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Q Link Wireless

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7.0

Overall Score

LAST UPDATED: September 6th, 2023

Q Link Wireless is a free phone service available exclusively to low-income individuals and families on a government assistance program like SNAP, Medicaid, and the Department of Veterans Affairs through its Lifeline program. The company offers customers nationwide coverage on both 5G and 4G LTE networks.

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The Good

  • Free Unlimited Text, Talk, and Data
  • No Annual Contract
  • Keep Your Phone and Number
  • Nationwide Coverage

Free Unlimited Text, Talk, and Data

Q Link Wireless customers receive a number of benefits when they enroll for the company's Lifeline assistance program:

  • Unlimited Texting
  • Unlimited Talk
  • Free Phone Activation and SIM Card
  • No Credit Check
  • Voicemail and 3-Way Calling
  • Access to 10 Million Wifi Hotspots

Q Link Wireless estimates customers can save up up to $599 per year in monthly fees when they sign up for the Lifeline plan.

No Annual Contract

Q LInk Wireless is also one of the few cell phone plan providers to not require its customers to sign up for lengthy, multi-year contracts. Qualifying customers can sign up for or cancel Q Link's free cell phone service at any time.

Keep Your Phone and Number

Q Link Wireless customers can also keep their existing phone and phone number when they enroll in the Lifeline program, regardless of whether they own a flip phone, iPhone, Blackberry, or Samsung Galaxy. Customers in need of a smartphone can receive a free Q Link phone.

Nationwide Coverage

Q Link Wireless is actively working to expand its national network. The carrier’s network coverage depends on the area, weather, signal strength, and traffic volumes, but over 97 percent of the geographic United States is covered.

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The Bad

  • Only Available to Qualifying Customers

Only Available to Qualifying Customers

Q Link Wireless's Lifeline assistance program is only available to qualifying Americans who are currently on a low income or government assistance program:

  • SNAP (food stamps)
  • Medicaid
  • Department of Veterans Affairs
  • Social Security Income Assistance
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The Bottom Line

Customers living under the Federal Poverty Line may find a reliable cell phone provider in Q Link Wireless. The company offer free cell phone services to more than 2 million qualifying customers across roughly 97 of the country. Customers on government financial aid programs are encouraged to enroll in the Lifeline program.

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Star Rating

4.0

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4,282 Reviews

Review Breakdown

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21%

4 grade

66%

3 grade

9%

2 grade

1%

1 grade

3%

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Cynthia “Cindy” Mello

I loved the customer service. I really am not liking the phone I purchased and wish I could've kept my flip 3. Art finally gave my daughter a 16 number code only the provider that has my number can unlock according to them. Att. I really wanted that number on that phone but I don't know where to start . It would be great if your company could help. Your cute service rep that helped me was lovely and patient. Also I still qualify for a tablet and have proof via govt email. Hey a different co called excess sent me a tablet free? I'm sending it back. Other than these things I'm satisfied for now. Fix my flip with same number and I'd be ecstatic. Thank yiu, Cynthia Mello

1 month ago

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Jo ann Nelson Central Square, NY

So I am grateful that you give me this for free My only issue was it said unlimited talk and so I thought I had unlimited talk. And I found out that unlimited actually meant 10,000 minutes and I had used them and then didn't have a phone for like 4 days. And then I tried to buy $5 worth to get me through to the next month and it wouldn't go through so you gave me my money back which was very nice. But for some reason I could not add one minute so I needed to get a house phone so that I didn't go over my minutes Yes I have a gift of gab. But all in all it is a very good service thank you

1 month ago

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Toninette Loyd Flint, MI

I have enjoyed being a Qlink member from the very beginning, when they first started their services. But I stop for a while, because my son brought me a phone and I became member on his service, I have always been a fan of QLINK I think they are a wonderful company. They just need better phones with phone protectors. O' years I need a new SIM CARD ASAP..... I don't have a phone at this time...

