Many of us cannot imagine working without a mobile phone. While we might fail to appreciate that we can communicate with our loved ones and even access emergency services, it’s a different case for low-income families. Mobile phones and cell phone services are usually out of reach because of their high cost. But thanks to the Lifeline Assistance program, you can now get a free government cell phone along with cell phone plans, if you cannot afford them. The Federal Lifeline program supports disadvantaged individuals and households by subsidizing phone services. Both Link-UP and Lifeline are programs of the Federal Government that assist with free phones for low-income citizens.
The FCC through the government has been providing impoverished people with discount landline services for years. Today, however, cell phones are the primary means of communication. Transformations in the program mean less fortunate Americans can now sign up for free phone services, government free cell phones, or both. Even though most citizens call them Obama phones, it is a misleading term because the routine dates back to the George W. Bush administration.
Regardless, the initiative is still active, and you can apply for a government phone if you meet the eligibility criteria. There are plenty of free phone food stamps beneficiaries, for example, who qualify for a free government cell phone through the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program or SNAP.
The first thing in establishing your qualification for government free cell phones is to find out if there is a Link-Up service provider in your region. The participating Lifeline Assistance wireless companies aren’t available in all areas, with total coverage of forty states.
If you are in the Lone Star State, for instance, you can sign up for the program with three of the large US carriers, providing service in about 36 states. We are going to cover everything you need to know on how to get free phones from the government. We’ll show you how to apply, how the program works, who qualifies and even mention some of the best Link-Up companies.
Table Of Contents
- Free Government Cell Phone: Everything You Need To Know
- How The Lifeline Assistance Program Works
- How To Qualify For A Free Government Cell Phone
- The 10 Best Free Government Cell Phone Companies Plan
- 1) Assist Wireless
- 2) Assurance Wireless
- 3) Easy Wireless
- 4) StandUp Wireless
- 5) enTouch Wireless
- 6) FeelSafe Wireless
- 7) Life Wireless
- 8) Q Link Wireless
- 9) Safelink Wireless
- 10) Tempo Wireless
- How To Change Lifeline Companies
- How To Replace A Lost Lifeline Company
- The Bottom Line
- Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Free Government Cell Phone: Everything You Need To Know
The Federal Communications Commission has been running the Lifeline Assistance program since 1985. The initiative design aims at ensuring equal access to phone services for all citizens. It explicitly caters to the needs of disadvantaged persons and households who are unable to afford a cell phone or mobile plan.
The project provides up to $9.25 every month to each qualifying candidate for wireless services. Lifeline also offers internet service to eligible Americans at the same monthly rates. You can qualify for the free government phone financially, or be a beneficiary to other government-led initiatives like Medicaid or SNAP.
Only a select group of wireless carriers, such as Safelink and Q-link Wireless provide low-cost service and free phones via Lifeline, hence the name Link-Up companies. Besides, most Lifelines are regional wireless providers, save for the major mobile Telcoms that are available in almost thirty-six states.
Before you apply for a free government phone, it’s advisable to know which participating Lifeline company offers services in your state. Should you qualify for a free phone from the government, the company will not ask you to pay monthly service charges, connection fees, down payment, or sign an annual agreement. However, you must observe the program’s yearly certification arrangement to maintain your service. Furthermore, some Lifeline Link-Up operators offer free smartphones.
Note that it is not mandatory for these companies to provide smartphones. While it’s a wise move to keep up to date with the latest tech, each provider determines the kind of phone to give a beneficiary. Some carriers offer inexpensive older handsets when you apply for a free phone. Moreover, other LifeLine providers have android smartphones and iPhones, along with BYOP options.
How The Lifeline Assistance Program Works
Every qualifying person will get a free government cell phone or smartphone with free talk-time, data, text messages, and hot spot data. Nevertheless, the offer varies depending on the company and your state. Therefore, you’ll want to find a phone provider with the best benefits. It is also advisable to look for a Link-Up operator with an excellent customer service record. Like regular cell phone companies, Lifeline wireless services have varying levels of customer support, playing a significant role in a customer’s overall experience.
