Free Government Cell Phones

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Which free government cell phone companies offer smartphones?

updated on 12/17/22

Many readers email us to ask if smartphones are available to free government cell phone customers. So many, in fact, that we decided it was time to give our readers a definitive answer. Well, as definitive as possible, that is.

We started by asking the USAC (the organization that governs the Lifeline free government cell phone program and the Affordable Connectivity Program) if companies are required to offer cell phones. After all, if one email to the USAC told us that all companies are required to offer smartphones, we would save many hours of research because we wouldn’t have to comb through a dozen companies’ websites and/or contact their customer service or media relations departments.

Alas, our query resulted in this disappointing answer from the USAC media relations department on December 12, 2022: “The Lifeline program only covers service, not phones or equipment. Service providers are not required to supply devices for their Lifeline customers. USAC and the FCC do not regulate the equipment for Lifeline providers who choose to offer phones/equipment as a marketing tool to attract new Lifeline consumers.”

Please allow us to translate: It’s the Wild West out there and any Lifeline/Affordable Connectivity Program service provider can offer any cell phone, from the least expensive to the most expensive, at any level of service.

What do we mean by “level of service?” Simple.

The Lifeline/Affordable Connectivity Programs offer three distinct levels of service: Lifeline plans, ACP plans, and Lifeline + ACP plans.

Lifeline, the most basic level of service, earns service providers a subsidy of just $9.25 per customer per month. Most companies cannot make a profit at that level, so very few of those plans offer free smartphones.

ACP plans, the next level up, earn service providers a subsidy of $30 per customer per month. More income for the service provider means they can afford to offer more services, so more often than not those plans may include upgraded smartphones.

Finally, Lifeline + ACP plans, the highest level of service, earn service providers the $9.25 per customer per month Lifeline subsidy PLUS the $30 per customer per month ACP subsidy. These plans typically offer smartphones as part of their offerings.

In short, you are more likely to receive a smartphone as you move up to an ACP plan or a Lifeline + ACP plan. Far more likely.

Other smartphones

There are other ways to get a smartphone even if the plan in which you enroll does not offer one.

First, you can purchase an upgraded smartphone from your service provider. Every Lifeline/ACP company offers a dizzying array of smartphones at very reasonable prices. Instead of being the latest and greatest phones on the market, they are usually refurbished older phones like, for example, an iPhone 4 or equivalent Android phone. But quite honestly, in most cases the differences between one generation of smartphone and the next are almost not worth worrying about.

(NOTE: The editor of FreeGovernmentCellPhones is still using his original iPhone 3. The screen and case are both cracked, but the phone works as well as it ever did and does everything he needs a phone to do. In other words, an iPhone 4 or equivalent Android phone should beautifully serve most people’s needs.)

In addition, every Lifeline/ACP service provider also offers a BYOP (Bring Your Own Phone) program. If you have an older smartphone lying around the house, or if your sister or brother or uncle or next door neighbor gives you one they are no longer using, you can enroll with the company of your choice and use that smartphone as your Lifeline/ACP phone. Your service provider will gladly send you a SIM card to use in that phone.

NOTE: If you have access to such a smartphone, make sure you enroll with a service provider whose network is compatible with that phone. This is not the place to explain how to find the answer to that question. Have the phone with you when you enroll, and your service provider’s customer service rep should be able to talk you through it.

What is a smartphone?

The real question that needs to be answered is, ‘What is a smartphone?’

We noted that all Lifeline/ACP service providers now offer data plans. The editor of FreeGovernmentCellPhones asked our technical director for some clarification: ‘Would I be correct that if they offer a data plan, that by definition means they must offer smartphones?’

Our tech guys responded by saying that is NOT correct. Here’s the full answer:

Feature phones (also called basic phones) have the ability to send pictures in texts, on to Facebook, and Twitter, and other such places. That requires a data plan. Without a data plan, one can send a text message, but not with a picture attached, as that cannot go over the SMS (text message) network.

So that led me to check the definition of a smartphone (once again). It seems a lot of feature phones are ‘smart’ but not really smartphones. While there doesn’t seem to be a consistent definition, I think the proper definition is if a phone has a popular/powerful operating system (iOS, Android, Windows Phone, Blackberry OS), and allows you to install apps not created by the phone maker, then it is a smartphone.

Many of the feature phones can fool you into thinking they are smartphones (and I bet some of the Lifeline vendors stretch the definition of a smartphone) because they have touch screens, Facebook, photo galleries, etc.

So, I bet that if a Lifeline vendor is not highlighting what type of phone is given out, even if they offer a data plan, they do not offer a smartphone.

To summarize: Just because a Lifeline Assistance company says it offers smartphones does not necessarily mean those phones will provide you with the full, robust internet experience you are hoping for. It is incumbent upon you to inquire as to the capabilities of that ‘smartphone.’

Which service providers, which smartphones?

One disclaimer: This list is current as of the date this article was published. But as we observed earlier, the Lifeline/ACP world is like the Wild West. Things change very rapidly, and the list of service providers and the phones they offer may change overnight.

That being said, here’s a list of service providers and the models they currently offer:

In conclusion, every Lifeline Assistance/Affordable Connectivity Program service provider now offers free smartphones. But plans vary wildly and the ones that are available today may not be available tomorrow.

Some service providers make smartphones randomly available to new customers, but all the companies that offer them make them available as part of their ACP and/or Lifeline + ACP plan, as upgrades for an additional charge, or offer smartphone SIM cards for BYOP plans.

Make sure you know what you’re getting into when you upgrade to a “smart” phone, because not all smartphones were created equal. Some have far more capabilities than others, and it’s your responsibility to make sure you’re getting exactly the phone you need before you agree to pay for that upgrade.

One might even say that being an informed consumer is the “smart” thing to do.

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Comments

  1. Donna Fann says

    Tru connect made it impossible for me to switch to Stand Up for better phone and tablet.Now their messing with my service,my voilmail don’t work at all can’t even get into it from phone device after trying to change over yesterday 02-10-23 I called the truconnect guy said there was nothing he or company could do,was extremely rude.I just got the service transferred to them safelink.One month had all kinds of problems with truconnect,even had to pay to send defected phone back to them,then be about month to get another one if they send one The Stand Up agent supposedly tried her best to get me transferred but wasn’t successful.The angent agreed they were inferring the transfer. Reason we get the ACP Program Government phones is because of hardship. They only work for company shouldn’t be their decision,but all of them are rude treat people inhumane.People have disabilities can’t work or I would.

    Reply

  2. Lisa says

    I really hope you still respond to these comments I’m really enjoying the responses 😁I’m in Ohio and have qlink my free phone is junk the service is decent. I would like a bigger phone but I can’t afford what they offer. Can anyone give me the money to buy one? If I can’t get someone to give me the money for a better phone, I wonder if I switch companies if they will give me a better free phone? I’m so glad I found this site.

    Reply

    • Free Government Cell Phones says

      It’s the brains for your phone, Holly. It needs to be inserted. Try Googling the make and model of your phone and the words “installing SIM card.” You could also try taking the phone and the SIM card to any local phone store.

      Reply

  4. Tony Hinrichs says

    It sure seems you did a lot of research for this article, and this is a great service to the American public but it shows March 26, 2016, as the publication date and it is now November 22, 2021. Can you update the article with 2021 info, please?

    Reply

    • Free Government Cell Phones says

      Easy update. Every Lifeline company now automatically offers either a smart phone or a SIM card for those who already have smart phones.

      Reply

  5. Ralph says

    You f**king are liars it is not easy as 1,2,3 when you click on someone you bounced around until youralphr fet up and just stop.

    Reply

    • Free Government Cell Phones says

      Yeah, we know what you mean. We always hate it when we’re bounced around until “youralphr fet up and just stop.”

      Reply

      • Henry says

        I think the keyboard letters got stuck or the network has stalled during the input. This happens sometimes. I think the intended input is the following:

        You (expletive deleted) are liars. It is not as easy as 1, 2, 3 when you click on some link. You are bounced around until you are all fed up and just stop.

        (So the overall effort is just a run around)

        Reply

        • Free Government Cell Phones says

          We know exactly what he meant to say, Henry, but sometimes we just get sick and tired of people blaming US for the problems they’re having.

          Reply

        • Sam H says

          Don’t forget how many of them are taking advantage of their customers by selling Used and Junk smartphones at or above new list prices. This is just a cash grab by greedy people who are out to steal your money and get all they can get from the government at the same time.And like all government agencies like this one, they have little to no oversight of the vendors, so they can get away with anything they want to. Their are few if any real rules so they can lie, change,change you what they want to and as you know they get richer we get we’ll let’s just say it’s what happens in Prison when you drop the soap and bend over to pick it up,& 500 or more of what are about to be your new closest best friends, They know that most people here have money/credit issues and are not likely to be able to afford a good lawyer let alone have any real resources to pay for legal fees and legal assistance to fight for your rights. I have heard horror stories about people that have never heard of this program getting SIM cards and Phones in the mail with no return information, they are disabled and or on Social Security so they qualify, and again they never applied but greedy providers paying for their information and creating accounts just to get paid by the government and they have no way to get rid of a phone they never asked for, or worse they have no understanding of how they are getting taken advantage of and simply trash or give the government phone away to a family member or friend with no idea about the rules. Since they didn’t order one in the first place, all so some greedy A-holes can run a scam and plunder the government. The only thing that I have seen in recent years is the low-income housing scam, no accountability from the government or the states, and the management companies get away with murder Billing the government for Empty Housing, as full and never doing a check to confirm that they are truly renters occupying their properties. They have the site manager sign a paper claiming that they are being honest. LOL just like a 9 year old Apple IPhone selling at an affordable price $1,600.00 and claiming that it’s a great deal. I guess if it’s a antique or made from Gold, and you don’t want to get me started on the other stuff wrong with these providers and their products and services! It’s cheaper for me to get a new Apple IPhone 14Pro Max 1TB then anything that I have seen on any of the sites here, did I mention the unlimited everything phone service that is $15.00 a month and locked in for 5 years! So in closing I can get a new phone top of the line, with all of the benefits and extras like a free IPad, Iwatch, and Earbuds, with 6-12 months of free subscription based service or “Drop the Soap “ here and require HIV medication for the rest of my life because of it? If anything look around and see what deals you can get, if you have to use sites like this one, have the Government complaints numbers or messaging’s contacts where you can get too them before you know it your going to need them. Good luck and stay informed about your options and don’t be afraid to register a complaint and push, demand that things get addressed and not filled away in the trash or forgotten about. If you have to call 3-5 times a day until you get what you’re asking for and never stop or give up.that is what most of the crooked companies are counting on you to do, being nice,polite and reasonable no longer gets you anywhere, but left behind and recovering from that prison shower soap incident and a repeat preference daily date with your 500+ new friends.

          Reply

  6. R. Robertson says

    Qlink may offer smart phones but you have to wait months for the hope of getting a phone (I’ve been waiting since March does phone and sim card). Also still waiting on the free tablet for the EBB participation.

    Reply

    • Tony Hinrichs says

      Wow, that is horrible, this should not happen to anyone. Can you withdraw your application with Qlink and subscribe to a different carrier? Would you suggest that new people do not choose Qlink? Have you filed a complaint with the FCC or the Universal Service Fund or the Better Business Bureau or written to your US Representative and asked for his/her help in this matter? God Bless.

      Reply

    • Free Government Cell Phones says

      We have no idea, Donald, because we are not your service provider. They are the only ones who can answer your question.

      Reply

  8. Bernie says

    Q link has very bad customer service, they sometimes hang up on you, have bad audio sometimes. They always (@least in Atlanta,ga.area) charge you for your new smartphone. Cheapest one being around $20 called q-link phone, but be careful because after you’ve purchased it you then discovered from email link confirmation that it’s that suspect ZTE China phone with possible security issues. & After 4hours with customer service they refused to let you buy a different cell(even before that ZTE leaves any warehouses) when finally got a supervisor he refused to even cancel my new account as I requested.

    Reply

    • Free Government Cell Phones says

      We’re getting a lot of “service is horrible” comments lately. Don’t know if it’s coincidence or if all the companies service level has deteriorated.

      Reply

    • Geegee says

      Qlink stole my Identifying information, I was inquiring about their service. I called and by many hours of their Crappy DISservice, I finally got transferred to a FAKE supervisor. I insisted they close out the fake account they opened withOUT my permission. I had to call the FCC and make a formal complaint to force qLink to close out the fraudulent account they opened in my name. They charged the government for 5 months before the FCC forced qlink to close out the account qlink opened without my knowledge, content or permission. Then qlink posted some BS about closing my account when I requested it! BS they were forced to close it after making several complaints to the FCC and filing formal charges for qlink making fake accounts and bilking the government out of money for fraudulent accounts. Check out qlinks rating with the BBB.

      Reply

  10. Alexis says

    Hello,

    Have you all published an article detailing which companies provide free phones upon approval of service?

    Thank you.

    Reply

    • Alexis says

      And, just to clarify: I’m aware that many service providers provide smartphones for additional purchase, but some also are able to provide the phone TO the customer for free, upon receiving service.

      Thanks

      Reply

    • Free Government Cell Phones says

      All service providers have been required to offer free smart phones to ALL new customers, Alexis. It’s been that way for several years.

      Reply

  11. patricia tyler says

    My name is Patricia Tyler I WOULD LIKE TO UPGRADE MY FREE PHONE. I HAD THIS PHONE FOR CLOSE TO 4 YEARS.

    Reply

    • Free Government Cell Phones says

      You need to call 6-1-1 on your free government cell phone to speak to your service provider’s customer service team.

      Reply

  12. Mary Brooks says

    I want to upgrade my assurance wireless phone and keep my number and pictures plus it’s a goverment phone so what do I have to do please help .Is there a phone number that I can call to get the new phone will pay for it.

    Reply

    • Free Government Cell Phones says

      You need to call the Assurance customer service team to see what they will do for you. Just call 6-1-1 on your free government cell phone. If you’ve been a customer long enough they may upgrade you for free, but it’s doubtful. If they won’t you can always switch to a different service provider because the new provider will give you a smart phone upgrade. Here’s where you can find all the service providers and plans available in your state:

      https://www.freegovernmentcellphones.net/states

      Reply

  13. Elise Jewell says

    These free Assurance Wireless basic phones are horrible. I depend on these phones even if it’s just for keeping contact with my son. Mine drops every call and now it just randomly shuts down even when the battery is at full charge and even that only lasts but an hour. I know I should be grateful that I even have a phone but I can’t even use it. I want to upgrade but it seems that this is not possible in the state of Delaware. Or is there? I really need help here!

    Reply

    • Free Government Cell Phones says

      We’re pretty sure that Assurance offers phone upgrades everywhere they offer service, Elise. Check out the company’s website.

      Reply

        • Henry says

          From the list of phones listed on the Assurance website, they only show “low end” phones with lower power specs and capacity on the phone models. So Assurance is going the “cheap way” on the phones connected to their service. No flag ship or brand name phones seen on their site.

          Reply

  14. Lisa Miller says

    Hello, my name is Lisa Miller and I am trying to obtain a free cell phone due to not making enough money from my job at this time to survive on. I have just been approved for emergency help of Cal fresh food assistance and unfortunately i need a phone to be able to make emergency calls, use for work calls, use the phone alarm clock to wake on time for work and any other needs we use a cell phone for. I am no longer able to afford a phone bill during these financially very difficult times. Today has been a busy day for me in having to apply for financial help with my bills, public transportation to get to and from work, food assistance, food assistance, etc. Before today I have never needed to ask for financial assistance or help having a cell phone and it feels awful to have to ask. I dont know how the process works in setting up or applying for a free cell phone and would appreciate any help you could offer me in making this happen for me. Thank you kindly for reading! Very Respectfully, Lisa Miller

    Reply

  15. Nicholas Smith says

    i live in paso robles california and i need a replacement goverment phone, i lost mine while camping. I just need to no where to go get it since there is no longer the service providers/tents in my area since the corona virus epidemic. where can i get assistance?

    Reply

    • Free Government Cell Phones says

      You live in one of the most beautiful places in the country, Nicholas. Lucky you. Not so lucky with your phone, though. Sorry you lost it. You can find out about replacement phones by calling your service provider’s customer service team. Hopefully, you have a friend or relative who will lend you a phone?

      Reply

    • Free Government Cell Phones says

      Yes, but you will probably be required to pay for the upgrade. If you were to switch to a different company, it would automatically give you a smart phone.

      Reply

    • Free Government Cell Phones says

      They all offer smart phones or smart phone SIM cards. They are now required to by law.

      Reply

  18. Susan Valkus working on the behalf of Jeannette HarrisThomas says

    I have been jumping through hoops for 1 and a half years trying to get a friend of mine a free Government cell phone who is in a nursing home and someone Stole her phone and she has no email address and she has immaculate degeneration and needs a phone that she can talk activate!!! Please help me get this for her.

    Reply

    • Free Government Cell Phones says

      In most cases you are not allowed to enroll for someone else, Susan. We are not a service provider so there’s not much we can do. But we urge you to keep trying. Your friend is lucky to have someone like to to assist her.

      Reply

    • C. Price says

      What your friend has is called macular degeneration, which puts her sight at risk. (I think you are confusing it with immaculate conception?) Which is a whole different thing! Anyway…. Help her set up a free email address. Like gmail or yahoo. Contact the Association for the blind and ask if they can help you find assistance for her…and if she is very low income? Maybe help her set up some facetime with her DHS caseworker, and contact the Area agency on Aging for some advice on how to help her.

      Reply

      • Free Government Cell Phones says

        That’s great advice, C. Thanks for leaving it. (And we decided to overlook the “immaculate degeneration” typo, but you handled it in a funny, yet delicate way.)

        Reply

  19. Kim Jenkins says

    I have a Samsung Galaxy note 8 phone that use to be my daughters! Though I have had it for atleast 2 months and I transferred my straight talk on this phone! I’m on foodstamps and work, live with my mom! I want to know if I can keep my phone and number? Would like to know what service is best for me! I live in Fort Smith, Arkansas

    Reply

    • Free Government Cell Phones says

      We get this question regularly, but there’s no way for us to know which plan and company would be best for you, Kim. The phone and plan that’s perfect for your neighbor might be completely wrong for you. There’s no way to know what kind of signal strength you have at your house or the house next door or the one down the road. Wish we could be of more help, but it’s just not possible.

      That being said, you should check out all the plans available in your state to find the ones you think might be right, then speak to customer service to see if those conversations help you make up your mind. Here’s where you can find all the plans in your state:

      https://www.freegovernmentcellphones.net/states

      Good luck.

      Reply

    • Vincent Reagan says

      Dear Kim Jenkins;
      More than likely you should be able to port your old(current #) to your new account..
      Sincerely,
      Vincent
      🙂

      Reply

  20. Carmen Willey says

    I got Safelink and so excited. BUT–never could get it to make calls??? On the phone with Safelink many times–nothing worked! They sent me another phone, and Sim card, nothing!! Then, you have to make at least one call a month and I never could so they cut me off. I need something else, please!!

    Reply

  21. Karmella Durant says

    No no no qlink sends terrible slow phones. Definitely wouldn’t say its smart at all. The wifi never works. It’s a lifeline brand phone. It’s like having a tracfone all over again. It just quit working and crashed up to 8 months of having it. It was a nightmare to use.

    Reply

  23. Ogn Dulk says

    I’ve been with Tag Mobile a couple of years. I’ve never gotten the 2GB data promised. At best I get 500MB full speed then more at a snail’s pace. I’ve received a SIM from SafeLink, but I can’t find a single positive review about them and it seems there is no way to contact them by email or talk to a human being customer service person.
    I had TruConnect for about a year using their cheap Blu Dash Jr. phone and I could not connect to the internet. Now I’ve applied again on their promise of 3GB data and I’ll be using my own iPhone SE.
    All the Lifeline providers are dreadful, yet they get paid taxpayer money. It’s not that I need the data, but what if I’m away from home and have an emergency? I guess you get what you pay for so I’ll carry my other phone with me. It has a T-Mobile plan that’s $3/30 minutes/month. There is the option to buy 1GB data good for 1 week for $10, but I’d have to swap SIM cards to use that plan in my iPhone.
    The providers are all shady fly-by-night type outfits with only voice and text with any reliability. I guess you get exactly what you pay for.

    Reply

  24. Dakota Griffin says

    I live in Benton Illinois and I am trying to get a new phone. I am on a very low income I can’t afford to get a new phone. I have to use other people’s phone just to get a hold of people and with my disabilities that is really hard for me to do

    Reply

  25. Alica Higgins says

    So great it is a free smartphone, from the government. But even free the screen should be bigger than 5 inches. The screen should be at least 7 inches or bigger. Just because it is free doesn’t mean they should give out the smallest smartphones ever. Personally I have a very hard time using a smaller phone. Besides the smaller the phone the easier it is to lose and keep track of.

    Reply

  26. jake says

    If anyone in Ohio got a new lifeline phone this year please post the model number?
    thanks.

    and who you got it from also plz.

    Reply

  28. Trina says

    I thank you so much for the information that you have provided. There is so much information out there that it is very confusing. You have done an awesome job of straightening that out for me. Thanks again

    Reply

  29. Jonnae says

    Hi, I have applied for a phone thru Qlink wireless & they could not verify my identity, After dragging it out for over 2 months! I then went to Assurance wireless, street level (which now I read, you say is problematic) & they said the same thing. I called the USAC & spoke to a live person & they said they do not Handle Ohio & told me to just keep trying other companies!!!
    How do I Not exist, I showed my driver’s license, I AM on Medicaid! How do I resolve this?! By calling the FBI or contacting my congressman?

    Reply

    • Free Government Cell Phones says

      All you need to do is click around this website to find all the info you need, Tiffany.

      Reply

      • Lynn Sexton says

        Basically, Tiffany, these companies are making BUTTLOADS of taxpayer money but are never held accountable in any way! They send out crap phones, provide very sketchy service, it’s almost impossible to speak with a human (and if you do, they are disrespectful and useless), and not ONE government official will do a damn thing about it!!!

        Reply

  34. Shataya Smith says

    I got a Smart Phone watch and I’m not getting any service, but the instructions are saying that I need a smartphone, but I have a iPhone 6. All I have is the instructions and it doesn’t have a company number on it and I got it through the government and it didn’t have a name on it. The people that was setting it up were men and they were downtown near Lexington Market. By any chance, can I get the company name to which gave out this government phone watch so I can get disconnected from this company please.