2 months ago

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Jenn Albuquerque, NM

For a free service, I really am happy. I got to bring an unlocked phone that I already owned. I think it is great how bring your own device is an option, because that saved me a lot of money. After being approved, I received the SIM card in 2 days, I was surprised because it arrived very quickly! Once I inserted the SIM into my phone, within about 5-10 seconds I had service and was able to make calls/ use my phone normally. The overall process from the beginning ( application) to the end (inserting SIM and getting service going) was extremely quick and easy! I live in a really rural area, and I have tried a couple other free services before using Q Link and I'd say Q Link is hands down the best one (service wise) that I have tried. As I said, I live in a rural area, which means there are some spots where the service gets a little choppy. However, I feel like the previous services I tried were worse. I recommend family and friends to Q Link! I am SO happy I made the switch myself. If anyone is thinking about making the switch to Q Link, I'd say do it, you will not be sorry!! The ONLY downside I have found is Q Link does not offer "Hot Spot" which was kind of a bummer at first, because I had to get use to not being able to use my phone as a portable hot spot device. But once I got use to it, I have absolutely no complaints at all.

3 months ago

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Ernest Harper

A very good I have not had any issues with q Link since I started and I hope that that will continue very thorough and efficient with any issues that I need to address since I started but I hope that it will continue.

1 month ago

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Lisa M. Kellar Saranac Lake, NY

Service is reliable and the program is both kind and practically beneficial. Advertising though can make you think you can or should purchase SIM cards or monthly data when you don’t actually have to and aren’t allowed to, so be careful before you spend anything. Prices for refurbished devices are excellent. I sure the program is saving lives.

2 months ago

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Myrna Campbell Sault Ste. Marie, MI

I am not able to use my phone while shopping in the larger chain stores but otherwise my service is excellent. I get monthly statements of my usage and balances. My reloaded minutes are always right on time each month and if I have any issues with my phone service I can always get in touch with Qlink to get them solved in a timely manner. I treasure the ability to chose my own phone from the endless list of phones that are compatible with the service.

2 months ago Edited July 6, 2023

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Amanda George IL

I have been using Q link for about 2 months now and I like it. The only complaint I have is that I keep getting emails from them to "claim my free tablet" but they aren't free. There is a $10 initial charge for it. But otherwise the set up of my account and activation of my phone is easy and fast. I got the SIM card because I already have a phone that's unlocked.

2 months ago Edited July 10, 2023

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Pamela Smith Buckhannon, WV

I found it extremely difficult to understand the lady on the . I am not criticizing her at all. She might have found me difficult to understand. I have been a customer of Qlink for a long time. Their over all performance over has been fan

2 months ago

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Jonathan Eskine Slidell, LA

It is amazing to have phone service not just for a low cost but literally for FREE! This saves me $100+ a month vs. choosing a major phone carrier. It was easy to sign up, get approved, and enrolled. Before I knew it my SIM card kit arrived in the mail, I put the SIM card in my phone and I immediately had service. I’ve travel a decent amount in my state and I have had no issue with not having any service. Sometimes the internet service can get a little slow which is why I left 4 stars instead of 5, but regardless, switching to Q Link Wireless was one of the best decisions I’ve made and I recommend it to everyone out there and I’m so thankful for this!!

3 months ago

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Terri Errickson Millville, NJ

The service is outstanding. This is the first service that I have found that I can pick up in my house. No matter where I'm at I get outstanding service. I just want to thank you for the awesome service and products. I want to upgrade to a new phone because some of the apps say that it's not compatible with my phone I have the pepper phone I want to upgrade to the to the updated Androids that allows me to get different apps that are compatible with my phone. Thank you again for your awesome service. When I got on your service I went through your store and that's where I got my phone I paid $35 for it. What do you recommend would be the next upgrade I know the price will be a little more.

5 months ago

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Gabriel Hollen

I got the SIM card In about a week from ordering it. I installed it and activated it and was making a phone call in less than 2 minutes.

