StandUp Wireless Free Phone Program

Get a free monthly allowance of minutes and texts, plus a free phone or smartphone, when you join the government-supported StandUp Wireless Lifeline assistance program.

Company Overview

StandUp Wireless, a government-supported service offered by Global Connection Inc. of America under the Public Utility Commission’s authority, provides affordable wireless services to low-income individuals who meet specific eligibility criteria. StandUp Wireless partners with major wireless carriers like T-Mobile and AT&T to provide reliable, nationwide coverage. Therefore, they use a combination of these networks for their services. To qualify for discounted services through the StandUp Wireless Lifeline Program, applicants must satisfy certain eligibility requirements.

Lifeline, a government assistance program supported by the Universal Service Fund (USF), offers monthly telephone service discounts to eligible low-income subscribers. This program aims to keep individuals connected for healthcare access, job searching, family communication, school purposes, and emergency situations. To maintain Lifeline services through StandUp Wireless, make at least one call every 60 days to prevent termination; using the phone monthly is recommended.

What are the benefits of StandUp Wireless Lifeline Program?

StandUp Wireless offers a Lifeline program designed to help low-income individuals and families access affordable communication services. The StandUp Wireless Lifeline Program provides discounted voice calls, text messages, and broadband internet services to eligible customers who meet specific income or government assistance requirements. Here are some key features of the StandUp Wireless Lifeline service:

1. Eligibility Criteria: To qualify for this program, you must either participate in a qualifying federal support program like Medicaid or SNAP (Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program), or your household’s total gross income should be at or below 135% of the Federal Poverty Guidelines.
2. Service and Device Offerings: Eligible participants receive a free government phone through StandUp Wireless, which is often an entry-level Android smartphone. The company also offers free tablets under certain conditions, as mentioned in some reviews. Additionally, StandUp Wireless provides customers with discounted monthly service rates for voice calls, text messages, and internet data.
3. Coverage: StandUp Wireless’s Lifeline services are available to residents within the designated areas where the company is an Eligible Telecommunications Carrier (ETC). You can check your eligibility based on your zip code or state residency at their website.

Compared to other Lifeline providers like Assurance Wireless, which also offers free government phones and discounted service plans, StandUp Wireless differentiates itself by offering international calling capabilities to eligible customers who enroll in both the federal Lifeline program and the Affordable Connectivity Program (ACP). However, it’s important to note that StandUp Wireless supports only one Lifeline account per household. If you or someone else in your home already has a Lifeline discount from another provider, you would need to transfer that benefit to StandUp Wireless before applying.

StandUp Wireless also ensures compliance with the FCC’s rules for transferring Lifeline benefits and complies with ongoing eligibility verification requirements set by federal and state governments. They offer customer service support specifically tailored for their California LifeLine customers in both English and Spanish, ensuring accessibility and convenience for a wide range of users.

Lifeline offers monthly discounts of approximately $9.25 on both wireless and wireline telephone services to eligible low-income subscribers. Federal rules permit one Lifeline service per household. Low-income individuals may qualify for lifetime discounts regardless of using wireless or wireline services, though discounts may not overlap between the two types at the same time.

Each household may receive only one Lifeline service. A household consists of individuals or a group living together at the same address, sharing income and expenses as an economic unit. Lifeline support is limited to low-income subscribers residing in group living facilities. StandUp Wireless applicants can demonstrate separate households through the one-per-household worksheet upon initial enrollment.

StandUp Wireless strives to make its cell phone services accessible to all. It focuses less on payment ability than ensuring service availability to those who need it. Monthly wireless service is free for all customers, along with a free smartphone and bundled monthly allowances: 500 minutes, unlimited text messages, and 4.5GB data (except in California and Nebraska). For more information on StandUp Wireless phones, plans, as well as terms and conditions, please, refer to www.standupwireless.com.

Customer Service and Support

General Contact Information

Always use the following contact information when reaching out:

• Phone Number: 1-800-544-4441
• In-Device Support (611): Dial from a StandUp Wireless device.
• Email: [email protected]
• Website Chat Feature: Located in the lower right corner of their website.

Common Situations Requiring Contact with Customer Care

Porting Your Phone Number

To port your existing phone number from another carrier to StandUp Wireless:

• Have a bill from your current provider.
• Keep your account active until you complete the transfer process.