    Reply

    • Free Government Cell Phones says

      You’ve done almost everything possible to cause yourself problems, Shataya. We urge our readers NOT to enroll at street events. If you can get the phone to work, you can use it to call 6-1-1 and your service provider will answer. If you can’t get it to work, contact USAC.org. They can help you find your service provider.

      Reply

  35. Kathy Woodruff says

    IT.

    I’ve been with Assurance government service for 2 years. Contract expires 05/17/19. I’ve had issues with my phone not working on several occasions. I receive SSI, SNAP and Medicaid. Is it possible to change carriers

    Reply

  36. Robin Clubb says

    Thank you so much for your comprehensive research. I feel much better informed as I get ready to start making calls, and your list if providers by state is very helpful. Thank you.

    Reply

  37. Lori says

    I was approved on 3/29/19 by Safelink. I have a enrollment id. I went thru the 45 minute question answer. And I was approved that day. 7-10 days to expect my phone. Fast forward to now. It’s over a month..three phone called into company, emails.. And I was at first not even recognized by the enrollment I’d, then found, now I am Escalated, but according to the app, I’m pending. I need a phone. I had one years back and it got wet. If I didn’t truly need help, I wouldn’t care. Safelink Please up your service. People depend on you.

    Reply

  38. Tina says

    Some of these free so called people call phone companies don’t all cover south Carolina area so you all need to have zip code area coverage HELP and some sites so messed up to discourage us

    Reply

  39. Ed says

    now are the phones free or is the service provider $compensated$ for the phone from Ca Lifeline Program ,,if so anyone have info as to $ dollar amount paid to service provider for each phone given to a subscriber

    Reply

  40. Lori J Samples says

    Qlink says it’s available in my zip code area,but when I was filling out the application it told me that it wasn’t available. So I emailed them and was told that it wasn’t available. But yet my neighbor was able to get a phone and plan a month ago. I wonder why it has change in such a short time.

    Reply

  41. Biancasummerville says

    Hey my name is me Summerville and I’m trying to get a free minute phone today but it seem like I can’t get my info and on online

    Reply

    • Free Government Cell Phones says

      Seriously? There’s this great website called FreeGovernmentCellPhones.net that offers all the info you need. You should visit it.

      Reply

  42. Marsha says

    I have been with SafeLink for over 5 years. Every year I get a text to call for recertification. I call and answer all the questions. Then I fax all pertinent documents to them. Then I get an application in the mail asking again for all the information. I fill it out and send it in.

    Over a month later I will get a letter telling me They were not able to recertify my phone. I will call again and talk to an agent who tells me they didn’t get my information and I will have to start over.

    This is an every year event. It’s bad enough that everyone I talk to is from another country and I have a VERY hard time understanding what they are saying to me.

    I want desperately to change providers but am not sure what company to trust. Or if who I find on the web are real companies or links to scammers.

    Would you be able to help me in this matter?

    Reply

    • Free Government Cell Phones says

      It’s impossible for us to answer that question because there are so many variables, Marsha. The one that works perfectly for you may not provide good service next door. But we can tell you that all the companies we discuss on this website are real, not scammers.

      Reply

  43. Carmen K Winans says

    I got an assist wireless phone last month when I got out of prison I need a smartphone to do job apps and stuff but what I got is worse than a flip phone I am being billed for internet an can’t get it on this junk phone

    Reply

    • Free Government Cell Phones says

      A couple comments: First, ALL new customers are supposed to receive smart phones. That’s the law. So call customer service immediately and demand that they send you the correct phone. Second, why are you being billed for anything. The free government cell phone is supposed to be FREE. Did you mistakenly sign up for a plan that provides additional data above and beyond the standard free amount? Again, speak to customer service to get the problem solved.

      Reply

      • rooch says

        My Assurance Alcatel Onetouch phone stopped being able to make calls or receive anything other than messages. I have had this phone for about 4 years. Assurance claims that the “phone is out of warranty” and that i have to PAY them $5 to get a new smartphone.

        This if a free Lifeline phone. Why should I have to pay them anything? They could not tell me whether there would be any charges for Internet access with that phone. I don’t want a phone that costs me money, That’s not why i signed up with the Lifeline program.

        Reply

        • Free Government Cell Phones says

          Jeez, Rooch, are you really complaining about $5? That’s a lot better price than most of the Lifeline companies charge for replacements hones. The program offers you a free cell phone. It doesn’t promise to provide you with free cell phones for the rest of your life.

          That means you’re paying an average of $1.25 per year for your cell phone. And you’re complaining about that? You truly are the kind of person who gives this program a bad name.

          Reply

    • Free Government Cell Phones says

      The problem you’ll run into, Mark, is that none of the free government cell phone companies will assure that you get a free iPhone. However, there is something called BYOP (bring Your Own Phone) plans offered by most of the free government cell phone companies. You can go out and buy your own phone and use it with the Lifeline program. Of course, you need to make sure that the phone you want to buy is compatible with the cell network used by your preferred service provider. Call its customer service team to check on the make and model you want to buy BEFORE you buy it.

      Reply

    • Free Government Cell Phones says

      Each service provider offers different phones at different times. In other words, it’s very difficult to figure out which phone you may end up with.

      Reply

  47. Carlton says

    I cannot support the Qlink laud. My phone is awful. I get recorded messages continually saying that I’ve not used it and must hit the correct digit – WRONG. The buttons seldom work as they should. The phone malfunctions continually and has since received a year ago. Service replies only with something akin to “we’ll get back to you”.
    This is a perfect example of taxation being used for “government” programs or providing programs that misuse information. Socialism does not work and never has, in the world. Far better to lower most taxes and get rid of such “freebies”, as the penalties of having them outweighs all benefits, in any program. The constant commercials, “news” invasions, and them sharing my previously unknown number with countless solicitors is horrible. I have had this number for many years and do not wish to change it for reasons obvious to most. Buying a phone each month now will never cancel the harassment received from Qlink sharing my number.

    Reply

    • dave says

      Please look at the QLink Bring your own Phone section. You can buy a Samsung Galaxy S8 and use it on their service. There are several iphones that work as well.

      Since all the free phone ARE crap, especially Assurance Wireless, I moved to QLink so I could use my Galaxy S8. Best of both worlds. Great phone and free service.

      My only real complaint with QLink is their data service is 3G and often un-available. But if you don’t use a lot of data, you can bring many phones and get the free service. No extra charge.

      Reply

  48. Father Don Pasquada denottadodda says

    I got a free government phone from QLINK wireless..I’v had it now for two months..1000 free talk minutes per month(that’s 16 hours)and unlimitd texting..and..it’s a smartphone…i can download apps,and do ANYTHING with it that i can do with any cell phone i paid for..It’s amarfvellous deal ..FREE.. I uploadled my disability info and sent it to QLINK and they in turn sent me the phone..it was easy..Afer eading so much about othermphones and srvices i’m so thankful i decided on QLINK WIRELESS…I talk to other people who ahve similar phones through similar companies but they don’t have near
    both the 16 hours free talk time every month and unlimited texting..a bunch of free rin tones and screensavers as well ..and i do mean quite a few!!! it’s abosutely winderful to be able to have a cell phone with that much talk time and unlimited texting..for FREE.. I ued to have to pay around 50 or 60 bucks a month for these features and my having a disability provides them for free..(Texas in my opinion is ahead of other states in the way of helping the disabled)..Thank God for QLINK!!

    Reply

    • Free Government Cell Phones says

      We were unaware of any free HIV phones, so we did a little Googling. Turns out that Motorola and several other companies have a free HIV cell phone program in Africa, but not in the USA.

      Reply

  50. Ken says

    Congress itself put out a report saying phones from ZTE and Huewei should not be trusted, yet these are the go-to phones for these companies to send.

    Like others have mentioned, they barely work. I’m not talking about them not playing Candy Crush well. If you even want to make a phone call, chances are you’ll have to restart the phone or it will just hang on a spinning-cursor screen. Hope you weren’t trying to make an emergency call.

    These devices are completely inadequate and malfunction quickly, and then the companies expect the person has done some kind of damage to them, so won’t provide a replacement. They will ask if you’ve “exposed the phone to water” or “dropped it” despite the fact that these cheap piece of garbage basically break down completely on their own.

    These phones are a risk to consumer safety in multiple ways and should not be offered. I’d encourage anyone who was given one of these bricks to file a complaint with the Universal Service Administrative Company, the organization which oversees the LifeLine program.

    Reply

    • Robert francesco says

      I’ve had my phone for a long time(over a year) and the zte phone i have is fine..works great..all kinds of features..you’re the only person i ever heard of calling them dangerous..my phone has been a godsend …the only people i ever heard putting down government phones down in general usually insist they’e used to spy on their customers..(ie,paranoia)

      Reply

  51. Nikki Vandehey says

    Qlink may offer free smartphones but they do not work! They put too many of their own apps on the phone so it’s constantly to its limit on data… I’m afraid if I take a picture the phone would explode… Dropped phone calls are regular ordeal with doctors and the like, I can hear them talking and they cannot hear me! Text are being sent from my phone to other people’s phones and I am not sending them! Total invasion of privacy! Terrible customer service… They expect you to fix your own phone when they sent it to you in operable and the list could go on and on! If you’re going to help the poor then don’t make their lives more miserable try to give them a product that will work and uplift their lives not make them more complicated and frustrating!

    Reply

    • Teresa Bonjour says

      I agree with you! I can’t keep my Wi-fi on and there isn’t much of the 1 gig of data left and the internal memory is ate up by their own junk apps and advertisements. You put up a walpaper for your lock screen but can’t even see it for the dumb news advertisement! If I can’t use my Wi-fi and they use up the 1st gig of data they should give 1 or 2 gigs free fit the inconvenience. I tried talking to 2 different pharmacies yesterday and they couldn’t hear me about my prescriptions. Annoying and could be dangerous when the pharmacists give the wrong answer cause they can’t be sure what you’re saying. My phone is a ZTE and only 2 weeks old.

      Reply

    • Vincent Reagan says

      Dear Nikki Vandehey;
      Isn’t it possible to uninstall some of the pre-installed apps which come all ready installed on the phone!? It might help dramatically? You might also want to look at buying more memory!!??
      Best of luck.
      Sincerely. Vincent.

      Reply

  52. BarbiB says

    Okay,…I read everything and all I want to know is: “In Phgoenix Arizona are there actual storefronts that have any of these phones?”

    Reply

    • Free Government Cell Phones says

      If you read everything, you know that we provide contact info for each of the service providers. They can answer your question.

      Reply

  53. Evelyn says

    I was a little surprised how the lifeline program are set up I think the government needs to regulate what kind of cell phones that you get they should all be updated and not used and refurbished a lifeline program needs to be held accountable just because a person is low income does it mean they need inferior or cheaply-made products they’re not second-class people because they are low income thank you

    Reply

    • eddyvideostart says

      Evelyn: I see your point and sympathize with you, however, stratification will always exist as regarding financial status, although every life is significant. Ironically, in the U. S. after working my life away for an American communications company for decades — they consider me “third world.”

      Reply

  54. barbara hammer says

    i am on q link my phone is broken . i can’t afford to pay 25.00 to replace the broken phone. what can i do get a smartphone which company get one.

    Reply

  55. Artie says

    Im searching for a phone company by government lifeline programs. Which best for unlimited calls & texts and data services. Also, I have a Sprint iphone 5 without Sim card. I want to activate by access wireless but seem like having problems getting sim card to activate. Access wont t Provide me getting one.

    Reply

  56. John Wood says

    Are there smart phones with bigger keys? One reason I don’t have a smart phone is the keys are hard for me to accurately press due to a medical condition I have.

    Reply

    • Sarah says

      There is a keyboard app that you can download in your google play store for adroit or AppStore for iPhone, it’s a keyboard app that provides a big letter keyboard! In fact I think it’s called big keyboard or big letter keyboard or whatever! Just type big letter keyboard in the search field in your AppStore! Download it and your set! Hope this helps!

      Reply

  57. Melissa D Reid says

    Ok,I just got a SafeLink Sim ,but I have Verizon ,so why did they not provide me with a phone to use ,This Sim card At the moment Is useless to me I have no at&t phone.

    Reply

  59. Janis Renzi says

    Qlink wireless is horrible when it comes to customer service.
    There is no customer service. Try for yourself. No-one answers. I have sent numerous emails trying to get somebody to help me with what can be a dangerous problem and other problems on my second phone which you have to pay $25.00 for and wait a long time for it to be delivered.

    My replacement phone is a cheaper Android ZTe model, but here’s the kicker…it is hot on my ear and face if I talk in the phone, it gets so hot I am afraid it will catch on fire while I am talking on my phone. It runs HOT charging as well.

    The cable is extremely short. You cannot take it with you where you go, it will not reach a plug. I can only charge on my kitchen counter.

    When I am texting or emailing, as the words form above the keypad, I have to press and press and press to get the word to go down to the sentence.

    There is only one owner CEO, I have had a qlink phone for about 2.5 years, the president is Mr. Issa Asad, CEO.

    BIG TIME THUMBS DOWN FOR QLINK

    Reply

  60. Cynthia says

    Hi, I read your very extensive work you provided reguarding government’s low income free cell phones and maybe smartphones. This was dated early 2016 so I was hoping you would have more up to date Information.
    I am 67 years young (lol) looking for a real smartphone with the above government program and where we might know where to get it.
    Thank you so much for all your time and trouble
    Cj5890

    Reply

    • Free Government Cell Phones says

      Good news, Cynthia. ALL free government cell phone companies are now required to provide smart phones to their customers.

      Reply

  61. Jas says

    I’m an old guy, and all that. I have big hands/fingers, arthritis. So, need a good jitterbug like phone, or SNAP phone, I guess. So, I can make phone calls, using LARGE number pad.

    Frankly, don’t care about selfies, Internet connection, smart phone, whatever. Just make, receive calls, voice messaging, things like that.

    I see here, and at some sites, BYOP. That would be all right. I’m having trouble finding government free wireless providers. Who let you know, WHICH simple jitterbug like phones work on their network. Just about zero humans, actually at these sites to take one’s calls.

    Anyway, if some of you know which simple phones, work on most of the safelink wireless networks that would be nice. Or, if you know of a reputable sites listing wireless providers, and what kind of simple phone they accept, would be nice. Am also finding that 53511, is difficult area, in finding good wireless providers as well.

    Reply

  62. Kirt D. Clinton says

    My qlink wireless ZTE phone was lost or stolen. I contacted qlink wireless about getting a replacement phone for their replacement fee of $25. Was told that my debit card had been rejected. I phoned, ‘Wells Fargo Bank’, Qlink had tried to take the $25 out of my checking account 4 times, one of witch had gone through. I was able to contact qlink’s customer service again 2 days later, the representative wanted an additional $25. I asked to speak with his supervisor, spent 38 minutes on hold listening to them advertising themselves, and was almost late to my medical appointment. If the phone hadn’t been stolen I would have returned it by now, since there was no way to answer it anyways. My Qlink phone had been stolen or lost last April and it had only taken them 8 days to replace that phone. This one has been missing for 17 days and the replacement that I’ve already paid for is not even being shipped yet! I should be able to find a phone to use with the qlink “bring your own phone program, like, after I receive my Social Security Disability check on August third, hopefully.

    Reply

      • L T says

        Is it possible that q link has an I phone. Mine is a ZTE android and very hard to use. I don’t mind paying to change to API phone

        Reply

        • Free Government Cell Phones says

          Only Q Link customer service can tell you which phones they currently offer, so we’d recommend calling them. You might also take a look at their website to see if they make iPhones available.

          Reply

  63. Kimberley Hosmer says

    Now if I could just get Slink to answer their phones! Customer Service is an endless loop of prerecorded messages.
    PLEASE!!! Hire some live people!

    Reply

  64. Jerry Carpenter says

    After reading all these “TRUE evaluations” I can plainly see there are “NO” free smartphones for handicap senior citizens or anyone that really needs them only dollar this and dollar that , all sales pitches. Maybe someday America will “Demand “truth” in advertisemrnt and not all this free that’s really not. I as many others have seen you can’t trust any company anymore. So “when there is a real “free smartphone I can see” let me know where and what time to go there and I will, until then I’ll stay without a phone and be discrimimated as I have been for the past 3 years…….

    Reply

    • Free Government Cell Phones says

      This is an income-based program, Jerry, not an age-based one. All the companies offer free smartphones if you qualify based on your income or on your participation in another government assistance program.

      Reply

    • Rachelle Smith says

      IF anyone deservbes them, IT’S OUR VETERAINS!!! THEY ARE THE ONLY REASON YOU PEOPLE ARE LIVING IN YOUR HOMES EATING ICE CREAM ON YOUR COUCH WITH THE ABILITY TO LIVE FREELY!!! OUR VETS AND ACTIVE MILITARY ARE THE REASON EVERYONE IN AMERICA ARENT SLAVES TO ANOTHER COUNTRY!! Some of you think that now that you are old, you need to be put up on a pedelstool and be take care of. For what??? WORKING AT MC DONALDS, GROCERY STORES, FARMS ETC>?!!? THIS IS WHAT RETIREMENT IS FOR!! Your retirement is the worlds way of saying think you. You have done nothing significant fo the USA like the Vets and Active military have, by risking their lives for you disrespectful, ungreatful, self centered people. Also there are people out here who wished that they were in your shoes. they wished they had a job that they could retire from. Some people cant get hired no matter what they do and if they get hired they end up only making $8an hr which pays for NOTHING. I know people who get the free phones, the free food stamps, who shop at the good will. These people are truly broke!!! They cant buy a new phone if they wanted to. Im glad there are people out here who care enough to start this program. This program is not from people that arent struggling. Food stamps and free insurance is what proves your struggling.

      Reply

  65. Leaann Mattox says

    I have had safelink wireless for years and the last year has been progressively worse no, the last 3 they have made me “recertify” every 6 mos at a minimum! Every time I ask why they get nasty and say it’s only once a year . Uhm, NO I’ m not mentaly incapable, I know if IJust went through this. 3mos ago they send me a notice so I think now. I know Im not up for recertification yet. But, I think I just do what they want so I call, I get cut-off not just once but 4 times ( I don’t want to lose my service) I go on-line only to get the same so I have no way to do what they want if their system won’t let me. They cut my phone off. With out warning next. They are VERYRUDE! Not even in this country , won’t give me anybody else to talk to. Keep making me repetedly give info over and over for more than 2 hrs 45mins shut my phone off 24 hrs then came back on ??? For almost a month then shut off again. on a weekend again said I havent made any calls in mos. Tried to tell there must be something wrong somewhere just got MASSIVELY NASTY SAID THEY ONLY FOLLOW PROTOCOL. When I ask why do I have to recertify every mo got nasty again said “it’s our protocol” . I told him to ten please send mailing label to send their phone back he responded nastily “its an envelope now” I say ok whatever way just send it please I’m not doing this any more . You can’t play this with me any more if you don’t send the envelope I’ll send the phone back any way I don’t want it thank you very much have a better day I know I will. AND I REALLY WILL WITHOUT THAT STRESS! Bless all who spread peace not stress!

    Reply

    • Free Government Cell Phones says

      We cannot disconnect your phone because we are NOT your service provider, Bryan. Call 6-1-1 on your free government cell phone to speak to customer service.

      Reply

  67. Scott M West says

    Qlink does give you a smart phone but it’s a piece of crap!! Sometimes I have slide the screen to unlock it 5 or 6 times before it will stay open. It goes back to the home screen in the middle of a text….Yeah, it’s free…and worth even less than that!

    Reply

    • Rachelle Smith says

      Was your I phone X free? Or was it one of those discounted upgrade plans? If so which free government phone website did you use? 🙂

      Reply

      • Free Government Cell Phones says

        We may be wrong, but we do not believe any free government cell phone company is currently offering iPhone X.

        Reply

  69. Dorothy Magee says

    Ok I am with Safelink and I can’t get a signal with my cell.i went back and forth to the point they sent me over 15 + new Sims cards nothing worked.so they sent me a they say a smart phone .nope still no signal unless I get in my car and drive 5 blocks.so I read up on qlink and offer safe link to return this cell and go with another free cell company .I went and got a new battery no help I stay online forever with Safelink to put in a bunch of codes and just for a few seconds I get a signal .then poof gone .I wanted a phone for emergency and yes it is nice to take photos of my grandchildren but how can I switch companies? Q link says it’s not available in South Carolina what I read it is but I get no where on the phone after being on hold for seems like forever with Safelink then I get kicked off and have to call all over again .I just want a cell that works and my doctor’s can reach me .if I could afford a fancy cell I still wouldn’t pay out hundreds of dollars for a cell .I love the fact I can get a free cell but doesn’t help if it doesn’t work .all I am asking is how to unenroll from one program and return the cell and sign up with a Q link since it seems to be the best one .it’s not like I live out in a rural area were there are no towers or lots of hot spots .I have been with Safelink since 2013 & for 5 years I have been going through this so any help I can get to get a cell that works .Thank You

    Reply

  70. Wendy Duong says

    my parents live in Indiana, Mom is 76 and Dad is 83, i need help to get a phone for them, please advice on how i can get a free phone for them, thanks

    Reply

    • Free Government Cell Phones says

      “How to get a free government cell phone” is what this whole website is about, Wendy. Begin by looking up at the top of the page and clicking on “Do You Qualify?” Then click on “States” to find all the companies and plans available in your state. Pick the one that fits your parents’ needs best and enroll using the contact info we provide on each company’s page. Bingo!

      Reply

    • Free Government Cell Phones says

      Your service provider “may” offer you one for free, but you will probably be charged a small fee for a new phone.

      Reply

    • Vincent Reagan says

      Essie, if you can remember who your cell phone provider was you could contact them ask them if they could send you a new phone to use with the lifeline program..?
      Best of luck.
      Sincerely. Vincent.

      Reply

  72. Irene Earlywine says

    I’m not sure about what I just read. I just want to know if if I can keep the same telephone number I’ve already got years ago from a free government phone. I’m paying now

    Reply

    • Free Government Cell Phones says

      Yes, you can keep the same phone number when you switch companies. All you have to do is tell the customer service rep that you want to “port over my current phone number.”

      Reply

  73. MARI says

    ONCE SIGNED UP WITH ONE PROVIDER AND AFTER GETTING MY PHONE, WILL I BE ABLE TO SWITCH PROVIDER IF I’M NOT HAPPY WITH THE CONNECTION/SERVICE/PHONE? AM I GOING TO BE STUCK WITH THAT PROVIDER?