3 weeks ago

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Rebecca Williams IL

That this last time the young man finally change my email for me & helped me out and gave me the information I needed instead of telling me how to do it myself. I’m 52,yrs old and computer challenged so I sooo appreciated his help.

2 months ago

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Dennis Malcolm

I like that no matter my location I always have service...I've had boost, T-Mobile,at&t and I've always lost service at one point or another during the service month..since I've had q-link I've hardly ever lost service..and when I did it wasn't for long and very seldom..good job q-link.

2 months ago

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ashley Kendrick Toccoa, GA

The plane is ok its free service so can't say to much im thankful for it..I had got me my own phone . The only problem I have is when I need it the most it never has working service unless I'm at home connected to my wifi.......

2 months ago

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ko Delesline New York, NY

Q Link is a lifesaver for anyone especially seniors just free government sponsored monthly subscription it's not only appreciated but necessary to complete my monthly budget which isn't much thanks to q Link I can stay in touch with family members and doctors thank you Julie sincerely M, Delesline senior citizen. 🙂

2 months ago

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Peter Jebb

Get everything ready before you begin to enroll. It can be a hassle if you have to go back and change something. Other than that, been great! And don't forget if you qualify it can be free! I'm really pleased with this service. It's been great!

2 months ago Edited July 5, 2023

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Chrissy Lang Bellevue, WA

I love that I could figure it out all on my own. I didn't need to call to get set up and now I feel like I can activate anyone's phone 😁👍Thank you Qlink. 🤏lol they could have sent a phone with a better camera but I can live and love with the one I have

3 months ago Edited June 16, 2023

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Peter Moimoi Tucson, AZ

No complaints,, whenever I had an issue they were there until I was satisfied with the results. If it was after business hours, I'd simply described the issue and they're quick in responding with a suggestion to my email they would do a follow-up to make sure I had resolve my issue. I would've given them 5- stars but haven't received my tablet yet. Lol

3 months ago

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Alex Todd Louisville, KY

I love everything fr... fr... its been good, fast reliable, only thing is it didn't come with a free phone I mean I know I know it cost wether it's a cheap knock off or crap one. But it was hard getting a network unlocked phone and now it took a dump on me I can't seem to get another with no income to low based . Hopeful soon I'll ha e a good phone and I'll be back

3 months ago

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Barry T Sullivan GA

Thank you Q Link you've been a great help to me to make sure that I always have service any issues that I've ever had have always been corrected fast and efficiently your representatives have been outstanding thank you for your service

3 months ago Edited June 5, 2023

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Dee Memphis, TN

Overall Q Link Wireless has given me an awesome opportunity to stay in contact with my family, friends. I gave it a 3 out of 5 star rating because aside from the free service, the phone is extremely slow and it's above all very frustrating to navigate. There is sooooo many update that needed to be done to the device + to the Tablet (I also purchased with the device), that both devices are more of a headache than anything else. The service is great and appreciative but the technology given alone isn't really worth it in my opinion. You should consider upgraded your devices to a current generation device and I could definitely see some better results.

3 months ago

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Kevin Gallagher Framingham, MA

very nice people great value thank both Jesus and... the other guy (???) Ummmm, Juan! THAT'S the other gardener who told me all about this wondrous planet-wide revolution. Arrriba Arrrriba! kevg Ps. All kidding aside... Love you guys! Great lifesaving service. helping people = GOOD

3 months ago

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Kayla Hall Philadelphia, PA

Been (w/) Q Linķ Wıreļess for a coůple to a few years now {&} seems to be a pretty good an decent cell phone company provider to be (w/) ,plus have cell service in a area that usually most providers don't pick up in this location <ÔŘ> nøt as far up in that area ((but)) can say Q Lınķ reaches more more futher in the area!¡¡¡!¡¡¡!¡¡¡!

