Billing FAQs
Please mail your payment to the appropriate address for your state. Payments may also be made via our automated account information line by either major credit card or direct-debit from your checking account at 1-888-944-9400 or 611 from your wireless phone (always a free call).
Residents of CA, IA, IL, ID, IN, MO (St. Louis and Columbia area), NE, OR, WA, WI:
U.S. Cellular
DEPT. 0203
Palatine, IL 60055-0203
Residents of KS, MO (Joplin area), OK, TX:
U.S. Cellular
P.O. Box 650684
Dallas, TX 75265-0684
Residents of FL, GA, MD, ME, NC, NH, OH, PA, SC, TN, VA, VT, WV:
U.S. Cellular
P.O. Box 371345
Pittsburgh, PA 15250-7345
Residents of CA, IA, IL, ID, IN, MO (St. Louis and Columbia area), NE, OR, WA, WI:
U.S. Cellular
DEPT. 0203
Palatine, IL 60055-0203
Residents of KS, MO (Joplin area), OK, TX:
U.S. Cellular
P.O. Box 650684
Dallas, TX 75265-0684
Residents of FL, GA, MD, ME, NC, NH, OH, PA, SC, TN, VA, VT, WV:
U.S. Cellular
P.O. Box 371345
Pittsburgh, PA 15250-7345
Go to How to Read Your Bill to view a sample statement, as well as get tips for prompt bill paying.
Yes. You can log in to My Account, U.S. Cellular's online account management site. You can pay your bill, check your minutes of use and schedule automatic payments. Your monthly statements will be stored for up to 16 months. Sign up today!
Most plans charge a monthly service charge and include a specific number of airtime minutes, determined by the type of use associated with the calling plan you choose. There's usually a onetime charge for activating service and installation (if applicable). A typical monthly bill includes:
Monthly service charge which may include packages of included minutes. Charges for airtime that exceeds the minutes included in your monthly calling plan, divided into peak and off-peak minutes.
Roaming charges
Optional feature charges.
Other charges and credits made to your account during the billing period, if applicable.
Toll charges (as listed on the bill) include long distance (if long distance is included on the plan), International Dialing charges and charges incurred from calling Directory Assistance.
Taxes
Monthly service charge which may include packages of included minutes. Charges for airtime that exceeds the minutes included in your monthly calling plan, divided into peak and off-peak minutes.
Roaming charges
Optional feature charges.
Other charges and credits made to your account during the billing period, if applicable.
Toll charges (as listed on the bill) include long distance (if long distance is included on the plan), International Dialing charges and charges incurred from calling Directory Assistance.
Taxes
Prorated or partial charges can appear on your bill if you add or change services in the middle of a billing cycle. Proration can occur on the bill following service suspension or addition of features.
Payments are due approximately 20 days after the billing cycle date. Refer to the top right-hand corner of the first page of your bill for the exact date your payment is due. Sign up for online billing to pay your bill online or set up automatic payments.
We recommend signing up to pay your bill online with our online account management site. You can pay your bill, check your minutes of use and schedule automatic payments. You will receive an e-mail notification when your statement is ready. You can choose to pay the bill as soon as it arrives or on the due date. You can also set up automatic recurring payments through your credit or debit card or your savings or checking account. Sign up today!
If you prefer to pay your bill through the mail, return the bottom portion of the first page of your bill (remittance portion) with your payment using the enclosed envelope. Please write your account and wireless telephone numbers on your check or money order. If you are paying for multiple accounts, attach the remittance portion of each bill to ensure that every account is properly credited.
If you prefer to pay your bill through the mail, return the bottom portion of the first page of your bill (remittance portion) with your payment using the enclosed envelope. Please write your account and wireless telephone numbers on your check or money order. If you are paying for multiple accounts, attach the remittance portion of each bill to ensure that every account is properly credited.
All U.S. Cellular Belief Plans include free incoming calls, so you never pay for incoming calls. If you are a customer on an older plan, please check your service agreement for details.
In California, Illinois, Oregon, Washington and Wisconsin there are no charges for busy signals or ring time if there is no answer.
In all other U.S. Cellular service areas, there is no charge, unless the phone rings for more than 59 seconds from the time you press the SEND key. In that case, regular airtime charges apply. While you are roaming, billing for busy signals and no-answers are at the discretion of the local wireless carrier. If applicable, these charges will appear on your bill.
In all other U.S. Cellular service areas, there is no charge, unless the phone rings for more than 59 seconds from the time you press the SEND key. In that case, regular airtime charges apply. While you are roaming, billing for busy signals and no-answers are at the discretion of the local wireless carrier. If applicable, these charges will appear on your bill.
Please either call us at 611 from your wireless phone (always a free call), if in your home service area, or at 1-888-944-9400. You can also e-mail our customer service team to let us know the new information.
Simply contact a U.S. Cellular representative by dialing 611 from your wireless phone or 1-888-944-9400. First, we'll check to see if U.S. Cellular service is offered in your new area. If so, we'll make the change for you. If U.S. Cellular service is not available in the new area, we'll explain your options.
Normal taxes will apply for your wireless service based on the address on the account, just as they would for your existing utilities such as electricity and your home telephone.
In the Telecommunications Act of 1996, the Federal Communications Commission (FCC) created a directive that allowed for a federal Universal Service Fund to ensure quality, affordable telecommunications service to all consumers, especially those in rural areas, as well as to schools, libraries and hospitals.
Beginning in 1998, all telecommunications carriers, including U.S. Cellular, had to start contributing to support universal telephone service. Each U.S. Cellular line is assessed this charge, which may be adjusted from time to time based on revised government calculations.
Beginning in 1998, all telecommunications carriers, including U.S. Cellular, had to start contributing to support universal telephone service. Each U.S. Cellular line is assessed this charge, which may be adjusted from time to time based on revised government calculations.
U.S. Cellular does not charge for 911 calls. However, if you are roaming when you call, roaming charges may apply. Please remember that 911 may not be available in some areas of the country.
Roaming charges refer to charges for calls made in a roaming area. These charges will include a per-minute charge for airtime. Your roaming area is indicated on the map that appears in your calling plan brochure. Roaming minutes are available for purchase on some plans. Rates may vary by plan. Roaming charges can be delayed and not appear on your bill for one to two months.
Pertaining to customers on older Local Plans only: "Anytime Minutes" are applicable only within the "Local Calling Area". In addition to this area, there is also an "Expanded Local Calling Area". When using your wireless phone to make a call from this "Expanded Local Calling Area, you will be charged your local per minute rate for every used minute instead of a roaming rate. (Roaming rates are applied when you travel outside the "Expanded Local Calling Area.)
Special Roamer airtime refers to the charges incurred for the delivery of a call to your wireless phone while you are outside your home area. This is a preferred roaming rate that applies to calls made within your Extended Home Service Area. Although you are only charged for those calls once, itemization of Special Roamer calls will appear in both the Call Detail and Roaming Detail portion of the bill.
The area in which you subscribe to U.S. Cellular service is referred to as your home service area. Beyond that area, your specific calling plan may designate a Home Rate Roaming area. Home Rate Roaming minutes are billed at your calling plan's per-minute rate, the same rate you are charged for usage if you exceed your package minutes. Unlike Extended Home Service Area, Home Rate Roaming minutes are not deducted from your calling package's minutes. Also, long-distance charges may apply.
You can check your minutes used online with U.S. Cellular's online account management. Sign up today!
You can also check your minutes by dialing 611 or #225 anytime on your wireless phone and follow the prompts to check minutes used on an account. You'll need the last 4 digits of the account holder's Social Security number to access this information.
You can also check your minutes by dialing 611 or #225 anytime on your wireless phone and follow the prompts to check minutes used on an account. You'll need the last 4 digits of the account holder's Social Security number to access this information.
U.S. Cellular charges calls in full-minute increments. Each partial minute of airtime is rounded up and billed as a full minute. Rounding applies to all airtime minutes including, but not limited to, promotional and non-promotional minutes and offerings. Airtime charges apply from the time you press SEND/TALK to the time you press END on completed calls. You may also be charged for calls that are not completed but ring longer than 59 seconds.
At U.S. Cellular, your monthly service charges are billed one month in advance. For example, if your bill date is the 16th, your January 16th bill would reflect monthly service charges that cover January 16th through February 15th.
A Local Service area includes the immediate area where the particular Cellular Telephone Number (CTN) is from. An Extended Home Service area is a larger service area that U.S. Cellular includes within your plan. Your included package minutes and overage rate will apply while you are in your Local and Extended Home Service area.
Toll charges (as listed on the bill) include long distance charges (if long distance is not included with the plan), international dialing charges and charges incurred from calling directory assistance.
A late-payment charge is applied to your bill when the previous month's bill has not been paid in full, leaving a previous amount due carried forward. The late-payment charge is included in the total amount due on the current bill.
Each call made (outgoing) and received (incoming) is detailed by date, time, length of call and number called. Incoming calls will show your cellular number under "Number Called."
This helps you manage your purchases as they relate to your account. You will see both the charge and the payment of the item.
Yes, Night and Weekend Minutes are valid Monday through Friday, 7:00 p.m. to 6 :59 a.m., or 9:00 p.m. to 5:59 a.m. (depending on calling plan) and all day Saturday and Sunday. Night and Weekend Minutes are available throughout your rate plan calling area.
U.S. Cellular® charges its customers a fee to recover costs related to telecommunications industry regulations and taxes. This fee appears on your bill as the "Regulatory Cost Recovery Fee". This fee may change from time to time. Regulatory costs recovered by this fee include, but are not limited to, number pooling, local number portability, wireless local number portability, E-911, federal telecommunications relay services, costs paid under tariffs authorized by federal and state regulators to local telephone companies for connecting our calls to their customers, federal regulatory fees, tower mandate costs, and taxes assessed on facilities we use to provide wireless services to customers. U.S. Cellular is not required by law to charge this fee.
Online Account Management FAQs
Online account management enables you to register your account so you can pay your bill, check your minutes of use and schedule automatic payments. Your monthly statements will be stored for up to 16 months. Sign up today!
Yes. Protecting customer information is of the utmost priority to U.S. Cellular. We practice a variety of safeguards to protect your personal information and have established policies and programs to prevent unauthorized access to our systems. We restrict access to your personal information to only those work groups that need to know that information to perform their job function. We do not knowingly provide customer information to companies offering cell phone records for sale. And, we train our customer care representatives not to provide account information to anyone who is not authorized to access your account.
If your personal information changes or if you find an error on your billing statement, please notify us so we can update your information. To learn more about how your personal inormation is used and securely stored, read our Privacy Policy.
Please Note: When you register your account online, you have the option to sign up to receive e-mail or text message alerts each time your account is accessed online. This will help keep you informed when your account has been accessed.
If your personal information changes or if you find an error on your billing statement, please notify us so we can update your information. To learn more about how your personal inormation is used and securely stored, read our Privacy Policy.
Please Note: When you register your account online, you have the option to sign up to receive e-mail or text message alerts each time your account is accessed online. This will help keep you informed when your account has been accessed.
To sign up for online account management, go to My Account to register your account. Be sure to have your U.S. Cellular® account number and wireless phone ready.
No. There is no cost to sign up for online account management.
Yes. You can chose to be notified via an e-mail or text message. You can also select to be notified each time your account is accessed, when a payment has been received and when the bill is more than the maximum dollar amount you authorized to be deducted from your account.
No. Prepaid Wireless service account information is not available online.
Yes. Business customers can sign up for online account management. You can register multiple lines under one account. However, online account management is not available for MABEL customers.
Yes. Go to My Account, select Manage Your Account, Make Payments, then select Manage Payment, Auto Payment. You will be able to select payment from your checking account or credit card.
Yes. When you sign up for online account management you will continue to receive a paper statement in the mail each month. If you want to receive your statement online only, change your preference in Manage My Account. Your statements will be available for up to 16 months.
Go to My Account, select Manage My Account, Preferences, Stop Paper Bill. Please allow up to one billing cycle.
Yes. When you suppress your paper bill, not only are you helping save trees, you will receive your bill faster and securely online. It also enables us to invest the savings back into providing you with improved products and services.
To change your notification preferences, go to My Account, then select Manage Preferences.
Log in to My Account, click on Manage Preferences, then select 'Change Your Password'. Enter your current Password and then enter a new Password. Passwords must be at least 6 characters long with no special characters or spaces. A text message will be sent to your wireless phone confirming the change to your password.
Go to My Account, select Manage Preferences, Change Your Security question. A text message will be sent to your wireless phone confirming that you changed your security questions. You will not be charged for any incoming text messages from U.S. Cellular related to your online account profile.
Yes. Go to My Account, select Manage Preferences, Change E-mail Address and Text Messaging Notification Preferences. However, for your protection, a text message notification is required to be sent for the following items:
When I change my password
When I change my security question
When I change my e-mail address
When I change my password
When I change my security question
When I change my e-mail address
No. All U.S. Cellular customers receive free incoming text messages. Read more about Text Messaging.
No problem. As long as you know your Account Number, which is located on the top of your U.S. Cellular bill, you can select "Forgot User Name or Password" and enter your Account Number. You will then be asked to enter your Social Security or Tax ID Number and answer one of your Security questions.
If you cannot remember your Security questions, contact Customer Care at (888) 944-9400.
If you believe someone other than an authorized user accessed your account, call Customer Care at (888) 944-9400.
Online Orders FAQs
Yes. U.S. Cellular's Web site uses the industry-standard SSL (Secure Sockets Layer) protocol to protect information submitted by customers during transmission. This means your information is encrypted and cannot be read.
It depends. When you purchase U.S. Cellular wireless service through our Web site, to complete the ordering process, you agree to pay for wireless service for the period of time specified in the contract. Please refer to the contract online for more terms of the agreement.
However, if you order U.S. Cellular's Prepaid service through our Web site, there is no annual contract and you do not need to undergo a credit review.
However, if you order U.S. Cellular's Prepaid service through our Web site, there is no annual contract and you do not need to undergo a credit review.
All applications for U.S. Cellular wireless service (except for Prepaid Wireless service) are subject to a credit review before service is provided. While we do not deny anyone service based on credit rating or history, we may require a security deposit before activating service. Security deposits can be paid with a credit card or a check card. If you apply online and we determine a security deposit is necessary, you will be shown the amount prior to checking out.
Customers with accounts in good financial standing may request deposit refunds after one year of service.
Yes. If you work during the day, it may be better to give your work address as the shipping address. If no one else is home to accept the phone, a notice will be left with further instructions.
You may cancel your service order and return your wireless phone within 15 days from the time of receipt or activation. This applies to orders made on the Web site, as well as in our retail locations and over the phone. (Please note that you will be responsible for any usage charges incurred while you had the phone). A pre-paid, pre-addressed shipping label is included in the box. For details, please refer to your receipt or visit a U.S. Cellular retail location.
Yes. The phone's warranty is for one year from the date of purchase. Should your phone need repair while under warranty, please visit your nearest U.S. Cellular store for assistance.
