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Support

Support & Phone Activation

Step-by-step help for your free phone, plus real people to talk to 7 days a week.

To activate your Phone Government phone, power it on with the SIM inserted, connect to Wi‑Fi if prompted, and follow the setup screens; most phones activate automatically within minutes. If not, call technical support at 1-800-188-7575 (8:00 a.m. – 12:00 a.m. EST, 7 days a week) or email support@phonegovernment.com.

Updated · Sources: FCC · USAC

Woman setting up her new free government phone

How do I activate my free phone?

  1. Make sure the SIM card is inserted (it usually comes pre-installed).
  2. Charge and power on the phone.
  3. Follow the on-screen setup and connect to Wi‑Fi if available.
  4. Make a test call to confirm service.

How do I check my data balance?

Call technical support at 1-800-188-7575 anytime to check your remaining data. Your data renews every 30 days from activation.

How do I turn on hotspot?

iPhone: Settings → Personal Hotspot → Allow Others to Join. Samsung: Settings → Connections → Mobile Hotspot and Tethering.

My phone says 'No Service' — what should I do?

  • Restart the phone
  • Turn Airplane Mode on and off
  • Check the SIM is seated correctly
  • Update carrier settings
  • Call 1-800-188-7575

Lost, stolen or damaged phone

Call 1-800-188-7575 right away so we can suspend the line and explain replacement options. Need only a SIM? Call 1-674-229-4469.

Keep your Lifeline active

Use your service at least once every 30 days (a call, text or data session) and recertify every year.

Frequently asked questions

What are technical support hours?

8:00 a.m. – 12:00 a.m. EST, 7 days a week.

How do I change my plan?

Call Enrollment and Plan Changes at 1-800-633-7797.

How do I set up voicemail?

Press and hold 1 on the dial pad and follow the prompts.

Ready for your free government phone?

Apply online in about 10 minutes or call our enrollment team at 1-800-633-7797.

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