    Reply

    • Free Government Cell Phones says

      Good news, Mari. The rules changed a few weeks ago and there are now ZERO restrictions on changing service providers. So you can enroll with one company one day, then switch to another the next day, and to a third the day after that. Cool, huh?

      Reply

  74. Elizabeth says

    I’m not trying to TROLL I promise. (Did I even say that right?)

    I just wanted to add that people can DONATE their old smart phones in order to make more of them available for people who need phones using one of these government sponsored programs. I am not 100%, but I believe these smartphones are largely from donations, either from the companies or individuals. You can find information using 211 or searching for your state. Most of what I found had to do with veterans, but I know that I’ve seen donation drives at locations that sell mobile devices too. You can also call the companies and ask if they know of any way you might donate your old phone.

    Reply

  75. Elizabeth says

    I also forgot the reason I came here. I can’t block calls on SafeLink. With all the stupid scams out there, this is a horrible discovery. They won’t stop calling and texting and using up my minutes. 6 times a day I get calls! I need my phone for work, and emergencies! I’m self employed and just finally started working again. So this is annoying. The FCC are currently working on this issue, but I hate not being able to block calls. I plan on calling SafeLink to see if there is a way to block unknown callers, but these are not restricted numbers, just random ones. Sometimes not even full numbers. anyway. Just thought I’d mention it, and if anyone knows how to do this or has suggestions OTHER THAN DONOTCALLREGISTRY OR REPORTING! Thank you, but that doesn’t work on my SafeLink. I’m registered, and I’ve reported.. These guys are hacks and scammers, they don’t care whether it’s illegal or not!

    Good Day!

    Reply

    • Free Government Cell Phones says

      And to make matters even worse, each of those incoming calls eats up your monthly minutes.

      Reply

      • Elizabeth says

        Yes exactly! I called SafeLink, and after being hung up on twice I give up. I was told the only thing I can do is buy a new cell phone that is a smart phone, and get an app that allows me to block or report calls as spam. I could also block others from seeing my number. I don’t know why that was a suggestion, because that is not helpful at all. But both of the men I talked to said I should do that. Who cares who I call. I’m not a scam artist! I give up…. for now anyway.

        Reply

    • Glenda Sue Brown says

      I have lost my qlink smart phone can I please reply for a nother one.thank you Glenda Sue Brown.Phone # is 270 978 ****.

      Reply

  76. Elizabeth says

    To say they All are required to give free smartphones is a little misleading. I have SafeLink, which btw I mostly love. I still have to be outside to make a call, even to 911! Which is typical though of just about anyone in my area because … Well, I don’t know. But all my neighbors have to go outside, or close to their front to make calls too.

    Anyway. SafeLink offers the upgrade to a ‘smartphone’ but not all of them are that smart. Which you already knew. However. They cost anywhere from $19 to $100+, Some of them ARE new. Most are not. They also work on different networks, so you need to find out which one works best in your area, before even choosing a phone.

    When you first get your ‘phone’ it is an ancient [I’m laughing to pieces here] phone that is hard to text, and has limited settings.

    What can you do on your free phone? They’ve done some really awesome major upgrades over the past few years. You can connect to the internet, but as the internet has also undergone some major changes in the last few years, you are limited as to which sites will work due to your phone’s ability to process the data. Most sites are too complex for your phone to use.

    They offer fantastic discounts for additional time, and the internet available is perfect for the normal user. Like, if you want a definition for kerfunkle. Seriously, just looked it up. It takes a little time to load between pages, but sometimes it works even when you can’t make calls. (That can be annoying).

    Overall, I love my SafeLink. As long as I’m not at home my cell works great most days. That is what I want it to do. If I am home and need to make calls, then I just make sure I set it near the window, and step outside so I can continue with the call. That’s annoying, but not the end of the world.

    I have not chosen to upgrade to one of their smartphones, now offered through their website. After reading the comments, I’m a little afraid too. I can not afford to be without my phone for emergency reasons. I do work online, and use Google on the go a lot, but I’m not willing to sacrifice my decent chump phone for something that might work two days out of the month. Not saying that’s the case here, but reading all the comments makes me super weary.

    The minutes offered by Safelink, which include text (I think may be unlimited, or may be discounted), and internet, (Which does use up your minutes, but not as much as I thought it would), is perfect for the average non-smartphone user.

    You can also transfer files via computer if you have the right hook ups, which is just a usb charger that connects to your phone. By files, I mean sound files that are compatible, and image files. You must check compatibility to do this. You don’t have a ton of space, but it’s nice to give yourself a custom ringtone or background.

    They offer ringtones etc, but I don’t think any of them are that great. When I search popular images, I’m like, ‘That’s stupid looking who would like that’. but oh well.

    I really hope this info has helped someone out there, I only commented because I thought it might be useful.

    Oh. Also. I contacted the company to see about getting a new phone when mine would no longer charge. It apparently got wet. I think I got my purse wet in the rain, who knows. Anyway, they sent me a replacement phone – at no charge!- but it was not a smart phone. “Whatever’s available” is what I was told. Well, the little dinky phones are a ton cheaper to make. So though they say you ‘might’ get a smartphone, the odds are you will not. You can always bring your own phone (check compatibility before purchasing) or buy one of theirs. Again. I haven’t tried this because I need a phone that works, and am not currently willing to spend the money or take that chance.

    Finally. To say they are required to give people smart phones is dangerously misleading. They are possibly required to have them available upon request (if you pay), with the possibility that you might randomly get one. But they are not required to give you anything but what is available. If smartphones are not available, and you bet they aren’t, then your not getting one unless you pay a fee.

    Bottom line? Get your free phone, and if you want to pay extra to upgrade, it’s still cheaper than major retailers, so do that.

    I’ve only ever used SafeLink and Assurance. I’d rather be homeless than use Assurance’s services again. My neighbor says they claim to have made improvements but I don’t care. Someone got an account in my name, THREE DIFFERENT ONES! And instead of seeing if my identity was stolen, or even trying to contact me, they let them do it, until I called to get there service. Turns out, that if you get there service, they are not required to cancel the service unless you have the information you used to sign up for there service. That means, if someone used your info to open an account with them, you can not get that account closed ever! That also happens if you’ve for whatever reason lost the information yourself! If this happens to you, you can talk to the website mentioned in the article about reporting to the unit over the service of LifeLine – and you can also call your local Human Services, they sometimes are helpful enough to direct you in the right place to get the situation fixed. I had to call our Family Assistance Services, and they helped me get a new service with SafeLink. I do not trust Assurance at all after this, and I ask you to be cautious too.

    Anyway. I hope this has helped someone. Thanks from Tennessee!

    Reply

    • Free Government Cell Phones says

      Great, detailed comment, Elizabeth, but you overlooked one word in our earlier comment. All Lifeline companies are now required to give free smartphones to all NEW customers. Nothing in the new regulations requires them to offer smartphones to existing customers.

      Reply

      • Elizabeth says

        After reading some of your other articles I saw my mistake. Thanks. Yes, I’ve been a customer with SafeLink, and trying to work with them. But since I’m not a new customer they treat me like dirt. No, not really. But Spending Money to Save Money is a stupid concept in my opinion. I don’t want to have to buy a new phone just to get my service to work, it’s stupid. One of these days none of this stuff will matter and our descendants will look back and say wow that must have been horrible. And it is. 😀

        Reply

  79. Bryan says

    Qlink sucks bad the service doesnt work but once in a while it drops my calls and i have to keep waste time dialing praying i get connected and 90 percent of the time i dont get to make another call for 40 min and then if im in town it connects me to Verizon and then i have to make a credit card payment

    Reply

  80. JOEY says

    Yea Qlink will send a free smartphone but they send you the biggest piece of xoxo if ya know what I mean it is always freezing up or having to be turned of an back on or it just simply has no service at all so no matter what ya stil do not have a phone

    Reply

  81. Jennifer says

    I find it amusing that those who are eligible for one of these phones expected all the bells and whistles. The purpose of the government phone was to be able to receive phone calls for job interviews, to call 911 in case of an emergency, and family connection. To expect games and iPhones, etc., is beyond ridiculous. And yes, I am a recipient. I am physically crippled and disabled.

    I am also disgusted at the attitudes of the rich that also think these people shouldn’t have SOMETHING to call 911 AT THE VERY LEAST or be able to job hunt. They also think the phones provided are super, top-notch, state of the art, technical masterpieces. Well, they most certainly are not. They’re fairly small, slow, self-switch from one thing to another…. they are NOT little marvels. Also, I USED TO THINK THAT WAY TOO. It sickens me that they want to begrudge the tiniest bit of luxury for someone. Pathetic.

    Reply

  82. shannonlee says

    I have a Qlink account, and I get an email every month about my usage. For the first month it had service, I believe there calls were made on it. the problem is, I never received this phone! I have reached out several times trying to remedy the issue and notify them that somebody else must have received my phone. I have asked for instructions about how to remedy this issue. I always get an instant reply, stating that there is a high volume of customer service alerts to respond to, but somebody will get back with me. It has been several, at least eight, months. I cannot seem to figure out what to do. I tried signing up with a different company, but was denied because it is on file that I already have a lifeline service phone plan. Yikes.

    Reply

  83. Monika says

    I’m surprised Q link came so highly recommended , it doesn’t have every thing to connect to the internet, i needed the equal sign and it didn’t have it, it moves so slow trying to connect to the internet uses all the data time they give you. it drops calls, and several times it tells me cant send messages , or to word it right sending data failed.. Mine is slow to come up when bring it up, and to just get out or off it pushing that back button takes so long it freeze up and i have to restart it . i thought it was just my phone till i started reading some of what others said about it, Personally i didn’t find it the right fit for me.

    Reply

  84. J . Watkins says

    I know I did not type that out incorrectly .Again I said
    “That Qlink only offers 350 minutes compared to Safelink who offers 500 minutes and they DO have a bring your own phone program … Just say’in

    Reply

  85. J . Watkins says

    I was comparing wireless co. And found that some of your info is incorrect . D-Link only offers 350 minutes while Dateline offers 500 and they Do have a bringing our own phone program … Jus say’in.

    Reply

  86. Chari Bowman says

    I’m with Qlink, got this small are smartphone that is not only super slow but it’s sumhow defective. It loses connection continuously. Sometimes it drops calls. When I complained to the company the only solution they offered was to send ANOTHER $25 for another phone. Well I don’t want to waste ANOTHER sum of money on ANOTHER piece of sh** phone. I’m at a standstill.

    Reply

    • Free Government Cell Phones says

      Visit the USAC.org website and see if they can help you, Chari. It is the organization that is in charge of the Lifeline free government cell phone program.

      Reply

    • Vicki says

      QLINK is the worse company I have ever had to deal with. I have had a flip phone forever and now that it isn’t working they want me to pay 25.00 for another one. makes no sense to me, if I could afford 25.00 I would get one so now I am out of luck. I have e-mailed and called numerous time and get madder by the minute.

      Reply

    • Dee says

      Well what good is a phone that doesnt work??? Please do tell..Geez just because u are poor doesnt mean u should not be entitled. For the company to make good on their promises..Most pf the ppl getting lifeline phones cant afford to buy phones and cannot afford to be completely without one and most. These are there only means of communication..Im disgusted by ur attitude..God forbid we should expect the device to actually work and be treated with respect..shame on u

      Reply

  88. Lea Harris says

    Thank you! I h But your article is very informative and most helpful in a understandable genre . Thank you Sincerely yours Lea Harris
    ave gotten more information from this article than I all my searches put together in a years time. Free gov. providers are very evasive with their answers when asked by the public. The one thing I am still needing is where? Do these providers,(QLink) have a walk in store mart? where you can shop and check out different brands and styles of smart phones. Over the phone sucks! you dont hands on what your paying extra for and it takes two weeks to come in the mail.

    Reply

    • Free Government Cell Phones says

      Sorry, Lea, but none of the major free government cell phone providers offer brick-and-mortar stores. This is a wild guess on our part, but we’ve always assumed it’s because their profit margins are so slim that it must remain primarily a phone and internet-based business.

      Reply

    • Free Government Cell Phones says

      The rules changed about a year ago, Karli, and every free government cell phone company now offers smartphones to new customers.

      Reply

  92. Tiffany says

    You know although I appreciate the time & effort it took to gather up all the above information. You so could’ve saved people a heck of a lot time by just posting the “lets sum it all up” paragraph! LOL

    Reply

  93. Sharon Bowman says

    Q link gave me a cell phone and it worked ok for a few days then I dropped it and it cracked. So The only way to replace it is to pay them $25 for a replacement phone. Which I really didn’t have to spend. But when The phone came it was working fine and just a few months I have been loosing calls and when I press an icon to the next page it puts it on and the goes back to the page I started with as the First window. It wont stop flashing back and forth and then it would turn off one turn back on. I have no patients for a phone like this so PLEASE DONT GIVE ME THE CALLED ZTE MODEL-ZTE N817, FCC ID:SRQ-ZTEN817, MEID DEC:268 435 464 614 129 879
    MEID HEX:A00 000 56D 79A D7, S/N 3257741215BC, H/W: CQ5110V 2 0. MADE IN CHINA BC. THIS IS TALL THE CODE ON THE BACK OF MY BAD PHONE. PHEASE LET ME KNOW HOW I CANT GET MY $25.00 BACK SINCE THE PHONE DOESN’T WORK? P.S. MY EMAIL ADDRESS IS (*******@gmail.com) if you have any question for me.

    Reply

  95. Gina says

    My friend on a life line cell phone has been without a phone for 2 months. Her plan was through assurance. Not sure why they are taking their time delivering a new one. Now if she has to pay a fee for a smartphone which she had from them but could not receive any attachments nor could she the pics. Is it a one time fee to get a smartphone that works from any dealer of free phones or a monthly bill. By by he way never had Internet capacity. The company was not using the smartphone to its capabilities. I’m truly g to help her get a new phone.

    Reply

    • Free Government Cell Phones says

      If your friend hasn’t had a phone for two months, his account should have been cancelled. That’s supposed to happen after 30 days of non-usage, but it often “slips through the cracks” with the Lifeline providers. If Safelink is your friend’s service provider, he should visit its website because it allows you to check the status of your account.

      Reply

    • Free Government Cell Phones says

      Have you contacted your service provider’s customer service team yet? If not, that’s what you should do.

      Reply

  97. Jackie corsaro says

    I had a phone with SafeLink I lost it it was so small I can’t find I couldn’t find it anywhere for almost 2 months I called qlink to get a phone from them and they keep telling me that I have a Lifeline phone in my home and I do not I don’t understand how they could say that I have one I called SafeLink four times and they said they had cancelled my phone they terminated what’s going on qlink

    Reply

  98. Domenick Z says

    Q-link’s web site says: We do not currently offer service in your area. We are constantly expanding our coverage area. We will let you know when coverage is available. Pennsylvania>> but it says they cover 97% of the USA ….lol I’ve tried for over a year with no luck …Oh well

    Reply

      • Janis Renzi says

        Also problems that do not get fixed and no customer service rep to speak with, as well, they do not answer except to tell you to purchase a new one for $25.00. They are the worst cell phone company ever. do not use them.
        \

        Reply

  99. Jimmy says

    It would show a lack of class to have soaked up all the information provide in summery on just one page with the volume of vendors providing a wide range of services. So let me say thank you very for your time & service, good business.

    Reply

    • Yvonne Gates says

      I am 75 years old and my income is below poverty level. I live in a rural area, I am disabled, and do not own a car.
      I have an Assurance government phone with 300 min. and I run out of min within two and a half weeks.
      I need a government phone with unlimited min. because of my health and living situation.
      Do you know of any government phone’s that offer unlimited min.?

      Reply

      • Free Government Cell Phones says

        Where do you live, Yvonne. California and Oklahoma are the only states in which unlimited plans are offered.

        Reply

  101. sharon says

    I just left long comment about safelink service I forgot to mention I receive 500 free minutes monthly and this is my only phone. I do not text it just takes forever on the old fashioned cell phones. . . so you would think I would run out of minutes pretty quickly. Not so I usually have between 400 – 450 minutes left at months end and they don’t rollover. Wouldn’t do me any good if they did.

    Reply

  102. sharon says

    I have safelink government cell phone. It will not work in my home. People say they have called and called me but I don’t answer or it goes to voicemail. Occasionally I get their message but hours later. When I try to make calls from home it “tells me I can only call emergency” , “no service”, or the call just fails. I have called customer service and their reply is “when you are home next time phone does this call from another phone so they can call my cell phone to check for problem.” I reply well how can I call you from another phone when obviously I do not have one or I wouldn’t desperately need their (horrible) service. I have had my phone for years now you would think they could send me a new phone and let me send the non-working phone back but they refuse. My brother (i say proudly a navy vet) was in a nursing home and i was his contact for health decisions and so on they tried to call me for over a week … first to inform me how his health turned for the worse and then to let me know he had passed. They called his lawyer and he came to my home to inform me my brother had passed. Would have been nice to have received the call so I could get out their to see him. Etc. etc. I want to change providers but don’t know who would be best service in Ohio nor do I want to be without a phone for a week or so. I can walk outside of my house then usually I can make a call. SAFELINK HAS HORRIBLE CUSTOMER SERVICE

    Reply

  104. Jenifer says

    I had q link last year and did not get a smart phone. I got an old flip phone even though they advertise for smart phones and said I would receive a smart phone. But a phones a phone right? Companies need to make sure they don’t advertise something and then go back on it though.

    Reply

  107. BARBARA says

    THANK YOU. BUDGET WAS ACQUIRED BY ENTOUCH WIRELESS. I HAD NO PROBLEM UNTIL MY REQUEST FOR AN ANDROID WAS FULFILLED. THE PHONE IS DEFECTIVE, I NO LONGER HAVE THE SIGNAL STRENGTH OF MY REGULAR NON-SMART ANDROID CELL PHONE. I DO NOT GET RECEPTION FROM SPRINT OR VERIZON WHICH IS WHAT ENTOUCH USES. ANY SUGGESTIONS?

    Reply

    • Free Government Cell Phones says

      Chad from enTouch does a great job monitoring and answering our readers questions. Let’s see what he has to say, Barbara.

      Reply

    • Free Government Cell Phones says

      Most companies offer a variety of phones, Kelly, so we don’t know if what you say is true for every phone the company offers.

      Reply

  109. Martina says

    I am on ssi, Medicaid, food stamps and partially disabled. I don’t care for cell phones but must have a phone for emergencies when I am away from home which isn’t that often. When I am away the minutes disappear so fast. I don’t like being on the phone too long, but if I am away animal sitting for brother, I always run out of minutes in a short time and cannot afford to add minutes. So I am stuck without minutes. I have been on both safe link and assurance and don’t care for either. I have used track phone also but they worked on same system only I had to pay money that should have gone to food. My food budget is about $20 a week, which is impossible with diabetes. Help me find a provider for needs.

    Reply

  110. LJDillon says

    I have been a metro customer for at least ten years with the same cell number. May i continue to have this number with a free government phone?

    Reply

    • Free Government Cell Phones says

      You should be able to keep the same number, LJ. But make sure you tell the customer service rep that, “I want to port over my current phone number.” Repeat it several times during the conversation. And then before you end the call, confirm that “my current phone number is being ported over.”

      Reply

  111. Rosario Ambriz says

    I know there’s a two month wireless company that offers free data but I don’t know the name of it. What is the name of the new government wireless free cell company?

    Reply

    • Free Government Cell Phones says

      We are unaware of any new free government cell phone companies, Rosario. And to complicate matters even further, we don’t know what you mean by “a two month wireless company.”

      Reply

    • Free Government Cell Phones says

      Yes. You just need to make sure that you tell the customer service rep that “I want to port over my current number.” Before you end your conversation, ask again to confirm that your number has been ported over.

      Reply

    • Free Government Cell Phones says

      You can get one, but you’ll probably be charged for the new one. Contact your service provider’s customer service team for more details.

      Reply

  114. Rod Doney says

    As of today, 6/6/2017, I attempted to change providers. I filled out a form online with Qlink and the form after the 3rd step told me I could transfer to them. Apparently, they have access to my existing account with Safelink. I decided to check out another company, LifeWireless and was told No one can switch to another company until after DEC 31st 2017.

    Reply

  115. Krystal says

    Qlink smart phone zte.. Is horrible. It freezes and pauses consistantly and makes it so its almost not even worth the effort to use the phone. And im a single low income mom that paid $25. Out of my pocket to upgrade to a smart phone that Can barely even use half the time. Definitly wasnt worth the little money i do have! Not happy about it at all.

    Reply

    • Free Government Cell Phones says

      Have you contacted customer service to get the phone replaced? If not, give it a try.

      Reply

  116. autumn plumb says

    My mother has an old flip phone that she is enrolled through you is it possible she can get upgraded to a smartphone?

    Reply

    • Free Government Cell Phones says

      She’s not enrolled through “us,” Autumn. We are an independent informational website, not your service provider.

      Reply

    • Free Government Cell Phones says

      All the Lifeline companies hand out cell phones randomly, Chastity. That means you may get a different phone than the person before you and the person after you. The only way to get the exact make and model you want is to Bring Your Own Phone (BYOP) or to pay for an upgrade.

      Reply

  118. STUART HASSEL says

    You say that if someone has been with there provider for a year they can switch to a different one. However, isn’t the time element 60 as of December 2016?

    Reply

      • STUART HASSEL says

        I didn’t realize that they actually had cell phones, or any phone for that matter, way back in 1,016. Shows how little I know 🙂 But serously – 🙁 – So, if I’m supposed to commit for a whole year then I guess I’d better take my time with researching this. Is this about actually being with a provider for a year or is this about just applying to one and not being able to apply to another provider for a year?

        Reply

        • Free Government Cell Phones says

          Not sure we understand the distinction between “actually being with a provider for a year or is this about just applying to one and not being able to apply to another provider for a year.” How does one differ from the other, Stuart?

          And thanks for catching the typo. We’ll change it to 2016.

          Reply

          • STUART HASSEL says

            You’re welcome about the typo; wouldn’t want Trump to see it or he might cancel the whole program.

            What I meant was that I had read that, to cut down on fraud, they put a limit on applying to providers so that people can’t apply for more than one at a time so they put a time limit on applying so that someone can’t apply for more than one within a certain period; I thought I saw something like 60 days.