Internet orders for wireless service:
For questions about your online order for wireless service, call our Online Advisors toll-free at: 1-888-BUY-USCC (1-888-289-8722). Monday through Friday from 8 a.m. to 9 p.m., Saturday from 9 a.m. to 7 p.m., Sunday from 10 a.m. to 7 p.m. Central Standard Time. Or e-mail us with your order information at onlineadvisor@uscellular.com.
Accessory orders:
For questions about your accessory order call our Accessory Store customer service team toll-free at: 1-877-673-8722 from 7:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. Pacific Standard Time. Or you can e-mail us with your accessory questions at USCWeb@scp4me.com.
For questions about your online order for wireless service, call our Online Advisors toll-free at: 1-888-BUY-USCC (1-888-289-8722). Monday through Friday from 8 a.m. to 9 p.m., Saturday from 9 a.m. to 7 p.m., Sunday from 10 a.m. to 7 p.m. Central Standard Time. Or e-mail us with your order information at onlineadvisor@uscellular.com.
Accessory orders:
For questions about your accessory order call our Accessory Store customer service team toll-free at: 1-877-673-8722 from 7:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. Pacific Standard Time. Or you can e-mail us with your accessory questions at USCWeb@scp4me.com.
Yes. Accessories are available at our U.S. Cellular stores and authorized agent locations. An extensive selection of accessories is also available online at our on-line Accessories Store. Please visit this site for accessory sales policies.
Yes, you can keep your number. When placing your order online, fill out the required fields in the Phone Number Transfer section of the checkout form for each line you wish to transfer. You can transfer numbers from a wireless or wireline service provider.
Troubleshooting FAQs
Press and hold the POWER button
Check the battery
Try recharging the battery
If you're using a vehicle cigarette lighter adapter, check the cable connection
Check the battery
Try recharging the battery
If you're using a vehicle cigarette lighter adapter, check the cable connection
Make sure the phone is on
Make sure the LOCK indicator light is off. (The lock function is for your protection and prevents unauthorized use of your phone by not operating unless the phone is "unlocked.")
Make sure you pushed the SEND button
See if the NO SERVICE indicator is lit
Check the battery strength indicator
Make sure the LOCK indicator light is off. (The lock function is for your protection and prevents unauthorized use of your phone by not operating unless the phone is "unlocked.")
Make sure you pushed the SEND button
See if the NO SERVICE indicator is lit
Check the battery strength indicator
The feature may not be programmed into your phone or may not be available in your area. Call our customer service representatives at 611 from your wireless phone or at 1-888-944-9400 to investigate further.
To prevent unauthorized use of your wireless phone, you have the ability to lock and unlock your phone. When your phone is locked, your calls can still be received, but no one can dial out, other than to call 911.
Most wireless phones have an indicator light that notifies you when your phone is locked, and a 3- or 4-digit unlock code that was given to you when you purchased the phone. If the indicator light appears on your phone, just enter the unlock code. If the locked indicator remains on, contact us or refer to your owner manual for specific instructions.
Most wireless phones have an indicator light that notifies you when your phone is locked, and a 3- or 4-digit unlock code that was given to you when you purchased the phone. If the indicator light appears on your phone, just enter the unlock code. If the locked indicator remains on, contact us or refer to your owner manual for specific instructions.
Make sure the connection to the external speaker is in place
Check the volume control
Make sure the handset is properly set in the cradle
Check the volume control
Make sure the handset is properly set in the cradle
Retry your call
If dialing an international call, make sure you dialed 011 and the correct country code
If the problem persists, contact our customer service team at 1-888-944-9400
If dialing an international call, make sure you dialed 011 and the correct country code
If the problem persists, contact our customer service team at 1-888-944-9400
Call quality may vary in different buildings because of variations in their construction and architecture. Try moving closer to a window to improve your reception.
This probably means that you are outside your home service area. To place a call while roaming outside your home service area, dial the 10-digit or 1 + 10-digit number. Please note that your calls are subject to roaming and toll charges, depending on your specific calling plan.
Some systems require you to charge the long-distance call on a phone company's calling card. Dial 0 to provide the operator with the long-distance carrier of your choice.
Your wireless phone should be able to access wireless service where available (in the United States, parts of Mexico and Canada, and regions of the Caribbean).*
If you do encounter trouble, you can contact U.S. Cellular's Roamer Support department. We are available 24 hours a day and can assist you with any problems you may have while roaming outside your home service area. Representatives may be reached at 1-888-872-7462.
* Roaming charges will apply for calls placed or received outside your home service area, depending on your calling plan. Roaming is not available for all pre-paid customers. Check your Terms and Conditions.
If you do encounter trouble, you can contact U.S. Cellular's Roamer Support department. We are available 24 hours a day and can assist you with any problems you may have while roaming outside your home service area. Representatives may be reached at 1-888-872-7462.
* Roaming charges will apply for calls placed or received outside your home service area, depending on your calling plan. Roaming is not available for all pre-paid customers. Check your Terms and Conditions.
If your phone is lost or stolen, immediately call 1-888-944-9400to suspend service, so we can quickly protect your account from fraudulent use. If the phone has been stolen, then call your local police and obtain a police report number. Please be aware that customers are responsible for any charges incurred on the phone until the theft or loss is reported to U.S. Cellular.
If you have device insurance from U.S. Cellular, call 1-800-480-0167 to file a claim. Provide the agent with the police report number so they can start processing your claim.
A couple of tips to help prevent theft:
Use your phone's security lock option to prevent unauthorized use of your phone. Until the unlock code is entered into the phone, a "locked" phone will not operate
Protect sensitive documents containing your account information, wireless telephone number and your phone's Electronic Serial Number (ESN)
If you have device insurance from U.S. Cellular, call 1-800-480-0167 to file a claim. Provide the agent with the police report number so they can start processing your claim.
A couple of tips to help prevent theft:
Use your phone's security lock option to prevent unauthorized use of your phone. Until the unlock code is entered into the phone, a "locked" phone will not operate
Protect sensitive documents containing your account information, wireless telephone number and your phone's Electronic Serial Number (ESN)
A credit card number is sometimes required by carriers operating in other markets. The operator will place the call for you and charge your credit card. Please ask the operator for charges associated with the call. Another option is to try to switch bands on your phone. For assistance, refer to your phone's user manual or call 611 from your wireless phone.
Using Your Phone FAQs
Log in to My Account or dial #BAL (#225) from your U.S. Cellular phone.
Select your device from the support page to view user manuals and other helpful information.
At this time we are unable to provide you with a single phone number for multiple phones. However, we do offer a call-forwarding feature, which can automatically forward your calls to another phone number, or to your voice mailbox if the line is busy.
Yes. Even though calls will be received at another number, they must still be routed through the cellular "switch," which produces airtime charges. To avoid excess charges, ask the caller if he or she called your wireless number. If so, hang up and return the call from a landline phone.
Please note that if you choose to use call forwarding, your voice mail will be deactivated and callers will not be able to leave messages. For more detailed instructions on call forwarding, please call us at 611 from your wireless phone (always a free call), 1-888-944-9400 or e-mail us.
Please note that if you choose to use call forwarding, your voice mail will be deactivated and callers will not be able to leave messages. For more detailed instructions on call forwarding, please call us at 611 from your wireless phone (always a free call), 1-888-944-9400 or e-mail us.
If the END key is not pressed when you are finished with your call, usually the call will automatically disconnect when the other party hangs up. However, the call may continue, possibly resulting in unexpected extra minutes on your next bill.
If your phone is lost or stolen, immediately call 1-888-944-9400 to suspend service, so we can quickly protect your account from fraudulent use. If the phone has been stolen, then call your local police and obtain a police report number. Please be aware that customers are responsible for any charges incurred on the phone until the theft or loss is reported to U.S. Cellular.
If you have Device Protection+ from U.S. Cellular, call 1-800-480-0167 to file a claim. Provide the agent with the police report number so they can start processing your claim.
A couple of tips to help prevent theft:
Use your phone's security lock option to prevent unauthorized use of your phone. Until the unlock code is entered into the phone, a "locked" phone will not operateProtect sensitive documents containing your account information, wireless telephone number and your phone's Electronic Serial Number (ESN)
If you have Device Protection+ from U.S. Cellular, call 1-800-480-0167 to file a claim. Provide the agent with the police report number so they can start processing your claim.
A couple of tips to help prevent theft:
Use your phone's security lock option to prevent unauthorized use of your phone. Until the unlock code is entered into the phone, a "locked" phone will not operateProtect sensitive documents containing your account information, wireless telephone number and your phone's Electronic Serial Number (ESN)
Simply contact a U.S. Cellular representative by dialing 611 from your wireless phone or 1-888-944-9400 and we'll explain your options.
Do:
Charge your new battery for 12 to 14 hours without interruption, with a slow charger. It usually takes about five charge-discharge cycles before the battery accepts a full charge
Press END before turning the phone's power off. Ending a call by turning off the power is hard on the battery
Recharge your battery after one week of non-use
Use a cigarette lighter adapter whenever possible to conserve your battery's power
Don't:
Store your phone and battery in a battery charger where it's continually recharging.
Discharge and recharge your battery frequently
Throw an old battery in the trash. Bring it to a U.S. Cellular store to be recycled properly and safely. Cadmium is especially harmful to the environment and cannot be put into landfills
Leave your phone in direct sunlight
Charge your new battery for 12 to 14 hours without interruption, with a slow charger. It usually takes about five charge-discharge cycles before the battery accepts a full charge
Press END before turning the phone's power off. Ending a call by turning off the power is hard on the battery
Recharge your battery after one week of non-use
Use a cigarette lighter adapter whenever possible to conserve your battery's power
Don't:
Store your phone and battery in a battery charger where it's continually recharging.
Discharge and recharge your battery frequently
Throw an old battery in the trash. Bring it to a U.S. Cellular store to be recycled properly and safely. Cadmium is especially harmful to the environment and cannot be put into landfills
Leave your phone in direct sunlight
Wireless phones today are more durable than ever. However, they are still highly technological devices and cannot withstand abusive treatment. To ensure a long life for your wireless phone, avoid exposing it to liquid, direct sunlight and extreme temperatures.
Connecting Your Device To Wi-Fi FAQs
Wi-Fi is a technology that allows an electronic device (like your mobile phone or tablet) to exchange data wirelessly over a network.
A hotspot is a specific location that offers Internet access for electronic devices equipped to connect to Wi-Fi. Public places such as coffee shops, libraries, restaurants, hotels, and airports are often hotspots. Many establishments offer hot spots as a free service for patrons.
No, there are no additional monthly charges associated with Wi-Fi usage.
There is no automatic handoff between Wi-Fi and the U.S. Cellular® network. You can set your device to notify you when a Wi-Fi connection is available. After the first time you've connected a Wi-Fi network, you will be automatically connected the next time you are near that Wi-Fi network. The strength of the Wi-Fi signal will be indicated by the number of bars on the phone, similar to the bars indicating cellular network strength.
There are a variety of factors that can affect your Wi-Fi connection speed. These factors can vary from location to location, and can include the number of other wireless devices connected to the Wi-Fi network and the type of building Wi-Fi is provided in.
Yes, you can connect to VPN while using Wi-Fi. Contact your IT administrator for more assistance.
Many enterprise VPNs require the end user's network connection to not change locations or IP addresses for security. For any questions, concerns or assistance with your company's VPN, please contact your IT administrator or help desk.
It's easy to secure home and business Wi-Fi connections to prevent unwanted user access. However, public Wi-Fi hotspots often don't provide over-the-air encryption which protects user data from possible observation from other users. Because of this, we recommend that you avoid credit card and banking transactions when accessing unencrypted Wi-Fi hotspots and only share personal information with trusted web sites which offer encryption (those containing https at the beginning of the address).
Device Protection FAQs
Learning About Device Protection+
Device Protection+ protects your device, secures your personal information, helps you solve technical issues, and optimizes device performance — all for less than 40¢ a day. With Device Protection+, you'll have peace of mind knowing that should the unexpected happen to your device, you can get back up and running quickly while avoiding costly replacements.
Device Protection+ covers your device in the event of:
- Loss
- Theft
- Accidental damage (drops, spills, and cracks)
- Hardware service (mechanical/electrical breakdown)*
* Hardware Service (mechanical/electrical breakdown) coverage begins after the manufacturer's warranty expires. For Certified Pre-Owned (CPO) devices, hardware service (mechanical/electrical breakdown) coverage begins upon enrollment.
Device Protection+ covers your device, standard battery, standard charger and SIM (if applicable to your device). Accessories provided as part of your original device purchase are covered only in the event of the simultaneous damage, loss or theft of both the device and accessory.
Losses caused or resulting from abuse; misuse; fire; service performed by anyone not authorized by the Provider, Administrator (including any contracted third party providers); intentional damage; acts of God or recall. Refer to coverage forms for a full list of exclusions.
There are different Device Protection+ plans available based on your device:
- iPhone and iPad Devices — Device Protection+ Advanced with AppleCare Services and Device Protection+ Standard
- Android™ Smartphones & Tablets — Device Protection+ Advanced and Device Protection+ Standard
- Basic Phones and Other Connected Devices — Device Protection+ Standard
It's an easy-to-use application that helps secure your personal information, solve technical issues, and optimize device performance. U.S. Cellular® customers enrolled in Device Protection+ Advanced plans have access to enhanced features including Secure Backup (100GB) and the ability to get access to knowledgeable techs through Tech Support+. Remember, you must download and register U.S. Cellular® Protect powered by Pocket Geek® in order to take advantage of these special features.
For more information about U.S. Cellular® Protect powered by Pocket Geek®, including instructions on how to download the app, please visit mywirelessclaim.com
Hardware can be replaced or repaired — but your personal information is priceless. Thanks to enhanced features that are only available to Device Protection+ customers, the U.S. Cellular® Protect powered by Pocket Geek® app provides peace of mind knowing your valuable information is protected and helps you make the most of your Smartphone or tablet.
Your automobile and homeowner's insurance policy may cover your device, but Device Protection+ would be primary to any such coverage.
Even the best manufacturer's warranty may not protect your device in the event of accidental damage, loss or theft. And while new devices generally come with a manufacturer's warranty that covers mechanical and electrical breakdown for 12 months, Certified Pre-Owned (CPO) devices do not. With Device Protection+, U.S. Cellular customers can protect their devices, secure their personal information, solve technical issues and optimize device performance — everything you need to make the most of the device you can't live without.
Property insurance coverage is underwritten by American Bankers Insurance Company of Florida (NAIC 10111; Principal Address: 11222 Quail Roost Drive, Miami, FL 33157, 1-305-253-2244; Jurisdiction: Washington, D.C. and all states in the United States; Domicile: Florida). Coverage is provided under a Master Policy issued to U.S. Cellular. You will be the certificate holder on U.S. Cellular's Insurance Policy for Loss and Theft coverage benefits. The Service Contract Obligor is Federal Warranty Service Corporation in all states, except CA, where it is Sureway, Inc., and OK, where it is Assurant Service Protection, Inc. For CA customers, the California Department of Insurance consumer hotline is 1-800-927-4357. For MD customers, the Maryland Department of Insurance consumer hotline is 1-800-492-6116. Companies providing Device Protection+ all operate under the trade name Assurant.
