As you read the reader comments at the end of any FreeGovernmentCellPhones.net article, you realize that many customers are unhappy with the Lifeline Assistance provider. Many of them are so unhappy that their most important question is, “How to I switch from one free government cell phone company to another?”
Keep in mind that there are a lot of reasons free government cell phone customers may want or need to switch service providers. Many of those customers are completely satisfied with their current provider, but need to switch because they moved to a service area not covered by their current Lifeline Assistance company. Others want to switch because they’ve found another service provider that offers more free minutes and texts.
No matter why you want to switch service providers, there are some simple steps you must follow in order to stay on the right side of the law and make sure your free government cell phone service isn’t interrupted.
If you want to switch from one company to another
Assurance Wireless, the second largest company competing in the free government cell phone arena, answers the question very simply and clearly on its website:
Can I switch to Assurance Wireless from another Lifeline service?
Yes you can. Switching is easy. And if you’re approved you can even keep your current phone number. You can apply online or call 1-888-898-4888 to apply. If you switch to Assurance Wireless your Lifeline discount will be applied to Assurance Wireless instead of your current provider.
Anything else I need to know about switching companies?
Yes, indeed, there is.
The LifeLine Assistance program is national in scope, and although each state has slightly different rules and regulations, the switching process is the same no matter where you live.
In case you didn’t see this series of comments on our California page, it’s worth repeating here because it addresses the issue of timing. That is, how often are you allowed to switch carriers.
Michael Sanders says
February 1, 2015 at 1:49 pmCan i switch from one lifeline service to an other service.
We responded like this:
FreeGovernmentCellPhones.net said,
February 2, 2015 at 7:03 amAfter you’ve been with a service for 60 days, you can switch.
FreeGovernmentCellPhones.net is the gold standard, the most widely-read website covering the Lifeline Assistance program. If you click around our site, you’ll see lots of comments left by agents representing the cell phone companies. One reader, who identified himself (or herself) as a Lifeline distributor added this helpful comment:
Lifeline distributor says
March 13, 2015 at 11:54 pmYes, but you can only have one Lifeline program at a time. If you switch, your old phone will get cancelled. Don’t let any lifeline provider convince you that you can keep two free phones (you can’t and the state with notice and cancel both phones….then you have to pay $39 to reactivate your phone)
As with so many other areas of endeavor, California is the leader in the Lifeline Assistance program. The state was late to the game, but leapfrogged past the other 49 states by offering Lifeline customers unlimited talk and unlimited text. So we visited the California Lifeline website to see if it could shed any more light on the subject of switching from one company to another.
Sure enough, it did:
If I change home or cell phone companies, can I still get the California LifeLine discounts?
Yes, you can remain on California LifeLine and keep getting the discounts even if you change your home or cell phone companies. You have 30 days from when you disconnect your phone service from your existing phone company to let your new preferred home or cell phone company know that you would like to keep your California LifeLine discounts. The California LifeLine Administrator will simply transfer your California LifeLine discount to the new home or cell phone company.
Please make sure that you actually cancel your home or cell phone service with your existing home or cell phone company.
If you do not inform your new home or cell phone company that you have been receiving the California LifeLine discount within the 30-day timeframe, you will have to submit a new application.
How to sign up with a new free government cell phone company if you were de-enrolled for having more than one account.
So far we’ve been discussing how to switch your account from one free government cell phone company to another. A closely related question we’re often asked is, “I just got busted for having more than one free government cell phone account. How do I cancel one of them?”
Yes, the government is actively searching or individuals who have more than one free government cell phone account. The USAC, the organization that governs the Lifeline Assistance program, is currently cross-checking enrollment lists of every company that participates in the program.
Please take our word for it: If you have more than one phone, you will eventually be caught up in the government crackdown. When that happens you will receive a letter. Here’s how the USAC website describes what happens next:
Once a subscriber receives the letter from USAC, he/she has 35 days from the date of the letter to select a single Lifeline Program carrier. During this 35-day period, NLAD does not allow changes to be made to the subscriber’s information. Significantly, subscribers may not be de-enrolled from his/her Lifeline Program benefit by any service provider from NLAD.
Our advice? Be proactive. If you have more than one account — whether innocently or due to fraud — get the extra account or accounts cancelled immediately. It doesn’t matter if one person has more than one account or if multiple people in one household have single accounts, you will eventually receive “the letter” and need to take immediately action to rectify the problem.
Here’s how LifelineSupport.org explains the steps you need to take:
If you received a letter from USAC notifying you that you have a discounted service on more than one phone, you may call the toll-free number listed on the letter within 35 days of the date of the letter to select which account you would like to keep. If you do not call during the selection period, you will retain the discount on the account randomly selected by USAC, and lose the discount on your other phone. Once this 35-day notice process concludes, one of your accounts will be discontinued. (emphasis ours)
http://www.lifelinesupport.org/ls/maintaining-my-lifeline-service.aspx
The previous paragraph is so important that a portion of it bears repeating: “If you do not call during the selection period, you will retain the discount on the account randomly selected by the USAC and lose the discount on your other phone.”
Please understand the significance of that statement. Just imagine that you have two free government cell phones, one of which may have been lost long ago. Now imagine the problems that you’ll face if the government randomly kills the account you use on a daily basis but keeps your lost phone active.
You’ll lose all your contacts, lose all your text history, and no one will be able to contact you. It’s just not worth the hassle.
Follow the rules and cancel any extra accounts ASAP.