You will need:

1. Account Holder’s Full Name
2. Current Account Number
3. Account PIN or Password

Device Issues

If your device is malfunctioning, contact customer support immediately by dialing 1-800-544-4441 from any phone or using 611 if you are on a StandUp Wireless network.

For warranty-related issues:

• Ensure the device is in defective condition when returning it.
• You might need your account information to proceed with an exchange request.

Top-Up and Service Changes

To purchase additional talk, text, and data allotments (Top-Ups):

• Be prepared to pay using a VISA, Mastercard, Discover, American Express or Prepaid VISA Gift Card.
• Have your StandUp Wireless customer account number at hand for identification purposes.

For service plan changes:

• If you are an existing customer, log in with your MyAccount credentials and contact support directly from there if needed.
• New customers should refer to the enrollment process instructions provided during sign-up.

Billing Inquiries

To resolve questions or disputes regarding your billing statement:

• Keep the invoice handy for reference.
• Be prepared to provide authentication information such as a password associated with your account, address of record, and telephone number of record when requested.

Accessibility Needs

For individuals requiring specially equipped devices due to hearing, visual, or speech impairments:

• Specify your needs clearly during communication with customer support representatives.
• Provide detailed requirements about the types of accessibility features you need.

Unlocking Your Device

To unlock a device provided by StandUp Wireless:

• Verify you have been an active subscriber for at least six consecutive months if applicable.
• Ensure compliance with all terms and conditions.
• Have your account number handy to expedite verification.

Activation and Setup

To activate your StandUp Wireless phone, follow these detailed instructions:

Before You Begin:

1. Ensure your account with the old carrier is active until your phone number port is complete with StandUp Wireless.
2. Have your current account number and account PIN or password ready.

Step-by-Step Instructions:

1. Porting Your Phone Number (if you have one):
   • Call StandUp Wireless Customer Care at 1-800-544-4441 (or 611 from your StandUp phone).
   • Ask the customer care agent to help you port your phone number to start the process.
   • Wait for the time frame given by the agent, then reboot your phone. Try making and receiving a call to ensure it’s working.
2. Activating Your New Phone:
   • If you haven’t already, log in to your MyAccount at https://myaccount.standupwireless.com/.
   • Go to the “Devices” tab (or similar, based on your device model and software version).
   • Select “Activate a Device.”
   • Follow the prompts to activate your new phone:
     • Choose the type of device you’re activating (e.g., Phone, Tablet, Hotspot).
     • Enter the ESN/IMEI number found under your phone’s settings or on the back of the device.
     • Review and confirm the activation details.
   • Once activated, insert your SIM card into your new phone if it hasn’t been inserted already.
   • Turn on your phone. It should now connect to the StandUp Wireless network automatically.
3. Checking Your APN Settings (if data or messaging isn’t working):
   • If you’re having trouble with data or messaging, you might need to add the correct APN settings to your device. Go to your device’s settings and look for ‘mobile networks’ or ‘cellular networks’. Find ‘APN’ or ‘Access Point Names’.
   • Tap on the plus button or options button to ‘Add a new APN’.
   • Fill in these fields:
     • Name: PWG
     • APN: pwg
     • MMSC: http://pwg.mmsmvno.com/mms/wapenc
     • MCC: 310
     • MNC: 240
   • Save the new APN settings and restart your device.

After following these steps, your StandUp Wireless phone should be activated and ready for use. If you encounter any issues or have further questions, contact StandUp Wireless Customer Care at 1-800-544-4441 for assistance.

StandUp Wireless Lifeline Plans Explained

Overview:

StandUp Wireless offers discounted wireless services for eligible low-income individuals through its Lifeline program, funded by federal and state programs. The service is intended to provide essential communication needs at a highly reduced cost or even free of charge depending on the eligibility criteria and location. However, there’s some confusion around pricing due to various plans being available across different states.

Main Page Information vs Detailed Plans

On the main page, it lists “Free Monthly Service,” which can be misleading if not understood in context:

• FREE Data: This typically means free data within the plan’s limits.
• FREE Talk & Text: Unlimited talk and text messages as part of the included service.