Device Protection+ is administered by The Signal. The Signal CA license is 0D79676, CA licensee's address and phone number are 676 E. Swedesford Road, Suite 300, Wayne, PA 19087, 1-610-341-1300.
Enrolling in Device Protection+
- U.S. Cellular postpaid customers enrolling within 30 days of device activation. iPhone and iPad customers enrolling in the Device Protection+ Advanced plan must purchase a new device from U.S. Cellular.
- Simple Connect/Traditional Prepaid and Ready Connect — Anonymous Prepaid customers cannot take advantage of Device Protection+.
There are some devices that are not eligible for Device Protection+ including:
- Devices not purchased or issued from U.S. Cellular
- Vehicle Monitoring
- Wi-Fi only devices
- Unlocked devices
If you're an existing U.S. Cellular customer, you may enroll an eligible device within 30 days of device activation. If you are purchasing a new device or upgrading your current one on our site, you may add Device Protection+ during checkout.
Enrolling an iPhone or iPad in Device Protection+ Advanced with AppleCare Services — Enrollment in Device Protection+ Advanced can only be done at authorized U.S. Cellular locations within 30 days of device activation. To be eligible for this plan, you must purchase a new iPhone or iPad from U.S. Cellular. If you do not enroll in Device Protection+ Advanced at the moment you purchase your new device, you'll be able to enroll once your device passes a Visual Mechanical Inspection in a U.S. Cellular store.
Enrolling an Android™ Smartphone or Tablet in Device Protection+ — Enrollment in Device Protection+ must be done within 30 days of device activation. You can enroll in Device Protection+ at point-of-sale or by dialing 611 from your U.S. Cellular device. If dialing 611, a representative will place a call to your device to validate the device is in working order; you'll be able to enroll in the program once you answer this call.
Enrolling Basic Phones and Other Connected Devices in Device Protection+ — Enrollment in Device Protection+ must be done within 30 days of device activation. You can enroll in Device Protection+ at point-of-sale or by dialing 611 from your U.S. Cellular device.
You have 30 days from the day you activate your device to enroll in Device Protection+.
| Advanced Plans | |
|---|---|
| Smartphones & Tablets | |
| iOS | Android |
| $11.99/mo.PER DEVICE | $11.99/mo.PER DEVICE |
| Standard Plans | |
|---|---|
| Smartphones, Tablets & Basic Devices | |
| iOS/Android | Basic Devices |
| $8.99/mo.PER DEVICE | $6.99/mo.PER DEVICE |
No. The Device Protection+ cost is billed on a month-to-month basis and will automatically renew unless you cancel coverage or it is canceled due to non-payment of your wireless bill.
For your convenience, the Device Protection+ monthly charge, plus any applicable taxes, will appear as an individual line item on your U.S. Cellular bill.
Yes. You may cancel Device Protection+ at any time by calling 1-888-944-9400. You will receive a refund and/or credit, if any, of the applicable premium, within the time frame required by law.
If you're enrolled in a Device Protection+ Advanced plan, you may downgrade to Device Protection+ Standard at any time. Customers who enroll in Device Protection+ Standard may upgrade to Device Protection+ Advanced within 30 days of activating their device.
Understanding AppleCare Services
With AppleCare Services* you get protection, service and support from the people who know your Apple device best. Once you enroll your eligible iPhone or iPad in Device Protection+ priorAdvanced with AppleCare Services, you can enjoy the following:
- 24/7 priority access to AppleCare award-winning technical support via chat or phone
- Software support for iOS, iCloud, and Apple-branded iOS apps
- Hardware coverage for your iPhone or iPad, battery, and included accessories
- Apple-certified repair or replacement with Express Replacement Service
- Service at Apple Stores and apple Authorized Service Providers
- Low service fees** – For iPhone: $29 for screen damage, or $99 for any other accidental damage. For iPad: $49 for each accidental damage claim
* Your new iPhone or iPad is eligible for AppleCare Services during the first 24 months from the date you purchase the device from U.S. Cellular and enroll in Device Protection+ Advanced, and as long as your Device Protection+ Advanced coverage remains uninterrupted (maximum of 2 accidental damage claims applies under AppleCare Services). Once your iPhone or iPad is no longer eligible for AppleCare Services, our obligations to you under the Service Contract will be provided by another authorized provider.
** Within the first two Accidental Damage claims, the Service Fee for iPhone screen damage is $29 when service is provided at Apple Stores, Apple Authorized Service Providers, and through Apple's mail-in repair service. For all other iPhone Accidental Damage claims, the Service Fee is $99. Should you lose AppleCare Services due to non-payment or device ineligibility, the Service Fees for Hardware Service (mechanical/electrical breakdown) and Accidental Damage will increase and be equal to the Service Fee/Deductible for Loss and Theft.
To be eligible for AppleCare Services, you must have an eligible iPhone or iPad enrolled in Device Protection+ Advanced with AppleCare Services. For enrollment information, please go to the Enrolling in Device Protection+ section.
With AppleCare Services*, you get service and support directly from Apple if your device requires repair or you need technical support assistance. For instructions on how to file a claim, please go to the Getting help or filing a claim section.
* Your new iPhone or iPad is eligible for AppleCare Services during the first 24 months from the date you purchase the device from U.S. Cellular and enroll in Device Protection+ Advanced, and as long as your Device Protection+ Advanced coverage remains uninterrupted (maximum of 2 accidental damage claims applies under AppleCare Services). Once your iPhone or iPad is no longer eligible for AppleCare Services, our obligations to you under the Service Contract will be provided by another authorized provider.
Securing Your Personal Information
As a Device Protection+ customer, you'll have access to enhanced features in the U.S. Cellular® Protect powered by Pocket Geek® app that will assist you in protecting your valuable data. To receive access to these features, you need to be an active Device Protection+ customer and download and register U.S. Cellular® Protect powered by Pocket Geek® onto your U.S. Cellular Smartphone or tablet.
Once you download and register the U.S. Cellular® Protect powered by Pocket Geek® app, you'll receive access to the following features that will help secure your personal information:
- Anti-Malware: Software that safeguards your device and personal info from potential hackers and other threats. (Anti-Malware is only available for Android customers.)
- Locate, Alert, Lock & Wipe: If your device is lost or stolen, the app will help find and remotely lock it, sound an alarm, or wipe all sensitive data. (Alert, Lock, and Wipe are only available for Android customers.)
- Secure Backup: You can back up 100GB of content for Device Protection+ Advanced Plans and 5GB for Device Protection+ Standard Plans.
You have to be an active Device Protection+ customer and must download and register the U.S. Cellular® Protect powered by Pocket Geek® app. As soon as you do, you'll gain access to these enhanced features and can begin safeguarding your data.
Solving Technical Issues
If you are an iPhone or iPad customer enrolled in Device Protection+ Advanced with AppleCare Services, you can get direct access to AppleCare award-winning technical support via chat or phone. Simply visit getsupport.apple.com or call 1-800-APLCARE.
iOS and Android customers enrolled in Device Protection+ Advanced also have access to Tech Support+ by tapping "LIVE HELP" in the U.S. Cellular® Protect powered by Pocket Geek® app.
It's support for your connected devices at your fingertips. If you need help connecting your device to your Smart TV or other connected devices throughout your home, you can access self-help resources, tools, and knowledgeable techs to help you solve the issue. iOS and Android Customers enrolled in Device Protection+ Advanced get this benefit in the U.S. Cellular® Protect powered by Pocket Geek® app.
All you have to do is tap "LIVE HELP" in the U.S. Cellular® Protect powered by Pocket Geek® app to call or chat with a Tech Support+ representative.
Tech Support+ live help is available Monday — Sunday 9 a.m. to 9 p.m. ET.
Tech Support+ is not an insurance product or service contract and is part of Device Protection+.
Optimizing Device Performance
Once you download and register the U.S. Cellular® Protect powered by Pocket Geek® app, you'll enjoy the following features that will optimize the performance of your device:
Performance Monitoring and Troubleshooting — Run diagnostics to monitor the performance of your device, and solve small issues before they become big ones.
Geek Tools℠
- Data Monitoring — Help prevent data overages.
- Battery Forecast and Boost — Monitor battery life and boost performance.
- Speed Test — Choose the best connections for your needs.
-
Storage Manager — Maximize your available storage.
Geek Tips® — Receive useful, device-specific information, including "how-to" tips and tricks.
These benefits are provided to all U.S. Cellular customers at no additional cost.
You may access Geek Tools℠ in the U.S. Cellular® Protect powered by Pocket Geek® app by selecting the "more" icon on the app's main screen. Once there, you'll be able to see the performance state of your device based on various elements such as battery life, storage and speed connection. Geek Tools℠ will provide you with troubleshooting suggestions to help resolve any issue that may be slowing you down and ultimately optimize your device's overall performance.
You may access Geek Tips® in the U.S. Cellular® Protect powered by Pocket Geek® app by selecting the "light bulb" icon on the app's main screen. Once there, you'll see daily tech tips to help you get more out of your device. You will also receive daily Geek Tips® notifications to help you master the many features in your device.
As soon as you log in to the U.S. Cellular® Protect powered by Pocket Geek® app, you'll instantly see any immediate action that you should take to optimize and improve your device's performance. With just one tap, you'll see your device's diagnostic report and review troubleshooting suggestions that give you quick instructions on how to resolve these issues. You may also go directly to the troubleshooting feature by selecting the "question mark" icon in the app's main screen. Thanks to this feature, you'll become a pro at resolving tech issues that may be slowing you down.
Monitoring Your Credit
If you're an iOS or Android customer enrolled in Device Protection+ Advanced you can rest assured knowing that you have access to 90 days of Credit Monitoring upon a loss or theft claim approval. We'll alert you if there's any suspicious activity on your accounts and help keep your personal information...personal.
Credit Monitoring is not an insurance product or service contract and is part of Device Protection+. To be eligible for Credit Monitoring, customers must be 18 and older.
- Up to 90 days of credit monitoring from one bureau
- Alerts provided for new inquiries, address changes, etc.
- Eligible customers will be alerted at time of claim about the benefit, and advised that they will receive information, via email, on how to register/activate the benefit.
- The 90-Day period begins one day after your replacement device is
- If there is credit activity, customers can access online FAQs by visiting assurantmonitormycredit.com or calling 1-800-825-7161
90-Day Credit Monitoring is not an insurance product or service contract and is part of Device Protection+.
Getting Help or Filing a Claim
Device Protection+ Advanced with AppleCare Services for iPhone and iPad customers
If your iPhone or iPad requires repair or you need help:
- The best place to start is at getsupport.apple.com. Just answer a few questions and you'll be presented with options to help resolve your issue.
- Go to locate.apple.com to find an Apple Retail Store or Apple Authorized Service Provider near you.
- Call 1-800-MY-APLCARE to speak directly to an AppleCare Advisor.
- You may also call the program administrator at 1-800-480-0167 and a Customer Service Representative will work with you to process your claim.
If your iPhone or iPad is lost or stolen:
- Visit mywirelessclaim.com to file your claim 24 hours a day, 7 days a week or call 1-800-480-0167 and a Customer Service Representative will work with you to process your claim.
- Call U.S. Cellular® at 1-800-480-0167 to suspend your service and protect yourself against unauthorized use.
- Once approved, your replacement device will be shipped via next-business-day delivery — when available — at no additional cost to you.
Device Protection+ Advanced for Android and Device Protection+ Standard
If your device is accidentally damaged, malfunctioning, lost or stolen:
- Visit mywirelessclaim.com to file your claim 24 hours a day, 7 days a week or call 1-800-480-0167 and a Customer Service Representative will work with you to process your claim.
- If your device is lost or stolen call U.S. Cellular® at 1-800-480-0167 to suspend your service and protect yourself against unauthorized use.
- Once approved, your replacement device will be shipped via next-business-day delivery — when available — at no additional cost to you.
For All Plans
If your device needs to be replaced, it will be with a reconditioned model of like kind and quality. In the event that a reconditioned one is not available, we will replace it with a new model of like kind and quality. Device color may vary depending on availability. If the approved claim involves a damaged or malfunctioning device, you will have 10 days to return the damaged broken device; details on how to return the device will be provided.
Claims must be filed within the time limit indicated in your coverage documents.
Please have the following information on hand when you file a claim:
- Your U.S. Cellular wireless number
- Your device manufacturer/model/storage size
- Cause and date of loss or damage
- Service fee or deductible payment method. Payment can be made by credit card, debit card, eCheck or Check on Delivery (C.O.D.). A $17 charge will apply if you choose to pay by C.O.D.
Under certain circumstances, additional documentation — such as a police report or proof of loss — may be required in order to process your claim. Claims must be filed within the time limit indicated in your coverage documents.
Service fees/deductibles vary based on device, peril, and plan. Please see below:
| Advanced Plans | Standard Plans | |
|---|---|---|
| iOS iPhone and iPad | Android Smartphone and Tablet | iOS and Android (Smartphones & Tablets) & Basic Devices |
| Hardware Service:$0 Accidental Damage:* For iPhone: Screen Damage Only: $29 All Other: $99 For iPad $49 Loss/Theft:$100, $150 or $175 depending on device. | Hardware Service/Accidental Damage: $50 or $99 depending on device Loss/Theft:$50, $100, $150, or $175 depending on device. | $50, $100, $150 or $175 depending on device |
*Within the first two Accidental Damage claims, the Service Fee for iPhone screen damage is $29 when service is provided at Apple Stores, Apple Authorized Service Providers, and through Apple's mail-in repair service. For all other iPhone Accidental Damage claims, the Service Fee is $99. Should you lose AppleCare Services due to non-payment or device ineligibility, the Service Fees for Hardware Service (mechanical/electrical breakdown) and Accidental Damage will increase and be equal to the Service Fee/Deductible for Loss and Theft.
Please visit mywirelessclaim.com to view your service fee/deductible.
Once your claim is approved, your replacement device will be shipped via next-business-day delivery, when available, at no additional cost to you.
Your device will be replaced with a reconditioned model of like kind and quality. In the event that a reconditioned one is not available, we will replace it with a new model of like kind and quality. Device color may vary depending on availability. If the approved claim involves a damaged or malfunctioning device, you will have 10 days to return the damaged device. Details on how to return the device will be provided.
You will be provided with details on how to return the device. Damaged or malfunctioning devices must be returned within 10 days of receiving your replacement device to avoid being charged an unrecovered device/equipment fee of up to $1500.
Visit mywirelessclaim.com to learn more about the claims process, file a claim or track an existing claim.
If you need to check the status of your claim, you can log in to mywirelessclaim.com to:
- Obtain shipping information (including tracking information) for your replacement device
- View general information about your claim
- Download any forms that may be required to complete your claim
- Download another shipping label to return the device for which you filed a claim or
- Verify that the damaged or malfunctioning device has been received
International Services FAQs
The International Services feature code must be added to your account in order to dial international numbers.
Text Messaging service by U.S. Cellular must be on your account before sending an international text message.