How to re-enroll after you lose your discount
The good news is that all is not lost even if you’re busted by the government and had your discount taken away. There are relatively simple ways to reapply and get that discount back again.
The California Lifeline website explains it:
How to Sign Up After De-Enrollment
If you lost your discount either because you did not respond to the annual re-certification process, you did not use your phone for a period of time, or someone else in your household was receiving a discount as well, you can re-enroll in the Lifeline Program but you must go through the process as a new subscriber. This means you must demonstrate that you are eligible and attest under penalty of perjury that no one else in your household is receiving a discount on their telephone service.
So there you have it. Switching your account from one free government cell phone company to another is a relatively simply process.
Just follow the advice given above and you’ll avoid problems and keep on talking.
For more information, see our FAQ: How do I Switch Lifeline Companies?
CLIFFORD DOUGLAS says
i have assurance wireless would like to switch to Qlink wireless can i do that and keep my phone and phone number.
Free Government Cell Phones says
Absolutely. You just need to make sure you tell the customer service agent — repeatedly — that you want to “port over my current phone number.”
James Walker says
I need to leave assurance Wireless and go to SafeLink and still keep my assurance number. Can I take my number to SafeLink? I have a compatible TracFone.
Free Government Cell Phones says
Yes, you can keep your current phone number. All you need to do is tell the customer service agent that “I want to port over my current phone number.” We recommend that you tell the rep at the beginning of your call, and confirm that it has been done before you end your call.
Kimberley McCarthy says
Hello, Years ago I had a safelink acct I was very Happy. But I have had one stolen and another one stolen then the phone they hooked me up on and old phone I had at home stopped working. I went to Assurance wireless it took me almost 7 months to get a reply and then I have had 10 phones mailed to me since. Now today I had a full charge sent one text message, small. Never used again and the phone was totally dead and it has been like this for over a month and I haven’t had this phone for 2 months, I cannot take the stress anymore, I need a reliable phone. I live in a bad neighborhood and when I;m out I need a phone. I need to switch can I have permission?
Free Government Cell Phones says
We’re an independent informational website, NOT your service provider, Kimberley, so we cannot give you permission to switch. However, the rules of the Lifeline program say that you can switch service providers at any time you want as long as you’ve been with your current service provider for 60 days.
Penelope Dean says
I am trying to switch from QLink to Assurance because my first phone was free but stopped working so I had to buy one for $25 and now a year later that one has stopped working and they won’t replace it but say I can buy another one for another $25. I cannot afford to do that and I need my phone so I want to switch to assurance but keep my same phone number. I tried calling the Assurance help line but it is just a recording. I need to speak with a live person because the option to switch and keep my same phone number was not on the lifeline application. I am already on lifeline because that is how I got my QLink phone that doesn’t work. Please help
Free Government Cell Phones says
Call us crazy, but we can’t figure out why you want to switch to a company whose customer service team is unreachable. If it were us, we’d look for a different company with a more efficient, effective customer service department. You know, one that has real people who will talk to you and help solve your problems.
Brendy says
TruConnect, life line service has live operators you can talk to. Free Government phone service. Not sure if they give out free phones, But they activated a phone that I already had. You might want to check truconnect out. Hope this reply helps you out.
BTW… You’ll get 1000 minutes, unlimited text and 2Gb. Data a month for free.t
Free Government Cell Phones says
We don’t know which state either of you live in, so we hope Brendy’s advice works for you, Penelope.
Deidre Birdsong says
I had a tru connect sim and it never would work in my phone.
Deanna Terlesky to says
Phone not working
Free Government Cell Phones says
Contact your service provider’s customer service team.
Vicky Yedwalsky says
I just got a QLink phone. My ex has T-Mobile service. Can I use my Qlink phone with T-Mobile service? My Qlink phone can use micro SIM card.
Free Government Cell Phones says
Only your service provider’s customer service or tech support team can answer that question accurately.
Samuel Hicks says
I need a new lifeline provider on another phone can you help me
Free Government Cell Phones says
If you read the article on this page, know how to switch service providers. Here’s where you can find all the service providers in your state at this link:
https://www.freegovernmentcellphones.net/states
James O Carson says
I have tried to many times to switch my lifeline gov service phones. I had many service but one in particular did not honour my request. The access wireless sent me a small violas which I could only get google for my email address, into which let others put illicit sex on my email, I told access wireless several times about it. They only have me more minutes, and I have already had safelink, and wink. I am very tired of not being able to get some type of satisfaction.
Kevin A says
If I change lifeline providers, will the new provider replace the original phone at no cost? I still have the original (flip) phone that was given to me at sign up. I have contacted my current provider and a replacement (smart) phone is ~$50.
Free Government Cell Phones says
It’s possible, but doubtful, that you will be given a replacement phone for free. You will probably be required to pay a reasonably small fee. Another option would be to switch service providers because all new customers automatically receive free smart phones.
virginia james says
what kind of cell phone do i have to buy to transfer my minutes to i need a flip phone
Free Government Cell Phones says
We don’t know who your service provider is, so it’s impossible for us to answer your question, Virginia. Contact your service provider’s customer service team and/or check out the company’s website.
James O Carson says
I have tried to many times to change my lifeline gov phone service to no avail. Access wireless let google open up my email service to illicit sex. I told them about it but they refused to help. Please open up to me a new server.
Free Government Cell Phones says
We are not your service provider. In fact, we are no one’s service provider. This is an independent informational website, James. In other words, we cannot help you. Only your service provider can help you.
