Question 1

What is Cliq Mobile?

Accepted Answer

Cliq Mobile is an independent Lifeline resource site. We compare Lifeline providers, explain the federal program, and sell unlocked phones through our shop. We are not a Lifeline service provider ourselves. See our About page for the full story.

Question 2

Did Cliq Mobile used to offer service?

Accepted Answer

Yes, we sold service to low-income households for a period. We stopped offering service in 2025 and rebuilt the site as an independent resource for the audience we used to serve.

Question 3

How does Cliq Mobile make money now?

Accepted Answer

Three ways: (1) we sell the BLU C5L Max unlocked phone through our shop for $45, (2) we earn affiliate commissions from some Lifeline providers when readers apply through our links, and (3) display ads. None of this affects our rankings — see our editorial standards.

Question 4

What is the Lifeline program?

Accepted Answer

Lifeline is a federal program that gives qualifying low-income households a monthly discount on phone service (up to $9.25, or $34.25 on Tribal lands). Most wireless Lifeline providers structure their plans so the benefit covers the entire monthly bill — making service effectively free.

Question 5

Who qualifies for Lifeline?

Accepted Answer

You qualify if you (or anyone in your household) participate in SNAP, Medicaid, SSI, Federal Public Housing, Veterans Pension, or certain tribal programs. You also qualify if your household income is at or below 135% of the Federal Poverty Guidelines. Only one Lifeline benefit per household.

Question 6

What documents do I need to apply?

Accepted Answer

A valid government-issued ID, proof of your qualifying program participation (SNAP card, Medicaid card, benefit letter) or income documentation, and your address. The National Verifier may automatically confirm eligibility through state databases without documents for many applicants.

Question 7

Do I need to recertify?

Accepted Answer

Yes, annually. If you miss recertification, your benefit gets suspended. See our recertification guide for what to watch for.

Question 8

Is Lifeline the same as ACP?

Accepted Answer

No. Lifeline is the phone program (still active). ACP was a separate internet subsidy that ended in May 2024. See Lifeline vs. ACP for the breakdown.

Question 9

How do I apply for a free government phone?

Accepted Answer

Pick a Lifeline provider that covers your state from our ranked list, click through to their site, and apply. Most approvals happen within 1–2 business days.

Question 10

Which provider is the best?

Accepted Answer

It depends on your state, network preference (T-Mobile vs. Verizon), and plan needs (talk/text vs. heavy data). Our overall 2026 pick is Assurance Wireless. See our full rankings with pros and cons.

Question 11

Can I bring my own phone?

Accepted Answer

Most Lifeline providers allow BYOD (Bring Your Own Device) if your phone is unlocked and compatible with their network. See our unlocked phones guide.

Question 12

Can I keep my phone number?

Accepted Answer

Yes. Federal law gives you the right to port your phone number to any new provider. When you apply, tell the new provider you want to port your existing number.

Question 13

What happened to Q Link Wireless?

Accepted Answer

Q Link Wireless is no longer operating as of late 2024. Your Lifeline benefit was likely transferred to another provider. See our Q Link help page for the full walkthrough.

Question 14

My Q Link phone stopped working — what do I do?

Accepted Answer

Pick a new Lifeline provider, port your number over, and get a new SIM (and free phone if you want). Your old Q Link phone may still work if it was GSM-unlocked and you pick a T-Mobile-network provider. If not, an unlocked phone like the BLU C5L Max ($45) avoids compatibility headaches.

Question 15

What do you sell in the shop?

Accepted Answer

The BLU C5L Max — a brand new unlocked GSM smartphone for $45 + shipping. It works with Assurance Wireless, TruConnect, AirTalk Wireless, TAG Mobile, Gen Mobile, and any T-Mobile or MetroPCS plan. See our shop page.

Question 16

Does buying a phone enroll me in Lifeline?

Accepted Answer

No. Buying a phone from our shop is a separate transaction from Lifeline enrollment. You still need to apply with a Lifeline provider for free monthly service.

Question 17

What's your return policy?

Accepted Answer

30 days from delivery, in original condition. See shipping & returns.

Frequently asked questions

About Cliq Mobile

The Lifeline program

How to apply

Q Link Wireless

Our shop

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