Text Messaging service by U.S. Cellular must be on your account before sending an international text message.
Dialing and texting internationally is simple and quick!
Dial the international access code 011
Dial the appropriate country code for the country you are calling
Dial the number you are calling the same as on your home phone
If text messaging, enter message and press "SEND"
Dial the international access code 011
Dial the appropriate country code for the country you are calling
Dial the number you are calling the same as on your home phone
If text messaging, enter message and press "SEND"
You can call over 200 countries and text to over 100 countries. View country list and codes or visit your local U.S. Cellular retail store or call 1-888-944-9400 (611 from your wireless phone). Country availability is subject to change. Messaging is available to certain wireless carriers' customers within a country. Please verify both country and carrier for messaging.
Each call is priced at a per minute rate for international toll, plus airtime and applicable charges and taxes. Rates vary, based on country called. Per minute rates only available from a customer's local U.S. Cellular home calling area. U.S. Cellular per-minute rates are subject to change. Taxes, long distance, toll, and other charges may apply. Other restrictions and limitations may apply.
International Messaging is priced the same as domestic messaging. Read more about Mobile Messaging or call 1-888-944-9400 or write to a Customer Care Representative.
International Messaging is priced the same as domestic messaging. Read more about Mobile Messaging or call 1-888-944-9400 or write to a Customer Care Representative.
Yes. If you place an international call from the areas located in your home 'footprint', then the call will be billed at the U.S Cellular per minute rate for international toll, plus airtime and applicable charges and taxes. If you are roaming and place an international call with another carrier, you will have access to the countries available through that carrier. The call will be rated according to the International toll rates charged by that carrier, plus airtime and applicable roaming charges and taxes.
Yes. However, if you are located in certain counties bordering Mexico, your call may be billed at a special per minute rate.
Access is available to all countries, or if blocking is requested, to no countries. Selective international access is not possible.
Yes. Whenever a new international wireless carrier and/or country becomes available, we will update our site.
Ringtones FAQs
If your phone is easyedgeSM capable, you can download ringtones from a variety of our ringtone providers. Visit our ringtones page to view our a list of our ringtone providers. Our easyedgeSM service is available on a Pay As You Go plan, or you can purchase a monthly plan. View our data and internet options.
There are various ringtone providers and different prices for each. You are offered "credits" to purchase ringtones. Each credit is worth one ringtone. You can purchase a package of credits (e.g. 3, 5, 7) or just one at a time. The price of credits varies by ringtone. Visit our ringtones page for pricing from the available ringtone providers.
Yes, you will be offered the option to listen to a short sample of the ringtone before you make a purchase.
Browse and purchase ringtones from the Tone Room Deluxe Web site or via your phone.
To download ringtones, your phone must be easyedgeSM capable. Enter the easyedgeSM shop from your phone via the shopping cart icon. Select "Ringtones" to browse our selection of ringtone providers. You can also view our ringtone providers here.
After you select a ringtone provider, you will be asked how many credits you wish to purchase. Once you have credits, you can browse the available ringtones. You can hear samples of ringtones before purchasing them. After agreeing to download the song, it will now be saved on your phone. You will then need to access your phone's media/audio settings to access the downloaded song.
To download ringtones, your phone must be easyedgeSM capable. Enter the easyedgeSM shop from your phone via the shopping cart icon. Select "Ringtones" to browse our selection of ringtone providers. You can also view our ringtone providers here.
After you select a ringtone provider, you will be asked how many credits you wish to purchase. Once you have credits, you can browse the available ringtones. You can hear samples of ringtones before purchasing them. After agreeing to download the song, it will now be saved on your phone. You will then need to access your phone's media/audio settings to access the downloaded song.
You will always be asked to accept any charges prior to being billed for any downloaded application from the easyedgeSM shop. Once you accept, the charges will automatically appear on your next bill according to your billing cycle.
To hear a previously downloaded ringtone, you will need to first access your phone's media/audio settings to save the ringtone as your featured song. The ringtone may need to still be live on your phone in order to access the ringtone. Please note: Deleting the application from your phone may delete your downloaded ringtones. The ringtone provider will inform you of this while you are in the process of purchasing ringtones.
Roaming FAQs
If you are outside of your U.S. Cellular® calling area when using your wireless phone, then you are considered to be roaming. Your calling area is indicated on the map that appears in the your plan brochure - view these maps on-line. Depending on the plan you chose, this area might cover a portion of a state, several states or all of the United States. When you travel outside this calling area, you are roaming into properties of another wireless carrier's cellular system. In most cases, your phone's "Roam" indicator will illuminate when you are outside your calling area.
Roaming chargesrefer to those charges that you incur when using your wireless phone outside your calling area. These charges will include a per minute charge for airtime.
All of our new Belief Plans have National coverage, which means you won't have to worry about roaming charges. Learn More About Belief Plans
Roaming chargesrefer to those charges that you incur when using your wireless phone outside your calling area. These charges will include a per minute charge for airtime.
All of our new Belief Plans have National coverage, which means you won't have to worry about roaming charges. Learn More About Belief Plans
To place a call when roaming outside of your calling area, dial the complete 10-digit number (area code + the number). (Roaming and long-distance charges may apply to your calls, depending on your specific calling plan.)
If you encounter any difficulties making or receiving calls while roaming, you can contact U.S. Cellular's Roaming Support Center. We are available 24 hours a day and can be reached toll-free at 1-888-872-7462. You can also call 611 (always a free call) from your wireless phone. This will connect you to the customer service department of the carrier in whose network you are roaming. They can then assist you.
If you encounter any difficulties making or receiving calls while roaming, you can contact U.S. Cellular's Roaming Support Center. We are available 24 hours a day and can be reached toll-free at 1-888-872-7462. You can also call 611 (always a free call) from your wireless phone. This will connect you to the customer service department of the carrier in whose network you are roaming. They can then assist you.
Yes. U.S. Cellular is a member of the largest automatic call delivery service in the country. While you're traveling throughout North America, a caller need only dial your wireless telephone number to reach you. Callers from your home area can continue to reach you by dialing your 7 digits. The call is automatically forwarded to you.
For each call you answer, you may be charged a Roaming or Expanded Local Calling Rate for the area you are visiting, as well as any applicable long-distance rates.
Note: Since wireless networks are based on radio signals, you may not be able to place or receive calls in some areas due to loss of signal or problems involving another carrier's network. Should you require technical assistance while roaming, call U.S. Cellular's 24-hour Roaming Support Center at 1-888-872-7462.
For each call you answer, you may be charged a Roaming or Expanded Local Calling Rate for the area you are visiting, as well as any applicable long-distance rates.
Note: Since wireless networks are based on radio signals, you may not be able to place or receive calls in some areas due to loss of signal or problems involving another carrier's network. Should you require technical assistance while roaming, call U.S. Cellular's 24-hour Roaming Support Center at 1-888-872-7462.
Pertaining to customers on older "Local Plans" only: "Anytime minutes" are applicable only within the "Local Calling Area". In addition to this area, there is also an "Expanded Local Calling Area". When using your wireless phone to make a call from this "Expanded Local Calling Area", you will be charged your local per minute rate for every used minute instead of a roaming rate. (Roaming rates are applicable when you travel outside the "Expanded Local Calling Area")
If you travel frequently and don't want to worry about incurring roaming charges, you should consider a national calling plan. With a national plan, you pay no roaming or long-distance charges no matter where you go in the United States. (Toll-free calling applies when the call is placed from your home calling area to anywhere within the 50 United States and Washington, D.C. Some restrictions apply; please write to us or visit your nearest U.S. Cellular store for details.)
If your calling plan includes toll-free calling, and you are in your U.S. Cellular "Local Calling Area" or "Wide Area Calling Area" no long distance charges will apply when you receive a call. The minutes used during a call will be deducted from your included monthly "Anytime Minutes."
Voice Mail To Text FAQs
Yes, all postpaid customers who have voice mail and are SMS text messaging enabled are eligible for the free 30 day trial. Please refer to the Terms of Service for Voice Mail to Text before you start the 30-day free trial.
Yes, you will receive notifications on day 27 and day 30 via text message, informing you that the trial is coming to an end. The service will automatically switch to the billable SOC after day 30.
You will be able to easily opt out of the service by following the directions that are sent as part of the free trial ending text messages, simply respond "stop".
You can also call 611. After the free trial expires, the only way to opt out of the service is to call 611.
You can also call 611. After the free trial expires, the only way to opt out of the service is to call 611.
Your service will automatically be converted from the free trial to a $2.99 billed service.
Yes, the Voice Mail to Text service is fully automated and is transcribed by a voice transcription engine.
No, this service utilizes a fully automated voice transcription engine and there is no human interaction with your messages.
Yes, you will have the option to dial into your voice mail account and listen to your messages, customize your voice mail box settings (not to be confused with customizing your Voice Mail to Text settings which is done via the Delivery Preferences Portal available from a link on the uscellular.com home page), and save and delete messages just as you do today.
Yes, voice mails can still be saved traditionally on the voice mail platform. As an additional benefit to subscribers, if you have e-mail delivery, the transcription will be delivered with an audio file recording of the message attached.
Transcriptions arrive almost immediately after the voice mail message has been concluded by the sender.
If you get a Voice Mail to Text message, you will receive notification of a missed call. Depending upon your preferences, you will see one of the following:
An e-mail message from "US Cellular VM2Text"
A text message from the number that called
Both an email message from "U.S. Cellular VM2Text" and a text message from the number that called
An e-mail message from "US Cellular VM2Text"
A text message from the number that called
Both an email message from "U.S. Cellular VM2Text" and a text message from the number that called
All new or saved messages received prior to provisioning Voice Mail to Text will be transcribed and sent to the customer via SMS delivery (the default delivery setting) as soon as the service is activated for them. The originating phone number will not be included in the transcription of SMS delivery, and there will be no ##short code for instant voice mail message access.
First, check your preferences on the Delivery Preferences Portal available from a link on the uscellular.com home page. Once you have confirmed that your e-mail address is correct and that you are set up to receive e-mail notifications, check your "Junk" mail folders. If you find "US Cellular VM2Text" in your junk mail, right click on it, select "Junk E-mail," and "Mark as Not Junk". You'll then have the opportunity to add "US Cellular VM2Text" to a "safe" list so that these messages will not be marked as junk in the future.
There are 3 ways you may listen to the message:
Email delivery only — download and play the attached wav file
Call your voice mail and access the message the traditional way
Call your voicemail and use the ## feature
Email delivery only — download and play the attached wav file
Call your voice mail and access the message the traditional way
Call your voicemail and use the ## feature
No, if the caller is speaking English the message will be transcribed in English automatically, if the caller is speaking Spanish, it will be transcribed in Spanish automatically.
E911 FAQs
Wireless Enhanced 911 (E911) seeks to improve the effectiveness and reliability of wireless 911 services by providing emergency dispatchers with additional information on wireless 911 calls.
The wireless E911 program is divided into two phases.
Phase I requires wireless carriers, upon valid request by a local Public Safety Answering Point (PSAP), to report the telephone number of a wireless 911 caller and the location of the antenna that received the call.
Phase II requires wireless carriers to provide far more precise location information, within 50 to 300 meters in most cases.
The deployment of E911 requires the development of new technologies and upgrades to local 911 PSAPs, as well as coordination among public safety agencies, wireless carriers, technology vendors, equipment manufacturers and local wireline carriers.
The wireless E911 program is divided into two phases.
Phase I requires wireless carriers, upon valid request by a local Public Safety Answering Point (PSAP), to report the telephone number of a wireless 911 caller and the location of the antenna that received the call.
Phase II requires wireless carriers to provide far more precise location information, within 50 to 300 meters in most cases.
The deployment of E911 requires the development of new technologies and upgrades to local 911 PSAPs, as well as coordination among public safety agencies, wireless carriers, technology vendors, equipment manufacturers and local wireline carriers.
Phase II E911 only works where the PSAPs have upgraded their equipment and systems to be able to use the data provided by the wireless carrier. For carriers like U.S. Cellular, the location technology, Global Positioning System (GPS), is built into the wireless phone. E911 Ready phones rely on signals from the federal government's GPS satellites to help estimate the location of a 911 caller and determine where to send emergency services.
In order to obtain information about your specific local area preparedness on E911 location services, please contact your state's E911 coordinator.
All phones sold through U.S. Cellular after October 2004 are E911 Ready.
If you do not have an E911 Ready phone, please call 1-800-455-7511 or visit your nearest retail or agent location to upgrade your phone. Aside from the E911 location service, customers may experience the many benefits of using an E911 Ready phone such as fewer blocked calls, better call quality, a longer battery life and improved privacy features to prevent cloning.
Once you upgrade to an E911 Ready phone, you will not be able to change back to your non-E911 phone. If you are not satisfied with your phone, our 15-Day Guarantee allows you to try a different phone.
No, your service will remain as it is today. However, as mentioned above there are many benefits to using an E911 Ready phone.
Mobile To Mobile FAQs
Mobile-to-Mobile is a feature that discounts a U.S. Cellular customer's airtime for incoming and outgoing calls to other U.S. Cellular customers. The Mobile-to-Mobile customer must be in their Mobile-to-Mobile calling area on a U.S. Cellular network and the Roaming indicator must not be lit or flashing.
If you are in your Mobile-to-Mobile calling area and your roaming indicator is off, calls to Voice Mail are rated as Mobile-to-Mobile minutes.
Yes. The Mobile-to-Mobile calling area applies within licensed U.S. Cellular markets. See coverage map. Also, your roaming indicator must not be on or flashing.
On Wide Area and National Single Line Plans include SpeedTalk®Wide Area and National Single Line plans, Unlimited Mobile-to-Mobile is $6.00 per month. All Wide Area and National Family Plans including SpeedTalk Wide Area and National Family Plans include Unlimited Mobile-to-Mobile as an included calling feature. Unlimited Mobile-to-Mobile Minutes will not be deducted from your calling plan's anytime minutes.
For both parties to receive the Mobile-to-Mobile rating, both must have the feature. If only one has the feature, only he/she will receive the Mobile-to-Mobile call rating. The customer without the feature will have minutes deducted from his/her rate plan's package minutes. Customers must be in their Mobile-to-Mobile coverage area for the Mobile-to-Mobile minutes to apply. See coverage map.
If you are a U.S. Cellular postpaid customer, and have the Mobile-to-Mobile feature, calls that you make to, and receive from Prepaid Wireless customers will qualify as Mobile-to-Mobile minutes. However, Prepaid Wireless customers cannot have Mobile-to-Mobile.
In this scenario, calls would be rated as Night & Weekend minutes, not Mobile-to-Mobile.
Number Portability FAQs
Number Portability allows you to transfer your phone number from your current service provider to a different provider. At U.S. Cellular, we have the ability to transfer your existing phone number from either your current wireless or landline (home phone) service provider. For more information, you can speak with a friendly sales associate at a local U.S. Cellular store or you can purchase online.
No, not at this time. You can only port your number to another carrier within the same local service area. While geographic porting may occur at a later time, no target date has been specified by the Federal Communications Commission (FCC).