The Universal Service Fund finances the program so that you don’t have to worry about making payments once you qualify. You are likely to be eligible if you receive government help or participate in one of the government poverty initiatives. Interested citizens can receive a free government cell phone through the following steps:
- Find a participating Lifeline Assistance wireless company in your state.
- Complete the provider’s application form on the internet or via mail
- Attach your proof of identity
- Provide evidence of your income through payroll stubs o submit an endorsement letter from a government agency.
- Wait for the company to approve your application.
- Receive your free government mobile phone via mail
You’ll find it easy to apply for the service if you meet the program income qualifications. All you have to do is include your payslips or tax forms in your application. You can scan the documents for attaching to your online application. Those who qualify through receiving government aid must have a letter from the relevant agency.
However, you should expect to find some variations according to your state. Lifeline Assistance has these rules in place to prevent abuse and fraud within its service. Note that you must recertify your eligibility for the program annually to keep your plan active.
How To Qualify For A Free Government Cell Phone
You must first determine if you are eligible for a free government cell phone through the United States Poverty Guidelines before signing up. You are probably asking, “What is the poverty guideline and where does it feature in receiving a free cell phone?” Well, Lifeline Assistance is a government initiative that establishes one of the eligibility criteria via a household’s gross family income.
The program considers persons living in the same dwelling to be a household. It means you do not have to be family members to qualify as a household. The total household income should not exceed the federal financial requirements by 135% to be eligible for the plan. Note that your state and household size may also determine your eligibility. If you plan to qualify for this scheme financially, you must provide income evidence.
Here’s a breakdown of FCC income guidelines:
- $14702 per year per individual
- $19859 per year for a two-member household
- $25016 per year for a three-member household
- $30173 per year for a four-member household
Note that the gross family income increases by $5157 for each additional household member. For example, a five member household should not have an annual income of more than $35330 to qualify for this program. Furthermore, you will need to show proof of residence in the United States before getting Lifeline approval for a free government cell phone with free monthly service.
Along with income based qualification, Lifeline Assistance is also open to citizens who take advantage of these government aid programs:
- The home energy assistance initiative for low-income families or LIHEAP
- TANF or Temporary Assistance to Needy Families
- Supplementary Nutritional Assistance Program or Food stamps
- SSI or the Supplemental Security Income
- Section eight of the public assistance housing program
- NSLP or National School Lunch Program
- Medical Aid or Medicaid
In the above instances, you will have to provide supporting documents to show that you receive help from the relevant government aid program. It is also vital to know the initiative rules. For instance, not every family member will get a free government cell phone. Lifeline Assistance limits offer to one free device for each household. Besides, the phones are not necessarily smartphones, although beneficiaries will get up-to-date models.
The application process varies from one state to the next. In some regions, consumers get to sign up by phoning their local Link-Up providers while other states let third parties, like community based organizers to assist with the paperwork.
In addition, other states allow the FCC to take care of the paperwork. The Lifeline Assistance project is nothing short of wonderful for those who join it. It is particularly helpful to subscribers suffering from various illnesses as it offers a security blanket, allowing them to call for assistance during emergencies.
The 10 Best Free Government Cell Phone Companies Plan
The free government cell phone program is available in nearly all US territories. When finding a provider, it’s best to confirm if they offer services in your state before you proceed to sign up on their website. Most Lifelink companies provide multiple ways for consumers to register, including regular mail, online, and through email. Remember to show proof of income or financial status as you apply.
The following wireless carriers all provide free devices with cell phone plans under the Lifeline program. Nevertheless, some of the companies are more prominent than others, with QLink, Assurance, and Safelink Wireless being the most popular Link-Up operators.
Here are details for the ten best Telecom companies that work with Lifeline Assistance to offer free cell phones and increase free monthly talk-time.
1) Assist Wireless
Assist Wireless currently offers free government phones to applicants in Oklahoma. Maryland, Minnesota, Arkansas, and Missouri.
