TruConnect’s Free Phones & Cell Service

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Key takeaways

TruConnect offers free cell phone service and phones to qualifying individuals. This initiative is part of efforts to ensure that low-income households have access to mobile communication.
Eligibility for TruConnect’s free services is determined through participation in certain federal assistance programs or by meeting income criteria.
Alongside the provision of free phones, TruConnect’s service includes talk, text, and data. Eligible customers also get two months of Amazon Prime for free.

If you’ve heard of TruConnect’s free phones and cell service you might think it’s too good to be true. The good news is, it’s not. You just have to qualify. TruConnect provides free and discounted services because it works through government programs aimed at making internet connectivity accessible to all Americans. If you qualify for these programs, then TruConnect was built for you.

What is TruConnect?

Matthew Johnson founded TruConnect in Los Angeles in 2011 as a mobile network operator to provide premium low-cost wireless services to eligible U.S. customers. The company’s mission is to help all Americans gain access to phones, internet, and stay connected to the world around them.

“At TruConnect, we envision a world where everyone and everything is connected.”

Doug Lodder, President at TruConnect

TruConnect makes premium wireless affordable by participating in the government-assisted programs Lifeline and the Affordable Connectivity Program (ACP). These programs help bridge the digital divide and connect millions of Americans who cannot afford or are overlooked by traditional providers. These days, especially after COVID-19 and with the rise of work-from-home culture, phone and internet access have become essential for everyday life, serving purposes like education, work, job searches, maintaining social connections, personal growth, and access to emergency services. Qualifying customers receive high-speed internet, unlimited talk and text, and a free Android phone, all at no cost.

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How to get started with TruConnect

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Getting started with TruConnect is easy. First, check your eligibility for either the Lifeline or ACP programs on their website. If you’re eligible, apply online by answering a few questions and submitting proof of eligibility. Once your application is approved, choose your device and plan based on the available options. TruConnect will then ship your brand-new device at no cost. When you receive your device, follow a few simple instructions to set it up and start using the service. To keep TruConnect active, you have to use it at least once per month. It can be talking, texting, or surfing the internet, you choose.

What exactly is the Lifeline Benefit?

The Federal Communications Commission (FCC) established Lifeline to offer a monthly discount on phone and internet services to eligible subscribers in 38 states, Puerto Rico, and the U.S. Virgin Islands. Under Lifeline, subscribers receive one benefit per household. TruConnect, through this program, provides eligible customers with free phone service, including unlimited talk, text, international calling to select countries, and up to 14GB of data.

How to qualify for Lifeline:

Your total household income must be at or below 135% of the Federal Poverty Guidelines or you participate in a qualifying federal assistance program.

Eligible federal assistance programs are:

Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP)
Medicaid or Medi-Cal
Supplemental Security Income (SSI)
Federal Public Housing Assistance (FPHA) or Section 8
Veterans and Survivors Pension Benefit

If your household is on qualifying federally recognized Tribal land you can be eligible if you participate in:

Bureau of Indian Affairs General Assistance
Head Start (only if you qualified for this program based on income)
Tribal TANF (Tribal Temporary Assistance for Needy Families)

How does The Affordable Connectivity Program work?

The Affordable Connectivity Program is a new, long-term government program with a budget of $14 billion. It aims to provide eligible households with a discount on broadband service and significantly reduce the cost of internet-connected devices like tablets and laptops. This program replaced the Emergency Broadband Benefit program on December 31, 2021. Qualifying individuals receive discounts of $30 per month off their internet or phone service, $75 per month for those on qualifying tribal lands, and/or a one-time $100 discount on eligible devices. Each household can only apply for one ACP benefit.

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Affordable Connectivity Program eligibility requirements:

If you qualify for Lifeline, chances are you qualify for ACP. The program is designed for households with an income at or below 200% of the Federal Poverty Guidelines or those participating in specific assistance programs.