Your sales associate will give you an estimated time frame in which they will contact you to finalize the activation. However, the amount of time needed to port your number depends on your old carrier and other variables.
When you first visit a local U.S. Cellular location or call 1-888-BUY-USCC, you will be introduced to all the plans, phones and features available to you.
Have a copy of a recent bill from your current carrier so that the sales associate can easily verify your current carrier's information. You may want to verify your contract status with your current service provider since you may be charged a fee for porting while still under contract.
You will be notified of any delays or additional information required to complete the porting process. Please make sure the sales associate has a contact number to reach you.
No. Keep your current phone active. If you discontinue your number before the porting process is complete, you will lose your ability to port your number. Once your number is successfully ported to U.S. Cellular, service with your old service provider will be deactivated.
The porting process can take up to one day to complete for your wireless number and several days for a landline number. During this time, service with your current provider will remain active. Once porting is complete and you receive your new U.S. Cellular phone, your old service will be deactivated. However, for a short period of time after deactivation, your old phone may still work.
Yes. When you port your number to U.S. Cellular, you will have to purchase a new phone because not all carriers have the same technologies. U.S. Cellular offers a wide range of phones. Find the phone that best fits your needs.
Yes, in most cases you will be able to port your landline phone number to U.S. Cellular. However, there will be some limitations based on which wireline carrier you have service with and if your phone number is eligible to port. Also, remember that porting a landline phone number could take a few days to complete.
Landline carriers U.S. Cellular can port with:
Bell South
Choice One/US XChange
MCI
McCleod USA
Qwest Wireline
SBC Wireline
Sprint Wireline
TDS Telecom
Time Warner Telecom
Verizon Wireline
Landline carriers U.S. Cellular can port with:
Bell South
Choice One/US XChange
MCI
McCleod USA
Qwest Wireline
SBC Wireline
Sprint Wireline
TDS Telecom
Time Warner Telecom
Verizon Wireline
If you currently have DSL (high-speed Internet service), in conjunction with your home/business landline service, you need to find out if your DSL service will be disconnected. You should also ask about any termination fees that might apply. Since wireless numbers are not listed, you need to be aware that you may lose your white or yellow page listing.
The porting process can take up to one day or a few days to complete. If you call 911 from either your new phone (before porting is complete) or you're old phone (after the port is complete), the 911 call center cannot call you back.
You should inform 911 of your location and remain on the line until advised to hang up. If the call is disconnected before details have been provided, simply call 911 again, repeat your location and let them know you were disconnected.
You should inform 911 of your location and remain on the line until advised to hang up. If the call is disconnected before details have been provided, simply call 911 again, repeat your location and let them know you were disconnected.
Yes. Click on the links for each line in the Phone Number Transfer section of the Checkout Page and fill out the required fields.
Currently, we are not able to transfer a U.S. Cellular number on a Prepaid calling plan to a contract-based calling plan. If you would like to move from one type of service to the other, please call 1-888-BUY-USCC or stop in to one of our stores to discuss your options.
Overage Protection FAQs
Overage Protection from U.S. Cellular® makes it easy to keep track of your wireless costs. U.S. Cellular will automatically notify you with a Text Message alert when your voice minutes, messages, or data approach and exceed your plan limits and you will start to incur overage charges.
And best of all, it's FREE.
And best of all, it's FREE.
U.S. Cellular® automatically helps you monitor the minutes on your plan, your messages included in your messaging plan and your data usage by sending you texts when you approach and exceed your limits.
Your data usage is continuously calculated and compared to your plan's data allotment. If your usage exceeds the Overage Protection thresholds (75% and 100%), we will send a Text Message alert, within 2 hours, indicating a threshold has been met or exceeded. Tiered data plan customers will also receive a text message within 2 hours of exceeding the Overage Protection thresholds (75% and 100%) for each data tier. The number of minutes and messages used is calculated on a nightly basis and compared to the included voice minutes and messages in your monthly plan. If your usage exceeds the Overage Protection thresholds (75% and 100%), we will send a Text Message alert indicating a threshold has been met or exceeded. You are then in control to decide what action, if any, to take. Of course, you may always stop in to a local store or call 611 from your wireless phones for assistance.
Note:Customers who are using devices that do not support text messaging will receive the notifications via an outbound call to the customer's alternate contact phone number.
Note:Customers who are using devices that do not support text messaging will receive the notifications via an outbound call to the customer's alternate contact phone number.
All customers are automatically provided voice, messaging, and data overage protection. However there may be some plans that this service is not available for or relevant on such as Unlimited Plans, or Pay-As-You-Go Plans.
There's no need to enroll. Overage Protection from U.S. Cellular® is a free and automatic service on applicable plans. Overage Protection alerts are provided to help you manage your usage and costs. If you do not wish to receive these notifications, please contact Customer Service at 1-888-944-9400.
If you receive an Overage Protection alert you may choose to either stop by one of our retail locations or call Customer Service (611). We can help evaluate your service and see if changing your voice, messaging, or data plan, or keeping your account the same is the best option for you.
Overage Protection does not guarantee that you will not receive overage charges. Overage Protection gives you the opportunity to take measures to ensure you are on the appropriate price plan or service that best meets your usage needs.
In the event that you didn't receive an Overage Protection alert but had overage charges on your bill please stop by one of our retail locations or call Customer Service (611) to ensure that your account has been set up properly so that future overage charges can be monitored.
Overage Protection will work on your Business account unless you have a PayGo or Unlimited Plan.
The designated lines on your account will receive the Text Message Alert the day after a monitored line hits your usage threshold (75% or 100%). The Text Message Alerts will be delivered between 10 a.m. and 6 p.m., 7 days a week.
Note:Customers who are using devices that do not support text messaging will receive the notifications via an outbound call to the customer's alternate contact phone number.
Note:Customers who are using devices that do not support text messaging will receive the notifications via an outbound call to the customer's alternate contact phone number.
A text message alert is sent within 2 hours of data usage exceeding the Overage Protection Thresholds (75% and 100%). Data Overage Protection alerts help you monitor your data usage to avoid unexpected overages.* If there are changes to your account that limit us from sending you a Data Overage Protection alert during the current billing cycle, you will receive a disclaimer text message. A few examples of account changes include addition or changes to data features, move/change CTN and/or BAN, etc., Data Overage Protection alerts will resume with the next billing cycle.
* We will make every effort to see to it that you receive your notices on a timely basis. On rare occasions, circumstances beyond our control such as network outages may delay receipt of your notices.
Note:Customers who are using devices that do not support text messaging will receive the notifications via an outbound call to the customer's alternate contact phone number.
* We will make every effort to see to it that you receive your notices on a timely basis. On rare occasions, circumstances beyond our control such as network outages may delay receipt of your notices.
Note:Customers who are using devices that do not support text messaging will receive the notifications via an outbound call to the customer's alternate contact phone number.
Yes, you can elect to have one line receive the alert or all lines receive the alert.
Alerts are automatically sent to the telephone number that has approached its data limit.
Tiered data plan customers will receive a text message within 2 hours of exceeding the Overage Protection thresholds (75% and 100%) for each data tier.
Note:Customers who are using devices that do not support text messaging will receive the notifications via an outbound call to the customer's alternate contact phone number.
Note:Customers who are using devices that do not support text messaging will receive the notifications via an outbound call to the customer's alternate contact phone number.
Phone Replacement FAQs
Phone Replacement is a unique program only from U.S. Cellular® that replaces your phone if it is broken, lost or stolen on qualifying retired Belief Plans. With Phone Replacement you won't have to worry about losing your connection to family, friends and business partners.
Broken phones are replaced at no cost
Lost and stolen phones are replaced for a $100 deductible, which is typically a lot less than the cost of a new phone
Broken phones are replaced at no cost
Lost and stolen phones are replaced for a $100 deductible, which is typically a lot less than the cost of a new phone
Phone Replacement is an added benefit of qualifying retired Belief Plans at no additional monthly cost. If you want to know more or are interested in signing up for a plan that includes Phone Replacement, visit your local U.S. Cellular store or call Customer Service at 1-888-944-9400.
You are covered on a qualifying retired Belief Plan until you are eligible to upgrade to a new phone at a promotional price and have not exceeded your limits. Your coverage restarts once you purchase a phone at a promotional price.
Phone Replacement is offered at all U.S. Cellular retail locations or by calling Customer Service at 1-888-944-9400.
You can receive a same-day in-store replacement at most U.S. Cellular retail stores or have your replacement phone delivered to your home or business the next business day with no shipping fee.
Please visit our Store Locator to find a store near you - look for the "In-store Replacement" icon.
You can receive a same-day in-store replacement at most U.S. Cellular retail stores or have your replacement phone delivered to your home or business the next business day with no shipping fee.
Please visit our Store Locator to find a store near you - look for the "In-store Replacement" icon.
You may use Phone Replacement up to three times for a broken phone until you are eligible to upgrade to a new phone at a promotional price. Only one of the three replacements can be used for a lost or stolen phone.
You may still use the repair and return program to get your broken phone fixed.
You will receive either the same model or a similar model depending on availability. The replacement phone may be new or refurbished. All phones are high quality, fully functioning phones that have been examined and tested.
All major damage is covered except cosmetic and intentional damage. Phone Replacement does not cover exchanges based on customer preference.
No, Device Insurance cannot be added to price plans that include Phone Replacement. With Phone Replacement, you will not need Device Insurance because the program includes many of the benefits of Device Insurance and more without the additional monthly fee.
Yes, authorized users on both consumer and business accounts will be able to request and complete a Phone Replacement transaction.
Replacement phones will be shipped next business day for all orders placed by 4:30 p.m. CST. Saturday delivery is offered where available.
Please visit a U.S. Cellular retail store or contact Customer Service at 1-888-944-9400 if you have not received your replacement phone in the mail.
No, you cannot receive a refund for the $100 deductible once your replacement phone has been processed. If you find your lost phone after receiving a replacement phone, please return it to a U.S. Cellular store. A lost or stolen phone will be flagged in our system and will not be able to be reactivated on any customer account.
Phone Replacement goes beyond what is covered by the manufacturer warranty. Phones do have a one year manufacturer's warranty, although the warranty only applies to the original phone that was purchased. Once a phone has been replaced through the Phone Replacement program, it will no longer be eligible for a manufacturer's warranty.
Wireless Amber Alerts FAQs
The Wireless AMBER Alert™ program ended operations on December 31, 2012, as a part of the nation's transition to the Wireless Emergency Alerts (WEA) program. Millions of cellphone users across the country will now receive free, automatic notifications about abducted children in their area as part of the WEA program.
CTIA and the wireless industry joined the Federal Communications Commission (FCC) and Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) to offer WEA to supplement the existing Emergency Alert System. Consumers with WEA-capable smartphones and feature phones and services are automatically enrolled to receive AMBER Alerts for free, along with the Presidential and Imminent Threat Alerts. If you're not sure if your U.S. Cellular smartphone or feature phone is capable of receiving WEA Alerts, you can call customer care at 1-888-944-9400 or visit any U.S. Cellular store for assistance.
Unlike Wireless AMBER Alerts, the WEA AMBER Alerts use the latest technology to send messages to wireless customers with WEA-capable devices in the area where a child has been abducted, even if the wireless customer isn't from the area. For example, if a Chicago resident was visiting Boston and a WEA AMBER Alert was issued in Boston, the subscriber would receive the alert. At the same time, if an alert was issued in Chicago, the subscriber would not receive it while in Boston.
Statistics show that the first three hours after an abduction are the most critical in recovery efforts, and being able to quickly engage the public in the search for an abducted child can help law enforcement bring that child home safely.
The 700,000 wireless customers currently enrolled in Wireless AMBER Alerts will receive text messages about the transition and alternative sources for receiving AMBER Alerts.
CTIA and the wireless industry joined the Federal Communications Commission (FCC) and Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) to offer WEA to supplement the existing Emergency Alert System. Consumers with WEA-capable smartphones and feature phones and services are automatically enrolled to receive AMBER Alerts for free, along with the Presidential and Imminent Threat Alerts. If you're not sure if your U.S. Cellular smartphone or feature phone is capable of receiving WEA Alerts, you can call customer care at 1-888-944-9400 or visit any U.S. Cellular store for assistance.
Unlike Wireless AMBER Alerts, the WEA AMBER Alerts use the latest technology to send messages to wireless customers with WEA-capable devices in the area where a child has been abducted, even if the wireless customer isn't from the area. For example, if a Chicago resident was visiting Boston and a WEA AMBER Alert was issued in Boston, the subscriber would receive the alert. At the same time, if an alert was issued in Chicago, the subscriber would not receive it while in Boston.
Statistics show that the first three hours after an abduction are the most critical in recovery efforts, and being able to quickly engage the public in the search for an abducted child can help law enforcement bring that child home safely.
The 700,000 wireless customers currently enrolled in Wireless AMBER Alerts will receive text messages about the transition and alternative sources for receiving AMBER Alerts.
Wireless Emergency Alerts FAQs
U.S. Cellular® currently has several Commercial Mobile Alerts System (CMAS)–capable devices available to support Wireless Emergency Alerts. We are working to test and launch additional CMAS–capable devices to follow. U.S. Cellular is committed to providing Wireless Emergency Alerts to as many phones as possible by the end of 2012. To determine if a device is CMAS–capable, review the phone description page.
Read more about how Wireless Emergency Alerts work.
There is no charge for WEA. Alerts do not impact voice, messaging, or data usage.
There are three types of alerts:
Presidential:issued by the United States government; used to notify recipients of any national communication from the President; highest priority of the three alert types and cannot be suppressed.
Imminent Threats:issued by local, state, and federal officials or government agencies; used to provide notification of emergencies where life or property is at risk. Imminent Threats are categorized as Extreme or Severe.
AMBER:issued by a federal official; used to notify the community of missing, injured, lost, endangered or abducted children.
Presidential:issued by the United States government; used to notify recipients of any national communication from the President; highest priority of the three alert types and cannot be suppressed.
Imminent Threats:issued by local, state, and federal officials or government agencies; used to provide notification of emergencies where life or property is at risk. Imminent Threats are categorized as Extreme or Severe.
AMBER:issued by a federal official; used to notify the community of missing, injured, lost, endangered or abducted children.
WEA are enabled throughout the U.S. Cellular coverage area and will be broadcasted to the affected areas within our coverage area. You may receive WEA when roaming on another carrier's network that supports the Commercial Mobile Alert System (CMAS) within the 50 states. We cannot guarantee service on another carrier's network.
Unlike programs that are based on customer selected zip codes, area codes, or other designated filters, Wireless Emergency Alerts (WEA) are broadcasted to all enabled devices within the affected area.
No. Neither subscriber information nor GPS is used to broadcast the alerts. Alerts are sent to all Commercial Mobile Alerts System-capable (CMAS) wireless devices in the affected geographical area.
While the broadcast alerts are called WEA, the official name for this new public safety system is the Commercial Mobile Alert System (CMAS). Some agencies also use the term Personal Localized Alerting Network (PLAN).