However, upon diving into specific state plans on their website, you’ll find that some states offer plans at a nominal cost while others may still be considered free due to substantial subsidies from Lifeline or other assistance programs. Here’s how it breaks down:

Detailed Breakdown of StandUp Wireless Lifeline Plans

Kentucky (KY) and Puerto Rico (PR)

• Lifeline – Unlimited Talk, Text & 4.5 GB of Data Plan:
  • Retail Price: $28/month
  • This plan is specifically offered in Kentucky (KY) and Puerto Rico (PR).
  • Includes unlimited talk minutes and text messages.
  • Comes with 4.5GB data allowance.

California (CA)

• Lifeline – Unlimited Talk, Text & 6 GB of Data Plan:
  • Retail Price: $30/month
  • This plan is exclusively for California residents.
  • Offers unlimited talk minutes and text messages.
  • Provides a slightly higher data cap at 6GB compared to other states.

General Lifeline Plans (various states)

• Lifeline – 1,000 Minutes, Unlimited Texts & 4.5 GB of Data Plan:
  • Retail Price: $25/month
  • This plan is available in multiple states.
  • Includes up to 1,000 minutes of talk time and unlimited texts.
  • Comes with a data allowance of 4.5GB.

Enhanced Fund Plans (some areas)

• Lifeline – Unlimited Talk, Text & 6.5 GB of Data Plan:
  • Retail Price: $35/month
  • This plan provides enhanced funds and is more expensive than the base plans.
  • Includes unlimited talk minutes and text messages.
  • Offers a larger data allowance at 6.5GB.

Additional Considerations:

1. Activation Fees: Some customers may be eligible for an activation fee waiver, funded by the California Lifeline program, which can cover up to two wireless service activations per household over twelve months.
2. Device Options: StandUp Wireless offers free devices (refurbished) to participants under certain conditions.
3. Customer Support and Usage Requirements: All Lifeline customers have access to free customer support services and must maintain usage of their service every 30 days as per FCC regulations.

Conclusion:

While the main page suggests “Free Monthly Service,” detailed state-specific plans reveal a range of pricing options. The actual cost you pay will depend on your state, eligibility status, and specific plan requirements. StandUp Wireless provides significant discounts through federal and state assistance programs to make these services affordable or even free for qualified individuals.

For clarity and tailored advice, it’s best to check the specifics relevant to your location directly from the StandUp Wireless website under “Lifeline Plans” section or by contacting their customer service at 1-800-544-4441.

Phone Services and Devices

Depending on requirements and needs, the following phones will work with StandUp Wireless

1. Free Phones: StandUp Wireless does offer free phones to eligible customers who apply for their Lifeline or Affordable Connectivity Program (ACP) benefits. The specific models can vary and may depend on your location and availability.
2. Bring Your Own Phone (BYOP): If you have an unlocked compatible phone, you can bring it to StandUp Wireless and use their service without needing a free phone from them.
3. TTY Compatibility: Most wireless phones offered by StandUp Wireless will work with a TTY (Telecommunication Device for the Deaf), suggesting that they provide a variety of models.

For the most accurate and up-to-date information on available phone models, it’s recommended to contact StandUp Wireless directly or check their official website.

You can find more information on their FAQ page: https://www.standupwireless.com/faqs/

User Reviews

Summary of user reviews – what actual real users of StandUp Wireless say

Pros:

1. Good Customer Service: Reviewers mention that StandUp Wireless has good customer service, which they haven’t needed to use due to their positive experiences.
2. Bring Your Own Device (BYOD): StandUp Wireless allows customers to bring their own devices, providing flexibility for those who want to use their current phones.
3. Suitable for Basic Needs: Reviewers mention that the service is suitable for basic needs like calling and texting, with one reviewer highlighting they only needed these features.
4. Direct Phone Provision: Unlike some other services, StandUp Wireless provides a phone specifically designed to work with their service rather than sending SIM cards that may or may not fit certain devices.

Cons:

1. Negative Reviews: While the reviewers in this context had positive experiences, there are negative reviews suggesting potential issues with the service experienced by others.
2. Lack of Information on Accessibility: There’s no specific mention of accessibility features or accommodations for individuals with disabilities in the provided context. However, contact information was given by StandUp Wireless representative to inquire about this.