although 1000 text free per month.
well, being the holiday season, it was December 29th when I received the card…I had to call to activate…why was this not done before card was sent…I had no way of activating card til neighbor returned home an et me use their land line…so, I got that issue fixed, January 2, 2015 my service was canceled because computer indicted I had two services…ah, my temporary number for two weeks, go me canceled…by this time, my paitence, non existent…phone gift giver was not happy with having spent the money and me not using the phone, so gift giver called….got me 250 minutes..and still got charged for text…so 250 minutes did not last long…and yes, it is after first and I did not received the 250 minutes…
Really, I was upset in December, and still having issues with service five months later, April…
People I know are getting 500 minutes and I can’t evenget one…
🙁
🙁
🙁
(
Peggy says
If you are talking about Safe Link…..THEY ARE THE WORST COMPANY I HAVE EVER DEALT WITH. They can’t even transfer a phone # without deleting your mins and then telling me I need to purchase mins because I used them all! This happened again when a replacement was sent and is not even the tip of the iceberg of problems. Their customer service has no clue what is going on with anything..There is no way to speak to someone in the US and it costs mins to call their “corporate customer service”, most of them being nasty and not knowing much more that the 611 reps. They give me complimentary mins for all the aggregation they have put me through but end up using them up when I have to call with a problem!! I just received another 600 mins free but replacement phone is not working right can’t load music and at this point just looking to find another carrier. I would never recommend this company to my worst enemy! If thinking about buying tracfone or safe link, think very hard because if you need customer service your in for a fight, This has been going on for 4 months now, just 1 problem after another.
robin schabo says
hi, I am interested into getting a free phone. I get food stamps for me and my family every month and I live in Jonesville nc. will I get good service here and in other towns around me?
Kathleen Varney says
I lost my charger, where can I get another one. I found one for a car, but I don,t have a car.
FreeGovernmentCellPhones.net says
Radio Shack, Best Buy, Amazon, your phone provider…
Kimber says
You could try a thritt store
Katherine Cole says
I applied for free cell phone through Safelink on March 11. The email says ‘Pending’. Tried to send required info but it was returned marked undeliverable. Haven’t received any other reply. I tried to reapply but it says I’m already in the system. Can anyone tell me what I need to do?
Peggy says
I recommend you call another company and tell them that your problem, tell them you would like service with them and see if they can get it straightened out for you . Hopefully they can. I am trying to find another company myself right now because I have had nothing but problems since Dec. and have had enough with their customer service! You cannot talk to anyone in the US and between their system being so slow and the heavy accents of the reps it takes forever on the phone. They end up giving you answers for things you didn’t ask about and never do answer the questions you did ask. WORST COMPANY I HAVE EVER DEALT WITH!!! I had read something within this website (trying to locate it again) that says a new company can do this for you without a new application, even though they don’t tell you this. Search around on google to see if there are search words that would bring you back to this site but to a page that will give you this info. I’m sorry I didn’t save it because now I have to waste the time to try and find it again. If I do I will post it to your comment. GOOD LUCK
virginia hinton says
It have been almost three month thank you for your have long will before I know
susan butcher says
I would like to get my mom into the Safelink free phone program when she gets on medicaid. What choices of phones would I have and which would you recommend that easy to operate and has larger buttons to press. She has dementia so it’s a challenge. Thank you.
Penny surrett says
I’m recently homeless but don’t receive state assistance I live in nashville tennessee an need a phone
Wes Icenogle says
i would like to get a phone
FreeGovernmentCellPhones.net says
Then give one of the companies serving your state a call. Begin here:
https://www.freegovernmentcellphones.net/states
Linda wahl says
My mother is 86 years old she stays at hunter hill nursing home in rocky mount north Carolina some one stole her phone how does she get another one her phone number is 252-885-****.
Is there anyway to ping or locate the phone
FreeGovernmentCellPhones.net says
No, I’m sorry, but there is no way to that with these types of phones.
