Free Phone When You Switch

Transfer your Lifeline benefit and potentially receive a new free government phone.

Switching to FreeLine Wireless

If you are currently receiving Lifeline service with another provider and wish to transfer your benefits to a new carrier, you generally have the option to do so. Switching allows you to explore different plans, device offerings, or customer service experiences that may better suit your needs.

FreeLine Wireless is here to guide you through the process of transferring your Lifeline benefit to a participating provider within our network. Our goal is to make your transition as smooth as possible, ensuring continued access to essential communication services.

The one-benefit-per-household rule still applies when switching. You can only transfer an existing Lifeline benefit, not receive an additional one.

Free Phone When You Switch Offer

Many Lifeline providers offer incentives for users to transfer their existing Lifeline benefit, and this can sometimes include a free government phone upon switching. This is a common practice designed to encourage new enrollments and enhance customer loyalty.

  • Offers Vary: The availability of a free phone when you switch depends on the specific provider, your state of residence, and their current inventory. Not all providers offer a device with a transfer.
  • Device Types: Typically, free phones offered are Android smartphones. iPhone availability is much more limited and may be subject to special promotions or refurbished stock.
  • No Guarantees: FreeLine Wireless cannot guarantee a specific phone model or that a device will be offered with every switch. Offers are dynamic and change frequently.

To find out what devices may be available, you will need to check directly with participating providers in your area.

Keep Your Existing Phone Number (Portability)

One of the most common questions when switching providers is whether you can keep your existing phone number. The good news is that number portability is a standard feature in wireless services, including Lifeline.

  • Maintain Your Number: In most cases, you can transfer your current phone number to your new Lifeline provider. This allows you to keep the same contact information for family, friends, and essential services.
  • Transfer Timelines: The process of porting your number can take a few hours to a few business days, depending on the providers involved. It's advisable not to cancel your old service until your number has successfully transferred.

Provide your current account information accurately to your new provider to ensure a smooth number transfer.

Eligibility Requirements for Switching

To switch providers and potentially receive a free phone, you must meet a few key requirements related to your Lifeline status.

  • Already Qualify for Lifeline: You must have an active Lifeline benefit with your current provider. The process is a transfer of an existing benefit, not a new application for Lifeline itself.
  • Transfer Your Benefit: You will need to formally transfer your Lifeline benefit to a new participating provider. This usually involves informing the new provider that you are switching.
  • One Benefit Rule: Remember, federal rules limit Lifeline to one benefit per household. Switching ensures you continue to receive that single benefit through your preferred provider.

If you are unsure of your current Lifeline status, you can check through the National Verifier website or contact your existing provider.

Check Switching Offers by State

To find the most accurate and up-to-date switching offers, including those that provide a free phone, we recommend using our website tools to browse by your location and preferred provider type.

  • State Filters: Use our State directory or the filters on our Programs page to see which providers operate in your state.
  • Provider Listings: Explore individual provider pages or listings to understand their current switching incentives and device offerings.
  • Eligibility Checker: If you're new to Lifeline or unsure about your status, our Eligibility Checker can help.

Current offers and device availability can change. Always confirm directly with the provider you plan to switch to.