          • Free Government Cell Phones says

            The former rules of the program said that you could switch service providers every 60 days. The new rules (as of December of 2016 — no typo) say that you can only switch service providers once every year. They didn’t explain why they made these rule changes, but we assume they went to the longer requirement because the Lifeline companies are giving out more expensive phones and want longer commitments to earn a payback. But that’s only our assumption.

  120. Nelda Dennison says

    I am a widow and live by myself on a very limited income..I have a saflink phone but would love a smart phone..they sound easier to use…

    Reply

    • Free Government Cell Phones says

      You might get an argument from a lot of people regarding whether or not a smartphone is easy to use. There are two ways, maybe even three ways, to get a smartphone, Nelda. (1) Speak to your service provider’s customer service team and ask if they will upgrade you for free. If you’ve been with the company long enough, they might. (2) If they won’t upgrade you to a smartphone for free, they will probably charge you a relatively reasonable price for the upgrade. (3) You can always switch to a different Lifeline company. Since you’ll be a new customer to that company, the rules state that it will be required to offer you a smartphone. Good luck.

      If you decide to switch, here’s where you can find a list of all the free government cell phone plans in your state:

      https://www.freegovernmentcellphones.net/states

      Reply

  121. kay says

    I specifically would like to know which states get free iPhones. I know California does, but are there any others?

    Reply

    • Free Government Cell Phones says

      Impossible for us to say, Kay. The best we can say is that all new customers are supposed to get smartphones according to the new regulations. But the type of smartphone that is given to one customer may be completely different than the one given to the next customer.

      Reply

  122. Carla Kinsey says

    In response to my complaint because their ad says free smart phone and 500 MB monthly a data, the SafeLink call center representative told me that Safelink does NOT send free smart phones except in California. But if you want a smart phone you have to purchase one and there is no guarantee that it will work with the service in your area. My recent experience is that I have no 3G service left available in my area. Everything has been converted to 4G LTE but safely does not offer any 4G LTE phones. In fact I can find no company that offers them so I am unable to use the phone that I am bound to them by contract for another 12 months.

    Reply

  123. Miki says

    Need a android smart phone biggest screen possible and any location from yolo county or Sacramento cal open today

    Reply

    • Free Government Cell Phones says

      We strongly urge you NOT to enroll at a street tent or booth, Miki. That’s where too many cases of fraud and abuse occur. YOu’re much better off enrolling by phone or online right from your home.

      Reply

      • PATTY says

        I enrolled at a tent in Ms.And now can’t find out what company I’m in can U help me out with a free smart phone Please.

        Reply

        • Free Government Cell Phones says

          Another reason why we urge our readers NOT to enroll at street events. Just for clarification, Patty, have you received a phone yet?

          Reply

  125. Joann Clark says

    Why didn’t I get a Smartphone ? I asked for a new phone because mine was malfunctioning, it was taped and had rubber bands holding it together, it took 2 hands to use ! I did not get a smart phone ! Every one I know that’s on this program has smartphones except me ! I am a widow 61 years old with VA pension and on medicaid and ebt also clinic services ! I have never had a smartphone ! Please Help me !?

    Sincerely Joann Clark

    Reply

    • Free Government Cell Phones says

      The new regulations say that all “new” customers get a smartphone, Joann. That gives the free government cell phone companies tha ability to deny smartphones to existing customers. Yeah, we know it doesn’t sound fair, but it’s reality.

      You do have an option IF if you’ve been with your current service provider for one year or more. If that’s the case you can switch to another service provider. It will give you a smartphone because you are a new customer to them. Here’s where you can find a list of all the free government cell phone companies in your state (if you decide to investigate switching companies):

      https://www.freegovernmentcellphones.net/states

      Reply

  126. Terrie says

    I have an issue. I have no income and I am homeless. I am missing some current i.d. and I have mental health issues that keep me from working regularly. I live day to day from couch to couch or to abandoned building. How do I prove no income? I am not on government benefits due to a drug conviction six years ago. Texas says I can’t apply for ten years with this charge. How do I prove I qualify financially? I can use a mailing address to receive the phone but nobody is going to claim me as a permanent resident .I’m not. I live in Texas can u give me advice?

    Reply

    • Free Government Cell Phones says

      Sorry to hear about your troubles, Terrie. Unfortunately, you have one more that you aren’t aware of. You are not eligible for a free government cell phone unless you have a mailing address. It can be a homeless shelter, but it must be a regular street address. Best of luck.

      Reply

  127. Sang Na says

    I’m trying to apply for free government smart phone. but I can’t apply because they keep on saying last name required. can you please help me out for it. My email is *******@gmail.com and my zip code is 78641.

    Reply

  128. Joann ferguson says

    Access Wireless is a big scam. There is no phone numbers that let you talk to a customer service rep. I will report them, as I am not the only one with this problem. They take your info from an faxed application an nothing gets done. BE AWARE SCAM FRAUD

    Reply

    • Free Government Cell Phones says

      As far as we’re concerned, the difficulty required to contact someone in Access’ customer service department is one of the great mysteries of the free government cell phone business. Countless customers have made the same complaint. One of the reasons it seems to odd to us is that Access is owned by Kroger, the grocery store empire, and it is known for its outstanding customer service.

      This may sound like something Jesse Jackson might say, but so be it. “It’s not a fraud, but it sure is odd.”

      Reply

  129. CATHY FUQUA says

    THAT WAS AN EXCELLENT REVIEW BECAUSE I DID NOT KNOW THEY HAD SUCH A THING LIKE THIS THAT EXISTED- AN EXCELLENT IDEA- PLEASE CONTINUE THE EXCELLENT REVIEWS & INVESTIGATING!

    Reply

    • Free Government Cell Phones says

      Thanks, Cathy. We’re here to help everyone who needs and qualifies for a free government cell phone.

      Reply

  130. Christine Haptonstall says

    Iv’e been with Trac-phone for many years now and just called again to report increasing problems with the flip-phone they provided, and asked again if a new phone could be sent to me for no charge. After a long conversation with two different agents a different phone will be sent to me. They could not tell me if it would be a smart phone, or an iphone. My question is…if the replacement phone is another hard as heck to use flip phone, could I start as a new customer with a new company and recieve a smartphone? Trac-phone does offer 500 minutes a month, but the phone is so very hard to do any texting with. I live in Illinois. Thanks for all you folks do to offer us UNDERSTADABLE, and COURTEOUS information!

    Reply

    • Free Government Cell Phones says

      Yes, you can get a smartphone if you switch to a different free government cell phone service provider and that’s what we often suggest.

      Reply

  131. Pricila says

    Does anyone know if qlink is the only government lifeline program company who runs off sprint towers? My one yr is almost up and I’m thinking about changing but t mobile doesn’t work where I live. Help!! I’d greatly appreciate it(:

    Reply

    • Free Government Cell Phones says

      It depends, Abby. Depending on how long you’ve been a customer, your free government cell phone company may allow you to upgrade to a smartphone for free. If not, most companies will allow you to upgrade for a reasonably small fee.

      Reply

    • Holly says

      I have SafeLink as my lifeline service provider in CT. In May 2017 I purchased the unlimited talk and text option available for SafeLink customers : $15. for unlimited talk and text for 30 days. After the 30 day period the service would revert back to the regular SafeLink plan. I had 500 minutes a month because I had a BASIC phone. However , I have NOT had any service since because it failed to revert back in June. After hours and hours and hours of speaking to customer service representatives, even Supervisors and supervising manager…… I still have NO SERVICE. The ‘software’ on my phone has been altered, I have no place in the menu that shows ‘airtime minutes’, my provider towers are Verizon ( TracFone is the provider, which uses different towers, and those ‘tower owners’ , Verizon in my case, get paid via Govt. Lifeline, via TracFone.
      Since June when my 30 day unlimited plan was up, only Verizon recognises my ‘account’ and denies me phone access BECAUSE I HAVE NO MONEY IN MY ACCOUNT !!!!
      . SafeLink/TracFone will not give me another phone since they ruined mine, and I HAD TO PURCHASE IT IN THE FIRST PLACE, THEY DIDN’T GIVE ME ONE.
      The last thing Customer Service told me was that I needed to call from ANOTHER PHONE to Troubleshoot!
      I DO NOT HAVE ANOTHER PHONE. I use the Lifeline service because I cannot even afford a home phone. I Have NO TELEPHONE SERVICE FOR 5 months.

      Reply

      • Free Government Cell Phones says

        How long have you had your account, Holly? If your account includes only talk and text, you are eligible to switch service providers after 60 days. If your account includes data, you are eligible to swith on year after your intitial enrollment. It sounds to us that you could solve your problem by switching service providers (If you are eligible). Here’s an article that tells you how easy it is to switch:

        https://www.freegovernmentcellphones.net/faq/how-do-i-switch-lifeline-providers

        And here’s where you can find all the Lifeline companies and plans in your state:

        https://www.freegovernmentcellphones.net/states

        Reply

        • Holly says

          Hi, I checked the link, and for my state you have listed 4 Providers. Life Wireless is not available in CT, nor has been (???) Access Wireless has been given negative reviews. Also it, and Assurance wireless use Sprint Network towers which do not have workable reception at my address. I am stuck with SafeLink, is there any legal action I can take. I have been with them a few years, but had to buy my own phone from their website after I needed a replacement. I bought a $10. Basic phone with No internet access/no browser/no camera. Only talk and basic text. When I purchased the advertised unlimited talk/text for 30 days, It also came with 500 MB of data. During a conversation with customer service trying to get my Service minutes with SafeLink restored, I asked how much ‘DATA’ I had left….. They told me that I had 7MB !!! ….. I asked them who used my “data” ????! And told them my phone was WITHOUT ANY MEANS TO SEND MMS OR ACCESS INTERNET. I DO NOT THINK IT IS ETHICAL TO TAKE ADVANTAGE AND LIE TO NEEDY INDIGENT PERSONS , MANY WITH DISABILITIES. IT IS ALSO NOT SAFE TO BE ALONE AND WITHOUT PHONE SERVICE FOR MONTHS NOW. IS THIS LEGAL AND WHOM CAN I REPORT TO, ASIDE FROM THE MEDIA.
          ~THIS HAS NOT BEEN DONE TO JUST MYSELF. I KNOW OTHERS THAT USED THE $15. UNLIMITED PLAN FOR 30 DAYS AND HAD / HAVE SAME TROUBLE. THANKYOU
          (I APOLOGISE FOR ‘CAPITALS’. It is easier for my eyes)

          Reply

    • Free Government Cell Phones says

      Did you get your free government cell phone at a street tent? Do you remember who your service provider is?

      Reply

  135. Donnie says

    Awesome! That’s so cool that you guys took the time as well as putting this information up for costumers and your readers, thank you very.

    Reply

  138. Dwayne says

    I have safelink from nyc and they have to be the crappiest government service.. they don’t gives you android entry level phones and continues to gives you these crappy tracfone bar phones… cheap government service

    Reply

    • Free Government Cell Phones says

      When did you get your free government cell phone, Dwayne? As of December 2, 2016 all new Lifeline customers are supposed to receive smartphones.

      Reply

      • Rob roosma says

        I just recieved a replacement phone from safe link wireless and it wasnt a smartphone i would like a smartphone like all the new customers are getting, is there a way i can upgrade and get a free government smartphone instead of the little lg bar phone that is impossible to text with cause there way to small for the avereage size adult hands

        Reply

        • Free Government Cell Phones says

          Unfortunately, Rob, you’ve just run into one of the dumbest inconsistencies to be found in the Lifeline free government cell phone program. The new rules that went into effect on December 2, 2016 say that new Lifeline customers must be given free smartphones, but it does not require that replacement phones must be smartphones. So unless you can find an exceptionally friendly, helpful customer service agent who is willing to bend the rules, you must pay for a replacement smartphone.

          Reply

    • Beth says

      Dwayne….”cheap government service” .. really?? You call a FREE service to you cheap? I don’t find it so cheap when I MUST pay an extra amount in my phone service each month so people can get or umm(“gives”) free phones! It’s regular people that pays that extra amount on phone services that gives you that FREE phone not “cheap government service”!

      Reply

  139. dana Leggett says

    My grandson was given a phone by his dad. We dont know what company its from. Its a COOL PAD phone…..any way to find out ????

    Reply

  140. Ellis Berry says

    I applied for a Safelink phone more than a month ago. I have still as yet to receive a phone or approval. I really don’t know what I am waiting for. The approval or the phone. I’m told not to go to the tables on the street, as they are a scam. But they give you a phone on the spot. That’s what I am about to do.

    Reply

    • Free Government Cell Phones says

      We can’t say that all the street tents are scams, but there have been so many fraud and abuse cases originating in those tents that we no longer encourage our readers to enroll there. You’d be much safer enrolling online or by phone. At the tents, you’re required to give all your personal information to a complete stranger.

      You didn’t mention which Safelink company you enrolled with, but before you attempt to enroll with anyone else you should check the company’s website to find out if it has a “Check Your Application Status” function. You may be able to find out where you stand that way.

      The other problem you’ll face is that if you are already enrolled with one company you will be prohibited from enrolling with another.

      Good luck.

      Reply

  141. haze says

    i need a number to call ….i have applied for gov phone and told i already have one….i dont …..who would i call to figure this out would like to get and figure out why they tell me i have

    Reply

  142. S. Edwards says

    Thank you so much for the time and trouble it took to compile this list. The information in the list has been the most truthful and helpful of all the websites I’ve searched to learn about the Lifeline Program and the companies that are approved to offer the Program.

    Reply

    • Free Government Cell Phones says

      Thanks for the kind words, S. We are acknowledged as the nation’s leading website dedicated to low-income internet plans. We’re always happy to know our work is appreciated.

      Reply

    • Joe Hart says

      So in NYC u can’t get a smartphone with the lifeline program? Am I getting this correct? Please let me know ,thank u Joe.

      Reply

      • Free Government Cell Phones says

        It’s impossible for us to know if any of the free government cell phone companies offer service at your specific address, but it’s hard to imagine that they don’t. If they do, they are required to offer smartphones to all new customers.

        Reply

  144. Annette Murphy says

    I want to thank y’all for all the work you did gathering all that information. It was very helpful, and I’m aware of how much work was involved in putting this article together. I want to tell you of my husbands’ experience with QLink. He was told that he would receive a Smart phone. He did not. It was a Blu phone, and didn’t hold a charge well at all. As the smart phone part really wasn’t an issue, it didn’t bother him to not have it, even though they claimed that that’s what he would receive. When he contacted them, he was informed that only California residents were guaranteed to receive one.The phone did get great reception. In one case, we were right in the middle of a very rural community in mid Iowa which was well know for it’s lack of reception, and the phone rang and held the call for 10 min! 2 1/2 months after he received it, it quit working. No service available, it said! When he called Qlink, they informed him that there was no service available in our area! Really, as if we couldn’t tell that already! What she could tell us was that he must have signed an acknowledgement that service would be very limited where we are, because they did NOT have service in our area. She did tell him that he could “probably” drive to the nearest highway and would “probably” get reception there and could do his phone business from there! My husband was a recent amputee, recuperating from the accident that caused him to lose his leg. On top of that, we live in the country, with 5 miles of gravel driving before we even hit the highway! And he was in a wheelchair! He was so mad by this time, he just handed me the phone, and wheeled into the other room. I informed her that he never signed an acknowledgement, cuz I was the one that filled out the information for him, so I knew he had not done so. And I certainly had not done so. Why would it work for 2 1/2 months and then just quit? Asked for her supervisor, and she hemmed, hawed, until I threatened her with a complaint about her lack of service! The next person on the line informed us that they had just removed their last tower from the area, and he was sure sorry, but there was nothing he could do! So here we sit, he has no working phone, and Q Link sucks. They recommended an upgrade for $25, for a smart phone, but by then, my other is very “Old School”, and he was not impressed with the total lack of human decency. They didn’t even want their phone back. That is what brought me to this! I am looking for the best provider for the life line cell phone program, ( smart phone not necessary) in the south central region of Iowa. Again, thank you for your helpful information. I have only just started, and already my head is spinning with all this helpful info, and I have only skimmed through a couple of the articles and hope to help him decide which one he wants to continue going to! Again, thank you so much for your help and keep it up!

    Reply

    • Free Government Cell Phones says

      Sorry for the problems you’ve been running into, Annette. This is in no way to be considered a defense of Q Link, but all the companies have been trading territories and customers recently, so that’s probably what happened in your case. Here’s an article that tells you which companies use which national cell networks. If we were you, we would ask your neighbors which cell phone companies they use and are happy with and get the best signals from. Then we’d go with the free government cell phone company that uses that national company’s network. Here’s the article that tells your which company’s use which networks:

      https://www.freegovernmentcellphones.net/cdma-gsm-lte-phone-compatible-with-my-free-phone-network

      By the way, seems to us that Q Link did you no favors by trying to sell you a smartphone. If you don’t don’t have towers in your area, a new smartphone shouldn’t work any better than your old phone. Agree?

      Reply

  145. ram prakash says

    I am a student from India I can get this mobile I am class 9th. I want high secure mobile ppzzzzzzzzzzzzz

    Reply

    • Free Government Cell Phones says

      Do you qualify, Ram? There is nothing in the Lifeline regulations prohibiting legal non-citizens from qualifying for the program if you meet the qualifications. Here’s where you can find a complete list of ways to qualify:

      https://www.freegovernmentcellphones.net/basics/qualify

      We’re not sure what you mean by “high secure” mobile, so perhaps you can explain it to customer service when you enroll.

      Reply

  146. Bethie says

    Thanks for the help. I have safelink currently and lost my phone. Now they are offering better deals for my area but the non-American woman I spoke to informed me that no replacement phone was available (even though it’s in legal notes) and I could not change my plan. Going to talk to a state side person and cancel my account. Q link wireless has a better offer. Unless someone at Safelink wireless headquarters can talk me into staying.

    Reply

    • Free Government Cell Phones says

      Find your service provider on this page and then contact them after you know what its policy is, Willie

      Reply

  150. Georgene Elley says

    I have a free cell phone thru Qlink but now that my eyes have changed want a different one all they say is they want $25. bull crap I am on a very tight budget .

    Did this once before but forgot what to do
    about changing companies.

    Reply

  151. Onlyme says

    OK so many listed every where can you please tell me all the ones in 2017bthat give smart phones in Tennessee that any of you know about thanks ..

    Reply

  152. Gene Michael Kelley says

    I am being told I need to reapply so I would like to do that with your company at this time and I am inrested in getting a smartphone

    Reply

    • Free Government Cell Phones says

      You don’t want to do it with “our company” because we’re not a free government cell phone company, Gene. We’re an independent website.

      You need to look at our list of Lifeline Assistance service providers in your state. Check them all out carefully to find the plan that fits your needs best (most minutes, most texts, most data, best smartphone, etc). Then enroll with that company using the contact info we provide. Here’s a link to the article that will tell you about the companies and plans in your state:

      https://www.freegovernmentcellphones.net/states

      Reply

  153. Sarah C says

    Blue jay wireless was not mentioned? I recently got a phone that was a brick (non smartphone) but it worked and was from blujay, then a week later I received a nice smartphone that had no service and no papers and I have no idea where it came from

    Reply

  154. Lauren says

    I just saw a commercial on tv offering free wifi from safe link, if you are a SNAP participant, which I am. In fact, I have been accepted to the at&t Acess program for internet service for $10./ month. Is Safelink really offering free wifi service? I already have an iPhone & I would be interested in free wifi for my phone, instead of $10./month since I don’t have any other electronic devices such as computer, laptop, or iPad. I only own an iPhone & I am only looking for internet service for my iPhone. What is the best deal for me & my situation?

    Reply

    • Free Government Cell Phones says

      No way of knowing, Donald. They all buy used cell phones in bulk, refurbish them, and that’s what they offer customers. Each person who enrolls gets a phone at random from their inventories. The only way to know for sure is to check each of the websites or contact each of the customer service teams.

      Reply

  156. Kathleen Rodriguez says

    I would like to receive a new smartphone
    I am on disability so will i be excepted to receive a smart phon??

    Reply

    • Free Government Cell Phones says

      Almost impossible to tell, Ron. Each company offers free refurbished cell phones and they change over time. The phones are given out at random, so the phone you get may be different than the person just before you and the person just after you. Read the comments on our Providers page to get a sense of what the customers say.

      Reply

    • Free Government Cell Phones says

      Not all cell phones are compatible with all cell networks, Marcy. So your best bet is a call to your service provider’s tech support team.

      Reply

  159. Free Government Cell Phones says

    Can i say my name is Free Government Cell Phones if i can help someone or would that get me into trouble?

    Reply

  160. Carey says

    Iust wanted to say thanks to the writers for taking the time and doing the research for this article. Very much appreciate it !!

    Reply

  161. faith says

    Why is it that no 2 people, I have assurance wireless, can or will give a person exactly same information when asking what cell phones can one use on assurance wireless. I had emailed 3 or 4 times and no same answer. And how is it no one will state they battery type on my cell phone. I need a new battery and they say it is cheaper to furnish a new phone than to send me a battery. I am pretty much ready to just quit the free phone thing.

    Reply

    • Free Government Cell Phones says

      Or you could go down to your nearest Radio Shack and just buy a battery. They’ll probably even install it for you, Faith.

      Reply

  163. Ronee Harrell says

    OH, OH. OH, AND GET THIS ONE…!!!
    They actually thought that they could out smart me by telling me to log into my account and then go to my new plan where I can check my minutes and call log…
    Funny how all of a sudden it then, now said that I had 450 minutes for the month, but my usage had 100 ore minutes tacked on, that I never really made..
    I guess they were expecting me to not physically add up my minutes page by page.
    I should of never called them on it, cause after I did, the next day it went back to 350 minutes.!!!!
    But how cheesy an you actually be..!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
    Jean FOR REAL..!!!!!!!!!!

