Can I Still Get A QLink Wireless Free Phone In 2025? Alternatives Suggested! 

QLink Wireless was once a popular provider of free phones and wireless service for eligible low-income individuals under the Lifeline program. However, due to legal issues, the company ceased operations, leaving many users wondering about their next steps.  

If you’re wondering whether you can still get a QLink Wireless free phone in 2025 or need a reliable replacement, this guide will walk you through everything you need to know. 

1. What Happened to QLink Wireless?

QLink Wireless was a telecommunications company based in Dania, Florida, founded in 2011.

It provided free and discounted wireless services through government assistance programs such as Lifeline and the Emergency Broadband Benefit (EBB) program, funded by the Universal Service Fund.  

Does Q Link Wireless give a free phone? Yes, it used to. Under Lifeline program, QLink Wireless offered free devices, including phones to eligible applicants. 

However, QLink Wireless is no longer a business now. The company is now inaccessible, with no customer service or website available. What happened? It shut down due to legal issues: 

• In 2021, the company became the subject of a federal investigation. On June 9, 2021, the United States Postal Inspection Service raided QLink’s Florida headquarters as part of an undisclosed investigation.  
• Then, in October 2024, the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Southern District of Florida announced that Issa Assad, the owner of QLink Wireless, and the company itself pleaded guilty to conspiring to defraud the government in a scheme that misappropriated over $100 million from the Lifeline program. 
• Additionally, in 2023, the Federal Communications Commission (FCC) proposed a $62 million fine against QLink Wireless for violating the EBB program’s regulations by overcharging for devices.  

Due to these legal complications, QLink Wireless was shut down, and StandUp Wireless took over its services. 

2. How StandUp Wireless Helps Former QLink Customers 

Do you get a free phone with QLink Wireless?

With QLink Wireless no longer in operation, so getting a Qlink Wireless free cell phone is impossible now. Fortunately, StandUp Wireless has stepped in to provide services to former QLink users. StandUp Wireless is a Lifeline provider that offers free talk, text, and data to eligible customers, like QLink did. 

For some former QLink customers, their accounts were automatically transferred to StandUp Wireless. However, this transition was not seamless for everyone. Many customers reported losing service, receiving no notice about the change, or facing difficulties activating their phones with StandUp Wireless. 

If your service was not transferred automatically, it’s best to contact their customer service through hotline at 1-800-544-5551, live chat or email: support@staging-standupwireless.workeeper.net. 

Their available time: 

• Mon-Sun: 8:00 AM to 10:00 PM ET 
• Mon – Sun: 5:00 AM to 7:00 PM ET

3. Best Alternatives to QLink Wireless Free Phones 

Despite StandUp Wireless stepping in, many former QLink users have reported frustration, with some claiming their phones suddenly lost service.

If you’re unhappy with this transition, you may want to explore other options. Let’s take a look! 

3.1 Top 5 Alternatives to Qlink Wireless: 

If you’re not satisfied with StandUp Wireless, here are some top alternatives: 

1. AirTalk Wireless: This Lifeline provider offers a variety of free phones, including smartphones like iPhones and Samsung Galaxy models, as well as basic options like flip phones and Nokia devices for senior users. They also provide generous data plans. 

2. SafeLink Wireless: SafeLink provides free talk, text, and data, with many smartphone options depending on your location. 

3. TruConnect: This provider offers free government phones with extra benefits such as free high-speed data, unlimited talk and text, hotspot data (up to the plan limit), free international calls to 200+ countries, two months of Amazon Prime, and access to top 4G and 5G networks.  

4. Assurance Wireless – This well-known Lifeline provider offers free Android phones and service. (Note that Assurance Wireless does not provide iPhones, and phone availability depends on stock, mostly budget-level Android devices.) 

5. Cintex Wireless: Cintex provide free devices such as a generic 4G LTE flip phone, with some higher models available for an upgrade, along with solid service plans.

3.2 Why AirTalk Wireless Is the Best Choice? 

Among all the alternatives, AirTalk Wireless stands out as the best option for former QLink users. Here’s why: 

1. Better phone selection: AirTalk offers a wide range of smartphones, including iPhones, Samsung Galaxy models, and other top-tier brands. If you want a higher-end device, AirTalk allows you to upgrade at a discounted rate.

2. More data & minutes: AirTalk provides generous service plans with more free data, talk time, and texting. 

3. Reliable network coverage: It operates on a strong network, ensuring reliable service nationwide. 

4. Easy application process: Signing up for AirTalk Wireless is straightforward and hassle-free. 

5. Extra perks: Every phone of AirTalk Wireless come with many extra benefits such as hotspot data and international calling options. 

6. Highly rated customer support: Many users report better customer service compared to other Lifeline providers. 

If you’re looking for the best alternative to QLink Wireless, AirTalk Wireless is an excellent choice with superior benefits.

4. How to Apply for a Free Government Phone with AirTalk Wireless

Switching to AirTalk Wireless is simple and only takes a few steps. Here’s how you can apply for a free phone and service:

1. Check Eligibility: First off, ensure you qualify for the Lifeline through income-based criteria (at or below 135% of the federal poverty guideline) or government assistance programs (e.g., Medicaid, SNAP, SSI, Federal Public Housing, or Veterans Pension). For full eligibility requirements, please check the official AirTalk Wireless website. 

2. Visit the AirTalk Wireless website: Go to AirTalk Wireless, enter your ZIP code and Click “Apply Now” to see available plans in your area.  

3. Choose a service plan: AirTalk offers different plans, including Bring Your Own Device (BYOD) options or plans that include a discounted device. Choose the one that best suits your needs. 

4. Pick a free phone: Choose from a variety of free smartphones or opt for an upgrade at a discounted price. 

5. Complete application form: Fill out the application form with your personal details and provide proof of eligibility, such as income statements or program participation documents. 

6. Submit your application: Once submitted, wait for approval, which typically takes a few minutes to a few days in some cases. 

7. Receive your free phone & activate it: Once approved, AirTalk will ship your device within 7-10 business days, and you can start using your free phone and service immediately.

5. FAQs 

5.1 How Do I Get a Free Replacement Phone from Qlink Wireless? 

Since QLink Wireless is no longer in business, it’s no longer possible to request a Qlink Wireless phone replacement free directly from them. However, if you were a QLink customer, your service may have been transferred to StandUp Wireless.

You can check with StandUp Wireless to see if they offer a replacement phone. Alternatively, you can apply for a free phone through another Lifeline provider, such as AirTalk Wireless, SafeLink Wireless, or Assurance Wireless. 

5.2 What Is the Best Free Government Phone with Unlimited Everything? 

Several Lifeline providers offer free government phones with unlimited talk, text, and data, but options vary. AirTalk Wireless is a popular choice due to its wide selection of devices. One of the best free options available is the iPhone 7 Plus, known for its large display, solid camera, and reliable performance. However, phone availability depends on your location and provider stock. 

5.3 Does the Government Give Free Samsung Phones? 

Yes, several Lifeline providers offer free Samsung phones, but availability depends on your location and the provider’s inventory. Some models may be available for free, while others might require a small fee. 

Final Words 

Although QLink Wireless free phones are no longer available, there are still great alternatives to consider. If your QLink service was transferred to StandUp Wireless, but you’re unhappy with it, you can switch to a better provider as suggested in the alternatives. 

Among these choices, AirTalk Wireless is the top alternative, offering high-quality smartphones, better service plans, and excellent coverage. If you’re looking for a seamless transition from QLink Wireless, AirTalk Wireless is your best bet! 

Apply today and stay connected with a reliable free phone service!