Anna says
Assurance is loaded with MAL WARE. again Assurance PHONES ARE LOADED WITH MALWARE. Everytime they update they will download totally useless apps on your phone. WHEN contacted to remove this they will constantly keep sending you messages asking for the same information over and over and will not do anything about it.
DO NOT use Assurance Wireless. They are crap
Ross Martin says
I have been trying for over two hours to enter an application for Safelink Wireless. Every time I get kicked out three different needs and either it’s google goes. Can I talk to a human being give me a number to call or email address.
Free Government Cell Phones says
Have you called customer service, Ross? You can find the info you need at this link:
https://www.freegovernmentcellphones.net/free-cell-phone-providers
James O Carson says
I have been with access wireless and when I tried several times to let it be known, how the phone which I have has not let me open to another account. Even when I tried to get a message through google account, it always Saussure that google service has stopped, report.
Free Government Cell Phones says
We don’t have a clue what you’re asking us, James.
Heather Hodge says
I was using SafeLink and had put the SIM card in my unlocked Galaxy note 4..I figured out that it worked in that phone after the phone I’d gotten from SafeLink died one day & I decided to see if it’d work in my unactivated note 4 & to my surprise it did! anyway, my note 4 stopped turning on a couple mts ago so I tried to put the SIM back in the phone they gave me but when I tried to turn the phone on it was stuck in boot loop. I’ve tried powering it on more times than I can count and it will not finish booting. I’ve meant to call their customer service and keep forgetting but it’s been about 2 mts since I’ve been able to use the service and a couple weeks ago I figured I might as well just switch to assurance since you lose your number after a month & their T-Mobile service never picked up at my house neway. what I’m wondering is how should I go about getting assurance? would I just need to fill out a form like a new lifeline applicant or what? I’m obv gonna need another phone.. do people who switch while their service is still active just use the same phone? I’ve been wondering whether I should call SafeLink or assurance? if someone knows the answer to any of my questions plz lmk. thx!
Free Government Cell Phones says
Here’s an article that tells you everything you need to know about switching service providers, Heather.
https://www.freegovernmentcellphones.net/faq/how-do-i-switch-lifeline-providers
Darlene Thompson says
I want to switch over to assurance Wireless.I have an True wireless cell and not satisfied can you please tell me how to switch service
Thank you
Cell number 443-822-****
Free Government Cell Phones says
Easy peasy, Darlene. Here’s an updated article that tells you everything you need to know:
https://www.freegovernmentcellphones.net/faq/how-do-i-switch-lifeline-providers
Patti D Legleiter says
Thanks for the info. I can not tolarite this piece of junk phone from q links. I had to pay $25.00 to replace one junk phone for another of the same. Calls and texts work not even half time and the screen bounces from one to up to seven times. Lost important calls. When i complaned to q links i was told it was anyones fault BUT NEVER COULD IT BE THEIR FAULT. I cant download anything it says memory full. I had Assurance for 5 yrs before i was cut off brcause of the government folks decided my birthday could not be valadated so spent next five yrs trying to get them Asshole to speak to me. I want them back, not only was their service GREAT but also everytime i had a problem I EVERYTIME WAS ABLE TO SPEAK TO AN AMERICAN WHO WAS ABLE TO SPEAK THE ENGLISH LANGUAGE ALSO never once was i told it was (had to be) me not a junk phone was doing wrong cause q links phones do no wrong. Time to change–Assurance im coming home!!
Free Government Cell Phones says
The rules have changed and you can now switch service providers at any time you want, Patti. Contact Assurance (or any other free government cell phone company offering service in your state) and ask about switching over.
John Martin says
This comment validates what I suspected:. This site… Freegovernmentcellphones.net… is bogus. The info the commentator wrote is grossly inaccurate. AssuranceWireless is AWFUL. And they will do NOTHING to correct any issues you have. And no one understands English, not by any stretch of the imagination.
Free Government Cell Phones says
Let us see if we understand the point you are attempting to make, John. The way we understand your comment, our website is bogus because another reader had a better experience with Assurance Wireless than you did. Have your powers of reasoning always been this weak or is this a recent development?
susan says
i have q link and the phone service is terrible how do i cancel them and go to another company and do i have to cancel q link first before applying with another company
Free Government Cell Phones says
We have a suspicion that you didn’t read the article on this page, Susan. You know, the one titled “How do I switch my account from one free government cell phone company to another.” Maybe you should give it a try.
Kimberly Fuselier says
I can’t help but laugh at the representative’s comments when someone ask a question that noone can understand or when someone asks a question that has already been answered 150 times! Oh my gosh, keep it going, it’s hilarious & entertaining 😂😂😂
Free Government Cell Phones says
Thanks, Kimberly. Sometimes we just snap in those situations.
Jen says
I have them too and the phone and service and useless apps are horrible…i hate this service. I have has safelink I. The past and my service was great. Never had a problem either….
Candy L. Kemp says
I have a basic Samsung cellular phone FREE TALK AND TEXT ONLY. I want to use the Samsung Android phone aka smart phone that I bought for school for the Android capabilities only. Now I would like to PORT my free T+T plan maybe add data. The representatives all said I have to Activate the phone first-yeah I know the red card that came with it.-then I pay $15 a month for it and not even sure if that is just T+T or includes data. I just want to port my number with fee service I don’t have to have data but would like to know all my options including data but want my FREE PHONE! I have had it for years because I rarely use it and need it only for work primarily.
Thanks for any advice you can give.
Free Government Cell Phones says
All new plans come with data, Candy. You should not need to pay $15 per month.