Oklahoma Free Link-Up Plan
- Unlimited monthly minutes
- Unlimited messages every month
- 5-Gig free monthly data
Non Oklahoma Free Link-Up Plan
- 1,000 free monthly minutes or,
- 1,000 texts every month
- 1-Gig free monthly data
Other Benefits
- Voicemail services
- Three-way calling
- Caller ID
- Call waiting and forwarding feature
- A free government cell phone
2) Assurance Wireless
Assurance Wireless offers its services to almost every state in the US, with consumers benefiting from great Android devices.
California Free Link-Up Plan
- Unlimited monthly minutes
- Unlimited messages every month
- 3-Gig high-speed free monthly data
- 500 MB of free monthly internet
Non California Free Link-Up Plan
- Between 350 and 1,000 free monthly minutes
- Unlimited messages every month
- 2-Gig high-speed free monthly data
Other Benefits
- Voicemail and Caller ID
- Three-way calling
- Free access to mobile hotspot
- Free access to 211 and 911 services
- Affordable international calls
- A free government smartphone
3) Easy Wireless
Easy Wireless offers free Lifeline services in Oklahoma, Missouri, and Kentucky, as follows:
Oklahoma Free Link-Up Plan
- Unlimited monthly minutes, SMS, and 2-Gig internet
- Unlimited monthly minutes, SMS, and the internet, with the initial 2-Gig data on LTE for $1 a month
- Unlimited monthly minutes, SMS, and the internet, with the initial 5-Gig data on LTE for $15 a month
Missouri Kentucky Oklahoma Link-Up Plan
- Free 750 nationwide talk-time minutes, unlimited text and talk, with 25 MB of data
- 750 nationwide talk-time minutes, unlimited text and talk, with 250 MB of data for $1 a month
- Unlimited nationwide talk-time and text with 1-Gig internet for $15 a month
- Unlimited nationwide talk-time and text with 2-Gig internet for $25 a month
- Unlimited nationwide talk-time and text with 2-Gig high-speed internet for $26 a month
- Unlimited internet, SMS, and minutes with initial 5-Gig data on LTE for $40 a month
Other Benefits
- Nationwide calling
- Voicemail services
- Three-way calling
- Caller ID
- Call waiting and forwarding feature
- A free government cell phone
4) StandUp Wireless
StandUp Wireless Blue Jay Wireless in the Lifeline program to provide services for consumers in Colorado, Kentucky, Missouri, Oklahoma, Puerto Rico, South Carolina, Wisconsin, Arizona, Hawaii, Minnesota, Nevada, Pennsylvania, Rhode Island, Texas, and Utah.
Free Link-Up Plan
- 500 free monthly minutes
- Unlimited SMS
- 500 MB monthly data
Other Benefits
- Voicemail services
- Caller ID
- Call waiting
- A free government smartphone
5) enTouch Wireless
enTouch Wireless is among the leading Lifeline phone companies that serves twenty states, such as Kentucky, Michigan, North Dakota, Washington, Arkansas, Indiana, and West Virginia, among others.
Free Link-Up Plan
- Unlimited monthly minutes
- Unlimited texts every month
- Unlimited monthly data
Other Benefits
- Nationwide calling
- Voicemail services
- Three-way calling
- Caller ID
- Call waiting
- A free government cell phone
6) FeelSafe Wireless
The Lifeline operator is available in California, Michigan, Oklahoma, Pennsylvania, South Carolina, Kentucky, Mississippi, and Wisconsin.
Free Link-Up Plans
- Unlimited talk-time, MMS, SMS, and 2-Gig internet with 100 international SMS for California subscribers.
- 1,000 minutes, 500 texts, with 500 MBs internet for Kentucky subscribers.
- 1,000 minutes, 500 texts, with 500 MBs internet for beneficiaries in Michigan.
- 1,000 minutes, 500 texts, with 500 MBs internet for consumers in Mississippi.
- Unlimited minutes, MMS and texts for tribal Oklahoma residents.
- 1,000 minutes, 500 texts, with 500 MBs for non-tribal subscribers in Oklahoma.
- 1,000 minutes, 500 texts, with 500 MBs internet for Pennsylvania consumers.
- 1,000 minutes, 500 texts, with 500 MBs internet for residents in South Carolina.
- 1,000 minutes, 500 texts, with 500 MBs internet for Wisconsin subscribers.