Eligible federal assistance programs are:

Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP)
Supplemental Security Income (SSI)
Medicaid or Medi-Cal
Federal Public Housing Assistance (FPHA)
Veterans and Survivors Pension Benefit
Special Supplemental Nutrition Program for Women, Infants, and Children (WIC)
Federal Pell Grant recipients in the current award year
Free and Reduced-Price School Lunch or School Breakfast Programs

You are also eligible if you live on qualifying Tribal land and participate in one of the following Tribal assistance programs:

Head Start households that meet the qualifying income standard
Bureau of Indian Affairs General Assistance
Food Distribution Program located on Indian Reservations
Tribal TANF (Tribal Temporary Assistance for Needy Families)

Awesome Service!!!

“Truconnect is awesome. I got approved instantly & the SIM card arrived less than 5 days later. I poped it into my phone after I device unlocked it & right away my phone started getting text messages & making a call was after. No setup at all(: Thanks Truconnect for granting me free access to call, text & data!! You’re the best:)” Randi Maxam

What free devices can you get?

Customers qualifying for both the Affordable Connectivity Program and Lifeline receive unlimited talk, text, and data, plus a free smartphone, without an expensive monthly bill. The free phone is almost always an Android and is currently a Cloud Mobile Stratus C7. If you prefer a different phone, you have the option to purchase one. While TruConnect doesn’t offer a free tablet, you can get one for $10, which is a pretty amazing deal. To be eligible for the Cloud Mobile Sunshine Elite tablet at just $10.01, you must be enrolled in both Lifeline and ACP. The specific model and specifications of the free devices may vary based on availability; this is the offer at the time of writing.

Very happy with this phone

“Well for starters….. I was amazed on how quickly it arrived. When I opened package I was confused at first as to where the SIM card was, only to find out it was already installed. I was glad to see that a screen protector was included. I have never heard of the brand of phone I received ( Cloud Mobile Stratus C7 ) but it’s an excellent phone with good features. I like the brightness of the flashlight, the clarity of photos, the battery life, the speed of downloads. I’m still learning all the things it does. Overall I’m very happy with it. Thank You so much.” Rebecca Hill

Want Amazon Prime for free?

You can also get 2 months of Amazon Prime for free on eligible plans. If you upgrade to TruConnect+ for $1/month or purchase a tablet, Amazon Prime is included for free for the duration of your subscription. Amazon Prime offers benefits like free 2-day shipping, access to Prime Video, Prime Music, Prime Gaming, and more. Plus you can order SNAP and EBT eligible groceries through Amazon Fresh!

What carrier is TruConnect through?

TruConnect utilizes T-Mobile’s network, a leading carrier in the U.S. T-Mobile is known for its advanced 4G LTE and transformative nationwide 5G network, which offers reliable and fast wireless experiences. So when you use TruConnect you know you’ll get widespread coverage and reliable service.

Pros and cons of TruConnect

Pros

Affordable plans: TruConnect offers low-cost mobile plans, making it accessible for individuals on a tight budget. They often participate in government assistance programs like Lifeline, providing free or discounted services to eligible users.

No contracts: Users enjoy the flexibility of no long-term contracts, allowing them to switch plans or providers without incurring penalties.

Free devices: Eligible users can receive free smartphones or tablets through government assistance programs, making technology more accessible.

Nationwide coverage: TruConnect operates on major networks like T-Mobile, providing reliable nationwide coverage.

Unlimited talk and text: Many of their plans include unlimited talk and text, ensuring basic communication needs are met without worrying about overages.

No credit check: TruConnect does not require a credit check, making it an option for individuals with poor or no credit history.

Cons

Data speeds: Data speeds can be slower compared to other major carriers, especially after the initial high-speed data cap is reached.

Limited plan options and coverage: The range of plans can be limited, potentially not meeting the needs of users who require more data or additional features. While they offer nationwide coverage, service quality can vary in rural or less-populated areas.

Basic devices: The free devices provided through government programs tend to be basic models, which may not meet the needs of users seeking more advanced technology.

Data caps: Plans often come with data caps, and once these are reached, users may experience significantly reduced speeds until the next billing cycle.