4 months ago

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Crizzycazz Columbus, IN

Appreciate the on time and complete benefit added each month. I have lifeline thru qlink. BUT when I first started the program I had lifeline and the ACP benefits both with qlink. They had promised a tablet with the ACP benefit but when I asked they co.said I had to wait because they were waiting on the tablets and when received it would then be sent to me. Well after a yr of waiting and no tablet. I decided to transfer ACP benefit to another carrier (which by the way , are never on time and repeatedly do not fufill complete benefit). So...I have have never received a tablet from anyone and thought qlink should have fufilled their promise as they received both ny lifeline and ACP benefit for almost a year or more.

4 months ago

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Shiela Scott Columbia City, IN

April 14 when I joined Qlink I had the BEST ever customer service! His name was Freddy and he took service to a new level which haven't seen in years! I was having (and still am) changing my account from Straight talk as soon as Straight talk saw I was changing carriers they locked me out of my account. Freddy called Straight talk while I was on phone and accomplished getting account to Q Link!!! He was amazing!!!!

4 months ago

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Man Made

I have been Enjoy my Qlink phone and tablet on a daily basis needs ,talk to family members, Church members,other.Make research, monitoring my Health ,take photos, videos,etc Except for some places I loss signal.

2 months ago

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Angie Mckinley Radcliff, KY

I love & appreciate Qlink & their service. I do have an outstanding issue with trying to carry my old number when I switched. My plan works out well. Customer service are right on time. Thank you!

2 months ago

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Teresa Bills Mayflower, AR

I liked the service when I first got it. It was wonderful,now I have trouble with dropped calls, and my phone service when I try to make a call it doesn't dial and I miss calls because it work sometimes and then it doesn't. If I can get some help with this I would appreciate it. Thank you

2 months ago

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Scott-Lewis Chappell Baltimore, MD

I've really been happy with Q Link Wireless. I feel customer support needs to be better. It has been a free service for me. I have to pay sometimes when needed data. Overall, I pleased. Thank you!

2 months ago

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jeff Lawrence Rockford, IL

q link has provided me with a reliable connection nationwide and always works just About everywhere, I've had a link for several years now and it's been My life saver a few times now.

2 months ago

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Shannon French Siloam Springs, AR

The service has been good and I have rarely ran into no service zones. I have been with Qlink for over 10 years now and am very satisfied and Qlink has literally been a lifesaver a couple of times.

2 months ago

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Terrunder Columbus, GA

All is good. Sometimes phone lag & takes its times when trying to make a call. It l8ke it be searching for a connection. Maybe a new ypdate on software will correct that. Other than free everything i want complain.

2 months ago

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kaigh thompson East Ryegate, VT

I like the phone and the service just fine. the problem is that I do not have any cell service from my house. It only works when I leave home. Which is when I need it. Thank you.

2 months ago

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robert weaver Lewistown, PA

Times are tough and qlink frees up money id usually need to sink into a monthly phone bill. And allows me to use that . Oney to put food in the table. Also provides a reliable steady signal in case of emergencies

2 months ago

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Will Cruz Augusta, GA

The service has been good. I have only lost connection twice within the last year. Other than that a little trouble with usage while driving down the road. Therefore, my rating is above average and quality. Thank you. Are you or have you ever been being?

3 months ago

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Scott Hoover Cathedral City, CA

I have had no issues at all.with Qlink and to be honest I was skeptical coming from the big name providers...but no hassles, service is always there when I need it and yeah, It's great!