Other Benefits
- Free 911 function
- Voicemail services
- Three-way calling
- Caller ID
- Call waiting and forwarding feature
- A free government cell phone
7) Life Wireless
Life Wireless offers free cell phones and plans in ten states of Georgia, Louisiana, Minnesota, Puerto Rico, West Virginia, Arkansas, Illinois, Maryland, Missouri, and Rhode Island.
Free Link-Up Plan
- Between 1,250 to unlimited monthly minutes
- Unlimited texts every month
- Between 250 and 500 MB monthly data
Other Benefits
- Nationwide calling
- Voicemail services
- Three-way calling
- Caller ID
- Call waiting
- A free government cell phone
8) Q Link Wireless
Q Link Wireless is one of the most prominent Lifeline companies providing services in nearly all the states in America.
Free Link-Up Plan
- 1,000 monthly talk-time
- Unlimited texts every month
- 1-Gig free monthly data
Other Benefits
- Nationwide calling
- BYOP with free SIM card
- Free 911 services
- Voicemail services
- Three-way calling
- Get 100 free voice minutes for each referral
- Caller ID
- Call waiting
- A free government smartphone with a free SIM card
9) Safelink Wireless
Safelink Wireless is among the three most popular Link-Up providers in the US with incredible phones and plan offers for its subscribers.
Free Link-Up Plan
- 500 voice minutes for the initial three months
- 5 GB data for the initial three months
- 1,000 monthly talk-time
- Unlimited texts every month
- 1-Gig free monthly data
Other Benefits
- Nationwide calling
- BYOP with free SIM card
- Free 911 services
- Voicemail services
- Three-way calling
- Caller ID
- Call waiting
- A free government smartphone with a free SIM card
10) Tempo Wireless
Little known Tempo Wireless makes a difference by connecting isolated consumers in twenty-one states to the Lifeline program.
Free Link-Up Plan
- Unlimited voice minutes
- Unlimited months texts
- 3-Gig monthly data
Other Benefits
- Voicemail services
- Three-way calling
- Caller ID
- Call waiting
- A free government smartphone
The above selection is only a handful of companies providing free government cell phones. You can find more providers in your state by searching the FCC site.
How To Change Lifeline Companies
All Lifeline providers are not the same. You may want to switch providers because you do not like the current service, you need a phone upgrade, you want more voice minutes and text messages, or your Lifeline operator may have left the Lifeline Assistance initiative. Link-Up services don’t lock subscribers into yearly contracts. If you are getting poor customer service, the first thing you can do is to launch a complaint with the FCC. And if the situation doesn’t improve, then you can even change your cell phone provider.
Most customers believe that they must first end their service with the current operator before joining a new carrier. But the Universal Service Administrative Company has a different approach to a “Benefit Transfer” or switching Lifeline providers. The USAC allows you to change cell phone companies if you have been on the service for a minimum of 60 days. The best thing is to ensure you cancel your previous provider to avoid being on multiple Lifeline services as it might lead to termination of your benefits.
Here is what you can do to switch Lifeline wireless providers:
- Contact your current operator to ask for a transfer of service by filling out a request for change form.
- The company will confirm receipt of your request.
- Get in touch with the new company to express interest in moving to their platform.
- Fill out the application form, providing proof of qualification for the Lifeline program.
- Sign in to the National Lifeline Accountability Database site and select “Transfer NLAD Benefit”.
- Fill in the details and transfer your benefits.
- You must confirm that you intend to move phone services to a new Lifeline provider.
- Services from your initial operator will stop after the transfer is complete.
How To Replace A Lost Lifeline Company
You can lose or damage your free government cell phone shortly after getting it. The best thing is that you can replace it or even get an upgrade. If you lost your device, the provider would replace it at a fee. It’s vital always to keep an emergency copy of your provider’s name, your phone number, and the serial number of the device. You are going to need it if you want to replace a lost or damaged handset.
Here are the steps you can use to replace your free government cell phone:
- Contact the mobile carrier immediately you realize you lost the device so they can turn off the service to protect your phone balance.