By weighing these pros and cons, potential customers can better decide if TruConnect aligns with their needs and expectations.

The Best

“Have been with TruConnect for a couple of years now, and I can’t imagine switching to anyone else!! They’ve been such a blessing!!!!💜💜 And service is great!! I haven’t had any problems with service or the company!! I recommend them to everyone!!” Crystal Terrell

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Is TruConnect worth it?

Whether TruConnect is worth it or not depends on your specific needs and eligibility. For those who qualify, TruConnect offers valuable free or discounted wireless services and devices, making it an excellent deal for people often underserved by traditional wireless providers. This can be particularly beneficial for low-income individuals or families who need access to affordable communication services. On the other hand, if you don’t qualify for programs like the Affordable Connectivity Program (ACP) or Lifeline, you might find better service packages with more extensive features and higher data limits from other providers. Additionally, it’s crucial to consider the network coverage in your area when choosing a mobile plan, as TruConnect’s service quality can vary depending on location. Therefore, evaluating your eligibility, service needs, and local coverage is essential in determining if TruConnect is the right choice for you.

Bottom line

These days, staying connected to the internet is essential, and TruConnect provides an affordable path for millions of Americans who remain digitally disconnected. This premium wireless service offers low-cost options through the Affordable Connectivity Program (ACP) and Lifeline, both aiming to make broadband internet more accessible for everyone, especially those in low-income households. With the advantage of operating on T-Mobile’s reliable network, TruConnect ensures that users receive dependable service across a wide coverage area. This is particularly important in maintaining communication, accessing educational resources, and staying informed.

Whether you’re in search of a budget-friendly provider for personal or family use, TruConnect offers a viable solution to meet your connectivity needs. If affordability and accessibility are your priorities, consider giving TruConnect a try to see if it aligns with your requirements.

1. Paycheck Advance is For eligible customers only. Your actual available Paycheck Advance amount will be displayed to you in the mobile app and may change from time to time. Conditions and eligibility may vary and are subject to change at any time, at the sole discretion of Finco Advance LLC, which offers this optional feature. Finco Advance LLC is a financial technology company, not a bank. Expedited disbursement of your Paycheck Advance is an optional feature that is subject to an Instant Access Fee and may not be available to all users. Expedited disbursements may take up to an hour. For more information, please refer to Paycheck Advance Terms and Conditions.

2. Current is a financial technology company, not a bank. Banking services provided by Choice Financial Group, Member FDIC, and Cross River Bank, Member FDIC. The Current Visa® Debit Card is issued by Choice Financial Group pursuant to a license from Visa U.S.A. Inc. and may be used everywhere Visa debit cards are accepted. The Current Visa® secured charge card is issued by Cross River Bank pursuant to a license from Visa U.S.A. Inc. and may be used everywhere Visa credit cards are accepted. Please see the back of your Card for its issuing bank. Current Individual Account required to apply for the Current Visa® secured charge card. Independent approval required.

3. Individual results may vary. Using your credit card responsibly may allow you to improve your credit score. Credit building depends on various factors, including your payment history, credit utilization, length of credit history, and other financial activities.

4. Faster access to funds is based on comparison of traditional banking policies and deposit of paper checks from employers and government agencies versus deposits made electronically. Direct deposit and earlier availability of funds is subject to timing of payer’s submission of deposits.

5. Current is a financial technology company, not a bank. Banking services provided by Choice Financial Group. Funds held in Savings Pods are FDIC-insured on a pass-through basis up to $250,000 at our partner bank Choice Financial Group, member FDIC

6. Actual overdraft amount may vary and is subject to change at any time, at Current’s sole discretion. In order to qualify and enroll in the Fee-Free Overdraft feature, you must receive $500 or more in Qualifying Deposits into your Current Account over the preceding 30-day period. For more information, please refer to Fee-free Overdraft Terms and Conditions.

7. You may earn Points in connection with your everyday spending and by completing other actions that Current designates as subject to the Current Points Program. The amount of Points granted for different actions as well as the purchase requirements necessary to earn Points will vary, and is subject to Current’s sole discretion. After qualifying, please allow 3-5 business days for points to post to your Current account. The Current Points program is not available to Teen Account holders. See Current Points Terms and Conditions.

