Chances are, you’ve probably heard the phrase BYOB when it comes to parties and other social events, but what about BYOD? In case you aren’t familiar with the phrase, BYOD means “Bring Your Own Device.” The Assist Wireless “bring your own phone” promotion is a brilliant part of the Federal Lifeline Program that helps lower income individuals acquire cell phones, data plans, and/or internet access at a discounted rate. This innovative promotion keeps customers’ favorite phones in their hands while introducing them to a helpful plan for curbing cellular costs.
What is the Federal Lifeline Program?
Since its inception in 1985, the government-supported Lifeline Program has sought to bridge the technological gap between those needing a form of constant communication and the ever-changing dynamic of the digital age. Lower costs for cellular data plans and broadband internet service allows for a more equitable distribution of wireless wealth. Numerous studies into technological trends reveal that the use of desktop computers is on the decline, with a steady surge in the utilization of handheld devices for everything from social media, professional networking and business meetings or operations, research and educational purposes, and more. Especially during a time of such uncertainty with the global pandemic heightening anxiety for many, being able to stay connected to loved ones in an instant is of even more importance.
According to federal guidelines, those who may qualify for the Lifeline Program, also known as the “Government Phone,” includes those whose income falls into certain poverty bracket guidelines and those who receive assistance through programs such as Medicaid, Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP/Food Stamps), or the Veterans Pension and Survivors Benefit program.
Information provided by the Federal Communications Commission (FCC) on fcc.gov notes that “Lifeline typically provides up to a $9.25 monthly discount on service for eligible low-income subscribers. Subscribers may receive a Lifeline discount on either a wireline or a wireless service, but they may not receive a discount on both services at the same time. Lifeline also supports broadband Internet access service and broadband-voice bundles. The FCC rules prohibit more than one Lifeline service per household.”
So how does Assist Wireless and the “Bring Your Own Device” come into play with the Lifeline Program?
If you already have a phone you love, meet the qualifications for this government assistance, and your phone is compatible with the program, you can simply bring your device in, sign up, and get a $15 account credit or 1 GB of free data on a Lifeline program.
The always helpful and highly-trained Assist Wireless associates will be able to use your favorite phone’s IMEI number to double-check the compatibility with their networks.
Can’t wait to get started? Take the lead and find your phone’s IMEI number in the device’s settings, whether you’re an iPhone, Android, or Windows user.
Here’s how—
If you’re an iPhone customer: Go to Settings, General, About
If you’re an Android customer: Go to Settings, About Phone, Status
If you’re a Windows customer: Go to Settings, About, More Information
Once you’ve had your information processed and your device is up-to-speed, you’ll be ready to go—all the while keeping the same phone you already know how to use with ease and comfort.
Here’s a heads up. If your phone is…
- Unlocked
- Compatible with Assist Wireless Networks
- GSM (T-Mobile)
- CDMA (Sprint)
And you qualify, they’ll give you…
- A dependable network with top-notch service
- A free SIM card
- A $15 account credit for Tribal customers
- 1 GB free data for non-Tribal customers
Why should you choose Assist Wireless?
In addition to being readily available online, via phone, and at numerous physical locations to meet all of your cellular needs, Assist Wireless also gives you awesome customer perks for your start date, birthdays, and anniversaries! Download the mobile app to access even more fun features and information. Live technical support is right at your fingertips, and hearing-impaired devices are available for those in need.
Questions, concerns, or comments about the free BYOD cell phone service?
You can enroll online, reach out to the fabulous Assist Wireless customer service team at 1-855-392-7747, or bring your phone in person to one of over 20 locations across Oklahoma. Want to see if your current device is compatible with the Assist Wireless “Bring Your Own Phone” program before you make the trip? Check it out here! https://www.assistwireless.com/byod/