- The provider may ask you for the events that led to you losing the cell phone.
- Pick a new cell phone.
- Pay the replacement fee.
- Wait to receive the new handset via regular mail.
The Bottom Line
Lifeline Assistance is a federal initiative that gives discounted cell phone services to qualifying low-income families and individuals. The program aims to provide affordable communication services to its beneficiaries. You can qualify for a free government cell phone if you already receive aid from a government-run assistance program like Medicaid, SNAP, TANF, and SSI, among others. You may also be eligible through income profiles that meet the US Poverty Guidelines.
Those who qualify stand to receive a free cell phone along with monthly phone services without paying. You could also get a free government smartphone depending on the Lifeline provider and availability of devices. However, Link-Up companies have the right to decide the kind of phone you’ll receive. Once you qualify, you must recertify your participation in the program to continue enjoying its benefits.
Subscribers can also change their cell phone providers when looking to upgrade to a smartphone, require more text, talk, and data allocation, or because they are dissatisfied with the current service. It is important to cancel your service with the existing Lifeline provider before you switch companies to avoid losing your Lifeline Assistance program benefits. Furthermore, the initiative allows customers to replace damaged or lost phones with their issuer, although at a fee.
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Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Who has the best free government phones?
Safelink and Q Link wireless have the best free government phones, which include the latest Android devices.
How do I get a free Obama phone?
You must first confirm whether you qualify for a free Obama phone through income-based guidelines or as a beneficiary to a government aid program like SNAP. If you are eligible, the next step is to find the Lifeline Wireless companies providing free government cell phones in your state. Choose a company that has the best Lifeline services and fill out the application form. After that, wait to receive your cell phone through regular mail.
Does SafeLink give free smartphones?
Yes. SafeLink is one of the free government cell phone companies that offer smartphones. The provider also gives free SIM cards with their free cell phone and plans.
Does AT&T offer free government phones?
Yes and No. AT&T does not provide free handsets but offers monthly discounts of up to $7.25 per month to qualifying customers. However, eligible tribal clients can get another $25 monthly discount on their bills.
Does Verizon have free government phones?
Yes. Verizon offers a decent selection of free government phones and cell phone plans. Eligible Verizon Wireless customers will also receive at least $9.25 monthly discount on their bills. The company only offers one discount for each qualifying household.
FAQs
Which is the best free government cell phone? ›
The Best Free Government Phone Service
StandUp Wireless has been providing low-income customers with free or discounted communications services for over 35 years. Under the StandUp Wireless program, you receive a free SIM card with at least 1,000 minutes, 4.5GB of free data, and unlimited texting every month.
Starting October 15, 2021, for a limited time, well-qualified customers can get a FREE Samsung Galaxy A32 5G, T-Mobile REVVL V+ 5G, OnePlus Nord N200 5G, OnePlus Nord N10 5G, Motorola one 5G ace, Motorola moto g play, or Motorola moto g pure via 24 monthly bill credits OR get $300 off a T-Mobile REVVL 5G via 24 monthly ...
What free phone is AT&T giving away? ›AT&T is giving away free Galaxy Note 9 to customers ahead of 3G shutdown in February 2022. AT&T is preparing to shut down its 3G network in just five months from now, in February 2022, and the telco is not in the mood to leave behind its customer with no signal.
How do I get unlimited data on my government phone? ›Federal Lifeline Assistance:
Assurance Wireless is a federal Lifeline Assistance program. Lifeline is a government assistance program. The Assurance Wireless offer provides eligible low-income customers free monthly data, unlimited texting, and free monthly minutes. Plus a free phone.
About Tracfone
Safelink Wireless customers are issued cell phones through the Tracfone Wireless prepaid cell phone company. According to the Safelink Wireless website, Tracfone offers nationwide coverage, and their signals are carried on more than 30 towers of major cell phone companies across the country.
Assurance Wireless offers mobile Broadband Internet Access Services for smartphones and feature phones, over T-Mobile's network. T-Mobile provides service on its 2G and 4G LTE broadband networks.
How can I get a free 5G phone? ›- Check Your Eligibility. You must qualify for ACP or Lifeline to get a free 5G government phone. ...
