Q Link Wireless Lifeline — free phone, plans & eligibility
T-Mobile network 25 GB / month Free smartphone Lifeline-approved since 2011
Q Link Wireless is a Universal Service Administrative Company (USAC)-approved Eligible Telecommunications Carrier (ETC) participating in the federal Lifeline program. The company is operated by Q Link Wireless LLC and provides Lifeline-subsidized wireless service to qualifying low-income households across all 50 states. Approved customers receive a free Android smartphone and a monthly plan with unlimited talk, unlimited text, and 25 GB of high-speed mobile data — all for $0 per month.
What you get with Q Link Wireless Lifeline
The current Q Link Wireless Lifeline plan delivers unlimited domestic voice minutes, unlimited SMS and MMS messaging, 25 GB of mobile data, and 10 GB of mobile hotspot tethering each month. Voicemail, caller ID, three-way calling, and 911 service are included at no charge. Service runs on the T-Mobile cellular network, which means coverage and call quality match what existing T-Mobile customers experience in your area.
Free device: Free 4G LTE Android smartphone. The exact model varies by region and inventory; expect a budget Android smartphone with a touchscreen, front and rear cameras, and 4G LTE or 5G connectivity. If you'd prefer a higher-end device, Q Link Wireless typically offers paid upgrades through its store.
Who qualifies for Q Link Wireless service
Eligibility for Q Link Wireless follows the same federal Lifeline rules used by every approved carrier. You qualify if your household income is at or below 135% of the Federal Poverty Guidelines, or if anyone in your household participates in any of these federal programs:
- Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP / food stamps)
- Medicaid
- Supplemental Security Income (SSI)
- Federal Public Housing Assistance (HUD Section 8 housing voucher, public housing, or PRAC)
- Veterans Pension and Survivors Benefit
- For residents of qualifying Tribal lands: Bureau of Indian Affairs General Assistance, Tribal TANF, Food Distribution Program on Indian Reservations, or Tribal Head Start (income-eligible)
How to apply for Q Link Wireless
- Confirm Lifeline eligibility at nv.fcc.gov/lifeline. You'll need your full legal name, date of birth, last four digits of your SSN (or Tribal ID), and proof of program participation or income.
- Get your USAC Application ID — issued instantly if your participation in SNAP/Medicaid is in a connected database, or within 5–10 business days if you upload supporting documents.
- Visit https://qlinkwireless.com and start a Lifeline enrollment. Provide your Application ID when prompted.
- Pick a phone from the available Q Link Wireless device options (or choose BYOP and request a SIM only).
- Receive your device. Standard shipping is 5–10 business days. The phone arrives pre-activated.
- Recertify annually when USAC contacts you. Miss the window and the carrier must de-enroll your service within 60 days.
Q Link Wireless contact & support
- Customer service: 1-855-754-6543
- Website: https://qlinkwireless.com
- Operating company: Q Link Wireless LLC
- FCC Lifeline ETC since: 2011
Q Link Wireless availability by state
Q Link Wireless is approved to deliver Lifeline service in all 50 U.S. states plus the District of Columbia. Click your state for the local application portal and a comparison against other Lifeline carriers serving the same area:
Frequently asked questions
Is Q Link Wireless actually free?
For households that qualify for Lifeline, yes — the federal subsidy of $9.25/month covers the entire cost of the Q Link Wireless Lifeline plan, and the carrier ships a free smartphone with enrollment. Without a Lifeline benefit, the same plan is a paid prepaid plan.
What network does Q Link Wireless use?
Q Link Wireless operates on the T-Mobile cellular network, which means coverage in your area mirrors T-Mobile's coverage map. If you have friends or family on T-Mobile who get a strong signal at your address, you'll likely have the same experience.
Can I bring my own phone to Q Link Wireless?
Most Lifeline carriers including Q Link Wireless support BYOP (bring your own phone) for compatible unlocked devices. You'll need a phone that supports the T-Mobile bands and a SIM card from the carrier.
How long does Q Link Wireless take to ship a Lifeline phone?
After your eligibility is confirmed by USAC's National Verifier, Q Link Wireless typically ships within 5–10 business days. Some applicants in major metro areas receive devices in as little as 3 days.
What happens if I lose my Q Link Wireless phone?
Contact Q Link Wireless customer service at 1-855-754-6543 immediately to suspend service. Replacement device policies vary; expect a small replacement fee. Your monthly Lifeline benefit and number stay attached to your account.
For independent reviews and side-by-side comparisons of {$provider['name']} against other Lifeline carriers, see our consumer comparison guide.