What Assurance Wireless offers and how to learn about you can participate

Assurance Wireless is a program run by Virgin Mobile that provides a free smartphone and free monthly service to people who receive certain government benefits. You get a phone, 350 minutes of talk time per month, and unlimited text and data — all at no cost. The program is funded by the Universal Service Fund, a system that requires phone companies to contribute to broadband access for low-income households.

The catch is that you must already receive benefits from one of several programs: Supplemental Security Income (SSI), Supplemental Nutrition information Program (SNAP), Medicaid, Federal Public Housing information, or Temporary information for Needy Families (TANF). If you receive one of these, you may be able to get a phone through Assurance Wireless. The program operates in all 50 states, but the specific benefits that make you may be able to access vary slightly by state.

Key Takeaways

  • Assurance Wireless provides a free phone and free monthly service (350 minutes, unlimited text and data) to people receiving SSI, SNAP, Medicaid, Federal Public Housing information, or TANF.
  • You must prove you receive one of these benefits by submitting documents like a benefits letter, award notice, or recent statement from your benefits program.
  • The phone is a basic smartphone (usually a Samsung or similar model) that works on Virgin Mobile's network, which uses Sprint's infrastructure.
  • You can order online through the Assurance Wireless website or by phone at 1-888-321-5880, and the phone typically arrives within 7 to 10 business days.
  • If you already have an Assurance Wireless account, you can upgrade your phone once per year at no cost.

What documents you need to provide

Assurance Wireless requires proof that you receive one of the may have access to benefits. The exact documents accepted depend on which benefit program you're in. For SNAP, you can submit your EBT card, a recent benefits statement, or a letter from your state's SNAP office. For SSI or TANF, an award letter or recent benefits statement works. For Medicaid, bring a Medicaid card or a letter from your state's Medicaid office. For Federal Public Housing information, a lease or housing authority letter showing you receive the benefit is sufficient.

You'll upload these documents when you order online, or you can mail them to Assurance Wireless if you call to order by phone. The program also accepts documents from tribal benefits programs in some states. If your benefits letter is older than 12 months, Assurance Wireless may ask for a more recent statement to confirm you still receive the benefit.

How to order your phone

You can order through the Assurance Wireless website (assurancewireless.com) or by calling 1-888-321-5880. Online ordering is usually faster. You'll need to create an account, enter your personal information, select which benefit program you receive, and upload your proof documents. The website walks you through each step.

After you submit your order, Assurance Wireless reviews your documents to confirm you meet the requirements. This review typically takes a few business days. Once approved, your phone ships within 7 to 10 business days. You'll receive a tracking number by email or text. When the phone arrives, it comes activated and ready to use — you don't need to set up service separately.

What the phone and service include

Assurance Wireless provides a basic smartphone, usually a Samsung Galaxy or similar model from the previous year or two. The phone is not the latest model, but it runs current Android software and can handle texting, calling, email, and basic apps. The phone itself is yours to keep; you don't have to return it if you leave the program.

Your monthly service includes 350 minutes of talk time, unlimited text messages, and unlimited data (though data may be slowed after you use a certain amount in a month). You can use the phone on any network that works with Virgin Mobile, which operates on Sprint's infrastructure. If you need more minutes in a given month, you can purchase additional minutes through your account, though this is not free.

Keeping your account active and upgrading your phone

To keep your Assurance Wireless account active, you must use your phone at least once every 30 days. This means making a call, sending a text, or using data. If you don't use the phone for 30 days, the account may be suspended. If it's suspended for 60 days, the account closes and your phone number is released.

Once per calendar year, you can upgrade to a different phone at no cost. You order the new phone through your account on the Assurance Wireless website, and the new phone arrives the same way the first one did. If your phone breaks or stops working, contact Assurance Wireless customer service to discuss repair or replacement options; some damage is covered, but intentional damage or loss is not.

What happens if your benefits change

If you stop receiving one of the may have access to benefits, you can keep your Assurance Wireless account and continue paying for service. The program does not automatically cancel your account when your benefits end. However, you will no longer be able to get a free phone upgrade, and you'll need to pay for any new service features or additional minutes you want to add.

If you regain benefits later, you can contact Assurance Wireless to restore your free service status. You'll need to provide new proof of benefits. The program does not charge a fee to reactivate free service if you've been paying for it in the meantime.

Network coverage and service quality

Assurance Wireless uses Virgin Mobile's network, which operates on Sprint's infrastructure. Coverage depends on where you live and work. Before you order, you can check Sprint's coverage map on the Sprint website to see if you'll have service in your area. If you live in a rural area with weak Sprint coverage, Assurance Wireless may not work well for you.

Customer service is available by phone at 1-888-321-5880 or through the Assurance Wireless website. Wait times can be long during peak hours. The program also has a customer service chat option on its website. If you have problems with your phone or service, contact customer service with your account number or phone number ready.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I get an Assurance Wireless phone if I receive benefits but don't have a Social Security number?

No. Assurance Wireless requires a Social Security number to open an account. If you don't have one, you cannot use this program. You may want to explore other free phone programs in your area that have different requirements.

What if I lose my phone or it gets stolen?

Contact Assurance Wireless customer service when ready to report the loss. The program can deactivate your phone number so no one else can use it. You can request a replacement phone, though the program may charge a fee for a lost or stolen phone, or you may need to wait until your annual upgrade is available.

Can I use my Assurance Wireless phone with a different carrier?

No. Assurance Wireless phones are locked to Virgin Mobile's network. You cannot switch carriers or use the phone with another service provider. If you want to use a different network, you would need to get a phone from a different program or purchase one separately.

Do I have to pay taxes or fees on the free phone?

No. Assurance Wireless does not charge taxes or set up fees for the phone or the free monthly service. There are no hidden fees associated with the basic program. If you purchase additional minutes or services beyond what's included, those may have taxes applied depending on your state.

How long does it take to get approved after I submit my documents?

Document review usually takes 2 to 5 business days. After approval, your phone ships within 7 to 10 business days. Total time from order to phone in hand is typically 2 to 3 weeks, though it can be faster or slower depending on shipping and document processing delays.