    Reply

  164. Ronee Harrell says

    I was with Budget Mobil which switched to this entouch which was crap, lost my 500 min, but got unlimited texted, but the phone was losing its sound and, well the whole deal was Budget told me they were no longer servicing my state or area…..
    But low an behold they are located in Seattle, and in fact just got a new store. An then I checked to see if they serviced my zip code, and can you guess the answer????
    Well, Heck Yeah they do…..
    By that time I then switched to QLink because I REALLY NEED 500 MINUTES A MONTH, AN THEY HAD UNLIMITED TEXTS. Would be nice for these companies who offer unlimited texts could give a decent phone that you could texted more easily, but, yeah it’s free……
    So I signed up with QLink,
    I have had this Service for two months. This Month of February will be my third..
    So on the first of every month they renew your minutes….
    Now I do not need any data plan, because my daughter got me a tablet and put it with her phone plan fromm ATT, So I have Mucho Data….
    One question, if you can call an text from these free lifeline phones, isn’t there already some kind data connected to your phone to do these functions??????
    Anyway I signed up an was eligible for there 500 min a month an unlimited texts,
    But on the 2 ND of February I was emailed an texted from QLink which said ” Congratulations your plan has been updated *, so that now you have 500 MB a month of free data with your plan
    But didn’t inform me that now my monthly minutes are only going to be 350…..
    I did not ask for this plan, I was not notified of this until that very day , an when I received there first email about this , they are telling my that the Federal Government lifeline program bow allows free Data….
    Well that’s all Fine & Dandy,. But I’m sure the Federal Government lifeline plans do not require you to have a data plan, unless you want one or need one…
    I just want the 500 minutes a month an the texts, but QLink won’t let me have that…
    They are making me take this plan an I have no need for data, I need minutes , but of course I can purchase more minutes at a rediculous price…
    I have emailed them at least 30 or more times telling them that it was not legal to change my plan without any prior notification an that just because they can now give you some free data ( WOW,, ,500 MG…!!!! YIPPIE..!!!!)
    Like most Senior Citizens don’t know how much that is…
    And it’s true they do not, but this one does..!!!!!!!
    All QLink does is send me auto email responses that tell me,,,
    (“WE TRIED TO CALL AN GOT NO RESPONSE”)
    PLEASE CALL US AT THEIR CUSTOMER SERVICE # ,,,,WHICH IS THE ONE I HAVE,. BUT THEY WILL NOT…. PUT A PERSON THAT HAS BLOOD RUNNING THROUGH THEIR VEINS ON THE LINE……
    EVER, ….!!!!!!!!!!!!!
    AN THEY DID NOT TRY TO CALL ME EVER,,, EVER,,, EVER ,,,,, EVER,. …
    I am so tired of being lied too , an no one willing to give a proper response to my emails…….
    I get the same one over an over an over an over an over again, an again ,an again, an again….!!!!!!!!
    Can you get the frustration yet…!!!!!!!!!!!!
    So do I have any kind of legal or lifeline protocol to help me get a legal standpoint on this issue…
    If QLink is avoiding me over an over on over again,,, I’m thinking that they did this plan change in a type of fraudulent manner, according to maybe some guidelines of these lifeline phone plans offered…..
    You would think that the plan you signed up with in the very beginning , ( Because that’s why you signed up with them , was because of that plan,,. Dahhhhhhh )..!!!!!!!
    That they would have to honor that plan while you are with them,an not switch them to any ole’ plan that they seem to now want to give you ,because they know eventually you will have to make some kind of purchase with them….!!!
    And that to me is fraud in the worse way , especially when you are suppose to be offering these phones for people who are low income, an over half if not more are low income Senior Citizens……
    Thank You…….

    Reply

    • blueskeyes says

      Wow, Ronee That is awful…I totally understand you’re predicament….I don’t like being messed with either. You’re right, it is fraud. It’s low level fraud, but it’s low level fraud against a senior citizen, which IMO, makes it at least mid-level fraud overall. There is one place that might be able to help you. Do you know about legal aid? I studied it when I was in college, extensively, and I’ve referred several of my friends there with various issues. The best I can say is that they will actually talk to you, and they might even be able to help you, if you can explain things to them in a calm and coherent manner which you (mostly) have here. Legal aid is kind of like the public defender’s office for civil cases, except they are not funded by the gov’t but are non-profits. They help with tenant law, small claims (like yours), various other intstances which are not necessarily criminal violations but still tortious (they have harmed you in some legally enforceable way) which means you can sue them in civil court. Anyway Legal aid is the free civil lawyer for low-income folks. Look up the legal aid office for your area, I would try “Legal aid of Eastern (or western) Washington” in google or bing and you should start getting results. Might have to look around because sometimes they’re weird. For example, I live in middle TN but my legal aid office is legal aid of the mid-cumberland (an obscure name for the areA) just an answer for you since you didnt’ seem to be getting any hope it helps.

      Reply

    • Elizabeth Overcash says

      Ronnee, I’m right there with you. Since I was a newby when I signed up, I just took the first free phone plan I came across. Q-Link is the WORST place I have ever dealt with. No way to reach an actual human, and the canned email responses. I wasn’t informed about my minutes being reduced and given the free data. But the free data doesn’t do me any good because I can’t do anything but talk and text with the cheap flip phone they sent me. I would love to switch to another carrier.. Why is it okay that they get away with this?

      Reply

  165. myra mejia says

    i was wondering my boyfriend has a free phone with assurance wireless the phone broke and he was going to just disconnect it. i want to know if i where to aply for a government phone under my name would i be able to keep his old number seeing as how that phone was used mainly by me.

    Reply

    • Free Government Cell Phones says

      Damn, that’s a question we do not know the answer to. You can’t keep his account, but you may be able to request his old phone number AFTER his account has been canceled.

      Reply

  166. cookie says

    As with most govt stuff these companies are in it for the MONIES. Greed and power will not sustain them in the end. None have a good review. Guess one should guess that for us people who are not in power and full of greed and we have nothing.

    Reply

  167. Johnny says

    Will changing my account address to my new place. stop anyone else living with me on welfare from receiving life line service even though no one has ordered a phone here, yet?

    Reply

    • Free Government Cell Phones says

      If you’re moving, Johnny, you need to notify your service provider’s customer service team.

      Reply

  168. Christopher Smith says

    I signed up for qlink wireless’ free government phone on the 24th of last month and I just moved from the address I put in my application a week after the signing up. According to the shipping trackment for my phone delivery, the package arrived on the 5th of this month and I can’t pick it up because I no longer live at that address. Is it possible to cancel my current qlink wireless account and sign up for a new one with my new address? Or is it possible to cancel the qlink service and sign up for another company? I would prefer to sign up for qlink wireless again and have a phone shipped to my new address. I’m aware of the $25 replacement option for qlink but I do not have the funds for it.

    Reply

    • Free Government Cell Phones says

      You may have a real problem, Christopher. Once you’ve enrolled with a Lifeline free government cell phone company, you are committed to that company for one year. We’d suggest that you contact QLink customer service online or by phone ASAP to discuss this issue.

      Reply

  170. Yahuwah in control says

    I thank my Heavenly Father YAHUWAH ALAHYM for my free cell phone it is a blessing and help to me and othet who use them for jobs doctor appt. And other need. So if gave me a crack phone long as the phone work i used it especialy iphone 4. I give first thanks In our Saviour Name YAHUWSHIWA MASHIYACH allow us to have free phone the poor and needed. Keep doing the father will with the free phone. Thanks it much needed.

    Reply

  171. Teresa Gerig says

    Qlink does NOT port numbers They said so All companies don’t offer this so which ones that offer smartphones does port your number?

    Reply

    • Free Government Cell Phones says

      You’re the first reader to report that QLink doesn’t port numbers, Teresa. As far as we know, every other Lifeline company does port them. We can’t understand why they wouldn’t port numbers. They’re turning away business every time they say no.

      Reply

  173. Who else has this problem with qlink? says

    TO WHOM THIS ISSUE CONCERNS.
    I have had this qlink phone for approximately three/four months now, and it has not been used due to not being able get it activated through your so called call to get activated…I have called with different phones and still couldn’t connect to a tech support. I can’t even connect to wifi with this phone. Maybe your (free gov. Phone), isn’t really free, just a ploy to try and obtain an extra $25.00 Why should I have to pay for a phone, when I can’t even get a FREE PHONE to work!!!

    Reply

    • Free Government Cell Phones says

      Try this: Visit the QLink website. Click on “Help Center” and then click on “Contact Us.” You’ll be taken to a page that provides a customer service email form. See if you get any response that way.

      Reply

  174. Teresa Gerig says

    Besides a smartphone which companies will move your phone number to their phone. QLINK DOES LET YOU MOVE YOUR PHONE NUMBER TO THEIR PHONES I need to transfer my number because I’ve had my number about 20 years and my doctors call it if a problem arises. What companies offering Smart phones does move your number because that is important to me, more important than having a smart phone. Please let me know as soon as you can.
    Thank you
    Teresa Gerig

    Reply

    • Free Government Cell Phones says

      All companies allow you to keep your current phone number, Teresa. All you need to do is tell the customer service rep that you want to “port over my current phone number.” Make sure you use those words.

      Reply

      • Teresa Gerig says

        Qlink does NOT transport numbers yetI just got one and tried I spoke with Qlink tech department an they said don’t have that yet

        Reply

      • Teresa Gerig says

        I got a smart phone from them for nothing They denied me today transport my number. You don’t know the facts cause i was refused transport today

        Reply

        • Free Government Cell Phones says

          Here’s how WhistleOut.com describes the situation:

          “A carrier cannot stop you taking your number with you, but a new carrier is under no obligation to accept it. Obviously, most carriers are more than happy to accept a new customer, and this will not be a problem. However, there are cases where some pre-pay carriers will not accept ported numbers.”

          We’ve never heard of Q Link (nor any other cell phone company) not porting numbers, and we cannot imagine why it wouldn’t. But we’ll take your word for it until we hear otherwise.

          Reply

  175. Lorie says

    Thank you for your information. I have budget aka entouch. my first phone was broke they sent me another for free. this phone is a crazy phone. it vibrates all the time. I’m offered Data but I can’t get on the internet. it took over thirty days to get the spass phone, so I was without a phone for that time. guess it’s free so what can I expect…

    Reply

    • Free Government Cell Phones says

      You need to leave this same comment on our enTouch page, Lorie. They follow their customers comments on this site very closely and we’re sure they will be happy to address your issue.

      Reply

  176. Jane says

    This is such great information. I remember when people, including myself, lost their jobs, they’d soon lose their homes and their lifeline, which was their phones. This was 2003 – 2005.
    And even EDD and other agencies would not assist you if you were a US Citizen, and had no phone – even phone bill assistance! Some wouldn’t even accept a voicemail number. You were trapped. And, ANY excuse to keep you there. It was an incredible nightmare. So count your blessings. I can now afford an iPhone – and the apps are great but it’s not that much better.

    Reply

    • Free Government Cell Phones says

      You’re making us blush, Jane. We’re just happy if the information we provide will help you (and lots of others) out of a tough spot.

      Reply

  177. Dawn says

    Why can’t 2 people in the same house get free government phones. If they are just room mates. That’s NOT right.

    Reply

  178. Noorali says

    I am low income age 82 would apply for free smart phone so i can get entertainment in my life for remaining years of my life

    Reply

    • Free Government Cell Phones says

      First thing you need to do is make sure you qualify, Noorali. You can check out all the companies in your state and the qualification requirements at this link:

      https://www.freegovernmentcellphones.net/states

      Check them out carefully to make sure you enroll with a company that offers the best plan to fit your needs (smartphone, the most minutes, most texts, and the best data plan).

      Reply

  179. Heather says

    Now that it is after the date that all lifeline companies will be sending “smart phones” to new customers, will existing customers who report their phones lost/stolen receive “smart phones” as well?

    Reply

    • Free Government Cell Phones says

      Good question, Heather. We don’t know the answer to that. But since most of the plans charge current customers to upgrade, We assume they will continue to charge. Otherwise, everyone would say their phones are “lost.”

      Reply

  180. Janet says

    Does any of the life line services have unlimited data in Oklahoma and uses iPhones which is all I know how to use instead of androids or smartphones? Needing a iPhone 6s plus so I can see the screen. And be able to read! Have very poor eyesight and can’t see the small print on regular phones.

    Reply

  181. Anna Hyde says

    I have safelink I can t see it too hard for me to text my son gave me a Samsung can i have my safelink mins added?

    Reply

    • Free Government Cell Phones says

      We get this question multiple times every day. The potential problem you’re facing is that not all cell phones are compatible with all cell phone networks. You may be able to transfer your service to a different phone, but you need to speak to your service provider’s customer service team first to find out if your specific Samsung phone is compatible with your Safelink account. Good luck.

      Reply

  182. Tee says

    I live in Hawaii and um looking for a good carrier that has smartphones (even if I have to purchase it)! Please help me! I do have a phone from bluejay wireless, however it is probably one of the first phones ever made (no joke!) and you don’t have the option to upgrade! (Totally sucks!) Please help me!

    Reply

    • Free Government Cell Phones says

      After years of having almost no choice in free government cell phone conpanies, Hawaii now has a number of good choices. You can find the complete list of service providers in the Aloha State here:

      https://www.freegovernmentcellphones.net/states

      Check them all out, Tee, to make sure you find the plan that works best for you (most minutes, texts, data, etc).

      Reply

  183. Betty Lilly says

    i am with safe link can i up grade to a smart phone and can i see the phone before i buy. and what companies can i buy from?

    Reply

    • Free Government Cell Phones says

      You’ve stumbled upon one of the real pains in the free government cell phone program. A couple of the pains, actually. First, new customers get free smartphones, but current customers must pay to upgrade. Crazy, but true. Second, you cannot see the phone before you buy and you cannot specify which phone you want. The phones are handed out at random.

      Reply

  184. Larry Rolin Jurek says

    Need a smart phone, disabled on Social Security and my wife does not work so I could use some help from someone.

    Reply

  185. Timothy says

    Q Link Has been nothing but some money grubbing pain in my backside.They have never sent me a phone that worked more then one day, and to replace it cost $25. each time and it wouldn’t be sent out till the got the non working one back ( so to replace a non working phone they sent me cost me, and I was stupid enuff to give these people money 4 times and still done have a properly working cell ) I even went and but stuff to make it work for almost 2 hours a day.

    Q Link = Rip off

    Reply

    • Free Government Cell Phones says

      Call customer service and ask for a supervisor, Tim. Your story is so outrageous that the company should be too embarrassed not to help you out. Keep us posted on your progress.

      Reply

  187. Robert says

    Drop Assurance wireless find another carrier, reason they are not given Free Android Smartphone to old customers only new customers get free smartphones, they suppose to give smartphone to everyone, But they are not.

    Reply

    • Carey says

      I think you need to go back and re read all the info (i think its under FAQ’s section) because that is what i did (i am an assurance wireless customer) and there were instuctions on how to get a smartphone if you are already a customer and have a non smartphone

      Im not going to tell you what the page said, you can read it for yourselves. I will just say that i was sent an android smartphone via fedex and a return envelope with specific instructions as to how to mail the old phone back.

      Reply

  189. V.H. says

    My phone won’t let me use sd card,
    and access wireless says, the card may not be compatible with the cell
    but offers no list of what could work.
    Please Help it’s a Coolpad 3300a.
    does anyone else have this problem.

    Reply

  191. Regina Bolen says

    I have a safe link phone that is still in very good condition I would like to upgrade to something a bit more stylish I have to text with either and or t9 mine is not a touch phone so can I upgrade without having to pay anything and send my old phone in on the new one

    Reply

  192. Lisa Thomas says

    I own an I phone outright and it is unlocked. can I take it to one of the obama locations to get the minutes and data and minutes? is there a limit to talk time and or data in California.

    Reply

    • Carrie in carlsbad says

      Hey Lisa Thomas !!
      The assurance wireless plan under the California Lifeline service allows FREE unlimited talk and text and 500GB a month (i think its gigabytes) that is what i have. Im not sure you can just use any phone with them though, even if it is unlocked. I wanted to try to see if i could swap phones (which is an option through assurance which uses virgin mobile on the sprint network) and register using my samsung but i didnt want to risk messing up service which is working just fine on the smartphone coolpad they sent me last year…

      Reply

  194. Julie S says

    Ummm… good point. No out of curiosity is there a way we can find out where they hand out cell phones like in fron of what stores located in whatever city or town?

    Reply

    • Free Government Cell Phones says

      We occasionally hear about a company that lists a schedule on its website, but those are few and far between.

      Reply

  195. Kristina says

    I think it’s also important to note which companies use which carriers. A smart phone is only so good if you have good coverage. Some companies use Verizon. Others Tmobile. Att or Sprint too. I’ve noticed some companies offer all of the carriers, sometimes depending on what state you live in.

    Reply

  196. Dan C says

    Hello. how you all doing? im an agent in california and as of dec 2nd all phones that will be handed out will be smart phones with 500mb of data, unlimited talk and text. no picture messages that i no of. however you can still picture message through so in that sense you can. As far as the phones themselves u never no what ure gonna get. it will be a smartphone and for the most part they rank about the same. some of them are identical one says budget. one says life same phone and in california budget mobil is now safelink and they are handing out smartphones on the spot as long they meet qualifcations. i like this page. apparently u do your homework. i’ll be checking back again. i personally hand out phones daily so i no what im talking about. thank you.

    Reply

    • Free Government Cell Phones says

      C’mon, readers, Julie is asking for a little help here. Tell her about your experiences. Especially if you’ve had accounts with both companies.

      Reply

      • Carey says

        Lol give us a chance , anyway , i dont have advice that Julie wants, but i thought i woud reply as to not make anyone feel ignored. I hope Free Government Phones has a better day and those who have questions find some answers here.

        Reply

    • Ashley Peterson says

      I have Qlink and don’t get service anywhere not even in town. I have already been in touch with them and they just send me trouble shooting emails and emails saying they’re suspending my service due to me not making any phone calls….

      Reply

  198. Bill says

    It seems everything you do any more requires data. I can remember when just talking would cost you so much along with texting now we a data system. How would you like a tera bite of data for $4.99a tera bite just one should be enough for you for ever I think $4.99 is a good price for a tera bite of data for first-time customer along with your smartphone. THE ONLY THING FREE ANYMORE IS THE AIR BREATH? IF THEY CAN GIVE YOU A FREE SMART PHONE THEY CAN GIVE US THE DATA TOO. DATA UP BOYS CAUSE WITHOUT DATA YOUR PHONE GOOD FOR CALLING 911 AN NOTHING ELSE. SO MAKE IT HAPPEN. DO IT. DO THE RIGHT THING. DO IT.

    Reply

    • Carey says

      Wow that didnt sound entitled or anything. ;(

      I think they started offering some data just to keep people from bugging them so much. They realized there were many more pros than cons

      Reply

  199. Julie S says

    So i’ve been reading through the article and some of the comments wondering between qlink and SafeLink which of those two are better, and i live in California by the way. And out of those two who offers the better phones. And I’m still curious as to which program you are with Mike. And free government cell phone which program you are currently with also. Thanks

    Reply

    • Free Government Cell Phones says

      Since you ask, we are not on a free government cell phone plan, but we are on a very inexpensive plan from Sprint.

      Reply

    • Jamie P says

      Hello Julie,

      Ive had both safelink & qlink and I will give my feedback on both thus far for you…

      • SAFELINK:

      PROS:
      ° very user friendly website that also provides all the info the consumer may need in regards to their account or anything w safelink
      ° applying was easy, they keep you posted on the progress of your initial application and what stage it is in then shipping info on phone
      ° you can BYOP as long as the phone is compatible w AT&T, T-Mobile or Verizon and you can verify before buying the SIM kit (thru tracphone)
      – since they work through tracphone you can always purchase more airtime cards etc

      CONS:
      ° the phone sent to new customer is your basic, what I call, “old school” phone. Its not wifi capable and its just a pain to do anything on it other than to use it for calls (but hey I was grateful bc I at least had a phone)
      ° any text or attempt to utilize the phones internet (yeah right) minutes are deducted from the monthly minutes.
      ° you are allowed to upgrade to a current smartphone but the prices are RIDICULOUS and if you can afford that price than you probably may need to reconsider your priorities being your poor and on govt asst.

      OVERALL 8/10 bc Cust SVC and that you can eventually BYOP

      • Q-LINK:

      PROS:
      ° for me, the phone sent was your baseline ZTE smartphone
      MODEL N817 running on ANDROID 4.4.4
      ° for a safelink customer you are offered 500 monthly minutes and unlimited text and you do have the option to buy data
      ° the phone connects via wifi with zero issues
      ° applying was easy

      CONS:
      ° to find any information via their website is a joke, good luck with that
      ° after I applied I had no idea why was going on with my application process etc until over a month later a phone arrives at my doorstep

      OVERALL 6/10 only bc your initial receipt of a decent wifi capable smartphone

      Hope this info helps you Julie. I’m in Houston, Texas.

      Good luck

      Reply

  200. Linda Davis says

    I had a safe link phone which was in the car when my husband was killed,the phone was thrown from the car and never found,I purchased a straight talk phone to use,now I can’t afford the $45 a month for my minutes is there anyway I could switch my minutes available to me from my safe link phone to straight talk phone without loosing my new phone number? I receive food stamps and medical assistance. If safe link can’t help me I will just go ahead and try to pay the 45 a month

    Reply

    • Free Government Cell Phones says

      No, you cannot transfer unused minutes from Safelink to Straight Talk. You can keep your same phone number as long as in your first conversation with Safelink you tell the customer service agent, “I want to port over my current phone number.”

      One other thing, Linda. Safelink isn’t your only choice. Each state has multiple free government cell phone companies. You should check them all out to find out which one offers the most minutes, texts, data plans, etc. Here’s where you can find all the companies in your state:

      http://www.cheapinternet.com/low-income-internet

      Reply

        • Dianne Doyle says

          I want to apply for service. I would like a phone easy to use,with internet accessible. I have trouble with my hands and small phone are a problem for me.

          Reply

          • Free Government Cell Phones says

            All new customers now get smartphones, Dianne. But you need to apply directly with the free government cell phone companies.

    • Free Government Cell Phones says

      We’re an independent website that’s not affiliated with any of the free government cell phone companies, Linda. You need to contact your service provider’s customer service team by phone or online to upgrade.

      Reply

  203. Bertha Burdine says

    Thank you so much for this article. I had been seeing Safelink adds on Facebook. They were saying free Smartphones. I’m with Assurance Wireless and had considered switching to Safelink for the free smartphone. After reading your article, I see that it would have been for nothing. I love Assurance Wireless, I’ve had service with them for years now. Will they be upgrading their free phones anytime in the future? If they do, would I have to6pay to get the better phone. I bought the phone I am using now, but you can’t get wifi on it. Would love to be able to. It’s a Kyocera and only way you can get internet is thru Assurance Wireless. Pout, pout. Maybe soon I can upgrade thru them.

    Reply

    • Free Government Cell Phones says

      Assurance announced back in May that it is going to merge with Access Wireless. Since neither company has announced any details about the merger, it’s almost impossible to answer your question. But keep coming back to FreeGovernmentCellPhones.net often, because we’ll update the situation as soon as news is available.