Jessica Marino says
I have SafeLink and want to switch to Assurance service. I tried the application for Assurance but it says that someone in the home already has 1!! Well yes I do still have SafeLink. I need service till Assurance will switch me over. Also it’s not letting me send my picture of my SSI benefits, proof of income. What can I do? Tried calling and I have to go through the application process again and will run into the same problems!?!! What can I do??
Free Government Cell Phones says
It’s a mystery to us, Jessica. Have you spoken to customer service.
Marjorie Amidon says
I received a qlink wireless phone about a year ago and have had nothing but trouble with it since. the phone is now dead and will NOT take a charge. qlink has sent 2 replacement charge cords and neither of them have made any difference. I have asked to have my phone rplaced or cancel my service. I am VERY unhappy with this company. Can I switch companies and receive a new phone?
Free Government Cell Phones says
Of course, you can switch, Marjorie, and we have an article that will tell you exactly how to do it:
https://www.freegovernmentcellphones.net/faq/how-do-i-switch-lifeline-providers
The FCC and USAC made it even easier to switch a couple months ago. Now you can switch at any time you want with no restrictions.
Jose Villanueva says
If i switch to metro pcs can i still use the obama cell phone number
Free Government Cell Phones says
Yes, but you must make sure you say the words “I want to port over my current phone number” when you’re making the switch.
Deborah Henry says
I have a government free senior phone, I do not know the carrier for it. I have lost all of the information on it. It has completely stopped working, even though you call the number it goes to voice mail. The number is
904-343-****. Can you help me identify the carrier so I can get a new phone?
Free Government Cell Phones says
Visit the USAC website and then use its contact info to get in touch. They can tell you who your service provider is.
shirley says
Have standup wireless free phone. Having problems with the phone, but after reading these comments afraid to drop service as i stupidly gave up my landline. My problem, i will get calls, but the phone doesn’t ring, no evidence of missed calls or incoming, but the prob is that it doesn’t happen with all calls. so i am missing calls fr doctors, my mobility service, and some friends. standup told me i would have to pay 30 for new phone, but reluctant to do so if this is their internal prob, rather than a phone prob. anyone else having this same prob. Also some friends had told me that when they call they get message that phone is not in service.thanks
Shannon Baughman says
I received a free cell phone and was on a plan with free service back in November 2016 through qlink free government phone program. The phone was stolen and I haven’t been able to use the service/phone since that took place which was at least 6 months ago. I would like to receive a new phone with service through one of the programs . Thanks.
Free Government Cell Phones says
Your Q Link account was undoubtedly cancelled because it’s a requirement that at least one phone call be made every 30 days. In other words, you need to enroll again with Q Link or with any other free government service provider. Here’s where you can review all the programs offered in your state:
https://www.freegovernmentcellphones.net/states
Jan says
My husband cancelled his safelink account in July of 2017. He has since tried to enroll in assurance which denied him stating he has had service within the past year and there for does not qualify. So he tried to enroll in safelink again, they continue to deny him without a reason. Is there a wait period before you can enroll in another or reenroll? Since he does not currently have a phone through any would it be considered dual account if I enrolled and was approved?
Free Government Cell Phones says
It sounds as if you had data as part of your plan, Jan. If that’s the case, you are restricted from enrolling in another plan for 12 months.
Shaun S says
I am at a loss. I have assurance wireless. Their phones suck. I wanted to switch to SafeLink and use my AT&T phone. I called SafeLink to do a port. They said lifeline phones cannot be ported. You have to have the existing carrier terminate the service and release the account first. 24hours after this, you can apply for a new service with SafeLink. Oh, and they stated that I can still keep my phone number from Assurance.
Does this sound right? I really want to keep my existing phone number , and from previous cell phone ports, I remember they used to tell me specifically to not cancel the existing provider and that the port will cancel it automatically.
Free Government Cell Phones says
You should definitely be able to port over your existing phone number, but make sure you say you want to port if over at the beginning of your conversation, a couple times during that conversation, and again at the end of your call with customer service. Here’s an article you should read that tells you more about making the switch:
https://www.freegovernmentcellphones.net/faq/how-do-i-switch-lifeline-providers
Shaun S says
Thank you for replying. But I am not sure what I can do at this point other than cancel my existing service with Assurance, wait for it to settle and then reapply with SafeLink. Because SafeLink does not seem to know how to do a port. I have so far spoken with 5 different individuals and every one of them said the same thing – “cancel your account with Assurance first”. And this will mean I will not keep my phone number. I give up.
Free Government Cell Phones says
Unfortunately, incompetent customer service reps have caused a lot of people to have exactly the same reaction.
Shaun S says
Looks like there are other companies that are better at this stuff. I found QLink and Life Wireless both allow you to fill out applications online, including authorizing them to port over your lifeline benefits. Although, word of caution, I would steer completely clear of QLink because they do NOT have live customer service.
Life Wireless is great customer service.
QLink is Sprint based and Life Wireless is GSM if anyone wishes to know.
I will be porting over to Life Wireless soon.
Lola Vining says
I want to get my account number and pin
Free Government Cell Phones says
Call 6-1-1 on your free government cell phone. That will connect you to customer service and they should be able to help you.
Morah says
well, LEAVING this site after reading their insanely rude and sarcastic replies to questions. If you are a real site &/or Company – you should know how to respectfully deal with the public and any people you may feel are ignorant or have ignorant questions. This site can Not be real. Its so immature.. Im sure they will now reply the Same type of crass ridiculous response to my post Here now – but hey, Im off to search a Reputable site that doesnt have actual time to be sarcastic because they Actually Do have a Business to Run. Good Luck with Yourselves.