Michelle Maria Warne says
I do NOT have a Safelink landline anymore. That is why I need a cell phone. I am 71 years old and no one lives with me except my dog and cats.
michelle jackson says
how do we know if we qualify
John Linke says
Hello, I have a safe link phone and for the past 2 or 3 months I did not receive my 250 min. and this month I didn’t get any and now I might run out soon and tried to put in code 555 and it said I had no updates please contact me back with info.
lora taylor says
My old safe link broke nd now I dnt know what happen to it..so I’m interested in getting another one because I neep a phone in my house hold.
suzanne Nichols says
i am trying to get a user manual and or instruction sheet, as I don’t know how to use this safe link phone.
Donna Davis [enrollment ID 4926674] says
I got safelink while in Michigan but have since had to move to Ohio. staying with my daughter while I got over a bad fall. I am now able to move to Arlington Manor, a HUD apartment complex, in Arlington, Ohio. Do I have to completely reapply since doing the recertifcation wouldn’t accept my Ohio info? Can I get a bigger phone, this one is very small for an old lady of 80 to use?
David Fountain says
I had a bout with my heart couldn’t get a hold of 911 in the campground where we were staying. Drove myself to the hospital. I lost my phone in the process had 1600 mins. on my phone from the rollover program. The phone was replaced but they would not give me my minutes back and can celled my rollover program. But now give me 125 mins a month now. and said the rollover plan no longer was offered. This is such a scam if ever I saw one. Very unimpressed people getting rich on the backs of the less
Linda Mattix says
Safelink has become useless. Calling customer service is a joke. You only get a computer no matter what button you push. My charger went bad and after trying for 2 days to contact them via their several phone numbers I sent an email. I received a response 2 days later telling me my one year warranty was expired and I would have to buy a charger. Exactly how does a warranty expire on a free phone? Currently looking for a new provider!
Joyce Pejakovich says
My phone was stolen when I was in Illinois visiting family. A police report was made. I need a new one. I hope that you can help me. Thanks Joyce.
jeffrey beasley says
I have lost my phone and need to see if I can get a replacement. Also if u have any phones with big buttons because my eyesight is poor
James Stewart says
James do not have a cell phone with this company. he has one but it through straight talk.
Thank U
ann staten says
I would like to learn about inernet for low-income
FreeGovernmentCellPhones.net says
Go here: http://www.cheapinternet.com
Steve says
*For those of you who have not a GSM
but a CDMA phone model*
Your also able to bring a CDMA phone to
Reachout Wireless. –
https://www.reachoutmobile.com/
Via Reachout’s FAQ-
https://www.reachoutmobile.com/faq
“” You are also able to use a different phone model with Reachout Wireless™ service. There are restrictions on the type of phone you can use. Phones must be a CDMA type phones. These phones are very common and inexpensive. They are available at almost all retail wireless locations in your area. Inform the retailer that you would like to purchase a CDMA phone and that you DO NOT want it activated. Inform the retailer that you have active service, and would like to purchase just the phone equipment. You may contact us online or over the phone prior to purchase to verify if the phone equipment is compatible. You may also choose to purchase a compatible phone from us. ReachOut Wireless™ provides phones starting from as low as $15 up to $189, depending on the make and model you desire (including shipping). “”
The hot deals offered to our existing customers are the best in the market. Visit our Upgrade Phone page at-
https://www.reachoutmobile.com/phone_replacement/phone_replacement.php
for more information.
So there you have it, BYOP to at least TWO Lifeline service providers.
GSM and CDMA phone models…
Thanks, Steve
Emily Steen says
I have a safelink phone and want to change the amount of minutes I get from 250 to68 how do I do that
Kathy Stevens says
I require you’re help! My zip code recently changed…It was “97006” it is now “97003”! I can not sign up for the FREE cell phone as “97003” is not recognized in your system. I tried my old zip code but it auto changes it based on what information is at the post office in Oregon.
Please advise. I am scheduled for surgery on Monday Feb. 23rd and am without a phone at this time…
Sincerely,
Kathy
Kathy Stevens says
Hello…I have not received a response. Do you have any recommendations as to what I should or could do to receive a free government endorsed cell phone? I am qualified. I Know how to get one. I have taken all the steps to get one. This Zip Code question is a pertinent, as my previous zip code 97006 qualified. The new zip code (97003) is not recognized in any state for this program. The Post Office is a government based facility is it not?