      Reply

    • Ann Andrews says

      I need the new smartphone! Been with Assurance Wireless for Years!
      Please help…what do I do get this new cell in Florida?

      Reply

      • Free Government Cell Phones says

        It’s difficult to answer questions about Assurance because it’s in the middle of merging with Access Wireless, another free government cell phone company. However, the above article will tell you more about both companies’ smartphone upgrade policies.

        Keep in mind that most Lifeline Assistance companies will charge you a relatively modest price for the upgrade.

        Reply

  204. KC says

    WOW… this piece was SO VERY HELPFUL and informative that I’m nearly in shock over finding something this intelligent on the Internet. I love the fact that true journalism standards were applied to the process of seeking out the answer to the smartphone question. The question itself was clearly defined and even better was the added discussion to more clearly define what a smartphone IS. I worked 30 years in newsrooms and I’d give this piece an A-plus for being: informative, accurate, well-written, easy to understand, and for including live quotes/dialogue so readers can decide for themselves what the company questioned is saying. A thousand thanks! I’m going to pass this one along for anyone with questions on Lifeline-subsidized cell phones. It also could serve as an excellent classroom example of how to research and write pieces of this nature.

    Reply

    • Free Government Cell Phones says

      Thanks again, KC. We work very hard to help our readers navigate the confusing world of Lifeline Assistance free government cell phones and it’s nice to know someone out there appreciates what we do.

      Reply

  205. Ken Parrish says

    Approximately four months ago, I got a phone through the Lifeline program by way of Budget service. The phone never worked properly, so I tried to contact them in an effort to get the issue(s) resolved. At that time I was informed that Budget had been acquired by EnTouch. I then contacted EnTouch several times and have not been able to get anything done. Is there any way at all that you could void this agreement with EnTouch and ultimately allow me to get a Lifeline phone from another company?

    Reply

  206. Darrell White says

    I went to True Wireless website to see about getting a government phone and they do not service my area. My zip code is 75216

    Reply

  207. William K Durnin Se says

    Am interested on upgrading my cell phone to Free smart phone.Is This possible/ I have an account with Safelink at the curent time

    Reply

    • Free Government Cell Phones says

      It depends on where you live, William. Safelink is currently offering smartphones only in California, but come December 1 all Lifeline Assistance companies are supposed to begin offering smartphones for free everywhere.

      Reply

  208. Sandra Emery-Karr says

    I have tried to get service in Washington, NH from three companies because my name is hyphenated Emery-Karr and they won’t take it and if I leave out the hyphen they won’t either…any suggestions??

    Reply

    • Free Government Cell Phones says

      That’s a new one, Sandra. We’ve never heard that issue before? How about if you just use Emery or just use Karr?

      Reply

  210. Shanitha Whitfield says

    I think that it is worthwhile to mention that the phones qlink send out only last a couple months before they start acting up. After which you HAVE to , although it’s not your own fault pay for a replacement. My phone’s battery went completely dead before a couple of months, and my friends started continously optimizing. I reached out to customer service both via email, and telephone, and received the same answer. There is a live chat link, but it doesn’t work.

    Reply

  211. Luka says

    I got Q-Link service about 4 months ago and they sent me a Moto E. It’s a very good phone considering it’s free. I haven’t had any issue with network connectivity inside my home, stores, or moving around the city. The lifeline service covers the free phone, the free 500 minutes and unlimited texts. You can add more minutes if you need and even add data plans for starting at $3 for 100 MB. I use my home wifi (or free xfinity hotspots) the majority of the time for apps and the only time I have actually needed the data connection is when I’m using Uber and in an area that doesn’t have a free wifi connection.
    To sum it up, I have a nice smartphone, 500 minutes, unlimited texts, and 100 MB for $3/mth. All of which is more than I actually need. Anyone using lifeline, I would definitely recommend Q-Link.

    Reply

    • Free Government Cell Phones says

      Thanks for the recommendation, Luka. We get so many complaints here at FreeGovernmentCellPhones.net that we sometimes forget that there are millions of people who are very happy with their Lifeline Assistance phones and plans.

      Reply

      • Luka says

        I absolutely appreciate the Lifeline Assistance program. When I experienced some issues, seeking government help was a pride check, but when I had to get rid of my cell service due to financial problems I realized a phone is very important. I didn’t care if it was a smartphone, but I needed a way to communicate with doctors and those helping me overcome my situation.
        My first lifeline phone was from Bluebird Wireless and it was a basic LG non smartphone. It served the purpose and I was happy with it. But having a smartphone really makes life so much easier.
        For those who don’t have internet at home so they can use that wifi on your smartphone, there is a program from AT&T called Access that helps people on SNAP get internet for $5-$10/mth (my area has 15mb speed for $10). It’s a little off topic on this site, but you can use your lifeline smartphone on your home wifi without being charged for data.
        It may be difficult to start looking for help when you are used to working and paying your own bills, but if you take advantage of the helpful programs out there, it can give you a huge advantage towards getting your life back together. Even if it is just a basic, call and text only, non-smartphone that doesn’t even have a camera.

        Reply

  212. Ken says

    Shipping confirmation and handset confirmed via safelink e-mail: Refurbished Alcatel A463BG 4G Android smartphone.Too many features too list,,,currently available by Tracfone for around $20USD with triple mins. Fedex tracking info…it left Tampa yesterday and shall arrive here in Tucson,AZ. on thursday. 🙂

    Reply

  213. Ken says

    Good news everyone!…Safelink upgraded my plan to 500 minutes a month starting Nov. 1rst. I doubt if those minutes carry over to the next month,but that is about two months worth to me. I got a return e-mail from LG telling me that my current handset…the 500g will handle 3g(H).Ijust checked,my phone how reads 900.5 minutes(400.5 existing + 500 new).I think the extension is meant to cover data usage which is deducted from overall minutes available…extra minutes are added with Tracfone cards. I’m still waiting for my new handset.-K.

    Reply

      • Free Government Cell Phones says

        You make us laugh, Ken. Your comment was just fine. We sometimes get comments that make absolutely no sense and we have to trash them instead of posting them. If we can’t understand what the writer is saying, neither will anyone else.

        Reply

  214. Ken says

    Hey!,
    Good morning-just got a message on my phone from Safelink saying,”Your order has been processed…check your e-mail for your claim number…”-K.

    Reply

  215. Ken says

    People…during this holiday weekend…when you are behind the wheel….give your phone a “holiday”untill you exit the vehicle-STOP,PARK OR MISS THE CALL AT LEAST!…then make the return call….your family and friends will appreciate it.
    Halloween should be more fun than scary.(AZ. is considering a law about this)-K.

    Reply

  216. Ken says

    Kroeger or Wallmrt etc…These are Tracfones…which are just fine, just wait to get the little handset from your provider (Safelink for example) in the mail first. Then once you have it operational, ask your representitive which handset may be possible according to your needs. In my case,I will wait for the December rollout. Meanwhile, remember that an immediate replacement could take two weeks or more…if they offer it. If not then…get the approved handset from the store and contact Safelink and ask for the appropriate sim card for it. I got mine in a week and me and the rep on the phone assured it. My last phone is still kicking rear…OH!, your current handset (2G) will still function for 90 days, this is the “grace period”-K.

    Reply

  217. Ken says

    I just recieved a message about the fact that 2g phones are being phased out from my provider(Safelink),this evening,Tucson AZ.-Oct.26,2016 including a number to call.no problem for my outstanding,ancient LG500G to handle! I got an operator immediately and we got to work confirming my account and locale.Total time of the call was under 15 minutes and was told my new handset would arrive within ten days.It did not occur to me to inquire what type of handset to expect,nor was I aware that other providers existed.I shall report my findings when they arrive.-The aforementioned LG was originally a $35 Trackphone with built-in double mins.At the time it was at the top of the list of Safelink’s crossover offerings and the simcard they sent for it was free-it could even access the web.I hope the new phone can at least equal it. This site is awesome!!-K.

    Reply

    • Ken says

      Me again…Happy Halloween!…no scares now!…just the facts…Trackfone double minutes do not carry on once you become a Safelink subscriber. I chose the middle minutes plan that offers 125 per month,but carries those unused minutes over.I have over 500 minutes lying around after my first four months!My handset is probably four years old and says 473 service days remaining….(LG500G )…seriously this handset is far from retirement! It would be nice to know if the series 800G or 840G were truly compatable.Maybe a Samsung….but I would rather not have to deal with “I” this or that…

      Reply

    • Free Government Cell Phones says

      Thanks for your kind words, Ken. We’re very interesting to hear about your positive experiences with Safelink, because so many people use this forum just to complain about bad service. Please keep us posted about your progress.

      Reply

      • Ken says

        Honors!…again about my soon to be retired handset,-Amazon:$100 new,$45 refurbished??…this monolith has served faithfully and traveled farther than a Soviet Martian exploration vehical and yet…I have successfully downloaded all visual media from it to my laptop(converted from w8.1 to 10,free) and must relegate it to history.-K.
        OH…that other provider offering smartphones to new customers is in AZ.-I will experimentally switch to them after the Dec. mandate to see about that “smartphone”….LG? Samsung?
        -K(will let you know)

        Reply

  218. Clarence says

    What if I don’t live near a Kroger which i don’t and I need to earn free minutes. What other places can I get them from?

    Reply

    • Free Government Cell Phones says

      The article lists all the different brands of Kroger-owned stores that participate in the program.

      Reply

    • Free Government Cell Phones says

      Are you currently a Lifeline Assistance customer, Carolyn? If so, you’ll need to upgrade to get a smartphone. If not, we believe that Q Link is the only service provider that currently guarantees smartphones to all its new customers. As of December 1, 2016, all Lifeline companies are supposed to begin providing all new customers with smartphones.

      Here’s where you can find a complete list of all the free government cell phone companies doing business in your state:

      https://www.freegovernmentcellphones.net/states

      Reply

  220. Shelley Bowden says

    How can I contact the government agency that determines whether actual smartphones will be used in Florida? They are not, and I would like to let the agency know people now need to have smartphones with apps. My bank even requires cashing a check using an app,Apples iPay is the safest form of payment, etc. Obviously, no company is going to provide iPhones, but perhaps the most inexpensive refurbished phones can be made available or certainly unlocked phones.

    Reply

    • Free Government Cell Phones says

      You should contact the Federal Communications Commission and the USAC, Shelley. And most important, you should contact your state public utility commission.

      Just so you know, though, some companies do provide iPhones. They are older models (iPhone 4 is the latest one we’ve seen), but they are iPhones. As a side note, I was still using my old iPhone 3 until two weeks ago. The kids in the Sprint store went crazy when they saw it — said it should be in a museum. But it still worked and did everything I needed.

      And beginning on or around December 1, 2016, all Lifeline Assistance phones will be smartphones. That’s just around the corner.

      Reply

  221. Dawn Barnes says

    Why is it that only California get government smartphones but no one else does? we need them as well to job search, and to check email from our children teachers,also to check job search status. Could you please reconsider.

    Reply

    • Free Government Cell Phones says

      There’s a simple explanation, Dawn. The California state government gives the Lifeline Assistance companies a monthly subsidy that’s even larger than the federal subsidy they get for each customer. That extra subsidy makes it profitable enough that the free government cell phone companies can afford to offer more to California customers. Don’t blame the companies — blame the cheapskates in your state government.

      Reply

  224. Bethany says

    Have you heard of American Hope Resources? If so, any advice about the would be great!
    Really appreciate all the hard work here, you’re awesome!

    Reply

    • Free Government Cell Phones says

      Thanks for the kind words, Bethany. We have not heard of AHR. It may be a fine, upstanding organization, but we always get a bit wary when a website wants you to sign up before they tell you what its resources are. If any other readers have had experience with AHR, we’d love to hear about it.

      Reply

  225. laura says

    People sure complain alot about free phone, service, and whatever else you get free to getthe phone service to begin with. There’s a lot of jobs out there, then u can buy the phone u want.

    Reply

  226. Vicki says

    I would just like to know what makes California so special? Why do they get the smartphones automatically? They should have to wait there turn same as the rest of us! They should get phones sporadically just like the rest of us do.

    Reply

  227. Patricia Ray says

    Going from a Smartphone Back to a Feature Phone is like eating steak and then having to eat spam…..you cannot Text Easily on a feature phone…..who likes to have to press the “7” key 4 times to get an “S”???? These Lifeline Companies need to know that Feature phones are Useless!! We Need Smartphones and there are Plenty of ’em out there, so give us one, ok??

    Reply

    • Ken says

      (Funny) You can(canned) enjoy Spam anywhere that steak could take you…only when the going gets rough…it won’t be a tough chew…especially if you drop it…and my old cheap 4+yr old internet capable,bluetooth-unlimited text,message 911 enhanced provider transferrable,full color displaying,36 key programmable qwerty keyboard enhanced 2x 3.5″ monolithic stil tastes darned good-it even goes “click” when you take a downloadeable pic with it!
      No offence,best thing is it actually functions as a phone,and not a babysitter.-K.

      Reply

  228. Mike says

    I got a great phone from a link really nice phone. Big, lots of apps and 16 gigs of memory,,8 mp camera front and back camera. Lte n9521. Really happy with it,,kind of a big screen but nice,,even had a screen protector on it already

    Reply

    • Free Government Cell Phones says

      We’re pretty sure our readers will want to know who your service provider is, Mike. We can’t take the suspense — which company has made you so happy?

      Reply

      • RYAN FARLEY says

        I am with qlink from washington state ! I was sent a HTC as my free cell phone and i was severly hurt and in a comma after a few men broke into my house and i discovered them in my childz room so needless to say i got 3 but they was5 and i lost the fight and recovered and been in contact with qlink about getting a new phone and email and text and calls all say i have to pay 25 for another HTC and thry want old one well i wws shot 4 timesand blood and water damaged it and it was lost to either therobber turned attemted murders or courts so its gone ! I still get messahes saying i habe 500 mons still left and i think i called cust serv and informed them of my home invation and ultimately the lost of my 6 year old and now lost my home and cant work but still eligible completely except i only ever had that one cell they say 2 yet i was hospitalized for months and not alive really for about a yr during which tbey say i had another celli guess but not true please help they wont budge on this damn 25 bucks sent first and i need my time i have family ineed to speak to still tbat are close toheaven and i have medical problems and stress and etc etc ! I dont have 25 bucks and i dont have old cell i do have a LG K6 OR something i use wifi on from metro pcs but i allready had it released and unlocked for me to use whatever ser i choose how exactly do i step by step please my brain damage from shotgun to ear make it hard to understand abbreviated things and i cant assume tbings im comp savey please anyone tell me how i can get a free smart pbome and add my qlink mins and serbice allready i have to it or how i can add it to thisg i have or what else i can do cause im hurting. Really bad i just want to be able to call my pastor or my now cloze friend my surgeon for my probs and reach out to anyone else anyone just to keep my tears back and keep me going forward names Ryan and last of ******* at gmail dot com all welcome to email me personally and send me here or at gmail any help availible including friend request and this is important i still need any info or such about the help please and jopefully ill get belp qlink besides that and i was rude after the funeral of my daughter when speaking about i need my account on hold or whatever and they kept a calm respectable tone sayin sir and sorry and such but said no money no phone no matter what but poliet ! I love the service and tbe cell they sent me htc which they say i can get again was awesome and connected to all things i needed and more like email playstore video graph was uncanny since it was a new ish one and actually it was released last year loke 2or3 months before i got that one so 4 stars or 3 1/2 cause i still have no cell its been since sept oct 2016 so please please

        Reply

  229. Cheryl G. says

    Thank you, to every person who helped in this project for all of your hard work and dedication, in taking the time to find, compile, and share this information. I really appreciate and appreciated it being available to me, and it was very useful.
    c.g.

    Reply

  230. Mark says

    Safelink offers a smartphone in NC which is a big lie on their kiosks. Access Wireless is prob the best here no lies you see what you get.

    Reply

    • Free Government Cell Phones says

      To the best of our knowledge, Safelink does not offer smartphones anywhere but California. The company’s Terms & Conditions specifically calls out smartphones in California, but nowhere else.

      We have no comment on whether Access is better than any other Lifeline free government cell phone company. Everyone has a different opinion.

      Reply

  231. Sunshine N says

    I am in Fresno, California and would like to receive a smartphone/android phone. Anyone in this area know off hand of a good company that provides unlimited talk/text and gives smartphones? Thanks.

    Reply

  232. Lauren Montes says

    My apologies I just saw the time post of ur article march 2016

    Lol
    Original comment

    Forgive me if I’m wrong. But I didn’t see a date for this article.
    Also, I think there was an important factor neglected.
    The CURRENT OPERATING NETWORK STATUS. IS IT, 3g or 4g..
    Example
    My problem..
    I own a 4g Android I used for MetroPCS in CA
    My Assurance Wireless Phone is a Unknown ZTE brand Android that works on a 33333333 Ggggggg NETWORK! It’s SLOW
    MY MOMS GOVERNMENT PHONE ALSO WORKS ON A 3gNetwork from another govfreecellphone company

    Each govern free cell phone company supplying cell phones should be more specific. On their sites…

    However I find due to my past experience selling cell phones that refurbished or older androids are given out free because it’s the leftovers that remained and the small time companies r buying or receiving them through the gov.

    We get free but older phones
    What we need to know is…..

    Can we use a 4g network cell phone we previously used with another company
    Because the cellphone company offers which ever phone on a 3g network is a 4g network available

    If a current network is available. Your stated UPGRADE OR PURCHASING A SMARTPHONE AVAILABILITY OFFERED FOR A CURRENT OPERATING NETWORK 4G?

    IM ASSUMING THIS ARTICLE IS OLD BECAUSE IPHONE 6 IS OUT AND UR EDITOR USED A IPHONE 3…

    Reply

    • Free Government Cell Phones says

      Note from the editor: Funny you should ask about my iPhone 3, Lauren. I just went into a Sprint store yesterday to find out about getting a new plan. They asked what kind of phone I have currently, so I pulled out my old iPhone 3. The guys working in the store went crazy. They’d never seen one before. Same thing happened when I visited an Apple Store about a month ago. One Sprint guy said, “Oh, my god. I’ve never seen one of those. That should be in a museum.”

      The point is, Lauren, that you shouldn’t judge the age of our articles based on my loyalty to my iPhone 3. I still have it. It still works great.

      Reply

  233. Jamie says

    I got a nice big smartphone, Alcatel. 500 min, unlimited tex. I live in Louisiana. It had the battery in it and programmed when I received it. Does that sound right?,

    Reply

      • Dana Debo says

        I’ve been trying to get a replacement phone….after a couple of weeks my phones screen went white…been trying to get replacement, unable to contact customer service by phone or email. If I don’t hear from y’all regarding a free replacement, I’ll be forced to switch providers….

        Reply

        • Free Government Cell Phones says

          We’re NOT your service provider, Dana. We’re an independent website that specializes in the free government cell phone program. If you’re having trouble with your phone, you need to contact customer service or tech support. Try calling 6-1-1 on your cell phone.

          Reply

  235. Robert taylor says

    Q link smart phone we got the Moto g is not worth a crap. You cannot add memory cards and it is only 8 gb. And after the first year it just stops working. Now they say we have to buy a replacement. That is bull. Their phone stopped we did not drop it.or get it wet.or anything it just quit. Now we have no emergency phone and i am a heart patient that is disabled. Thanks Q link..i guess when you get so big .doing the right thing is not part of the company is it ?

    Reply

  236. Virginia C. Stutesman says

    I have already qualified for California Lifeline, as of 08/28/2016. I have a cell phone that I seldom use (mostly for texting) but does not have a querty keyboard. I don’t want to transfer my cell phone number to a new phone, but would like to transfer my landline phone number to a new cell phone. and would discontinue my landline. My next billing for my landline is 10/07/2016.
    I was approached by a representative in front of my local Yucca Valley Food 4 Less to bring my proof of Social Security income the next time I grocery shop, which would be next week. I could also take my LIfeline letter proof of qualification.
    I do not receive very many calls on either my cell phone of my landline, but would like to have it available in my possession for emergencies and very few texting to my driver/caregiver, doctor and close friends and family.
    My vision is variable because of a rare disease, and I would like to have a smartphone that is large enough to see easily, with a querty keyboard. It does not have to be small in size, as I am mostly homebound, but live alone, and would like to have it handy next to my bed or where ever I may be.
    Could you please let me know if this is possible and what phone would be the best for my use? Thank you.

    Reply

    • Free Government Cell Phones says

      You may have a bit of a problem doing what you want to do, Virginia. If you already enrolled in the California Lifeline plan, you cannot transfer your home service to Lifeline because that would leave you with two free government cell phones, which is illegal.

      Your best bet is to discuss what you want to do with the customer service team from your service provider. Seems to us that you need to cancel your home service and upgrade your Lifeline service to a smartphone. That may cost you up to $70 (or maybe even a little more), but you’d end up with a smartphone and no home phone, which is what it sounds like you want. Correct?

      One other thing: Please do not attempt to take care of this with the guy outside your grocery store. They are paid by how many phones they distribute and there have been too many cases of fraud and abuse from the street vendors. Your best bet is to contact your service provider customer service team by phone or online.

      Reply

  237. Asma says

    Hi, I have a safelink wireless and i live in california, I want to know that i will be travelling for different states in next coming months, so will the safelink wireless will work over there? will i be able to use internet and receive calls on it?
    Thanks.

    Reply

  239. tracey jones says

    i am disabled and live in north carolina i am looking for a company that provide a free smart phone with enrollment or will allow customers to upgrade to a smart phone, i tried to sign up for service with access wireless and after appling 5 times they will not allow me to enroll to enroll after calling the company several times they continue to fail my enrollment . will call this company for me.

    Reply

    • Free Government Cell Phones says

      We only know of one company that promises a free smartphone to all new customers. That is Q Link. (If any of our readers know of other companies that make this claim, we’d love to hear about it.) Here’s where you can find more info on Q Link:

      https://www.freegovernmentcellphones.net/free-cell-phone-providers

      And here’s where you can find more info on the smartphone/upgrade policies of all the major free government cell phone companies:

      https://www.freegovernmentcellphones.net/which-lifeline-cell-phone-companies-offer-smartphones

      Reply

      • mhatt says

        Looking at their page they do NOT offer unlimited minutes (which would be the MOST amount of minutes). They only offer 500 at most, according their plan structure. Kind of a lie!