Free Government Cell Phones says
Good luck finding a site with more knowledge, more readers, and more willingness to answer its readers questions, Morah.
Andrea says
Wow, this is a free, informative resource who has compiled this website together for non-other than simply helping people easily find the information that is otherwise difficult to find. The fact that there’s an actual person responding to almost each and every repetitive, often ridiculous and quite honestly usually offensive question (as most questions asked make readily apparent that the asker doesn’t have a clue what this website is, and the answers to their questions are either right in the article they obviously neglected to read or something they should be asking their service providers!!). This is NOT A COMPANY, they are literally taking painstaking efforts to answer each and every question– the same questions 1,000 times in a row!! You take the effort to provide all this information and answer people’s exact same questions endlessly, and then see how you feel when 90% of the people who leave a comment didn’t even bother to read anything before asking or demanding answers that are readily provided. You jumped to conclusions and blame, and the rudeness you and all the others display is the reason for the tone you see. I for one am relieved that whoever runs this site hasn’t completely gone mad (though, I’m sure they’re quite bald by now after tearing their hair out from the questions and comments sections!) & are able to keep a sense of humor and sarcasm. In fact, that should be another glaring hint that this isn’t a company or trying to sell you something!! *bangs head on desk*
Free Government Cell Phones says
Say Hallelujah! (But you’d better back off on that “I’m sure they’re quite bald” comment, Andrea. The nighttime comments moderator is very sensitive about that issue.)
Sharon roesch says
Can I use my current phone until I receive my other one
Free Government Cell Phones says
We need a little clarification, Sharon. Is your “current phone” provided by the free government cell phone program?
Sharon roesch says
Can I request the largest phone you have due to arthritis and pinched nerves
Free Government Cell Phones says
“We” don’t offer any phones, Sharon, because we are not a free government cell phone company. This is an independent informational website.
Torie Wooten says
My phone is stolen and I don’t remember company it’s through need it cut off
Free Government Cell Phones says
If you visit the USAC.org website, they can help you figure out who your service provider is.
Jennifer says
Thank you this was very helpful.
Free Government Cell Phones says
Our pleasure, Jennifer.
YEN TRAN says
I was switched from SafeLink Wireless to Air Voice by a street tent agent without my knowledge when I asked for help from this person. I also received a replacement phone from Air Voice from which I could not activate the new service. I would like to cancel this new service and return the replacement phone to them. I do not know the proper way to do. And after the cancellation can I get back to the previuos phone service which is SafeLink Wireless and how? I still got the old phone and I want to keep this one with all the benefits I had before with them.
Sincerely:
Yen Tran
Free Government Cell Phones says
Let’s mark this as reason #1,412 not to enroll at a street event. Unfortunately, Yen, there is probably no way for you to switch back. You are stuck with your current provider for 60 days if your plan includes only talk and text, and for one full year if your plan includes data.
Hermit says
I have a good one for you! I just now enrolled in lifeline and just found out that Qlink doesn’t have a person to talk to! So they are sending a phone but I don’t have it yet and so it isn’t activated. After reading all the reviews (which I should have before I enrolled) I wanted to go with safelink. So now what is the rule here?
Did I enroll? Yes,
Did I activate that enrollment? NO..
So what if I call safelink and enroll with them and activate their phone and just return the other one from Qlink?
And how / why can’t you cancel your enrollment if you haven’t received the phone and never plan to activate it?
And Lastly….. how do you cancel if nobody ever answers there phone listed on their website?
Free Government Cell Phones says
Sorry, Hermit, but you are correct that you should have read all the readers’ comments before enrolling. If you have a voice and text-only plan, you can switch after 60 days. If your plan includes data, you cannot change for one year. Here’s an article you definitely need to read. It tells how to switch:
https://www.freegovernmentcellphones.net/faq/how-do-i-switch-lifeline-providers
Jasmine says
Can I keep my Verizon number on a government phone.
Free Government Cell Phones says
Yes. But make sure you tell the customer service rep that you want to “port over my current phone number.” Tell them at the beginning of the call, several time during the call, and again before the call ends.
Ingrid says
If you move from Ohio to California and you have this free cell phone from Ohio what do you do plus it’s not working anymore
Free Government Cell Phones says
You don’t mention which free government cell phone company you are enrolled with, Ingrid, but different companies offer the Lifeline program in different states, so it’s quite possible that your company does not do business in your new state.
Even if it did offer service in your state, you would be required to re-enroll when your one year recertification period expired.
Chris says
Is there any way to switch from qlink to another service in less than 12 months? I receive data and apparently that means I can’t switch before a year is up. I have no service of any kind at my home which means its not much of a lifeline.
Free Government Cell Phones says
There is a way, but it involves dealing with the USAC and requesting a waiver on the 12-month limit. You can contact the USAC at USAC.org.
Lana Laroze says
Can I keep my safelink number and start with another company?
Free Government Cell Phones says
Yes, you should be able to keep your same number. Just make sure that you tell the customer service rep that you want to “port over your old phone number.” Say it at the biginning of your phone call, several other times during your call, and repeat it at the end of the call.
Sheila howell says
Yes I was woundering if I could transfer my gov pH.number an min to strate talk pH cuz my gov pH got broke
Free Government Cell Phones says
Here’s a more recent article that gives you step-by-step instructions on how to switch:
https://www.freegovernmentcellphones.net/faq/how-do-i-switch-lifeline-providers
cleveland gillcrest says
i like go with an Access Wireless phone. i have a phone with alcatel onetouch. I am having a bad time hearing on this phone.