- Apply for ACP or Lifeline. If you're eligible, it's time to apply for ACP or Lifeline. ...
- Choose Your Company. ...
- Enjoy Your New Phone!
Long story short, you can get an iPhone 11 64GB for free if you bring your number to T-Mobile from an eligible carrier and activate a qualifying voice plan. Then, you have to buy the iPhone 11 64GB on a monthly payment plan.
How can I get new iPhone for free? ›How To Get a Free iPhone 13 - YouTube
What free phones are AT&T sending customers on 3G? ›The company has started to send out much-better-specced Samsung phones as a part of the shutdown. Some of the phones that people have been included are the Galaxy Note 9, the Galaxy Note 10, the Galaxy S9, and the Galaxy A11s.
Is Verizon giving out free phones? ›
Get more 5G, more entertainment and a free 5G phone, on us, with select trade-in and select 5G Unlimited plans.
Is Verizon sending out free phones? ›Verizon is sending free 4G flip phones to customers who are still using the company's older 3G network, which it plans to retire by the end of 2022, according to the company's support page. Verizon's issuing the devices to people who haven't yet upgraded to a 4G LTE phone.
Which is better Lifeline or ACP? ›Lifeline is the FCC's permanent program to support affordable access to essential communications services such as broadband Internet access. The ACP is a new program designed to provide additional support to make broadband more affordable for certain low-income households.
What government phone has unlimited talk text and data? ›Q Link Wireless & Lifeline
Q Link Wireless offers qualifying customers FREE monthly UNLIMITED Data, Talk & Text through the Lifeline and the Affordable Connectivity Program.
Currently, Q Link Wireless uses T-Mobile's network towers. Before Sprint and T-Mobile merged in April 2020, Q Link Wireless used Sprint's network towers. Sprint used to work on the CDMA network, while T-Mobile functions on GSM technology.
Will SafeLink give me a new phone? ›If eligible, we'll replace the defective device with a device of the same cosmetic condition or comparable model at our discretion. Our conditions for a warranty claim are as follows: Your warranty only covers defects in materials or workmanship.
Who is the carrier for SafeLink Wireless? ›SAFELINK WIRELESS® is a program provided by TracFone Wireless, Inc. serving eligible households.
Does SafeLink give you a smartphone? ›Eligible WellCare members can get a free smartphone, with free text messages, data and minutes each month. The smartphone gives members easy access to: Care support.
Is Assurance Wireless the same as T-Mobile? ›Assurance Wireless is part of the T-Mobile Family.
How long does it take for Assurance Wireless to approve? ›In the future, if my total household income exceeds 135% of the federal poverty guidelines, or I am no longer eligible to receive benefits from at least one of the qualifying public assistance programs listed above, I will notify Assurance Wireless within five (5) days.
Is Assurance Wireless really unlimited? ›
With that ACP benefit at Assurance Wireless, you can receive: Free unlimited data, free unlimited texting, free unlimited calling and free 10GB monthly mobile hotspot data on the Assurance Wireless Unlimited plan — all on the power of T-Mobile's nationwide network.
Does Assurance Wireless have 5G phones? ›Assurance Wireless Coverage
It's important to note that you will need a 5G-compatible phone. Currently, Assurance does not provide a free 5G phone. However, if you already own a 5G smartphone, you can bring it to Assurance Wireless and access 5G.
Trade it into T-Mobile and they'll give you a free 5G phone in return (via 24 months of bill credits). The Revvl 6 is the first device eligible for damaged trade-ins. It features a 6.5″ HD+ display with a 4500 mAh battery and a MediaTek Dimensity 700 processor. Not top of the line, but also not bad for free.
Why is Verizon charging me for a free phone? ›Re: Why is Verizon billing me for a free phone? Because nothing is free. You sticking it out for 24 months is 2 years of paying Verizon for service to get the phone "free". If you bail before 2 years, you owe what's left the phone.
How can I get iPhone 13 for free? ›Existing customers can add a line or upgrade an existing line to be eligible. Assuming that's all OK with you, the next step is to trade in your old smartphone within 30 days of purchasing your iPhone 13. Only select devices are eligible for the full $800 credit that makes the iPhone 13 free.