8. Some fees may apply, including out of network ATM fees of $2.50 per transaction, late payment fees of 3% of any total due balance outstanding and past due for two or more billing cycles, foreign transaction fees of 3% of the full transaction amount (minimum $0.50), card replacement fees per card of $5 for regular delivery and $30 for expedited delivery, cash deposit fees of $3.50 per deposit, and third party processing fees.

9. Boost Bonuses are credited to your Savings Pods within 48 hours of enabling the Boost feature and on a daily basis thereafter, provided that the Savings Pod has accrued a Boost Bonus of at least $0.01. The Boost rate on Savings Pods is variable and may change at any time. The disclosed rate is effective as of August 1, 2023. Must have $0.01 in Savings Pods to earn a Boost rate of either 0.25% or 4.00% annually on the portion of balances up to $2000 per Savings Pod, up to $6000 total. The remaining balance earns 0.00%. A qualifying direct deposit of $200 or more is required for 4.00%. No minimum balance required. For more information, please refer to Current Boost Terms and Conditions.

10. Cryptocurrency services are powered by Zero Hash LLC and Zero Hash Liquidity Services LLC, and may not be available in all states. Terms and conditions apply. When you buy or sell cryptocurrency, a difference between the current market price and the price you buy or sell that asset for is called a spread. However, unlike most other exchanges Current does not charge an additional trading fee. Cryptocurrency transactions are a form of investment, and all investments are subject to investment risks, including possible loss of the principal amount invested. Cryptocurrency is not insured by the FDIC or any other government-backed or third-party insurance. Your purchase of cryptocurrency is not a deposit or other obligation of, or guaranteed by, Choice Financial Group or Cross River Bank. The cryptocurrency assets in your Zero Hash account are not held at Current, Choice Financial Group, or Cross River Bank. Current, Choice Financial Group, and Cross River Bank are not responsible for the cryptocurrency assets held in any Zero Hash account. Neither Current, Choice, nor Cross River Bank is involved in the purchase, sale, exchange of fiat funds for cryptocurrency, or custody of the cryptocurrencies. Terms and Conditions apply (platform and user agreements). Crypto on Current is not currently available in HI. Licensed to engage in Virtual Currency Business Activity by the New York State Department of Financial Services. This does not constitute investment advice.

11. Current is a financial technology company, not a bank. Banking services provided by Choice Financial Group. Your money is FDIC-insured on a pass-through basis up to $250,000 at each of our partner banks, Choice Financial Group and Cross River Bank, members FDIC.

12. Average value based on Fine Hotels + Resorts bookings in 2023 for stays of two nights. Benefits include daily breakfast for two, room upgrade upon arrival when available, $100 amenity, guaranteed 4PM late checkout, and noon check-in when available. Certain room categories not eligible for upgrade. $100 amenity varies by property. Actual value will vary based on property, room rate, upgrade availability, and use of benefits.

13. Up to $500 per Covered Trip that is delayed for more than 6 hours; and 2 claims per Eligible Card per 12 consecutive month period. Eligibility and Benefit level varies by Card. Terms, Conditions, and Limitations Apply. Please visit americanexpress.com/benefitsguide for more details. Underwritten by New Hampshire Insurance Company, an AIG Company.

14. The maximum benefit amount for Trip Cancellation and Interruption Insurance is $10,000 per Covered Trip and $20,000 per Eligible Card per 12 consecutive month period. Eligibility and Benefit level varies by Card. Terms, Conditions, and Limitations Apply. Please visit americanexpress.com/benefitsguide for more details. Underwritten by New Hampshire Insurance Company, an AIG Company.