Free Government Cell Phones says
Please clarify something for us, Cleveland. Are you having trouble hearing because the phone is defective or because you are hearing impaired?
thomas says
i would like to change my government phone company.i have q link and i want to change to another company
Free Government Cell Phones says
Did you read the article, Thomas?
coire gibson says
how do i possibly cancel my qlink wireeless free government cell phone service becaUSE my phone was stolen and cant afford a replacement. so please cancel my service lifeline sol i can get one from assurance or nsafelink.
Free Government Cell Phones says
We cannot cancel your service because we are not your service provider, Coire. This is an independent informational website. You need to contact Q Link customer service directly. Here’s a link to our Providers page, where you can find Q Link’s contact info:
https://www.freegovernmentcellphones.net/free-cell-phone-providers
Zach says
DONT TRUST THIS SITE OUTDATED WILL RUIN YOUR SERVICE STUCK IN PLAN one year this is the worst advice ever given they wont update articles they know what they are doing. Such a shame this site is killing poeple espescially older ones with there blatant disinfo they wont correct
Free Government Cell Phones says
Well, Rick might not like FreeGovernmentCellPhones.net, but at least he thinks we know what we’re doing. That’s an improvement because most people don’t think we know what we’re doing.
Are you done for the night now, Rick?
Skyler Wilson says
Are you aware that providers such as Q-Link port freeze you for 12 months so you cant switch to another provider? Have you ever used a lifeline phone?
Free Government Cell Phones says
Are you aware, Skyler, that the 12-month freeze applies only to accounts that have data service in addition to voice service? Are you aware, Skyler, that you are only frozen with a service provider for 60 days if you do not have data as part of your plan? Are you aware, Skyler, that ALL Lifeline free government cell phone service providers do this because they are required to by the regulations under which they operate? Are you aware, Skyler, that we know more about this program than anyone in the whole wide freakin’ world (with the possible exception of the Lifeline companies themselves and a few attorneys who specialize in this area of expertise)? Are you aware, Skyler, that you have royally pissed us off with your snotty attitude and your remarkable ignorance?
Matthew Dylan Foster says
OMG that was so incredibly awesome.
Your cool as a fan the whole thread and helping things along as patiently as any mod could do given the circumstances and clientele – Then Klablow!
“Oh Snap!” I thought, and immediately again
“Oh Shiz – she gonna need a med flight outta that crass she’s been creviced between…”
I Salute Your patience and commend your honest advice, dispensed with humilty.
I would love to do some copy or blog posts’, any writing and pitch related assignments would be a blessing.
Weird? Yeah. I’m an aspiring copy/blog/all-around scribe with a dream and no arena is without a need for an original voice and customer confidant.
Good Day FGC…
Free Government Cell Phones says
In the words of Sally Fields at the Academy Awards, you like us. You really like us.
Zach says
This site is nothing but lies do not trust it if your phone works do not switch they destroyed my phone service and we are locked in a year with a phone we cant use
Free Government Cell Phones says
Yes, we tell lies 24/7, Zach. Do not believe a word we say. We wouldn’t know the truth if it hit us up the side of the head. We are god-awful prevaricators and tellers of untruths. We are deceitful, deceptive and dishonest. We disseminate disinformation and distortions, fabrications, falsehoods and fiction. We are dastardly bastards who will lead you astray, make love to your woman, and steal every last penny from you. Oh, and we will not only make love to your woman, she will enjoy it and fantasize about us the next time she is with you. Oh, yeah.
Matthew Dylan Foster says
I just…
My sides hurt so badly at the moment.
The best laugh all year
Free Government Cell Phones says
Thanks, Matthew. We were kind of proud of that one. The guy just plain pissed us off.
Jeigh says
I think I asked this on another page you have, but can I come from an outside company and keep my existing number? Thanks
J
Free Government Cell Phones says
Yes, you can keep your own cell phone number when you switch phone companies. You just need to make sure you tell the customer service rep, “I want to port over my current phone number.” Say it several times and repeat it at the end of the conversation and make them confirm that your current phone number is being ported over.
John V Williams says
This NOT true! Budget Mobile free phones are NOT transferable to Safelink! I’ve been trying since last week and was told I had to BUY another phone to transfer benefits.
Free Government Cell Phones says
Other readers have said the same thing, but the laws and regulations of the free government cell phone business say that you should be able to keep your number.
Jason says
I need some serious help. I have a phone from AZ and due to issues beyond my control I had to move to NM. All of my government assistance was stopped in AZ and started in NM. The phone carrier from AZ does not work in NM. I’ve applied three (3) times now with the company in NM and keep getting denied saying I already have service and only one (1) phone per family/household. I just need to switch companies and I can’t get help from either carrier and I don’t know what else to do.
Free Government Cell Phones says
You need to contact customer service again and ask to speak to a supervisor. You kind of fall into a never-never land as far as USAC regulations are concerned. Explain your situation clearly to the supervisor and ask for his/her help to clear up the issue.
Kira Williams says
I have a goverment funded phone but its from Albuquerque New Mexico and I recently moved to Kansas and now I have no service. I dont know if i am able to keep the phone but change the number so i can get service to use so i can communicate with people or if i have to sign up for benefits here and get a new phone with a new number or anything. i dont know what to do if you can help me that would be great.