Please advise,
Kathryn Stevens
lawonha baisden says
my mom does qualify for a government phone in ohio but we are looking for something out there like jitterbug with big numbers older people can not see those small buttons or screens with cataracs and glacomma I do not know why they do not come out with a phone government paid that help the older people who can not see advise maybe I am overlooking this government paid phone and if it is not out there can you tell me if there is a flip flop phone out there for government paid
Steve says
@ lawonha baisden Hello,
Yes I agree at least one carrier with at least one phone model of Big Buttons, Amplified Sound, Personal Emergency Response System should be offered in each state that Lifeline service providers supports.
“This should of been a requirement of the FCC with the largest providers of LLSP in each state, just for the volume of subsidies received, I’m sure they are not in business to break even but profit through this program”.Where these phones would cost them to much profit money, for them to offer.
These phones offered for free that you get hardly cost $40.00 new and they are not new but, bought in bulk recycled phones
that are closer to $1.- $2.for them at bulk prices. Then they turn
that $. little investment X 50,000 to 100,000 or more (maybe 10X more) in customers and at the (Ex: 250 Talk Minutes + 250 Text Messages = $9.99 charged to the government).
So if my Math serves me right for a single applicant at $9.99 X 12 months = $119.88 then multiply that times 50,000 applicants = $5,994,000.00. Again say 100,000 applicants = $11,988,000.00. So they have employees a building and cell service they in turn have to pay out of this. So say the large company $11,988,000.00 – $2,000,000.00 = $9,988,000.00 (Remember might be 10X this amount).Then think about the up sales of minutes and phone model offered to Lifeline customers, of which say 1 in 5 participate, along with Federal, State, County and City subsidy, tax breaks, along with all the loop holes this Government allows.
I feel like every $100. in subsidies $90. is pocketed by them.
March of 2009, 8 million government phones were in circulation so what’s this now 6 years later in 2015. November 2013, $2.1 billion US dollars that had been spent in this year on the Lifeline Program. Is it even written in the FCC rules that indicates you have to be a legal resident of the United States to qualify? Private carrier companies that were partnering up with Lifeline are now making profits in the millions off a program that was designed to help the poor have a second chance in life and was funded by the middle-class Americans who are not only paying for their own phone plans but also for the phone plans of the poor in addition to profiting the rich. Who is winning here? It seems that although it is benefiting millions of American households in the United States today, it is also making billionaires even richer.
It is as though we have regressed back into the days of Kings and Queens and the middle-class is paying taxes to line the pockets of the extremely financially advantaged Royal class. There is no free in the US cause someone is always paying and when money changes hands the one’s with the biggest hands get the most. The US people should not want a minimum wage but a maximum limit to the excess the rich have and keep. The rich siphons off money of the US’s economy and hoards it not putting it back in to jobs, circulation and inter-structure. Yet the majority of us are living pay check to pay check.
lawonha baisden there’s two routes you can take to help your mother.
It all starts with going here –
https://www.freegovernmentcellphones.net/states/ohio-government-cell-phone-providers
Work down the list going to each Lifeline provider website and read what they offer in a phone upgrade and how much it will cost. Remember to make sure to note if their service is GSM or
CDMA, in the U.S., Sprint, Verizon and U.S. Cellular use CDMA. AT&T and T-Mobile use GSM.
These are the big 5 where all wireless signals come from, no matter where down the line you eventually go with for their service, it will come through one of these major network towers.
GSM- It’s much easier to swap phones on GSM networks, because GSM carriers put customer information on a removable SIM card. Take the card out, put it in a different phone, and the new phone now has your number. GSM networks have simultaneous voice and data. Not all sims cards work in all sims phones, it has to be on the same network as the branded phone or met contract obligations for a sim unlock ,unless it was sold unlock from the start. Frequencies and bands have to match also.
CDMA- carriers use network-based white lists to verify their subscribers. That means you can only switch phones with your carrier’s permission, and a carrier doesn’t have to accept any particular phone onto its network. CDMA networks “EV-DO” or “Evolution Data Optimized”) also, generally, can’t make voice calls and transmit data at the same time.