General Short Message System-type (SMS) alerts from other organizations, while beneficial, are limited in nature and not authenticated through the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA). Only authorized local, state, and federal officials can send WEA regarding critical emergencies, such as a tornado or a terrorist threat, to the Commercial Mobile Alert System (CMAS).
WEA are unique because they utilize cell broadcast technology which is not subject to the same network congestion limitations as SMS and Multi Media System (MMS) messages. Cell broadcast technology allows messages to be sent to mobile phones in a specific geographical area regardless of the amount of traffic on the network.
WEA are unique because they utilize cell broadcast technology which is not subject to the same network congestion limitations as SMS and Multi Media System (MMS) messages. Cell broadcast technology allows messages to be sent to mobile phones in a specific geographical area regardless of the amount of traffic on the network.
You may change settings within your device to opt out of Imminent Threats and AMBER alerts, but you may not opt out of Presidential alerts. Refer to the manufacturer's website for the full user guide with operating instructions and information.
Though WEA look similar to text or picture messages, they are broadcast messages that are not delivered through the Short Message System (SMS) or Multi Media System (MMS) and are therefore not blocked. There is no charge for WEA and they do not impact voice, messaging or data usage.
In some cases, factors outside of our control, such as devices not being powered on, local terrain or technical difficulties could prevent the delivery of WEA. Delivery of WEA is not guaranteed and may not be received in weak signal areas.
If you are in the affected area, you will receive the alert when your call or data session is concluded if the alert period has not expired.
No, unless you turn your phone on before the alert period has expired. The same is true if your phone is in airplane mode.
You should contact the alert sender with any questions about a specific alert. U.S. Cellular is not responsible for the content of any WEA and has no information beyond what is included in the message. The alerts originate from local, state or federal agencies.
Yes. Audible tones can be disabled in the Commercial Mobile Alert System (CMAS) alert settings or by turning off the master volume.
WEA have a unique sound and vibration that distinguish them from text messages. They also have a distinct visual notification.
18) Will I receive test alerts similar to the Emergency Alert System used with radio and television?
No. Wireless carriers are required to participate in monthly tests of the system; however, customers will not receive test Wireless Emergency Alerts (WEA).
WEA settings will not change if the phone is rebooted; however, they will change if the phone is reset back to the manufacturer's settings.
Commercial Mobile Alert System-capable (CMAS) devices should receive an alert only once; however, similar messages may be issued within the alert period or your device may receive a duplicate alert if you are roaming on another carrier's network.
Not all local, state or federal agencies are authorized to send WEA messages via the Commercial Mobile Alert System (CMAS). Customers can check with their local government to learn if they are authorized.
Wireless Emergency Alerts are a public safety service offered at no charge and they do not impact voice, messaging or data usage. As a result, you will receive WEA regardless of your account status. They are broadcasted to all customers with a CMAS-capable device in the affected area.
23) I received a Wireless Emergency Alert (WEA) that I want to share with others. How can I do that?
WEA cannot be forwarded, replied to, copied or edited. They will be archived and can be deleted.
In 2006, Congress passed the Warning, Alert and Response Network Act that allows wireless carriers to broadcast emergency alerts to their customers on a voluntary basis. By the direction of Congress, the act was implemented "to ensure that all Americans have the capability to receive timely and accurate alerts, warnings and critical information regarding disasters and other emergencies irrespective of what communications technologies they use." With this new public safety system, the wireless industry now joins the radio and television industry in broadcasting emergency notifications to the public.
Yes. You may receive AMBER alerts from both the NCMEC and CMAS systems if you have elected to participate in the NCMEC Wireless AMBER Alerts and you are within a CMAS affected area. The AMBER Alerts broadcasted through the CMAS system are geographically targeted. If you have signed up for NCMEC Wireless AMBER Alerts, they are based on the zip codes you designated. Please see the Wireless AMBER Alerts FAQs for additional information.
Voice Mail FAQs
It is in your best interest to secure your Voice Mail account by having it password protected. This ensures that only those who know your password are able to access your account, make modifications, and listen to your messages. However, you can chose to remove that password protection anytime you dial your Voice Mail from your handset by selecting Option-4 (personal options) from the main menu, then Option-4 (Modify personal options), then Option-2 (skip password).
You can change to English or Spanish at anytime. Do this by dialing your Voice Mail account and pressing Option-4 (personal options) from the main menu, then Option-2 (administrative options), then Option-5 (mailbox language).
Yes, you can manage your prompt levels by selecting Option-4 (personal options) from the main menu, then Option-2 (administrative options), then Option-3 (prompt levels). Your options are:
- Standard: This is the default setting
- Rapid: Menu and command prompts are slightly abbreviated
- Extended: Menu and command prompts are slightly more verbose
You can choose this option while you are initializing your Voice Mail account by following the prompts to have the system speak your telephone number. If you have already initialized your Voice Mail account, you can speak your telephone number when recording your greeting.
To protect your privacy, the Voice Mail system does not allow "easy-to-guess" passwords, including your telephone number, your telephone number in reverse, repeating digits, consecutive digits, or ascending/descending even/odd numbers. Your choice of a unique password will be an important step in protecting your Voice Mail messages.
No. Once a message is deleted, there is no way to recover it.
Coverage Locator FAQs
The Coverage Locator is a tool used to determine an approximation of signal strength you can expect on U.S. Cellular's network based on location. The Call Signal Strength Tab is intended to show call signal strength in our network and will assist you with determining whether or not you should be able to place calls in buildings, in cars, or outdoors. The Data Coverage Tab is intended to determine if 3G or standard data coverage is available.
Coverage Locator is not intended to show how you will be billed based on your rate plan. Please reference your rate plan and utilize the Coverage Map.
Although you should be able to place calls on our partners' networks, signal strength on other providers' networks may vary. We are only able to predict the signal strength of U.S. Cellular's network.
"Best"- Implies the strongest level of coverage within the dark green band
Coverage should be reliable within a typical single family home.
Coverage should be reliable within most locations of larger structures such as low-rise apartment buildings, low-rise office buildings, strip malls, elementary schools. Coverage in basements and windowless rooms may not always be reliable.
May not have reliable coverage within all portions very large structures such as shopping malls, high-rise apartment/office buildings, and large commercial/manufacturing plants with few windows.
"Better"— Implies a medium level of coverage within the medium green band
Coverage should be reliable within most parts of a typical single family home.
Coverage may not be reliable within all portions of larger structures such as low-rise apartment buildings, low-rise office buildings, strip malls, elementary schools. Coverage will tend to be better closer to windows. Coverage in basements and windowless rooms will probably not be reliable.
Likelihood of reliable coverage diminishes within very large structures such as shopping malls, high-rise apartment/office buildings, and large commercial/manufacturing plants with few windows. Not to say there will be no coverage, but coverage will probably be limited to areas at the outer edges of the building and/or near windows.
"Good"— Implies a medium-low level of coverage within the light-medium green band
Coverage within a typical single family home may not be reliable within all portions of the building. Coverage will tend to be better at the outer edges of the building and/or near windows.
For larger structures such as low-rise apartment buildings, low-rise office buildings, strip malls, elementary schools, coverage will probably be limited to the outer edges of the building and/or near windows.
Coverage will be spotty/isolated, at best, within very large structures such as shopping malls, high-rise apartment/office buildings, and large commercial/manufacturing plants with few windows. Coverage may only be found in a few locations within the building.
"Fair"— Implies a low level of coverage within the tan band
Coverage within a typical single family home will not be very reliable, perhaps only working in a couple of isolated spots. Coverage may be confined to near windows or upper floors.
For larger structures such as low-rise apartment buildings, low-rise office buildings, strip malls, elementary schools, coverage will be quite unreliable. At best, coverage will be limited to the outer edges of the building and/or near windows.
Coverage will be very isolated/spotty, at best, within very large structures such as shopping malls, high-rise apartment/office buildings, and large commercial/manufacturing plants with few windows. Only a small percentage of the building may have any coverage. Overall, not reliable in large structures.
"Partner"— Implies that USC home network is very weak or well outside of home network coverage, can't determine what the roaming partner's coverage is with the Coverage Indicator tool.
Coverage should be reliable within a typical single family home.
Coverage should be reliable within most locations of larger structures such as low-rise apartment buildings, low-rise office buildings, strip malls, elementary schools. Coverage in basements and windowless rooms may not always be reliable.
May not have reliable coverage within all portions very large structures such as shopping malls, high-rise apartment/office buildings, and large commercial/manufacturing plants with few windows.
"Better"— Implies a medium level of coverage within the medium green band
Coverage should be reliable within most parts of a typical single family home.
Coverage may not be reliable within all portions of larger structures such as low-rise apartment buildings, low-rise office buildings, strip malls, elementary schools. Coverage will tend to be better closer to windows. Coverage in basements and windowless rooms will probably not be reliable.
Likelihood of reliable coverage diminishes within very large structures such as shopping malls, high-rise apartment/office buildings, and large commercial/manufacturing plants with few windows. Not to say there will be no coverage, but coverage will probably be limited to areas at the outer edges of the building and/or near windows.
"Good"— Implies a medium-low level of coverage within the light-medium green band
Coverage within a typical single family home may not be reliable within all portions of the building. Coverage will tend to be better at the outer edges of the building and/or near windows.
For larger structures such as low-rise apartment buildings, low-rise office buildings, strip malls, elementary schools, coverage will probably be limited to the outer edges of the building and/or near windows.
Coverage will be spotty/isolated, at best, within very large structures such as shopping malls, high-rise apartment/office buildings, and large commercial/manufacturing plants with few windows. Coverage may only be found in a few locations within the building.
"Fair"— Implies a low level of coverage within the tan band
Coverage within a typical single family home will not be very reliable, perhaps only working in a couple of isolated spots. Coverage may be confined to near windows or upper floors.
For larger structures such as low-rise apartment buildings, low-rise office buildings, strip malls, elementary schools, coverage will be quite unreliable. At best, coverage will be limited to the outer edges of the building and/or near windows.
Coverage will be very isolated/spotty, at best, within very large structures such as shopping malls, high-rise apartment/office buildings, and large commercial/manufacturing plants with few windows. Only a small percentage of the building may have any coverage. Overall, not reliable in large structures.
"Partner"— Implies that USC home network is very weak or well outside of home network coverage, can't determine what the roaming partner's coverage is with the Coverage Indicator tool.
Coverage Locator is updated four times each year.
Yes. The Call Signal Strength Tab applies to Prepaid Wireless Service. This map is not intended to show how you will be billed based on your rate plan. Please reference your rate plan and utilize the Coverage Map.
For the best viewing experience, it is recommended you access Coverage Locator from your computer.
You are able to use your data service nationwide. For 3G Mobile Broadband coverage, please reference the Data Coverage Tab.
Many factors including leaves on trees, building types, and terrain types are built into the predictive model used by Radio Frequency Engineers to create Coverage Locator.
Fair indicates that you may not get optimal service in your home, for example, but we often find that many of our customers report that their service ends up being satisfactory. We encourage you to try our service and if you are not satisfied you can always use our 15-day guarantee.
You may be experiencing the difference between our standard speed and our high speed Mobile Broadband service. We continue to expand our high speed service area so you should notice less of a difference as the expansion occurs.
Simple Connect Prepaid FAQs
The good news is, anyone is eligible for Simple Connect Prepaid Plans from U.S. Cellular. You don't need to sign an annual service contract, you'll never get a monthly bill and no credit checks are necessary.
Simple Connect Prepaid Plans can be an ideal solution for anyone, especially:
Budget-conscious and safety-conscious people who want to control their spending
Parents who want to get wireless phones for their kids
Businesses that want to track wireless spending by their employees
Anyone who is living in an area on a temporary basis, such as college students, military personnel and vacationers
Anyone who wants a wireless phone without undergoing a credit check
Anyone who does not want to sign a contract
Budget-conscious and safety-conscious people who want to control their spending
Parents who want to get wireless phones for their kids
Businesses that want to track wireless spending by their employees
Anyone who is living in an area on a temporary basis, such as college students, military personnel and vacationers
Anyone who wants a wireless phone without undergoing a credit check
Anyone who does not want to sign a contract
No. Annual service contracts are not required to obtain a phone.
Simple Connect Prepaid Plans work with many U.S. Cellular® Smartphones and Basic Phones. Please check with your local U.S. Cellular store if you have a phone and are not sure if it is compatible.
Unlimited Data, Unlimited Text, and Unlimited Talk are all included with Simple Connect Prepaid Plans.
International Long Distance
Keep in touch with friends and family across over 200 countries in an affordable way with an International Plan from U.S. Cellular®.
View International Rates
Device Insurance
Replace or repair your phone if it's lost, stolen or damaged. Instant Refill required.
Learn more about Device Insurance
Keep in touch with friends and family across over 200 countries in an affordable way with an International Plan from U.S. Cellular®.
View International Rates
Device Insurance
Replace or repair your phone if it's lost, stolen or damaged. Instant Refill required.
Learn more about Device Insurance
Call Customer Service by dialing 611 from your handset to hear information on your remaining amount of data for the month.
You can easily check how much money is on your account at any time by dialing #BAL (#225) from your wireless phone. This is a free call.
All Simple Connect Prepaid Plans enjoy unlimited calling and no roaming charges.
There are 2 easy ways to replenish your account.
Cash Refill:Visit any U.S. Cellular retail store or authorized Prepaid Wireless refill location to refill your account. The in-store minimum refill is $5. Find a U.S. Cellular retail or agent location near you.
Auto Refill:The convenient way to be sure your account doesn't run out of airtime. There are 3 easy ways to refill instantly. If you choose to set up monthly Instant Refills, your credit/debit card will be automatically charged on a specific day of the month, when your balance is an amount you pre-select, or at your convenience by dialing #ADD (#233) from your U.S. Cellular Phone.
Monthly AutoFill- You select which day you want your account refilled. Your refill is automatically processed on that day every month for the amount you request.
Balance AutoFill- Your refill is automatically processed, for the amount you request, whenever your balance falls below $10.
Anytime Instant Refill- All Instant Refill customers can refill with just a call. Dial #ADD (#233) on your cell phone and follow the prompts to complete your refill. This feature is not available for Prepaid wireless modem customers.
Cash Refill:Visit any U.S. Cellular retail store or authorized Prepaid Wireless refill location to refill your account. The in-store minimum refill is $5. Find a U.S. Cellular retail or agent location near you.
Auto Refill:The convenient way to be sure your account doesn't run out of airtime. There are 3 easy ways to refill instantly. If you choose to set up monthly Instant Refills, your credit/debit card will be automatically charged on a specific day of the month, when your balance is an amount you pre-select, or at your convenience by dialing #ADD (#233) from your U.S. Cellular Phone.
Monthly AutoFill- You select which day you want your account refilled. Your refill is automatically processed on that day every month for the amount you request.
Balance AutoFill- Your refill is automatically processed, for the amount you request, whenever your balance falls below $10.
Anytime Instant Refill- All Instant Refill customers can refill with just a call. Dial #ADD (#233) on your cell phone and follow the prompts to complete your refill. This feature is not available for Prepaid wireless modem customers.
Yes. National roaming is included at no additional charge.