Free Government Cell Phones says
Now that you’ve moved to a new state, Kira, you’ll need to re-enroll. You can re-enroll with the same service provider (if they offer service in both states) or you can enroll with a new company. Here’s where you can find a list of all the companies and plans in your state:
https://www.freegovernmentcellphones.net/states
Claudia Busby says
I stopped my cell phone service with Assist because my phone quit working after less than a month. I tried to have it ,but it was unfixable. It has been a month nows since then,no phone. I now need a phone desperately (health reasons). When and how can I get another phone?
Free Government Cell Phones says
You need to contact your service provider’s customer service team, Claudia. You should also read this article before you contact them:
https://www.freegovernmentcellphones.net/faq/i-lost-my-phone-how-do-i-get-a-replacement
Lisa says
I cannot seem to get a straight answer is there a lifeline that has a flip phone or can I buy one from walmart that government will recognize? I DO NOT WANT A Smart Phone just one that has big buttons.
Free Government Cell Phones says
It’s impossible for us to answer that question, Lisa. Each of the free government cell phone companies offers different makes and models of phones and they hand them out randomly. So you may be able to buy the one you want at Walmart, but keep in mind that not all cell phones are compatible with all cell networks. So perhaps you should find the phone you want, then contact various Lifeline companies to find out if that phone will work with their networks. Then choose your Lifeline company based on which one will allow you to use the phone you want. Please let us know how it works out.
Angelia says
I would like to buy min don’t know what kind all I know is it’s a Coolpad and access wireless can’t talk to no one not even a dam robot
Free Government Cell Phones says
You’ve hit on one of the main complaints or readers give us, Angelia. It’s virtually impossible to get hold of a live Access agent. But here’s an article that will tell you more about buying minutes.
https://www.freegovernmentcellphones.net
Dianne Thomas says
My name is Dianne Thomas im with Lifewireless and I want to switch phone company. They have had my phone 979 331 **** for three or more weeks. I no longer want their service, ask for cancellations of devices, no recertification has been done. I don’t want to have two lifeline service please help me to pick another carrier and have the other service stop . I receive ssi SS, food stamps. lightup Texas Medicare and Medicaid because I am disabled. Thank you can contact me at 979 549 ****
Free Government Cell Phones says
Did you read the above article, Dianne? Did it say anywhere in that article that you could switch companies by leaving a comment here on FreeGovernmentCellPhones.net?
C. says
How rude of you
Free Government Cell Phones says
We get this same type of question dozens of times a day, C. We never cease to be amazed that people don’t take the time to read the article that was written to answer their question. If you consider it rude, so be it. We consider it kind of rude that so many people don’t bother reading the article.
Tanisha says
Is there a phone at Walmart I can buy to replace my mom’s tiny phone from assurance? She can’t even use it because of its size. Someone told me Trac phone would possibly work, is that true?
Free Government Cell Phones says
This is an area into which we do not give answers, Takisha. Not all cell phones are compatible with all cell networks, so you really need to speak to the Assurance customer service or tech support team. They can give you an accurate answer.
laura barron says
yes i have a free cell phone but now it says no service. so i throught i lost my calif.line so can you help me
Free Government Cell Phones says
You need to contact your service provider’s customer service team, Laura.
alain smithee says
I’d like to see a section on transferring your phone number FROM a Lifeline wireless company to a traditional wireless company.
When I had a Lifeline phone, the company did not tell me what my account number was, and the call center agents were not helpful, so I ended up having to change phone numbers, which is a headache.
Free Government Cell Phones says
Are you saying you have a functioning iPhone 7 and an account with a free government cell phone provider on another phone, and you want to put your iPhone 7 on the government phone plan? You are probably going to need to call your company and ask.
But we have to ask, if you’re able to have a prized iPhone 7 in your hands, are you sure you need a government phone plan? Or did you just get one as a gift or something?
Keen Observer says
Ha, whomever is moderating/writing these replies (kind of you to reply at all– given the asinine questions you receive, frankly)–well bravo! You’re not only generous with your knowledge and information you’ve provided here–but also have the patience of a saint. Good God. You’re clever too. Thank you. Someone needs to say it. Your replies here are spot on and…hilarious at times. Because the answers are so obvious.
Free Government Cell Phones says
Thank you very much. We’ll be here all week.
Shondra says
I am trying do hard to cancel my gov phone that was stolen and i dont know which company it was for i look and try ph,#’s on all the companies for California and still no luck I just dont know what to do this is so unfair
Free Government Cell Phones says
That’s undoubtedly true with some unscrupulous companies, Shondra. But we would like to think that our explanation is far more likely.
Hopebarrosse says
Can I keep my same my,number on my government phone
Free Government Cell Phones says
Under most circumstances you should be able to. But you need to make sure that you tell your new service provider that you want to “port over your current number” when you enroll.
Terry Poole says
I have had a free phone for several years through SafeLink. My minutes have not been restored and I have called them and stayed on the phone 1 1/2 hours talking to six people. I have done everything they asked and I still don’t have minutes. I have Medicaid and get food stamps. All my paperwork with Medicaid is current. Where can I go from here?
FreeGovernmentCellPhones.net says
We know it can be frustrating working with some of these companies. Since their margins are slim, they are often understaffed. You can switch to another company if you like. Here’s some info on the process:
https://www.freegovernmentcellphones.net/faq/how-do-i-switch-lifeline-providers
Peggy says
I wanted to switch from Assurance Wireless to SafeLink only because it looks like that SafeLink will let me use a smartphone. Since I cannot do it online, I have to call SafeLink. I have spent hours trying to get a “live” customer service and there is not way. They only have recorded customer service. The online live chat people are not able to help, and different people say different things. It was truly a terrible experience and I still cannot find the way to do it.