The CDMA vs. GSM gap will close eventually as everyone moves to 4G LTE, but that doesn’t mean everyone’s phones will be compatible. LTE, or “Long Term Evolution,” is the new globally accepted 4G wireless standard. All of the U.S. carriers are turning it on.
Many Sprint and Verizon phones now have SIM cards, but that isn’t because of CDMA. The SIM cards are generally there for Sprint’s and Verizon’s 4G LTE networks, because the LTE standard also uses SIM cards. The phones may also have SIM slots to support foreign GSM networks as “world phones.” But those carriers still use CDMA to authenticate their phones on their own home networks. Remembering in the US CDMA carriers use network-based white lists to verify their subscribers.
The problem is, they’re turning it on in different frequency bands, with different 3G backup systems, and even, in the case of the new Sprint Spark network, using an LTE variant (TD-LTE) that
doesn’t work with any other U.S. carrier’s phones.
The safest and sure bet is to buy an upgraded phone through one of the providers on your Ohio’s State page. (no question of mismatched) service technologies versa phone radio systems.
If you can’t find an acceptable phone and your experienced somewhat or willing to use google and read a bunch. You can opt for a new unlocked GSM phone, I only know of Life Wireless offering the bring your own phone to their FCC Lifeline program.
Life Wireless will send you a free sim card to use their service once you have signed up and been accepted. Again you have to research their service for a proper match of you phone purchase to their service frequencies and bands if your buying it elsewhere than Life Wireless.
Its bring-your-own-phone policy says:
Customers may also use their existing unlocked GSM phone by ordering a Life Wireless SIM card. This free SIM card can be inserted into the customer’s handset and activated
for immediate use.
I searched hard to find this following information for you and others to use – if you doing the BYOP thing. I believe it to be
currant and complete but you better ask the LLSP for conformation before you commit to one based on my info.
Wireless Frequencies and Bands
AT&T
850-(5), 1900-(2) MHz – 2G/3G/4G (GPRS/EDGE and UMTS/HSPA/HSPA+)
700-(12,17), 1900-(2), 1700/2100-(4) MHz – 4G (LTE)
T-Mobile
700-(12) MHz – bought in January 2014 from Verizon, to be used for 4G LTE
1900-(2) MHz – 2G/3G (GPRS/EDGE, HSPA+ PCS)
1700/2100-(4) MHz – 3G/4G (HSPA/HSPA+/LTE)
Sprint
800-(26) , 1900-(26) MHz – 2G/3G/4G (PCS/EVDO/LTE)
2500-(41) MHz – 4G (phased out WiMAX, moving to LTE)
US Cellular
700-(12), 850-(5), MHz, 1900-(2) MHz – 3G (PCS/EVDO)
Verizon
700-(13), 1900-(2) MHz – 3G (EVDO)
1700/2100-(4) MHz – 4G (LTE) – currently building out coverage
(#) as (1) = Bands in the above – other numbers = Frequencies
lawonha baisden I hope this give you some insight and helps you, as well as others.
See my replies below to other Questions to get a fuller understand of my experiences with Lifeline free phone and service – They start around Dec 3 2014 and come up in dates.
my name is Steve
This is my last post here on Safelink portal I’m going over to Life
Wireless portal.
zert123 says
excellent info, best post i read in comments…
Free Government Cell Phones says
Steve’s good, isn’t he.
peggy says
i draw ssi and have medicaid how can i get a free phone
Steve says
@Peggy, You have to sign up with a provider of
the Lifeline service from your state, use the links below,
go to – (& click on your state)
https://www.freegovernmentcellphones.net/states
or
http://www.lifelinesupport.org/ls/companies/companies.aspx
(using above link make sure you look at wireless not wireline or homephone service providers) if you want cell phone service.
Check out each service provider for their coverage map and coverage at your address, I would call them or Email them to get a firm understanding of how good the service will be at your address and what major service providers towers they (piggyback) on or through to serve your address, and ask them if they have adopted the FCC project expanding into internet smartphones for the Lifeline program as of now or when will they be. (Most of them will make you use their own phone they supply you with, all set up and ready to use).