How can I get a free iPad? ›Free tablets are available for low-income Americans through Lifeline and ACP, government grants, or non-profit organizations. Lifeline and ACP are for low-income households. You'll have to contribute around $10 towards the total tablet or iPad cost, but ACP will cover another $100.
What phone company gives free iPhones when you switch? ›AT&T: Get the brand new iPhone 14 FREE
PHONE DEAL: Snag any new iPhone 14 device and save up to $1,000 (depending on your model) when you trade in your old phone. The iPhone 14 and 14 Plus are up to $800 off (for a FREE iPhone 14), and the iPhone 14 Pro and Pro Max are up to $1,000 off (for a FREE iPhone 14 Pro).
iPhone SE (2020): Best iPhone under $400
The iPhone SE is the most inexpensive phone Apple has ever launched, and that's a really great thing.
- iPhone 14 Pro – Best overall. Pros. Unique Dynamic Island camera cutout. ...
- iPhone 13 – Best for most people. Pros. Gorgeous design. ...
- iPhone 13 Pro Max – Best for battery life. Pros. Longest battery life of any iPhone. ...
- iPhone 13 mini – Best small-screen iPhone. Pros. ...
- iPhone SE (2022) – Most affordable iPhone. Pros.
- AT&T - February 2022.
- Verizon - December 31, 2022.
- T-Mobile will shut down Sprint's 3G CDMA network by March 31, 2022.
- Sprint's 4G LTE - June 30, 2022.
- T-Mobile's 3G UMTS network - July 1, 2022.
Are 4G phones being phased out? ›
Will 4G phones continue to work? 4G devices will continue to work. Mobile providers are expected to maintain their 4G networks as they invest in 5G deployment. If your mobile device is more than a few years old, it may be a 3G device.
Why is AT&T sending me a free iPhone? ›AT&T is sending you a free phone, they did not have to send you a phone they could have just required you to purchase an upgrade from them. If you do not like the phone that you have sent you, you can purchase a different phone.
Which lifeline service uses Verizon? ›We're dedicated to continuing TracFone's participation in the Lifeline program. Verizon offers Lifeline plans for home phone service, wireless and Fios Home Internet. TracFone offers Lifeline services on prepaid cell phones and service provided by SafeLink Wireless® and Walmart Family Mobile.
Does Verizon pay you to switch 2022? ›As of 2022, Verizon pays you when you switch to their service. However, the amount offered can vary as this depends upon specific promotions and offers that Verizon is providing at the time. What is this? Verizon also pays an early termination fee, if it exists, for up to $350.
Does Verizon pay you to switch? ›Verizon will buy out your contract and cover early termination fees and device or lease buyouts from your old wireless provider. A family of four who've been waiting for the right time to switch to Verizon can use the incentive on each eligible line and receive up to $2,600.
Is Verizon going to stop supporting 4G? ›CDMA (3G) devices and 4G Non-VoLTE devices will continue to make/receive calls, including emergency 911, send/receive text messages, and use data services on the Verizon network until December 31, 2022. Upgrades or device changes to compatible 4G / 5G devices.
Why did Verizon send me a new phone? ›If you get a new Verizon phone in the mail, it's not a scam. The wireless company is sending new 4G LTE phones to customers who are still on Verizon's 3G network. Verizon is planning to shut down their 3G network at the end of the year, which means those 3G devices will no longer make or receive calls.
Will old flip phones still work in 2022? ›Some tracfones, flip phones, Jitterbugs and even older-style smartphones will no longer be able to make calls once the networks are taken down. Most of these phones, which are sometimes called “third generation” phones were launched nearly 20 years ago and will no longer work with most of the carriers in 2022.
How many times can you use ACP? ›No. An ACP consumer can only use their one-time device benefit on a device offered by the same provider through which that consumer receives ACP-discounted internet service.
Can lifeline be used for Internet? ›Lifeline also supports broadband Internet service and broadband-voice bundles.
Is the affordable connectivity program the same as lifeline? ›
No, Lifeline is separate from the EBB. The ACP is replacing the EBB.