Free Government Cell Phones says
Here’s some bad news for you if you don’t live in California, Peggy. Safelink currently offers smartphones only in California. If you live somewhere else, here’s an article that will tell you about the smartphone policies of all the leading Lifeline companies:
https://www.freegovernmentcellphones.net/which-lifeline-cell-phone-companies-offer-smartphones
Candace Collins says
Is there a way i can see and read all my texts and pictures on the website for access wireless
Free Government Cell Phones says
No, there isn’t. Sorry, Candace.
theresa says
i would like to switch from assurance wireless to another but i keep getting the run around that since i already have one, they don’t want to have anything to do with me. they won’t let me ask how to switch to them, just enter your zip, oh look, youre already on the lifeline and goodbye. so how do i speak or chat with someone to make the switch?
Free Government Cell Phones says
That’s very odd, Theresa, because there’s nothing the Lifeline companies love more than poaching customers from other companies. Here’s an article about how to switch from one service provider to another. It’s usually a very simple process that is gladly taken care of by the new service provider.
https://www.freegovernmentcellphones.net/faq/how-do-i-switch-lifeline-providers
Tara says
I have a att phone it under my old boyfriend name how can I get it to be a government phone I don’t have no incoming coming in
Free Government Cell Phones says
We’re not quite sure what you’re asking, Tara. Is it a free government cell phone account in your ex-boyfriend’s name?
Tom says
If I switch lifeline provider, will I lose my old phone number? If I understand correctly: To port existing wireless phone number to a new company, my old account has to be open by the time of porting. When a new provider login NLAD to do the account switch for me, can they keep my old phone number?
Sherri Kindig says
I lived in Oregon for over 5 years and I got Assurance Wireless. I recently movIed back to my homestate of Iowa and would like to know how I can switch over to a Iowa Phone. I my cell number for Internet and Cable TV. My assistance with Assurance is about to expire and I need to get a new number for Iowa. I also want to find a phone compadible to your program. I am Disabled and get rental assistance and Food Stamp Card. Can someone get back to me on how I do this without losing my phone service. Thank you
dianne segall says
I was denied my minutes due to unresolved issue regarding error with an application with another carrier. I have had to reapply and pay for phone service. how can this error be quickly resolved.
brenda says
My phone got switch to a different carrier without me knowing it how do I fix thus I am with reach out wireless
von says
i would like to know if i move from one state example oklahoma to another nevada can i keep my same plan or is there another unlimited plan in that area that do cost over 6 dollars
von says
sorry i meant to say that doesnt cost over 6 dollars
Ted says
But what if you don’t live in California, don’t want Assurance Wireless, and haven’t committed fraud? You only explained how to switch companies in specific circumstances! You didn’t answer the question “How [do] I switch free government cell phone companies?”
I would like to please know the process involved in switching FROM Assurance Wireless to another company for law-abiding non-Californians.
For example, does every company let you keep your phone number? And what about the minutes – do you get a brand new set of minutes the day the new Lifeline phone is activated and what day of the month is too late to apply for a switch (meaning because after that date you’ll be switched in 2 months rather than the upcoming month)?
Also the unidentified agent said “If you switch, your old phone will get cancelled. Don’t let any lifeline provider convince you that you can keep two free phones.” so does that mean that when you switch the new company sends you one of their phones and you have to pay to ship back your old phone to the old company? What if you no longer have that phone because it was lost or stolen? Or it broke so you threw it away? (I wouldn’t do that but a lot of people just throw out things when they believe it doesn’t work anymore.)
Thank you.
M.Neff says
I want to buy a smartphone and hook up my plan with my Safelink phone on the smartphone. Is that possible and If so how or who do I contact to do it?
I now have a alcatel 250g one touch phone atm with safelink number and plan. Im willing to buy and pay for the extra cost for a smartphone and plan if possible. Thanks if you drop me a line on how to
Ram Gupta says
I would like to have smart phone under any provider https://www.freegovernmentcellphones.net/
I do not know , who will provide me.
Presently I am using TracoFone for last 2 years. , but they are not replacing it. This phone is defective
I would like to change my Provider. I am using Medicaid and living in MI.
Thanks
Beverly Kuckler says
My contract is over on 10- 2015. I want to enroll in a different company. How do I do this WITH out problems? Can I transfer before my expiration date with Assurance wireless?
Beverly says
I have an Assurance phone and the screen is so small I have trouble texting, I am 68 years old with poor vision. I am thinking of switching.
Beverly Kuckler says
I have the same problems as you. Txing is the hardest I’ve ever seen. I also can not read any of the screen.
Sandra Thompson says
Lived in Michigan had assurance wireless 989915**** called to let them know I moved to perryville md to be closer to my children. Now signed up for food help in Md. Low income
724.00 social security. Need phone here. Assurance said they would mail me the paper work to my new address *********. Perryville MD 21903. It has been several weeks and no papers came. I also need a new phone for the old one words are not clear. Can you help thanks Sandra r Thompson ( former address *******. AuGres, Mich 48703 phone 9899157844. Would like Maryland phone number please
I m receiving help from elkton DHS .
Donna says
I also have assurance cell phone co. and they do not seem to know how to fix problems customers have when they call for advice. I have had at times needed to repeat myself over and over before the person at the co actually understood what I was saying. I think if you are going to do this kind of work you need to know at least a little about how the phone work and how to fix them,don’t you think? I am going to switch to another company that hopefully speaks English and can help me with whatever problem I am having with my phone.