If you check here on freegovernmentcellphones.net by your state and look through the Lifeline service providers offered for your state and go to their home site webpage of each one looking for their FAQ, so you can find information for special needs phones (hearing aid capable/ vision impaired), although some sites are very lacking in any information given – email them instead for answers about your special needs phone.
You must sign up on their home page and supply the required info. and paperwork (I was required to take a Pic of my food stamp EBT card) and email it to them
besides filling out the online form within their site.
Make sure you print or write down your enrollment ID #
cause that’s required to check on you enrollment status
or contact them about anything later – Enrollment ID # is more important to them to identify you than your phone #,
cause phone # comes later when you get the phone. Besides anybody you would call could get your phone #, but only you would know your enrollment ID # to verify yourself to them.
Fill the form, supply the required info., pick your plan and
wait for your phone to come.
The hardest part of it is figuring out all the stuff they don’t say on their websites, like –
*when your minutes start on what day every month.
*How’s the service averages (bars on phone) in your neighborhood. (ck your neighbors to see if they get good cell service and who of the top 4 their service is with).
*what phone you will get, and if there is an upgrade option. [That they are mostly recycled not new and generally low end phones with cheap components
and features – dial buttons or screen dial buttons],
(mine doesn’t have a camera & only 1 1/18″ w x
1 3/8″ t screen).
*whose service of the big/top 4 service carriers they contract with to know where its coming to you from,
(some neighborhoods have dead spots from certain carriers).
*what their response time is in contacting you back,
is it an email system or automated phone system or
they have live phone and chat operators.
So what I’m saying is research and know before hand to make an educated decision and NOT a post regret.
I’m Steve and if you look below for my name and the date Feb12-2015 for a reply to Christine Feb 10, 2015 and a reply to Marie December 4, 2014, you will find more information in my answers there.
Yes,
I long winded but, I just hate to halve info. something to somebody when I answer.
I hope this helps you Peggy and others too,
Steve
hassan nafees says
my phone is stuck on puk and I can’t make a call because it’s stuck on puk
Christine says
I got my Safelink Wireless phone on Jan. 16, 2015, but the problem is the phone signal isn’t good in my area. I have tried placing calls and text messages only to have no signal. When I do receive or place a call, the call drops or is badly broken-up that no conversation can take place. I contacted Safelink support online chat on Jan. 28, 2015 and talked with Dan (have all chats saved!) and he told me that he would have a replacement phone sent to me; and he gave me a ticket number, but that ticket number was to my original phone. On Feb. 10, 2015 I contacted several people with online support and eventually calling the 800 tech support number, only to be told that they need me to call them on a separate phone while I’m in my area/at home so that they can trouble-shoot the Safelink tracfone, but I don’t have another phone and I won’t be able to borrow someone’s phone as my neighbors work. My closest relative is in another town, but that won’t be useful to Safelink when the trouble-shoot for the connection in my area. I offered to return the phone so their tech support can do their trouble-shooting, but that wasn’t a possibility (per Diane supposed supervisor). I asked to just have a replacement phone sent and I would return this phone, but again, Diane said that per Safelink that can’t happen until the trouble-shooting takes place. What a nightmare. I truly can’t use this Safelink phone and phone number for resumes to find a job. Absolutely piss poor cell coverage and service.
Steve says
@ Christine,
Hi I have Safelink to, and for two years here at the house, I have to go outside to make or receive calls, I feel your pain.
*This is what I’m working on now and you may want to try it also, but before I go in to that – please exhaust these steps located here –
http://www.lifelinesupport.org/about/tools/contact/lifeline-issues.aspx
Step #2 and # 3 since, step # 1 you’ve done – “Report a Problem” to Safelink
(To maybe try to work through calling Safelink from another phone – try a service that lets you call from your PC – as long as “you have a microphone or headset connected to your computer”.) You will have to download software to your PC.
(Should you choose to google for yourself, you should look for – ” FREE PC Calls to Any Mobile or Landline in the USA and Canada&