A one-time $35 activation fee may apply, depending on your plan.
Text Messaging FAQs
Text Messaging enables you to send, receive and reply to short text messages from your digital phone to most other digital wireless phone users. You can either purchase an unlimited messaging package or send messages for just 25¢ each.
Discreet: A message is not intrusive, and you can use it when it is better to text.
Convenient: You can message any U.S. Cellular subscriber, as well as many wireless carriers.
Cost effective: Incoming messages are always free, and you can send messages for less than 25¢ per message, depending on your Text Messaging plan. Text Messaging does not affect the minutes of your current voice pricing plan.
Convenient: You can message any U.S. Cellular subscriber, as well as many wireless carriers.
Cost effective: Incoming messages are always free, and you can send messages for less than 25¢ per message, depending on your Text Messaging plan. Text Messaging does not affect the minutes of your current voice pricing plan.
A PIN is a six digit number that you'll need when registering for U.S. Cellular 's online account management service. This will be sent to you via text message after completing the first step in the registration process. We do this to protect your account from being accessed without your knowledge.
To remove Text Messaging at anytime, contact Customer Care at 611 from your wireless phone, or 1-888-944-9400 from your landline phone or write to us.
Having an e-mail address for your wireless phone enables you to receive text messages from e-mail, send messages to an e-mail address and reply directly to them from your U.S. Cellular phone. Your 10-digit wireless phone number followed by "@email.uscc.net" is your U.S. Cellular wireless e-mail address, so it's easy to remember.
Check out our Text Messaging Page for detailed information on all of our available plans.
For text-only service plans designed to meet the needs of the Deaf and Hard of Hearing, please visit our text-only plans page.
For text-only service plans designed to meet the needs of the Deaf and Hard of Hearing, please visit our text-only plans page.
Text Messaging is available to all U.S. Cellular digital customers, and in various Prepaid Wireless areas.
U.S. Cellular customers, as well as customers using wireless carriers who support text messaging.
Please note: You may be able to send messages, but the recipient may not have a text messaging capable phone.
Please note: You may be able to send messages, but the recipient may not have a text messaging capable phone.
To send and receive a text message, you MUST be within a coverage area that a) has the same digital technology as your home coverage area and b) is on the U.S. Cellular network or c) on one of our inter-carrier partners.
From wireless phone to wireless phone:
Each text message is limited to 150 characters, including spaces and punctuation. If a message is longer than 150 characters, the remainder will be lost, resulting in incomplete messages being received. Note: Some handsets may have a smaller character limit.
From the U.S. Cellular Web site to a wireless phone:
Each text message is limited to 150 characters. This is for the message only and does not include the 'To' and 'From' fields.
Using an e-mail address from the wireless phone:
There is a maximum 120-character limit when sending a text message to an e-mail address from your wireless phone. Characters in the 'To', 'From', and 'Subject' fields count towards the 120-character limit.
Using a text messaging e-mail address from any computer to wireless phone:
E-mail messages sent from any computer to your wireless phone can be a maximum of 400-characters, but will be split into separate messages of up to 120-characters each.
Each text message is limited to 150 characters, including spaces and punctuation. If a message is longer than 150 characters, the remainder will be lost, resulting in incomplete messages being received. Note: Some handsets may have a smaller character limit.
From the U.S. Cellular Web site to a wireless phone:
Each text message is limited to 150 characters. This is for the message only and does not include the 'To' and 'From' fields.
Using an e-mail address from the wireless phone:
There is a maximum 120-character limit when sending a text message to an e-mail address from your wireless phone. Characters in the 'To', 'From', and 'Subject' fields count towards the 120-character limit.
Using a text messaging e-mail address from any computer to wireless phone:
E-mail messages sent from any computer to your wireless phone can be a maximum of 400-characters, but will be split into separate messages of up to 120-characters each.
The method of notification varies depending on your specific phone model. Most phones offer both visual and audible notification. Please consult your manual for details or view our phone directory to view phone manuals online.
You MUST use the full 10-digit number in order for the message to be sent. If the 7 or 11 digit number is used, the message will not be sent (e.g. 414 555 1234). The phone may not indicate that the message has NOT been sent.
Your phone must be turned on in order to receive messages and for the audible and visual notifications to function. If you are on the phone, the message will be delivered once you end the call. You must also be in the digital portion of your home service area.
Once delivered to your phone, the messages are stored within the phone. However, if you do not delete the old messages and your phone's memory becomes full, new messages will not be delivered until you delete old messages. Messages you send are also stored by the phone, using memory, until you delete them. Please check your user manual for more details.
This varies depending on your specific phone model. Refer to your user manual for details.
Unfortunately, we cannot provide confirmation of message receipt.
Yes, all text messaging customers can receive e-mail sent to your 10-digit wireless phone number followed by @email.uscc.net (i.e. 6305551212@email.uscc.net) which is your e-mail address. When you want to send a text message to an e-mail address, simply enter the recipient's e-mail address in the 'To' field. Outgoing messages and replies are charged as text messages. All incoming messages are free and unlimited. Learn about our different e-mail options.
Refer to the manual that came with your wireless phone at the time of purchase.
Some phones allow you to set a "message mode" or "pager mode," which means it will not ring but will still alert you when a text message is received. Refer to your user manual for details.
Lifeline FAQs
The Federal Communication Commission's (FCC) Federal Universal Service Fund includes the Low Income program, which provides discounts on monthly telephone service to qualifying customers. U.S. Cellular participates in the Lifeline program by offering special price plans and discounts exclusively for qualifying low income individuals. Forresidents of federally recognized Tribal lands. U.S. Cellular also participates in the Link Up programs. The Link Up program provides discounts for customary fees related to the initiation of new service.
Qualifications for participation in the Low Income Program vary by state. To qualify, you must live in one of the states where Low Income calling programs are offered and meet the requirements to receive Lifeline discounts. View Qualifications to see if you qualify. If you have more questions about the Lifeline and Link-Up programs, contact 1-800-447-1339.
You must qualify to sign up for a Lifeline calling plan and/or receive Lifeline discounts. Contact 1-800-447-1339 for more information about the Lifeline and Link-Up programs. Learn more
You must re-certify each year that you are still eligible for the Lifeline program. At the end of the 2-year contract term, you may renew a Lifeline plan if you meet the eligibility requirements outlined by each state.
Device insurance can be purchased for an additional monthly fee. Read more about Device Insurance. For more information, contact 1-800-447-1339 or visit any U.S. Cellular retail location.
You must cancel your Lifeline plan and/or remove Lifeline discounts before the end of the contract term if you are no longer eligible to receive discounts. If your eligibility expires, you may cancel the service and return the equipment. If the equipment is not returned, you will be subject to an early termination fee.
Speedtalk FAQs
SpeedTalk is a walkie-talkie service that provides simple communication with the touch of a button. A SpeedTalk capable phone and subscription to SpeedTalk is required to use the service.
A buddy list is a directory located within the phone that includes all SpeedTalk buddies/contacts that you select. Only other SpeedTalk buddies/contacts appear in this directory.
A buddy/contact is any one individual you assign via the SpeedTalk Web site or entered via your phone. Only other U.S. Cellular SpeedTalk customers may be added as buddies/contacts.
You can manage your buddy lists directly from your phone or on the SpeedTalk buddy list Web site. You can access this Web site directly at www.usccspeedtalk.com.
You may establish up to 250 different individual buddies/contacts.
You can make two types of calls, an alert call or a barge call by pressing the SpeedTalk button located at the left side or top of your phone.
An alert call is the tactful method by which you can contact another SpeedTalk customer without barging-in and automatically speaking. The recipient's phone plays an audible tone (or vibrates, depending on how the recipient has their phone set -up) and displays a message indicating someone wants to speak with them.
To reply to an alert call, simply press the Answer soft key and the SpeedTalk button to begin speaking.
A barge call is the method by which someone receives a SpeedTalk call by hearing an audible tone (or vibrate, depending on how the recipient has their phone set-up) immediately followed by the voice of the originator.
If you are unable to reply to an alert, you may disregard the request to speak by pressing the ignore soft key. The originator's phone will display a message that you are unavailable.
A group call is a call that includes three or more parties. Group calls can include up to 25 people at the same time.
No, you will not be charged airtime for SpeedTalk calls. Your SpeedTalk are taken from an unlimited minute bucket and are separate from your anytime voice minutes.
No, your regular voice call will not be interrupted. The person sending you the SpeedTalk alert will receive a notice indicating that you are unavailable. A person sending you the SpeedTalk barge call will receive a "call ended" message when you do not respond.
No, you will only need one U.S. Cellular wireless telephone number for both traditional voice calls and your SpeedTalk calls.
Floor control is the ability to gain access to speak while active in a SpeedTalk session.
The SpeedTalk button is the large button located on the left side or top of the phone used to initiate or respond to a SpeedTalk call. Floor control (the ability to speak) is received by depressing this button.
While you are using your SpeedTalk service, you will not be interrupted if another person tries to call you. Incoming regular voice calls will go directly to your voice mail and will be in your call log. You will not notice a change during your SpeedTalk call.
You can keep all of your calls, including your SpeedTalk calls private, by turning off your speaker and leaving the phone on earpiece. All your calls will now go through the earpiece and not over the speaker. You will need to let your SpeedTalk contacts know that you'd like them to "alert" you first before speaking.
Yes, you can block users from entering you into their SpeedTalk contacts list. Simply go to our buddy list site at www.usccspeedtalk.com and click on Allow/block. Then enter in the 10-digit wireless number of the person you'd like to block. This person will now get an error message if they try to enter you into their SpeedTalk contacts list.
If you'd like to be notified when another SpeedTalk user adds you to their buddy list, you can set this preference at www.usccspeedtalk.com. Then when a user adds you to their buddy list, you will receive a notification message with the number of the person who added you.
Yes, you can connect directly with other U.S. Cellular SpeedTalk subscribers across the nation within the U.S. Cellular Enhanced Services Area. See coverage map for details.
Shared Connect Plans FAQs
Shared Connect Plans include unlimited talk, unlimited text and access to tethering.
Yes, U.S. Cellular® offers data-only Shared Connect Plans that are only for connected devices (tablets, wireless modems and hotspots).
Anyone can subscribe to a Shared Connect Plan. The Shared Connect Plan structure allows you to economically share data between your Smartphone and other connected devices (tablets, wireless modems, etc.). Or, select the right data bucket that will fit your individual needs.
The Shared Connect Device Connection charge varies by device type. You can review the pricing and configure your plan on the Shared Connect Plans page.
The Monthly Recurring Charge (MRC) is calculated by adding together the Shared Connect Device Connection charges and the Shared Connect Plan Monthly Charge.
The Monthly Recurring Charge (MRC) is calculated by adding together the Shared Connect Device Connection charges and the Shared Connect Plan Monthly Charge.
No. Tablets do not need contracts with Shared Connect Plans.
You can add up to 10 devices. Business Accounts can add up to 25 devices based on the rate plan chosen.
Yes, you must sign a new 2-year commitment when migrating to a Shared Connect Plan.
Yes, you must sign a new 2-year commitment when migrating to a Shared Connect Plan.
Yes, you must sign a new 2-year commitment when signing up for a new Shared Connect Plan.
You may be affected if you have a 3G Wireless Device (if you have a 4G LTE capable device you will not be impacted while on the 4G Network), if you go over your data limit, or if you use more than 200MB of roaming data.
Read the Data Management FAQs to learn how to control and monitor your data usage.
Read the Data Management FAQs to learn how to control and monitor your data usage.
The Data Usage Control will cap the data when it measures that the data usage has reached its assigned limit. Note that data usage measurements are not immediate and may take up to 24 hours to register. Actual data usage may exceed the limit you set before data usage is blocked and overage charges may apply.
Android-Powered Phones FAQs
A Data Plan is required for Android - powered Smartphone devices. U.S, Cellular offers a variety of data packages, allowing you to choose a plan that meets your data usage and budget needs. Click here to estimate your monthly data usage.
Yes, our Android - powered phones are covered by our Device Protection program.
Android - powered phones will not work with a normal stylus or pointing device. We do offer stylus solutions for sale in our retail stores.
Adobe Flash support varies by device with Android 2.1 and above, depending on the device processor.
Yes, password protection is inherent to every Android solution from U.S Cellular. Advanced enterprise level data encryption is available on some devices as well.
Android supports Push e-mail for Exchange mail and Gmail, and pull for other e-mail providers.
International Roaming for voice calls is available in several countries and we also carry devices that have World Phone Capabilities, which allows you to sign up for service with a carrier abroad. Our Android - powered phones have Wi-Fi, which can be used abroad for data, including Skype, as well as other services for making international calls.
Your Navigator Deluxe has all of the features of Your Navigator, in addition to the following features: Voice recognition, Use while phone is being used off the U.S. Cellular network, Live traffic updates (provides ETA based on speed) and Trip planning on the web.
Google Play comes preloaded on every Android-powered phone. Currently, there are thousands of applications available in many different categories, with new applications added each month. The growth is tremendous!
There are thousands of Free and Paid app categories to choose from, including: Videos, Books, Games, Communications, Entertainment, Finance, Health, Lifestyle, Multimedia, News & Weather, Productivity, Reference, Shopping, Social, Sports, Themes, Tools, Travel, Demo and Software Libraries.
To learn more about available applications, simply click on the links below.
General Application site: talkandroid.com/applications/
Google Play: play.google.com/store
AndroLib.com: androlib.com
To learn more about available applications, simply click on the links below.
General Application site: talkandroid.com/applications/
Google Play: play.google.com/store
AndroLib.com: androlib.com
Yes, you can run multiple applications simultaneously; this is fundamental to all Android-powered phones. Tip: Holding down the 'Home' key on an Android phone for 3 seconds brings up the last 6 used apps that are queued for quick access.
Only if you are connected to Wi-Fi for the data on 3G phones. 4G LTE devices offer the ability to place a call and surf the Web at the same time while on the 4G LTE network.
The Google Play app titles and instructions will change to Spanish. Whether or not an application is available in Spanish is application - specific and requires a change in the application settings.
14) Will I need to repurchase and set up applications with a device if replaced for warranty repair?
Applications are held in Google Play under a user's Google ID. Once you receive a new phone, the apps are stored in your Google account to re-download at no charge, as long as the application is still available for download in Google Play.
Apple® iPhone® FAQs
Yes, a new 2-year agreement is required when purchasing an iPhone at a discounted price. If an iPhone is purchased at U.S. Cellular's Full Retail Price, then a 2-year agreement is not required.
Yes, if you purchase an iPhone at a discounted price, a data plan is required. If an iPhone is purchased at U.S. Cellular's Full Retail Price, then a 2-year agreement is not required.
Yes, in most cases you can keep your existing U.S. Cellular service plan. Contact Customer Service at 1-888-944-9400 to determine if your existing service plan is available for the iPhone. If you have an existing U.S. Cellular Family Plan, you may want to consider a new Shared Connect Plan.
Yes, but you will need to purchase the device at Full Retail Price without a discount.
At this time, you must purchase an iPhone directly from U.S. Cellular for use on the U.S. Cellular network.