        Reply

        • mhatt says

          Ack! sent the above response to wrong post, however, looking at the requirements for LL service you must have an income below 135% of the poverty line, which you appear to have—unless you have another family member working, or if receive other benefits listed on their page you would also be eligible. If you are truly eligible you might start thinking of contacting the FCC. Or whatever regulatory entity whom oversees such things.

          Reply

    • Mitch S. says

      I don’t think you can get a free smartphone but you can get an unlocked Smart Phone from Amazon for about $50 or $60, the Blu R1 HD. You will also need a Tracfone SIM card which is another $1. It works great and you can use free wifi when you are out shopping or at home.

      Reply

      • Free Government Cell Phones says

        Wrong, Tracey. Read our answer above. Many/most companies now offer smartphones (randomly or as a paid upgrade) and all new Q Link customers now get smartphones.

        Reply

  240. Brandy says

    I have been a Q-Link customer for years, before they started offering smartphones to new customers. My phone recently stopped working correctly and they graciously waived the $25 fee to get a new phone. Unfortunately within a week of recieving said phone the backlight on the screen went out. I called customer service which is now almost impossible to get ahold of unless someone tells you how to do it (you choose option 3 then option 4). The lady told me to use the label in the box in the getting started guide and send my phone back and they would send me a new one. Oh yeah and the one they sent me wasn’t even a smartphone so I guess it really is ONLY for new customers. Well I went to check my account today to see if they had sent the new phone and instead they had simply cancelled my account because I sent the phone back. So I reapplied and now the site is saying my account is cancelled because of a new application and to sign in with my information on my new application. I tried that and it just takes me back to the original one that tells me to sign out and resign in with the new information but nothing changed and it just keeps going in circles. This used to be a wonderful company and now I can’t get anywhere with them at all.

    Reply

  241. Casandra Newport says

    Hello I got my cell phone stolen this is my number to my cell phone 281 515 2201 I need to figure out what service I was with this cell phone and have it turned off and see if I can get my minutes switch to a new cell phone a smartphone or a touch sceen cell phone let me know email me I forgot what service I was with but I do know that my cell phone had to be on to receive the minutes every month.

    Reply

    • Free Government Cell Phones says

      You are up the proverbial river without a paddle, Casandra. If you knew who your service provider was, it would be simple. If you still had your cell phone, it would be simple. But with neither piece of information, you are just plain out of luck.

      Assuming you’ve had your account for 60 days, you might be able to contact another service provider. They will check the national Lifeline data base to make sure you don’t have more than one account and it’s possible that they might be able to find out who your service provider is. Give it a try. It can’t hurt asking.

      Here’s where you can find all the free government cell phone companies in your state:

      https://www.freegovernmentcellphones.net/states

      Good luck.

      Reply

  244. Steve says

    Something I voiced before with FCC Revising the Lifeline program – that it failed to address was in LL providers Customer Support, as sooo many of your commenters point it out to you daily here in your various articles…

    Then come DEC.1/2016 when Lifeline program changes take effect and data is being offered in (BROADBAND) in whichever way same/separate to a Lifeline provider, where are SmartPhones here in this broadband equation as their importance come into play greatly.

    Older SmartPhones have OLDER VERSIONS of the operating system which leaves low-income people at risk, if one is able to patch to newer versions of that OS.
    How many are going to be just LOST and the defunct LL customer service is not helping factor, so I see a new topic for FGCP to address around Dec.1/2016.

    First I can’t speak of IPhone as I’ve never had one but, I would believe
    same to hold true for it, as for Android smartphones offered from the LL providers if at all, are having an ancient OS with many new patches having been offered to securing it’s android OS.

    What about the many manufactures of smartphones and their installed bloatware, being in the Lifeline program are we allowed to ROOT them and remove the bloat? Rooting allows for much more than this – also in bringing a custom phone experience up front and appreciated by the user.

    I hope you offer some good ideals here in reply.
    Thanks Steve 🙂

    Reply

    • Steve says

      If anyone is interested in the – rule changes in the 2016 Lifeline Modernization Order, 2016 Lifeline Order. See link-
      http://www.lifelinesupport.org/li/tools/rules-orders/2016-lifeline-order.aspx

      Lots of information in additional enhancements to the Lifeline Program and different mandates in the Order that will become effective over the course of the next five years.

      Particular of Note:
      Support Levels Phasedown Schedule – Support for both mobile and fixed voice-only service will gradually decrease over the next five years – to a $0.00 factor.
      Support for both mobile and fixed broadband begins December 1, 2016 – of a $9.25 factor.

      Eligibility Streamlining – the Order streamlines eligibility for Lifeline Program support by limiting the eligibility criteria to:
      SNAP, Medicaid, Supplemental Security Income (SSI),
      Federal Public Housing Assistance, Income-based eligibility,
      additionally, The Veteran’s Pension or Survivor’s Pension benefit.
      There are no changes to the eligibility criteria for Tribal programs.

      Additional Changes – Hotspot Functionality, a phase-in begins that requires mobile broadband Lifeline Program providers that provide devices to consumers to offer devices that have hotspot functionality to help connect households to the Internet.

      Non-Usage, The non-usage period has been shortened from 60 days to 30 days.

      Lifeline Program consumers will have the choice (where applicable) of applying their benefit to one of three types of service offerings:
      Fixed or mobile broadband,
      Fixed or mobile voice-only (to be phased out by the end of 2021 with the exception of certain areas), or
      Bundles of fixed or mobile voice and broadband.

      Consumers are still allowed only one Lifeline Program benefit per household.

      Steve

      Reply

  245. judith a irwin says

    I received a safe link goverment phone but it was so small i could,nt read the numbers and want to re\turn it and go to another provider. i had a old smart phone given to me ,can i use it with a free goverement phone serves or can i get a smart gov. phone with another company here in north carolina.

    Reply

    • Free Government Cell Phones says

      First thing, Judith, is that you can only switch service providers every 60 days. It does not sound as if you’ve had your Safelink account that long. Unfortunately, you’ll need to wait out the entire time before you switch.

      But let’s move on. Here are two articles you need to read in preparation for switching and getting a smartphone. The first article tells you how to switch:

      https://www.freegovernmentcellphones.net/faq/how-do-i-switch-lifeline-providers

      And here’s an article that tells you the smartphone policies of all the major Lifeline companies:

      https://www.freegovernmentcellphones.net/which-lifeline-cell-phone-companies-offer-smartphones

      Reply

      • mhatt says

        Also, some phones have settings you can change to increase font size or have accessibility features which can temporarily increase the screen size. I too have very bad eyesight (even with glasses) and can’t see certain things.

        Additionally I have a hearing impairment and recently had to send back a phone because I could NOT hear speaking on the other end of the line despite having phone on SPEAKERPHONE and placing it in my ear. My company replaced my phone, but it (and one other) are also defective in a different area. The replacement phone I got did not have a flashlight (seeing is EXTREMELY important in the dark for people who don’t see well) and the bottom buttons (supposed to light up so you can tell what operation you’re doing) DO NOT WORK. I am coming round on my 4th phone to see if those lights will work. But shooting for an iPhone (my own purchase) as these Android things EAT data! Insist on bloating in the background (very not cool) AND HAVE NO SPACE. I even use a 16 GB mini SD drive and the phone STILL has trouble managing the 2GB it has available. Anything I can control I have sent to the SD card. Completely ridiculous! I guess the thinking is “poor” or disabled people don’t deserve the same services as able-bodied. or at least they are behind the curve by 10 to 15 years. C’mon!

        Reply

    • Ken says

      Safelink offers a handset called THE BIG EASY. it is a flip-style with large,lighted buttons and large print on the screen.It has a lot of nice modern features-although I cant remember them all.It is not over-complicated and could be just what you are looking for.-K.

      Reply

      • Ken says

        Oh.and tell them your other handset fell overboard in case they ask about it…they have some funny rules about replacement…at least they did years ago when I had the same issue and took a hammer to mine.

        Reply

        • Ken says

          The system called “Bluetooth” merely sends the sound to a set of earpieces that needs no wires! You can hear the caller while merely talking to the handset in a more comfortable fashion….this is a function of this phone(it also has a flashlight as a part of the camera outfit).-K.

          Reply

  247. Roxanne Clark says

    Q Link advertised they provide free government smartphones. I applied and have provided proof the proof they ask for but it has been 3 weeks and no phone. Do you have any info on them. I’m afraid I made a mistake and since I had to stop service with Assurance to qualify I haven’t had any phone for 2 weeks.

    Reply

    • Free Government Cell Phones says

      Many of our readers say that it’s not unusual at all for phones to arrive three or even four weeks after approval.

      If you go to the Q Link website, click on “Help Center” and then on “Check Status” and you’ll find out where you stand.

      Reply

  248. Bill says

    There is a man signing people up and giving away smart phones here locally – they signed me up but now how do I cancel the other phone?!?

    Reply

    • Free Government Cell Phones says

      You can’t cancel it if you don’t know the name of the company. This is just another reason we advise readers against enrolling for the Lifeline program at street booths and tents.

      Reply

  250. Trina says

    I want to upgrade my safelink to a smart phone. They said i could buy a phone and have services switched over. What phone works with safelink

    Reply

  251. Fran says

    Thank Goodness For People Like U Who R Willing To Spend Their Time Researching This Project. I Had Many ??……..& Didn’t Know What To Do. You’ve Made The Choice Much Easier For Me & I Am Grateful For The Time That Was Spent. THANK YOU .

    Reply

  252. JoeyMarie S. says

    I notice that QLink is not on your list of government phones. I am currently waiting for my smartphone to arrive in the mail. The plan includes 500 talk minutes, unlimited text, and since it is a smartphone, is wifi capable. No data is included in the plan. I don’t know what kind of phone I will be receiving, I only know that it is a smart phone. Just thought I’d share this information with you for the readers.

    Reply

    • Free Government Cell Phones says

      We based that list on the prior year’s list of top providers, Joey. Since then Q Link has leaped into the top ten. Your comment has lit a fire under us to amend the article to include Q Link. Very soon, we promise.

      Reply

  255. Carol C. Callesen says

    Thank you for the incredible website. I’ve been with Assurance Wireless for around 5rs. now and have been having problems with my phone since May 2016. I called re: the trouble and was told they will not do anything about it until Feb.2017. So, I cannot text w/my phone or charge it as the charger totally died!!!!!! I too was told I had to cancel w/ Assurance before going to another service. I’ve tried 3 times to cancel my acct., but to no avail !!! Thanks again for your help. Corrine

    Reply

  256. David L. Mullins says

    Hi,

    Just had to drop a quick line and say “Thank you, thank you, thank you” for this excellent service you are providing. This is the first and hopefully the last time I will be in this type of situation, but it was so great to stumble upon your site and find all of the information that I needed. You are all so wonderful for providing this information. Thank you again.

    Sincerely,

    David L. Mullins

    Reply

    • Free Government Cell Phones says

      You win the award for the nicest comment of the day, David. We’re glad we were able to help you out. If you want to thank us, let others in your situation know about FreeGovernmentCellPhones.net. The more people we can help, the better.

      Reply

  257. Steven Feiner says

    I’m confused as the offer for SafetyNet for California is: Unlimited text and talk and 100MB data but according to the above article (per the SafetyNet website) the (possibly)refurbished phones are NOT data capable.

    Reply

    • Steven Feiner says

      I didn’t want to leave a separate comment but I desperately wanted to thank all the personnel that made this website possible and the fantastic research that has obviously been done!!

      Reply

      • Free Government Cell Phones says

        Hey, thanks, Steven. That’s very nice of you. We’re here to help low-income Americans, but it’s always nice to be appreciated.

        Reply

    • Free Government Cell Phones says

      Let’s repeat what the SafetyNet website says:

      “Free handsets provided by SafetyNet Wireless may be refurbished and will be capable of texting as well as making voice calls. Free handsets are not data capable; however, customer may purchase and upgrade to a data capable handset. The free refurbished handsets provided by SafetyNet Wireless are industry standard grade “A/B.”

      Please allow us to translate: The free phones are not smartphones, but you can upgrade to a smartphone for a relatively small fee.

      Reply

  258. Amanda says

    How can i switch my phone to an older cell phone i already have? I’ve emailed and emailed. I get generic responses and not specific to my question. I have an old cell phone that would be easier to use. Plus the one they sent me came damaged. The screen. I told them right away and was only told i’d be charged for a new one even though the screen was damaged from the get go. So you can’t read part of the texts. Please help me out!

    Reply

    • Free Government Cell Phones says

      It depends on a lot of factors, Tanya. Most companies say two or three weeks, but our readers say it often takes a month or more.

      Reply

      • betty says

        just a heads up. it’s been month so I called to see what was going on.
        assurance said they’re backed up with applications and will be REVIEWING it in a week or so.

        Reply

      • betty says

        and thank for the effort you’re putting into helping people!!!! I feel without your site many of us would be left wandering in the dark. keep up the great work.
        thank you!!!!!!!!!

        Reply

  260. Marabelle says

    SO glad I found this website! Have been poring over many websites trying to find the information that you so capably provided in whole regarding more sophisticated phones for the LIfeline Assistance program. I now know which companies to contact so that I can upgrade my old cell phone. Thanks so much!

    Reply

  261. Jack says

    I recently received a ZTE smartphone through the Assurance Wireless Lifeline Program which has proved to be a very poor unit. Previous to going with Assurance I had a cheap flip phone with Tracfone which was far better than the free phone given me by Assurance. I would prefer to spend the money and buy a decent smart phone that I can use with the Lifeline Program and that I can actually hear the other person on. Which companies allow that?

    Reply

    • Free Government Cell Phones says

      You have a couple options, Jack. First, most states have numerous free government cell phone companies that you can choose from. Here’s where you can find the ones in your state:

      https://www.freegovernmentcellphones.net/states

      Second, many companies allow you to bring your own device and use it as your free government cell phone. You’ll need to check with the company/companies you choose to find out if they allow you to bring the specific device you want to purchase.

      Reply

  262. Sharon Mazurek says

    I have a free phonefrom safelink
    But it keeps locking on me

    when I logged inot my account they said I can’t get new one

    Reply

  263. Michael Miller says

    Ok, Now how many of those “DO OFFERS” offer BYOD….Cause I have a new BLUE :Life XL and I would love to use it on the system. You cannot seem to get an answer out of SafeLink. One CS will say yes, the next says no…..

    Reply

  264. George says

    Hello,

    I have read many of the comments listed below. I would strongly recommend when having issues with the cellular company to please handle the issues internally first. If you are not able to get the issues resolved then seek out other resources. I was terminated off a lifeline program for self advocating for my self as a disabled person. It was very unfair and none of the government agencies did much. I cannot give legal advice but if you are disabled and feel the phone that is offered or that the company trees to offer does not work you may want to seek legal counsel. The agencies do not represent individuals but rather after they receive a large amount of complaints then they take legal action sometimes. But I will list some resources if you have issues that cannot be resolved with the company.

    FCC Federal Communications Commission FCC.gov
    FTC Federal Trade Commission FTC.gov
    BBB Better Business Bureau BBB.org
    USAC Universal Service Administration Company http://www.Lifelinesupport.gov

    Also any local and state consumer protection agency including your attorney generals office.

    Reply

    • Random Samaritan says

      If any of the Federal Government Agencies aren’t taking you seriously especially when you are a disabled person then you have the right to invoke the American Disabilities Act.
      I’m not sure if these are useful in any way but I hope they are to use for you.
      https://www.ssa.gov/work/federalagencies.html
      https://www.opm.gov/policy-data-oversight/disability-employment/
      https://www.dol.gov/general/topic/disability
      http://www.ncd.gov/resources
      https://www.disability.gov/
      https://www.ada.gov/ada_fed_resources.htm

      Reply

      • FreeGovernmentCellPhones.net says

        We’re not sure that would apply unless it was determined that the agency or company was discriminating against you BECAUSE of a disability. But we suppose it’s worth a try.

        Reply

      • Gail Hudgins says

        JOKE…Outsourced to third world countries. Speak English,but either pretend not to comprehend or truly can’t!! HORRIBLE CUSTOMER SERVICE!!!!!!!!!!!!

        Promised you can upgrade when you resign…but…they will not give you information.

        If the govt is paying for this BS; they are being screwed as usual and SOMEONE is getting paid from somewhere to keep the BS and insanity going!! WTF?????????? Not FTC

        ADA???JOKE..they are clueless….My GD needed a Smartphone due to her disability!! NOPE!!

        They all sound horrible!! HERS WAS TRAC PHONE AND I AM LOOKING FOR A BETTER PROVIDER….NO ONE IN THE US WILL ANSWER ANY PROBLEMS!!!

        THIS IS NOT ACCEPTABLE TO THE AMERICAN TAXPAYER THAT IS PAYING THE BILLS?

        WHAT TRULY DOES THIS PROGRAM COST???????????????

        Reply

        • Babyherc says

          The tax payers $ is not the ones paying for the services the companies simply offer these free services to anyone that receive a government benefit sch as snap, medicaid, children on free lunch program, section 8 housing, etc as a promotional deal. Hoping that you purchase more minutes once to run out

          Reply

  265. Brenda Furry says

    I AM DISABLED AND I SIGN UP FOR A FREE SMARTPHONE A MONTH AGO AND I DID IT ON LINE AND I NEVER GOT MY FREE SMARTPHONE. I AM SO VERY UNHAPPY I THINK THIS FREE SMARTPHONE IS A SCAM.

    Reply

    • Free Government Cell Phones says

      We don’t blame you for being unhappy, Brenda. Which company did you sign up with?

      Reply

    • George says

      Hello,

      Follow up with the company in regards to your phone. Don’t be so quick to call it a scam people and companies forgot to do their jobs. Its not fair and right for you to wait but check with the company and see what’s up.

      Reply

  266. Sean says

    So by not offering smartphones that can be unlocked, these companies are violating the rules and regulations of the FCC.

    Reply

  267. Barbara R says

    I have recently been determined as ‘disabled’ in that I am home bound, will need an in home care taker a couple hours every week to do laundry, clean, etc and assist in pushing my wheelchair to/from doc appts, for groceries and banking. My bank representative suggested I get a phone that takes pictures in order to make depositing of checks easier for me and not require visit to bank or atm. I like that idea. Do you offer phones that take pictures? I have had a cell phone for about 7 yrs or more but it doesn’t take pics. I make about 5 calls a year on it. Never keep it turned on unless in case of car breakdown or other emergency so my usuage of new phone wuld be the same except for the need to do banking. Do you offer phones that will work for me?

    Reply

    • Free Government Cell Phones says

      Virtually every cell phone now takes photos, Barbara. It’s not the exotic accessory it was years ago.

      Reply

  268. kathy watson says

    i just received my assurance phone i am happy to get this phone but i would like to get an upgrade on it and pay for another phone if necessary. I cannot find anywhere that that is an option.

    Reply

  269. Dianne says

    I’m starting up as a Customer Enrollment Agent for TruConnect. Thank you for such a great source of information. Have you researched how many of the California companies offer “phone in hand” as opposed to “drop shipping”?

    Reply

    • Free Government Cell Phones says

      We’re not fans of the “phone in hand” policy, Dianne. We assume you are referring to street tents and booths at which potential customers apply, have their application approved or denied immediately, and walk away with a phone. There have been too many cases of fraud and abuse that occur in this situation and we can’t recommend it.

      Reply

  271. R. Forrester says

    I can confirm that TerraCom Wireless sends smartphones to new customers. Unfourtunately they are Android 2.3.6 Gingerbread, an obsolete version. It can’t use app stores and apps that came with the phone either don’t work or constantly remind you to upgrade. If you want a IPhone 4 it will cost you $100.

    Their customer service is terrible. If your problem is not on their script they are lost. Oddly they use your password as a user ID, which is probably why they were one of the lifeline companies that got hacked last year.

    Reply

  272. Jeannie says

    I have a good smartphone given to me. It was used with ATT service. I live in Texas. Can I get the lifeline service set up on it without using their phone?

    Reply

    • Free Government Cell Phones says

      Some companies will let you, but others won’t because not all phones are incompatible with all networks. It all depends on the make and model.

      Reply

    • Free Government Cell Phones says

      We believe they do offer them (smartphones are mentioned on the company’s Facebook page), but we couldn’t list every company on our list and Q Link just didn’t make the cut-off

      Reply

  274. PA resident says

    When I click States, then choose Pennsylvania, it lists cell phone providers for Arkansas. I’m confused.

    Reply

    • Free Government Cell Phones says

      Unbelievable, PA Resident. FreeGovernmentCellPhones.net has been viewed by thousands of people a day for more than five years, but no one has ever noticed that typo before. We’ll correct the error ASAP. But rest assured, despite the fact that it says Arkansas, those service providers are available in the Keystone State.

      Reply

  275. peterabbot says

    Am on hold right now with Safelink…they’re telling me that thru their BYOP program, you can bring your own phone — which in my case is an LG 3 — but you must purchase a “BYOP kit” which is really just another SIM card, and then they’ll activate it. So off I go to WallyWorld to buy a kit. If I want my LG 3 phone to be a smart phone, then I must buy the data plan from Safelink. Thank Gawd fuh capitalism!

    Reply

  276. Tracy Wong says

    Currently a Safelink customer, which company will provide free smartphones and Internet to New York City residents?

    Reply

    • Free Government Cell Phones says

      We can’t tell you availability on a local basis, Tracy, but here’s how you can find o it:

      Click on the “States” link at the top of this page. Then click on “New York.” You’ll find a complete list of New York service providers. Unfortunately, you’ll need to contact all the companies shown to find out what they offer. Good luck.

      Reply

    • Free Government Cell Phones says

      There’s a simple answer, Terry. The free government cell phone companies are paid $9.25 per customer per month for providing Lifeline Assistance service. The state of California adds an additional $12.65 subsidy. In other words, the Lifeline companies can afford to offer far more minutes, texts and data because they make $21.90 per month per customer instead of the $9.25 the same companies make in other states. You can read more about it here:

      https://www.freegovernmentcellphones.net/why-california-oklahoma-lifeline-assistance-plans-offer-so-much-more

      Oddly enough, the state of California is bankrupt, but keeps spending money like drunken sailors on shore leave in San Diego. The state is $180 billion in debt and sooner or later they will come calling on the Federal government (that means taxpayers in other states) to bail them out. As former Californians, we have no problem admitting that the whole state is one giant Ponzi scheme.

      Reply

  278. Terry Mewbourn says

    I am interested in a smartphone, and I do have an IPHONE 4.0 but I live in Alabama, are there any providers out there that offer smartphones in Alabama?