3 months ago

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KmMarilyn Mcleod-Biddle Seattle, WA

Everything is great with qlink my only complaint would be when internet speeds slow down toward the end of the month. Other than that it's great I have recommended several people to qlink and most have made the switch with no complaints. Great service Thank you

3 months ago

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Anna Schmitz Mesa, AZ

I enjoy being able to be reached. The sole purpose of a phone, to be honest. I just wish it performed better for other tasks. My phone is very laggy and doesn't always deliver text messages in a timely manner. Since it is free, I am not complaining, merely answering the question posed...😊

3 months ago

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Bill Glime

The one thing I didn't like was once u used up the minutes you couldn't do anything with it untill it was reloaded! So every month for about a week u couldn't use your phone ! What I do like is it going to unlimited then there's no shuttling down

3 months ago

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J P Jensen Tucson, AZ

It's too soon to completely review and give back five star being that I have not had to deal with the customer service yet that will be the determining Factor. What I like is it was very easy to transfer service and so far no issues. I was once a hello Mobile customer and I like to tell them about quite a bit so I'm expecting the same with Q Link

3 months ago

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Renee Hart Jacksonville, FL

I like the phone very much, but, there are still some corks. I had to factory reset my phone because, out of a phenomenal event, an error message occurred and I could not get into my phone and lost some apps, such as, GMAIL, some games, and other apps. Then I can seem to add them to my home screen. But, through it all, it's a good phone.

3 months ago

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Mark Vandyke Chicago, IL

I don't like the fact that when I started with qlink my phone sounded like a pinball machine with everyone trying to sell me something. I still get more spam calls in a single day than I'm accustomed to receiving in an entire month. That's not cool. The service itself is fine though.

3 months ago

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Joseph Stombaugh Costa Mesa, CA

I really like the quick and helpful responses that I have been getting. One problem I ordered a new phone and tablet and can't get confirmation. It has been 3weeks since I ordered l want to reorder if it's necessary. Help desk hasn't helped.

4 months ago

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Christopher Lally Denham Springs, LA

QLink Wireless has been really great. The only 2 issue that I see is that(1) the high speed data cap is much lower than other companies offering free service and so it makes using your phones data internet so slow that you can actually use it. And (2) QLink Wireless doesn't offer free phones to customers choosing to use their service. Other than these 2 issues the service is great every where I go and no phone call connections or texting issues at all. Although I do live in Baton Rouge, La which is a pretty big city.

4 months ago

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Janet Hale Sacramento, CA

You never gave me a phone and my phone is very old and now have trouble charging this phone of 8yrs old now and can not afford one! Your phone prices suck!!! Not affordable for us poor people!!! And you dont offer any hotspot use either which would help me out! Other companies have hotspot use but you giys dont. Between my broken phone and no help getting one a an affordable price for the poorest of our population. Otherwise your service has always been a good signal without much interruption or poor signal. Always has worked everytime I needed it.

4 months ago

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Steven Rudnik Eastpointe, MI

I love that Q Link makes every aspect of using their services so easy for the elderly especially!! It's truly only a few steps from getting your new sim card as I did, ("Bring your Phone"), to the activation process. I'd have to say it took me 10 minutes to put my sim card into my own device to calling my family and friends!! Thank you for the service QLink!!

4 months ago

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David Adkins Amsterdam, NH

Customer services great But I seriously need a new phone I'm sorry I knew free phone The one I have I'm only getting 1 bar And yes I already did all the trouble shooting steps I reset my network I feel like I'm having a fun out with the full factory reset that did not help Change the other settings that do not help But I'm pretty sure I have to do with it Because I do not have money to buy a phone

4 months ago

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Chris Livengood Winston-Salem, NC

Thank you so much Q Link, man, you have awesome service, and service plans, better yet, don't forget about all the new phones you carry, I want to thank all of y'all, for being such a good team, and assisting each customer, with the best instructions and manners, from each and every one of you guys.. thank you too late you make my world go round..

4 months ago

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Atigeve Mentor, OH

I dont have to much to complain about. I have some issues with service around certain areas where I feel i shouldnt be having issues (Near Great Lakes Mall in Mentor Ohio I for some reason go into Roaming for no reason bc im at 3 bars....) Sometimes some odd data speeds, but honestly over all the service is pretty good. I cant complain to much. I at least have a phone now and service now to access my doctors, family etc.

5 months ago