15. Baggage Insurance Plan coverage can be in effect for Covered Persons for eligible lost, damaged, or stolen Baggage during their travel on a Common Carrier Vehicle (e.g. plane, train, ship, or bus) when the Entire Fare for a ticket for the trip (one- way or round-trip) is charged to an Eligible Card. Coverage can be provided for up to $2,000 for checked Baggage and up to a combined maximum of $3,000 for checked and carry-on baggage, in excess of coverage provided by the Common Carrier. The coverage is also subject to a $3,000 aggregate limit per Covered Trip. For New York State residents, there is a $2,000 per bag/suitcase limit for each Covered Person with a $10,000 aggregate maximum for all Covered Persons per Covered Trip. Eligibility and Benefit level varies by Card. Terms, Conditions, and Limitations Apply. Please visit americanexpress.com/benefitsguide for more details. Underwritten by AMEX Assurance Company.

16. Car Rental Loss and Damage Insurance can provide coverage up to $75,000 for theft of or damage to most rental vehicles when you use your eligible Card to reserve and pay for the entire eligible vehicle rental and decline the collision damage waiver or similar option offered by the Commercial Car Rental Company. This product provides secondary coverage and does not include liability coverage. Not all vehicle types or rentals are covered. Geographic restrictions apply. Eligibility and Benefit level varies by Card. Terms, Conditions, and Limitations Apply. Please visit americanexpress.com/benefitsguide for more details. Underwritten by AMEX Assurance Company. Car Rental Loss or Damage Coverage is offered through American Express Travel Related Services Company, Inc.

17. Coverage for a Stolen or damaged Eligible Cellular Wireless Telephone is subject to the terms, conditions, exclusions, and limits of liability of this benefit. The maximum liability is $800, per claim, per Eligible Card Account. Each claim is subject to a $50 deductible. Coverage is limited to two (2) claims per Eligible Card Account per 12 month period. Eligibility and Benefit level varies by Card. Terms, Conditions, and Limitations Apply. Please visit americanexpress.com/benefitsguide for more details. Underwritten by New Hampshire Insurance Company, an AIG Company.

18. When an American Express® Card Member charges a Covered Purchase to an Eligible Card, Extended Warranty§ can provide up to one extra year added to the Original Manufacturer’s Warranty. Applies to warranties of five (5) years or less. Coverage is up to the actual amount charged to your Card for the item up to a maximum of $10,000; not to exceed $50,000 per Card Member account per calendar year. Eligibility and Benefit level varies by Card. Terms, Conditions, and Limitations Apply. Please visit americanexpress.com/benefitsguide for more details. Underwritten by AMEX Assurance Company.

19. Purchase Protection is an embedded benefit of your Card Membership and requires no enrollment. It can help protect Covered Purchases made on your Eligible Card when they’re accidentally damaged, stolen, or lost, for up to 90 days from the Covered Purchase date. The coverage is limited to up to $10,000 per occurrence, up to $50,000 per Card Member account per calendar year. Coverage Limits Apply. Eligibility and Benefit level varies by Card. Terms, Conditions, and Limitations Apply. Please visit americanexpress.com/benefitsguide for more details. Underwritten by AMEX Assurance Company.

20. Chime is a financial technology company, not a bank. Banking services provided by The Bancorp Bank, N.A. or Stride Bank, N.A., Members FDIC.

21. The secured Chime Credit Builder Visa® Card is issued by Stride Bank, N.A., Member FDIC, pursuant to a license from Visa U.S.A. Inc. and may be used everywhere Visa credit cards are accepted.

22. Banking services and debit card provided by The Bancorp Bank N.A. or Stride Bank, N.A., Members FDIC, pursuant to a license from Visa U.S.A. Inc. and may be used everywhere Visa debit cards are accepted.

23. The Annual Percentage Yield (“APY”) for the Chime Savings Account is variable and may change at any time. The disclosed APY is effective as of September 20, 2023. No minimum balance required. Must have $0.01 in savings to earn interest.

24. There’s no fee for the Chime Savings Account. Cash withdrawal and Third-party fees may apply to Chime Checking Accounts. You must have a Chime Checking Account to open a Chime Savings Account.