    Reply

    • Free Government Cell Phones says

      Here’s how you figure it out, Terry. First click on our “States” link at the top of this page. Then click on Alabama. You’ll find a complete list of free government cell phone service providers. You can compare that list to the service providers listed in the article on this page.

      Keep in mind, however, that most (but not all) Lifeline Assistance companies offer smartphones only as an upgrade for a small fee.

      Good luck.

      Reply

    • Mimi says

      I think there is a little bit of confusion with the requirement of one phone per household. Maybe that will help you:

      http://www.fcc.gov/consumers/guides/lifeline-support-affordable-communications#household

      How is “household” defined for purposes of the Lifeline Program?

      “Household” is defined as any individual or group of individuals who live together at the same address as one economic unit. An “economic unit” is defined as “all adult individuals contributing to and sharing in the income and expenses of a household.” However, Lifeline support is available to eligible low-income subscribers living in group living facilities. Lifeline applicants may demonstrate when initially enrolling in the program that any other Lifeline recipients residing at their residential address are part of a separate household by completing the one-per-household worksheet. The Lifeline Eligibility Pre-Screening tool available at http://www.lifelinesupport.org can help you determine who is considered to be a member of your household.

      Reply

    • Free Government Cell Phones says

      Really, Mark? You ask that question below an article titled “Which free government cell phone companies offer smartphones?” Read the article. It should tell you everything you need to know.

      Reply

    • Catla says

      I would appreciate a free lifeline government smartphone. I’ll be back to get my kids. I have soto much health problems.

      Please help.

      Reply

      • Free Government Cell Phones says

        So sorry to hear about your health problems, Catla. It certainly sounds as if you may qualify, but you need to contact the free government cell phone providers directly. You can find the ones in your area by clicking on the “States” link at the top of this page.

        Reply

  281. BostonHolly says

    Holy Cow – thank you so much for the amazing amount of incredibly detailed work you have performed on our behalf. I am bowled over, totally impressed by this research and am filled with gratitude for the amount of information you have garnered and shared. Up until now, I mistakenly did not believe that you had our backs and now I must admit that I was wrong and must eat crow. Even though I am a vegetarian I owe you at least a hat- in- hand apology. It sounds like you had some fun doing some of the work but it also sounds like it was a royal pita dealing with some of those providers who couldn’t give you a straight answer .Right now , dealing with UPS for four months on a daily basis nothing could be as horrible as working with a company which refuses to accept *any* responsibility for everything it screws up… sorry, I digress. Thanks again for all you do, FGCF, I have grossly under-appreciated you until now.

    Reply

    • Edna says

      you sound creative enough to write a song about ups like ‘united breaks guitars’. Or at least a nice poem. Although I prefer parodies myself. But I dont think ups’s customer no-service can be near as bad as ATT’s.

      Reply

  282. jason simpson says

    how about a good lifeline cell phone provider in sanger,california (15 miles from fresno) that offers free smartphones. Hopefully with good reception (verizon,or AT&T only please sprint and t-mobile just don’t work here) thanks

    Reply

    • Free Government Cell Phones says

      Now that you’ve read our list of companies that offer smartphones, Jason, here’s the next step. Now you need to check out the list of providers in California. Do that by clicking on the “States” link at the top of this page. Then click on California.

      Reply

    • Mimi says

      Don’t get your hoes up about getting a free smartphones. Most of these companies will hint that you will get a free smartphone with your lifeline but then they sign you up and tell you that they cannot promise, but you may buy an upgrade from them.

      Reply

        • Jen says

          Lmao you’re writing articles for the totally wrong subject matter. Would love to read some if any other work of yours regarding anything besides lifeline phones being issued to choosy beggars.

          Reply

  284. Beeb in FL says

    Hey 🙂

    Just wanted to say you are A W E S O M E for getting out here and letting us know what is happening with this business of Gov-Asst. cell phones.

    Also wondering how much tracking is done on the people who are utilizing them?

    Just now qualifying to use this service, and would like to have the smart phone option and also would like to do business with the company who has the LEAST complaints, if there is such a thing?

    Thanks again for your efforts…. U ROCK!!!

    Reply

    • Free Government Cell Phones says

      Thank you very much, Beeb. The Lifeline Assistance free government cell phone program helps millions of low-income Americans and we’re proud to be able to help.

      Reply

  285. Bill says

    Why don’t some or all of the “big 4” get into it ? Seems like the program is going to end up something like $9.99 to $19.95 a month for unlimited voice/text & 1-2 gb 4G LTE a month data along with some combination for a free and/or subsidized for smart phone ( cost based upon model) as well. Just looking at current T-Mobile & Sprint rates, a pretty Android or Apple smart phone and plan could easily be had for the subsidy plus anywhere from $0-$20 per month out of pocket for a phone plus voice, text & 2 gb 4G LTE data and even free 2G data speeds after 2gb 4G is used up . Moreover, finding a way to be sure recipients had reasonable access to home wireless would keep the program coasts under control and help insure that program availability and usability goals are met. Seems they are all already set up to do it and profit from it with existing in place infrastructure and similar product offerings among themselves. Seems it should be but probably isn’t all that simple . Any thoughts ?

    Reply

    • Free Government Cell Phones says

      Interesting thoughts, Bill. The biggest flaw we see in your theory is that many of our readers don’t have the $20 per month you say it might cost. Sad, but true.

      Reply

      • BostonHolly says

        yup, I’m one of them. Sad but true. If I could afford it, I’d be with Consumer Cellular. Even tho I read that their customer service really stinks at least they provide updated , technologically relevant cell phones at a “reasonable” cost (whatever that means…). But once taxes and fees are added in that $20 becomes $30+ per month.SSDI just isn’t covering utilities and housing plus Medicare plus prescriptions plus local & state government constantly begging for taxes, condo fees which cover nothing and my unit is ruined by water damage, every month, in the red, robbing Peter to pay Peter (Paul was killed off a decade ago). Welcome to the Golden Years.

        Reply

    • Free Government Cell Phones says

      It depends on the make and model of the phone and the policies of your free government cell phone service provider. Get in touch with your provider’s customer service team to get the answer to your question.

      Reply

  287. Pam says

    SAFELINE does not offer smartphones–I just got off a chat with them. They are not compatible even if you use your own phone according to them.

    Reply

    • Free Government Cell Phones says

      You are incorrect, Pam. They offer them, but they don’t really want to promote it. Here’s what they bury in their Terms & Conditions on their website:

      “All of TracFone’s mobile wireless Lifeline plans will include new handsets provided to consumers at no charge. Customers will also have the option of receiving a free SIM card to use in their own phone, or purchasing a discounted Smartphone. Lifeline customers wishing to purchase other handsets will be allowed to purchase TracFone handsets from participating retail vendors on the same basis as do TracFone’s retail customers.”

      Reply

      • Pam says

        I cut and pasted the information directly from the article and they still don’t offer them! I can sent you the entire chat where I gave them the terms and conditions etc and they said it is not for them it is for tracfone…seriously if you want to “go to bat” for me and others then please do. If they are supposed to offer it and they are not then they could be in trouble with the government programs that fund this, right? If this is accurate that they don’t let you use smartphones, then your article should be updated with a statement or proof from them so that others like me are not wasting the repeated efforts. Thanks for reading and hope you can help all of us!

        Reply

        • Free Government Cell Phones says

          Thanks for the update, Pam. We will check it out and let all our readers know the outcome.

          Reply

          • Free Government Cell Phones says

            Coincidentally, Pam, Safelink responded about 30 seconds after your “Any word yet?” comment. The official answer is somewhere between what you said and what we said. Here it is:

            “… only the state of California offers smart phones to the approved applicants, while all the other states offer regular phones. You can check further details about SafeLink California program on the link provided above. In addition, the Bring Your Own Phone (BYOP) program is not offered to our SafeLink customers yet.”

            So we were correct that the company offers smartphones, but we had no idea that it was so geographically restrictive.

            Are we responsive to our readers or what, Pam?

      • Cassandra says

        How is that fair? Are we not entitled to a free smartphone? How does California rate over us? I have a very cheap safelink phone. It’s very small, smaller then my own hand, it’s hard to see the screen, and you have to click one number multiple times, to get the correct letter you want…..not cool. Little phones are not cool for older people. We need bigger screens and a better keyboard.

        Reply

        • Free Government Cell Phones says

          You won’t like the answer, Cassandra, but it’s very reasonable that companies offer better phones in California for one big reason: In addition to the $9.25 paid monthly for each cell phone customer, California kicks in another $13 or so. That gives the Lifeline companies enough money to justify giving away smartphones in California instead of the less desirable phones they hand out in other states.

          Reply

  288. Julie says

    If i was with one free government company and went to another how do i switch back without having to reapply

    Reply

    • Free Government Cell Phones says

      Go through the same process you went through last time, except going from the second company back to the first.

      Reply

  289. dee kelley says

    can i get a upgrade phone in columbus, ohio, on morse road, i think the zipe code is 43211. some of the phone stores in columbus, ohio have closed

    Reply

    • Free Government Cell Phones says

      Please be aware, Dee, that you can get a free government cell without going through a store. You can also apply online or by phone.
      To find a complete list of companies offering free phones in your state, click on the “States” link at the top of this page. Then scroll down and click on your state. You’ll find a complete list of companies. We recommend clicking on all of the companies to find a company and plan that’s best for you.

      Reply

    • Free Government Cell Phones says

      We don’t know which company you’re with, Pamela, but if you’ve had your free government cell phone for more than a year the odds are that you can get upgraded. If not, you can always switch to a Lifeline Assistance company that will give you a smartphone or allow you to upgrade.

      Reply

    • Free Government Cell Phones says

      You are the second reader to tell us that and it is simply not true. Here’s what Safelink says on its website:

      “All of TracFone’s mobile wireless Lifeline plans will include new handsets provided to consumers at no charge. Customers will also have the option of receiving a free SIM card to use in their own phone, or purchasing a discounted Smartphone. Lifeline customers wishing to purchase other handsets will be allowed to purchase TracFone handsets from participating retail vendors on the same basis as do TracFone’s retail customers.”

      We recommend that you call customer service again and ask to speak to a supervisor. If you get the same answer, read them the quote above from the company’s website.

      Reply

      • Tammy Rainey says

        that provision about a sim card you can use in a tracphone you buy is listed under their “California plan” section and may not apply elsewhere. I’ve not called them yet but this may be the reason for the confusion.

        I do not know if they offer smartphones among those they give you with the plan, but I can’t find anything on their site which allows you to shop for an upgrade.

        Reply

        • Free Government Cell Phones says

          Just so everyone understands, the Lifeline companies that do business in California can afford to be more “generous” in that state than in others. The state of California pays them a monthly subsidy that’s even larger than the federal subsidy that pays for the “free” government cell phone program. That’s why California benefits are better and why you’re more likely to get a smartphone there.

          Reply

  292. KAte says

    What the hell, you all get free phones and you are complaining? Not fair? Well I pay for my phone every month that’s what is not fair. These phones should only go to Vets and the elderly.

    Reply

    • Jim says

      What about people who faced disability through no fault of their own? (like me). What about hard working people who were laid off from a good job, only to find themselves on food stamps to keep their family alive? Without a phone, these folks are toast trying to find work. Cell phones are no longer a luxury, but a necessity in this day and age. I do whole heartedly agree that the phones should go to vets and seniors, but there is a lot more to it than that. A lot of untold stories.

      Reply

    • Kevin Cameron Parker says

      I have worked since i was a child of 12 and have always paid my taxes. I was let go from my job with 30 others and until yesterday it had been a month since i was able to buy food and i also have to choose whether I want to pay for my cell phone so an employer can call me or if i want to pay fir gas to get to interviews and to start working. People will always use the system but the system is there to help those in need to get back to a place where they are able to work and pay toward the system again. Some people need smart phones for GPS to find places and many other reasons and it is okay to make suggestions or point out the problems that the free phones have so that the program is actually beneficial

      Please do not throw “rocks” into yards you have never visited

      I am still waiting on my phone and curious if it will be a smart phone but i will take whatever they send so i can get my life back together in a month or two for just a little help from a phone

      Reply

    • Mimi says

      God will that you will never be in a harsh financial situation and trying to find work without a phone and internet and have to go reserve a spot at the library every time you need to apply for a job online, then the job interviewer cannot reach you because you don’t have a phone.

      Reply

    • Thomas pope says

      Really? What about a 34yr old disabled man that was also just diagnosed with cancer and only gets $15,000 to support myself and 2 other? I dont have a phone yet but you think i dont deserve one because im not old or a vet?

      Reply

  294. Bev says

    I was talking to a rep at Safelink wireless yesterday if i could get or use a Smartphone and was told NO. I told her I saw on the Tracphone website Smartphones that work with Safelink and she told me ” I can NOT use them in NJ” . So why are people in other states allowed to use them? I dont know but it hardly seams fair that one can and one can not.

    Reply

    • Free Government Cell Phones says

      We do not believe you got the correct answer from the Safelink rep. Call again and ask for a supervisor.

      Reply

        • Free Government Cell Phones says

          We’d give you the same answer, Jimbo. Call and ask for a supervisor. And if that supervisor doesn’t help you, ask for that person’s supervisor. Good luck. Please keep us posted on your progress.

          Reply

    • santo mrc. says

      Youknow! I hear you bev! It,s realy a crying shame that we unfortunitly have a certan individual who thinks we have gold linning the streets and animosity toward our commander&chief .This individual underachieves all that needs to be achieved. It is really so sad that we the people of one of the first states {NEW JERSEY}!; Who gave so much contributions to our country;automobiles,light[ELECTRICITY] PC,s[COMPUTERS] etc, etc… Oh! and many sacrifices on the ALTERofFREEDOM in so many wars! Bev’ I can’t express enough how we the people of n.j fell for a wolf in sheeps clothing. [like sleeping with the ENEMY! I just can’t think anymore right now Iv’e hurt enough for one day. Take care of your self bev’ GOD BLESS!

      Reply

  295. David Schwab says

    Any way to do a “Best 10/20 (whatever is reasonable) smartphones for government assisted plans”? Just a thought.

    Reply

    • Free Government Cell Phones says

      Good idea, David. We considered doing that very article, but it’s almost impossible to get an accurate list of phones from the Lifeline Assistance companies. We’ll keep after them and see what we can come up with.

      Reply

  296. ThatGirl says

    Safelink does NOT offer upgrade to a smartphone – you have absolutely NO OPTIONS when first ordered, as implied in their advertising…. Their customer service is HORRIBLE AND THEY CHARGE YOU THE MINUTES YOU WASTE CONTACTING THEM. The FCC has demanded they comply with unlocking regulations and they STILL refuse. From what I have read, they face penalties of $400,000 monthly for non-compliance. THEY ARE ABSOLUTELY HORRIBLE! Any company that takes advantage of people in need, as Safekink and Tracfone MOST CERTAINLY DO, should BE REMOVED FROM THE LIFELINE ASSISTANCE PROGRAM. I am OUTRAGED that the FCC continues to allow them to do exactly that!!! SOMEBODY OUT THERE DEMAND THE FCC PROTECT US AND NOT THESE COMPANIES THAT TAKE ADVANTAGE, BULLY, AND MISTREAT the people this system was designed to help!

    Reply

    • Jim says

      I had SafeLink and switched over to True Wireless and have had no regrets since. After 2 years with SafeLink, they totally screwed up my account when I upgraded my phone. I called three times to fix the issue and none of them can speak very good English. They changed my account from a SafeLink account to a Tracfone account, which you have to pay for, simply because I upgraded my phone. When I switched to True Wireless, I upgraded the Vooz Vext phone I got (which in itself was a very good phone, far better than the garbage SafeLink gives you, but it’s not a smartphone), to the Vooz Vapor smartphone. For $30.00, the phone was surprisingly packed with features and is a very good Android phone. 2 cameras, a Wifi hotspot function to connect up to 8 devices on, a very efficient browser that I can get on Facebook with and only take about 100 MB a month from my data, the ability to download apps from Google Play, etc. The free Lifeline program gives you 50MB data/month, 250 mins talk/mo, etc. There’s far better out there than SafeStink.

      Reply

  298. Olivia says

    Service is terrible with the Co’s in CA. I have spent time reading reviews on consumer affairs and other sites looking for another Co. I am with Budget phone. They ignore the problems I have had and want me to send them $20.00 for another phone. Some people who have done this get another defective phone or they never receive it. I can hear people speaking, but they can barely hear me or not at all. Budget phone tells me to remove the battery and put it back in, or raise the volume. My sister works for Sprint. She said these tactics are bogus and they are buying time. Our tax dollars are being wasted. I have written here before with no response.

    Reply

    • Free Government Cell Phones says

      We agree that some free government cell phone companies do not have their customers’ best interests at heart. One of the best things you can do is report to tell the company that you are going to report them to the California Public Utility Commission. They hate to have the PUC breathing down their necks.

      Reply

    • oakland says

      Have you heard of assurance wireless? I’m in CA also and they are alright as far as free phones go. They are owned by Virgin mobile so Sprint is their parent company and they seem a little more legit than some of these other ones. Also, not well advertised on their website but in CA you get free data from them too. I don’t work for them or anything but I’d recommend looking into switching if you are unhappy with budget.

      Reply

      • Mimi says

        I believe you have the wrong information. I was with assurance wireless for a whole year and they do not offer free data in California. Only free unlimited calls and texts (not to complain, though.) But I had to leave them because most of my calls dropped. I guess Virgin isn’t good in my area. By the way the free phones they send are ridiculous. I had to buy my own. Then, I went to Truconnect who was falsely advertised to give out free smartphones, I also received a crappy phone, not very smart indeed. I just hope that I at least will get better reception. They offer an upgrade for a smartphone for $79…. Not that cheap!

        Reply

  299. Melissa Hatt says

    I’m confused about the rules regarding use of a smartphone one might have acquired before getting the California Lifeline Wireless Service. In the remarks about SafeLink you state you are able to BYOP. Here’s the quote:
    — “All of TracFone’s mobile wireless Lifeline plans will include new handsets provided to consumers at no charge. Customers will also have the option of receiving a free SIM card to use in their own phone, or purchasing a discounted Smartphone. Lifeline customers wishing to purchase other handsets will be allowed to purchase TracFone handsets from participating retail vendors on the same basis as do TracFone’s retail customers.”

    However, after reading SafeLinks’ FAQs I’m confused about their BYOP rules. Here’s what I read in their FAQs:
    —”Phone Device Questions
    Do I have to buy a phone? I already have a wireless phone. Can I activate it when I sign up for SafeLink Wireless service?
    No, you cannot. Upon qualification, customers will receive a free SafeLink Wireless phone enabled for use with this program.”

    So, do you know which is correct? I’ve got access to an iPhone which matches the allowable TracFone phones on their website and prefer to use that if possible.

    Also, the rule about the ability to have two Lifeline phones per household if you are Deaf or Disabled… do you know how that works? I wanted to get a phone that provides text readout of what the person on the other end of the line is saying, but there is no current landline service where I am living. Do you know if it is available for wireless phones? I am HoH and also have a physical disability making it difficult to use phones with fixed menus, phones that require pressing buttons multiple times to make text messages and phones with no facetime. I have a very difficult time understanding what people are saying while on the phone, even though I have the phone set to speakerphone (to make it louder). My audiologist recommended getting a free phone (I live in California) that provides the text readout version, but I don’t know how to do that.

    Thanks for digging so deeply into all those websites. Sure confuses the heck out of me!

    Reply

  300. BABUBHAI M.PATEL says

    I AM 84 YEARS OLD AND GOT VERY SMALL PHONE FROM SAFE LINK LG .AS THE KEYS ARW VERY SMALL AND VERY CLOSE TO EACHOTHER.SO I FIND DIFFICULTIES TO USE THIS PHONE. SO I BOUGHT NEW PHONE OF TRACKFONE SAMSUNG GALAXY CENTURA AT MY COST.
    THEN I CONTACTED SAFELINK TO TRANSFERED MY SAFE LINK PHONE NO TO MY NEW PHONE TRACKPHONE SAMSUNG GALAXY CENTURA PHONE. BUT CUSTOMER SERVICE REFUSED TO TRANSFER THE PHONE NUMBER AND MINUTES TO MY NEW PHONE GIVING REASON THAT YOU R NEW PHONE IS SMART PHONE.SO PHONE NO.AND MINITUES CANOT BE TRANSFERED.

    I REQUEST TO HELP ME WHAT SHOULD I DO .? THE REASON GIVEN BY SAFE LINK IS JUSTIFAIED? AND ACCEPTABLE?I SHALL BE THANKFUL FOR YOUR ADVICE ANHELP TO GET MY SAFE LINK PH.NO AND MINITUES TO MY NEW TRACK FONE SAMSUNG GALAXY CENTURA PHONE.
    I SHALL BE THANKFUL FOR YOUR ALL HELP AND ADVICE TO SOLVE MY PROBLEM
    THANKING YOU ‘.
    BABUBHAI PATEL
    3/27/2016

    Reply

    • Free Government Cell Phones says

      Here is what the FCC website says about unlocking:

      Q: Will my provider unlock my phone?
      All service providers who signed onto the CTIA Consumer Code for Wireless Service have fully implemented the six standards on unlocking. Participants include all nationwide service providers, as well as a number of regional providers. Each participating provider has posted its unlocking policy on its company website and will respond to unlock requests.

      In other words, check your service provider’s website to find its unlocking policy. Our understanding is that the FCC now requires all Lifeline Assistance service providers to unlock their customers’ phones. You can probably find your provider’s unlocking policy in the Terms & Conditions section of the website.

      Reply

  301. pamela guyon says

    What you do not say is whether one must buy a data plan or if any of these phones are wi-fi compatible so that one does not need data if you have wi-fi.

    Reply

    • Free Government Cell Phones says

      It’s impossible to list every bit of information in one article. We provided links to each of the companies so that you could click through and do your own research.

      Reply

  302. Maria Hart says

    I don’t know what is considered a Smart Phone, but when I Text with my SafeLink, I don’t have to punch in a bunch of Numbers, like I used to. There are times, when I still do, only because I am typing words that might not be listed.

    Reply

      • Free Government Cell Phones says

        Yes, they are available in Arizona. Click the “States” link at the top of this page. Then scroll down and click on “Arizona.” You’ll find a complete list of free government cell phone companies in Arizona. Click on each of them to find the deal that’s best for your needs.

        Reply
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