Q Link Wireless in New York — free Lifeline phone & plan
NY T-Mobile Free smartphone 25 GB / mo
Q Link Wireless is one of the 21 Lifeline-approved wireless carriers operating in New York. The carrier — a service of Q Link Wireless LLC — has been a USAC-designated Eligible Telecommunications Carrier since 2011 and runs on the T-Mobile cellular network. New York households that qualify for Lifeline by income or by participating in SNAP, Medicaid, SSI, Federal Public Housing, or the Veterans Pension can sign up for $0/month service plus a free Android smartphone.
The Q Link Wireless New York Lifeline plan
New York Lifeline customers on Q Link Wireless get the carrier's standard nationwide plan: 25 GB of high-speed mobile data, unlimited domestic talk and text, and 10 GB of mobile hotspot. Calls and messages to U.S. numbers are included; international calling requires a paid add-on. Voicemail, 911, and basic call features are included at no cost.
The free smartphone shipped to New York applicants is described as: Free 4G LTE Android smartphone. Devices are unlocked at the time they ship and pre-loaded with the carrier's account management app.
Eligibility — what New York households need to qualify
The New York Lifeline rules mirror the federal standard. You qualify if any of the following are true:
- Household income at or below 135% of the Federal Poverty Guidelines — currently $21,008 for one person and $43,680 for a family of four in New York.
- Anyone in your household participates in SNAP, Medicaid, SSI, Federal Public Housing, or the Veterans Pension and Survivors Benefit.
How to enroll in Q Link Wireless from New York
- Verify eligibility. Visit nv.fcc.gov/lifeline and complete the National Verifier application.
- Receive your Application ID. Approval is instant when your SNAP or Medicaid status is in a connected state database; otherwise expect a 5–10 business-day review of your uploaded documents.
- Sign up with Q Link Wireless. Go to https://qlinkwireless.com or call 1-855-754-6543. Provide your Application ID and New York address.
- Pick a device. Choose a free Android phone or, if eligible, opt into a paid upgrade. BYOP (bring your own phone) is also supported with a T-Mobile-compatible device.
- Activate & use. Your phone arrives pre-activated within 5–10 business days. Service starts on day one.
Compare with other New York Lifeline carriers
Q Link Wireless is one option among the 21 Lifeline carriers serving New York. Pricing is identical ($0/month after the federal subsidy), so the choice usually comes down to network coverage in your area, monthly data allowance, and the device the carrier ships. Compare side by side on the New York Lifeline page.
FAQ — Q Link Wireless in New York
Does Q Link Wireless operate in New York?
Yes. Q Link Wireless is a USAC-approved Lifeline carrier serving qualifying low-income households throughout New York. The carrier delivers service on the T-Mobile network, with coverage matching T-Mobile's footprint in New York.
What does the Q Link Wireless New York Lifeline plan include?
25 GB of monthly mobile data, unlimited talk and text, and 10 GB of mobile hotspot tethering — all for $0/month after the federal Lifeline credit is applied. New customers in New York also receive a free Android smartphone with enrollment.
How do I apply for Q Link Wireless in New York?
Apply at the federal National Verifier (nv.fcc.gov/lifeline), receive your Application ID, then enroll with Q Link Wireless at https://qlinkwireless.com.
Will I get a free phone with Q Link Wireless in New York?
Yes — Q Link Wireless ships a free Android smartphone to approved New York households. Model availability varies by region and inventory.
For more on choosing the right Lifeline carrier, see our carrier selection guide and the broader eligibility overview.