25. To apply for Credit Builder, you must have received a single qualifying direct deposit of $200 or more to your Chime Checking Account. The qualifying direct deposit must be from your employer, payroll provider, gig economy payer, or benefits payer by Automated Clearing House (ACH) deposit OR Original Credit Transaction (OCT). Bank ACH transfers, Pay Anyone transfers, verification or trial deposits from financial institutions, peer to peer transfers from services such as PayPal, Cash App, or Venmo, mobile check deposits, cash loads or deposits, one-time direct deposits, such as tax refunds and other similar transactions, and any deposit to which Chime deems to not be a qualifying direct deposit are not qualifying direct deposits.

26. Money added to Credit Builder will be held in a secured account as collateral for your Credit Builder Visa card, which means you can spend up to this amount on your card. This is money you can use to pay off your charges at the end of every month.

27. Based on a representative study conducted by Experian®, members who made their first purchase with Credit Builder between June 2020 and October 2020 observed an average FICO® Score 8 increase of 30 points after approximately 8 months. On-time payment history can have a positive impact on your credit score. Late payment may negatively impact your credit score.

28. On-time payment history may have a positive impact on your credit score. Late payment may negatively impact your credit score. Chime will report your activities to Transunion®, Experian®, and Equifax®. Impact on your credit may vary, as Credit scores are independently determined by credit bureaus based on a number of factors including the financial decisions you make with other financial services organizations.

29. Early access to direct deposit funds depends on the timing of the submission of the payment file from the payer. We generally make these funds available on the day the payment file is received, which may be up to 2 days earlier than the scheduled payment date.

30. SpotMe® on Debit is an optional, no fee overdraft service attached to your Chime Checking Account. To qualify for the SpotMe on Debit service, you must receive $200 or more in qualifying direct deposits to your Chime Checking Account each month and have activated your Visa debit card. Qualifying members will be allowed to overdraw their Chime Checking Account for up to $20 on debit card purchases and cash withdrawals initially but may later be eligible for a higher limit of up to $200 or more based on Chime Account history, direct deposit frequency and amount, spending activity and other risk-based factors. The SpotMe on Debit limit will be displayed within the Chime mobile app and is subject to change at any time, at Chime’s sole discretion. Although Chime does not charge any overdraft fees for SpotMe on Debit, there may be out-of-network or third-party fees associated with ATM transactions. SpotMe on Debit will not cover any non-debit card transactions, including ACH transfers, Pay Anyone transfers, or Chime Checkbook transactions. SpotMe on Debit Terms and Conditions.

31. Tipping or not tipping has no impact on your eligibility for SpotMe®.

32. Out-of-network ATM withdrawal fees may apply except at MoneyPass ATMs in a 7-Eleven, or any Allpoint or Visa Plus Alliance ATM.

33. Save When I Get Paid automatically transfers 10% of your direct deposits of $500 or more from your Checking Account into your savings account.

34. Round Ups automatically round up debit card purchases to the nearest dollar and transfer the round up from your Chime Checking Account to your savings account.

35. Mobile Check Deposit eligibility is determined by Chime in its sole discretion and may be granted based on various factors including, but not limited to, a member’s direct deposit enrollment status.

36. Funds are automatically debited from your Checking Account and typically deposited into the recipient’s Checking Account within seconds. Pay Anyone transactions will be monitored and may be held, delayed or blocked if the transfer could result in fraud or another form of financial harm. Sometimes instant transfers can be delayed.

37. Pay Anyone transactions will be monitored and may be held, delayed or blocked if the transfer could result in fraud or another form of financial harm. Sometimes instant transfers can be delayed. Non-Chime members must use a valid debit card to claim funds.

* EarnIn is not available for Connecticut residents

Rachel Alulis

Rachel Alulis has been the lead editor for Moneyfor’s credit cards team since 2015 and for the financial rewards team since 2023. Before joining Moneyfor, Rachel worked at USA Today and the Des Moines Register. She then established a successful freelance writing and editing business specializing in personal finance. Rachel holds a bachelor’s degree in journalism and an MBA.

TruConnect’s Free Phones & Cell Service

Key takeaways

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