Who gives the best free government phone? ›Safelink Wireless
Safelink is the oldest and the largest company providing best free government smartphones for years. Currently, millions of people in over 40 states find this platform very efficient. They offer a free government smartphone and sim card depending on your qualification.
- Safelink Wireless.
- Access Wireless.
- Assurance Wireless.
- Reachout Wireless.
- Budget Wireless.
- Free Government Internet Provider List.
The Best Free Government Phone Service
StandUp Wireless has been providing low-income customers with free or discounted communications services for over 35 years. Under the StandUp Wireless program, you receive a free SIM card with at least 1,000 minutes, 4.5GB of free data, and unlimited texting every month.
Several carriers offer free phones through the government's Lifeline program. These carriers include Assist Wireless, Assurance Wireless, enTouch Wireless, and True Wireless, among others. Many other carriers—like Verizon, Metro by T-Mobile, and Cricket—offer free phones to new customers.
What phone carrier does Qlink use? ›Q Link Wireless is contracted with T-Mobile as a Mobile Virtual Network Operator. Customers may purchase more minutes once their free monthly benefit is exhausted.
What phone company is Q Link Wireless? ›Key Facts. Q Link Wireless is one of America's fastest growing Lifeline service providers. Company provides FREE cell phone service with free monthly data, minutes, and unlimited texting; to tens of millions low-income Americans. Customers choose from various free monthly minute plans.
How can I get a free 5G phone? ›- Check Your Eligibility. You must qualify for ACP or Lifeline to get a free 5G government phone. ...
- Apply for ACP or Lifeline. If you're eligible, it's time to apply for ACP or Lifeline. ...
- Choose Your Company. ...
- Enjoy Your New Phone!
Assurance Wireless has a consumer rating of 1.4 stars from 493 reviews indicating that most customers are generally dissatisfied with their purchases. Consumers complaining about Assurance Wireless most frequently mention customer service, new phone and tracking number problems.
Does TruConnect send you a phone? ›You'll get up to 14 GB of monthly data PLUS a free Android phone or Wi-Fi hotspot, if eligible. Customers who also qualify for Lifeline receive unlimited talk & text + free international calling to select countries.
Which lifeline service uses AT&T? ›
Life Wireless - This Lifeline carrier runs on the AT&T network.
How do I get a new phone for free? ›You can qualify for free cell phone service by participating in government benefit programs like SNAP, Medicaid, and SSI. You may also qualify by income. What is Lifeline? Lifeline is a government benefit program that offers eligible customers FREE cell phone service every month.
Will Verizon give me a free phone? ›Get more 5G, more entertainment and a free 5G phone, on us, with select trade-in and select 5G Unlimited plans.
Is Verizon sending out free phones? ›Verizon is sending free 4G flip phones to customers who are still using the company's older 3G network, which it plans to retire by the end of 2022, according to the company's support page. Verizon's issuing the devices to people who haven't yet upgraded to a 4G LTE phone.
How long does it take for Assurance Wireless to approve? ›In the future, if my total household income exceeds 135% of the federal poverty guidelines, or I am no longer eligible to receive benefits from at least one of the qualifying public assistance programs listed above, I will notify Assurance Wireless within five (5) days.
How do I upgrade my Assurance Wireless phone? ›To upgrade to an AndroidTM Smartphone with a 4” screen call 1-877-233-4032 and select option 3 for details.
Is Assurance Wireless part of T Mobile? ›Assurance Wireless is part of the T-Mobile Family.
Is Assurance Wireless the same as TruConnect? ›They go by names including Assurance Wireless, Q Link Wireless, and SafeLink Wireless. TruConnect prides itself on differentiation by including extras and even manufacturing its own smartphones so they can better control the quality, performance and minimize bloatware.
Does TruConnect offer a free tablet? ›FAQs. How Does TruConnect's ACP Program Work? TruConnect is an Affordable Connectivity Program (ACP) participating service, offering free broadband service, devices, and discounted tablets.
How much does TruConnect cost? ›Pay As You Go Wireless. Unlimited Data for $50. TruConnect.