You can find your nearest U.S. Cellular store using the Store Locator.
Yes, your existing U.S. Cellular voice mail box will transfer to the iPhone. However, U.S. Cellular's Voice Mail to Text service is not available for the iPhone at this time. Instead, Visual Voice Mail is available for all iPhone users.
U.S. Cellular applications (except for Slacker Radio) that were pre-installed on your existing U.S. Cellular device are not available when you switch to an iPhone. If you have downloaded an app from Google Play, check the App Store to determine if that application is available for use on an iPhone.
No, these devices are incompatible with the U.S. Cellular network. However, you can trade-in your existing iPhone for an iPhone that is compatible with the U.S. Cellular network. See your nearest U.S. Cellular store for trade-in program details.
Yes, the iPhone 5s and iPhone 5c are 4G LTE capable. See U.S. Cellular's Coverage Locator to determine coverage for your exact location.
You can find iPhone support information on the Apple Support page. If you need additional assistance with your iPhone, or if you have questions about your U.S. Cellular service, please contact Customer Service at 1-888-944-9400.
4G LTE FAQs
Our 4G LTE devices are available for purchase in all U.S. Cellular markets. U.S. Cellular is aggressively expanding 4G LTE coverage, so you may want to consider a 4G LTE device even if you are not currently in a 4G LTE coverage area. Also, if you travel to other U.S. Cellular areas with 4G LTE coverage, your device will be able to take advantage of the 4G LTE network.
No. U.S. Cellular customers can select from the same data plan options with a 3G or 4G LTE device.
No. 4G LTE devices are needed to experience the 4G LTE network. These devices will also be able to access the 1x and 3G networks. Current 3G phones will continue to have access to our award-winning 3G network and they cannot be upgraded to access the 4G LTE network.
Yes. If you have a U.S. Cellular 4G LTE device and a data plan that includes tethering service, you can turn your 4G LTE device into a portable Wi-Fi hotspot, allowing up to 5 other devices to connect to the 4G LTE network.
If/when you leave a U.S. Cellular 4G LTE coverage area, voice services will continue as usual without interruption. Data services will continue to work, but will change to 3G service. Depending on how you are using data at that time, you may experience a delay when moving to 3G, or you may not even notice. If you move into another U.S. Cellular 4G LTE coverage area, you will convert back to 4G LTE data service.
No. The SIM card must remain in the same device that it was shipped with at all times.
No. The number of bars indicate CDMA (voice) signal strength, not data signal strength.
The high speeds of the new 4G LTE network will provide an incredibly fast and organized mobile office for your business. Operate more efficiently by taking advantage of faster connections and downloads in seconds.
U.S. Cellular is committed to providing our customers with the best product and service offerings. To receive e-mail notifications from U.S. Cellular with the latest information, click here.
Managing Your Data Usage FAQs
Internet browsing, social media and chatting, streaming video and music, using maps, sending and receiving e-mails, and other similar activities all consume data. Learn what contributes to data usage by using our Data Estimator Tool.
Yes. For example, streaming High Definition (HD) video will use more data than sending an e-mail. In fact, video streaming accounts for almost half of the total data usage on U.S. Cellular's network.
10 minutes of streaming HD video can use between 100MB-200MB of data — if you do that every day for an entire month, it would amount to 3GB-6GB of data.
Streaming audio uses less data than video — if you stream 1 hour of music every day for a month, that will use about 2GB of data.
10 minutes of streaming HD video can use between 100MB-200MB of data — if you do that every day for an entire month, it would amount to 3GB-6GB of data.
Streaming audio uses less data than video — if you stream 1 hour of music every day for a month, that will use about 2GB of data.
Register for My Account, where you can track your usage.
Most devices have "data usage" utilities (or apps) that allow customers to set thresholds, alarms or even block data use (refer to your device user guide on how to use these features).
Using Wi-Fi will help decrease your cellular data usage.
Close out apps that are not in use. Sometimes apps send and receive data in the background (refer to your device user guide on how to properly close your apps).
Most devices have "data usage" utilities (or apps) that allow customers to set thresholds, alarms or even block data use (refer to your device user guide on how to use these features).
Using Wi-Fi will help decrease your cellular data usage.
Close out apps that are not in use. Sometimes apps send and receive data in the background (refer to your device user guide on how to properly close your apps).
We'll send a Data Overage Protection Alert Message (via text or voice call) notifying you that you have reached 75% and 100% of your data plan limit.
If you exceed your data limit on a current Shared Connect plans or Individual Plans, an additional usage charge of $15 per 1GB will be applied. For example, if you're on a 6GB Shared Connect Plan and you've used all 6GB within your billing cycle but continue to use data, you will automatically be provided an additional 1GB for $15. At the start of the next billing cycle, you will again have 6GB of data — the additional data provided during the previous billing cycle does not carry over.
For retired individual and shared plans, an additional usage charge will be applied if you exceed the data limit — charges vary per plan.
For current Prepaid plans your data speed will be reduced until the next billing cycle if you exceed your high-speed data allotment.
On retired Prepaid Plans, additional data usage charges will apply (varies by plan) and will be deducted from your account balance if you exceed your data allotment. If funds are not available in your account, your data usage will be restricted until funds are available. Additional high-speed data allotments can be purchased.
For retired individual and shared plans, an additional usage charge will be applied if you exceed the data limit — charges vary per plan.
For current Prepaid plans your data speed will be reduced until the next billing cycle if you exceed your high-speed data allotment.
On retired Prepaid Plans, additional data usage charges will apply (varies by plan) and will be deducted from your account balance if you exceed your data allotment. If funds are not available in your account, your data usage will be restricted until funds are available. Additional high-speed data allotments can be purchased.
No. Exceeding data limits does not affect calls or text messaging.
Connect to Wi-Fi networks when available. U.S. Cellular also provides several tools for managing data and avoiding overages:
Data Overage Protection — you'll receive alerts (via text or voice call) when you've reached 75% and 100% of your data plan limit.
Data Usage Controls ‐ Allocate and manage data usage limits for each device for a monthly charge of $2.99 per account.
Device Apps — you can use on-device tools to help prevent overage. Most devices have data usage utilities (or apps) that can set thresholds, alarms or even block data use (refer to your device user guide on how to use these features).
Use our Data Estimator Tool to find the plan that best meets your needs.
If you haven't already, sign up for My Account. You can view online how much data you've used, and how much is remaining for your current billing cycle.
Data Overage Protection — you'll receive alerts (via text or voice call) when you've reached 75% and 100% of your data plan limit.
Data Usage Controls ‐ Allocate and manage data usage limits for each device for a monthly charge of $2.99 per account.
Device Apps — you can use on-device tools to help prevent overage. Most devices have data usage utilities (or apps) that can set thresholds, alarms or even block data use (refer to your device user guide on how to use these features).
Use our Data Estimator Tool to find the plan that best meets your needs.
If you haven't already, sign up for My Account. You can view online how much data you've used, and how much is remaining for your current billing cycle.
This message is sent out because there were changes to your account which limit U.S. Cellular from sending you Data Overage Protection alerts during the current billing cycle. An example of such an account change would be a change to your data plan.
You will experience a reduction in data speed if you use more than 400MB of roaming data. Overage charges do not apply for exceeding 400MB of roaming data. If you're on a current Prepaid plan your data speed will be reduced until the next billing cycle if you exceed your high-speed data allotment.
If your speed was reduced for exceeding the 400MB roaming data limit, you will be subject to reduced speed while roaming during that billing cycle — usual network speed will be restored on day 1 of the next billing cycle. Note: Reduced speed is only enforced while roaming. You will experience usual network speed when returning to a U.S. Cellular licensed area.
If your speed was reduced for exceeding your plan's data allotment, you will be subject to reduced speed during the current billing cycle — usual network speed will be restored on day 1 of the next billing cycle.
If your speed was reduced for exceeding your plan's data allotment, you will be subject to reduced speed during the current billing cycle — usual network speed will be restored on day 1 of the next billing cycle.
No. You will still have data access and can still incur overage fees, so there is no compensation for reduced data speed.
Content Policies FAQs
Yes, all U.S. Cellular content goes through an internal review process using our established content standard and guidelines. We also comply with the Cellular Telephone Industries Association (CTIA) guidelines. Further information regarding CTIA Wireless Guidelines can be found at: http://www.ctia.org/business_resources/wic/index.cfm/AID/10395
The U.S. Cellular Content Standard and Guidelines cover any applications including but not limited to games, ringtones, and wallpapers.
Non-hosted U.S. Cellular content accessed through any forum would notbe subject to these policies (i.e. content downloaded through BlackBerry® App World or Windows Mobile® Marketplace).
Non-hosted U.S. Cellular content accessed through any forum would notbe subject to these policies (i.e. content downloaded through BlackBerry® App World or Windows Mobile® Marketplace).
The restricted U.S. Cellular carrier content is:
Intense profanity
Intense violence
Graphic depiction of sexual activity or sexual behaviors
Nudity
Hate speech
Graphic depiction of illegal drug use
Any activities that are restricted by law to those 18 years of age and older, such as gambling and lotteries
Intense profanity
Intense violence
Graphic depiction of sexual activity or sexual behaviors
Nudity
Hate speech
Graphic depiction of illegal drug use
Any activities that are restricted by law to those 18 years of age and older, such as gambling and lotteries
The U.S. Cellular Content Standards and Guidelines policies are established to create a safe and enjoyable experience for all of our customers. The suppliers of our content also use these policies to adhere to our content standards.
If you would like to provide any feedback regarding the content that is available through U.S. Cellular, please contact us at: Content Policy mailbox
When responding regarding specific content please note the following details to help us investigate:
The location or method of purchase
Title of application
Title or description of content that is within the application (image, ringtone, etc.)
When responding regarding specific content please note the following details to help us investigate:
The location or method of purchase
Title of application
Title or description of content that is within the application (image, ringtone, etc.)
Fraud Prevention & Privacy FAQs
Wireless phone fraud is the unauthorized use of a wireless telephone network with the intention of getting free service. This kind of fraud is a costly crime in the wireless industry.
To help protect yourself from wireless phone fraud, please:
Lock your wireless phone (with a PIN code) when not in use
Immediately report a lost or stolen phone to U.S. Cellular
Look for any unusual activity on your bill
Report frequent wrong-number calls or hang-ups to U.S. Cellular customer service at 1-888-944-9400
Ask us to remove long-distance calling features if you have no need for them
Do not give out your electronic serial number over the phone unless you initiated the call to U.S. Cellular customer service
Here are additional tips to help protect yourself from subscription fraud:
Only give out your social security number when absolutely necessary. Do not give it out over the phone
Do not carry extra credit cards, your social security card, birth certificate or passport in your purse or wallet, except when necessary
Shred or rip up preapproved credit applications before throwing them away. Do the same with bank statements, phone bills and credit card receipts
Get a copy of your credit report regularly, if possible, to check for any errors
Have your name removed from promotional lists operated by credit reporting bureaus and those who extend credit
Keep your wireless service agreement in a safe place
To help protect yourself from wireless phone fraud, please:
Lock your wireless phone (with a PIN code) when not in use
Immediately report a lost or stolen phone to U.S. Cellular
Look for any unusual activity on your bill
Report frequent wrong-number calls or hang-ups to U.S. Cellular customer service at 1-888-944-9400
Ask us to remove long-distance calling features if you have no need for them
Do not give out your electronic serial number over the phone unless you initiated the call to U.S. Cellular customer service
Here are additional tips to help protect yourself from subscription fraud:
Only give out your social security number when absolutely necessary. Do not give it out over the phone
Do not carry extra credit cards, your social security card, birth certificate or passport in your purse or wallet, except when necessary
Shred or rip up preapproved credit applications before throwing them away. Do the same with bank statements, phone bills and credit card receipts
Get a copy of your credit report regularly, if possible, to check for any errors
Have your name removed from promotional lists operated by credit reporting bureaus and those who extend credit
Keep your wireless service agreement in a safe place
Be cautious with who you provide your personal information to, especially when you receive an unsolicited call or message. It is typical for scammers to claim they are calling from a company you may do business with, such as U.S. Cellular, and create a false sense of urgency requiring you to provide personal information. Scammers are very convincing so don't be fooled. Remember, you can always call the company back at their published number to verify any legitimate call or message you received. You can call us at 1-888-944-9400 to report any incidents of these types of calls and messages or to verify the legitimacy of any calls or messages you may have received from U.S. Cellular. You should also report these incidents to the Federal Trace Commission ("FTC"). For more information about phone scams and how to report them, please visit www.ftc.gov/phonefraud
At U.S. Cellular, we make every effort to protect your account information. Each account has a PIN code that must be verified before the account information is accessed. Be sure your PIN is a unique number that is not a familiar numerical combination such as a birthday, Social Security Number, or a common numerical sequence. If you forget your PIN, we have several Security Questions you can answer. Be sure your answers to these questions are not common knowledge. If you would like additional information about your account's security, please contact Customer Service or visit your nearest retail location.
Promises of monetary compensation or rebates to be applied towards your account are common offers used by scammers to collect your personal information. Threats that your account will be deactivated unless you provide personal information may also be a red flag.
Be suspicious if you receive an unsolicited call or message requesting your phone's ESN. Scammers may use your phone's ESN for fraudulent purposes such as to clone your phone which may result in unauthorized charges to your account. They may also attempt to use it as additional information when attempting to pose as you.
General Wireless FAQs
Similar to how a cordless phone works with its base in your kitchen or bedroom, wireless phones receive and transmit messages using low-power radio transmitters located in your community. Each transmitter serves a geographic area called a cell. Equipment within each cell relays your message to a mobile telephone switching office, which in turn sends the message to the local landline telephone system to complete your connection. As you travel from cell to cell, your calls are transferred to you without interruption.
Wireless calls can be transmitted using either digital or analog technology. Analog technology transmits your voice over airwaves to cellular antennas, much like a radio broadcast. Digital technology converts your voice into groups of electronic bits that are "reassembled" into your voice when they reach their destination. Digital transmission allows for greater voice clarity, privacy, advanced telephone features and more capacity. Read about U.S. Cellular technology.
Wireless phone fraud is the unauthorized use of a wireless telephone network with the intention of getting free service. This kind of fraud is a costly crime in the wireless industry.
To help protect yourself from wireless phone fraud, please:
Lock your wireless phone (with a PIN code) when not in use
Immediately report a lost or stolen phone to U.S. Cellular
Look for any unusual activity on your bill
Report frequent wrong-number calls or hang-ups to U.S. Cellular customer service at 1-888-944-9400
Ask us to remove long-distance calling features if you have no need for them
Do not give out your electronic serial number over the phone unless you initiated the call to U.S. Cellular customer service
Here are additional tips to help protect yourself from subscription fraud:
Only give out your social security number when absolutely necessary. Do not give it out over the phone
Do not carry extra credit cards, your social security card, birth certificate or passport in your purse or wallet, except when necessary
Shred or rip up preapproved credit applications before throwing them away. Do the same with bank statements, phone bills and credit card receipts
Get a copy of your credit report regularly, if possible, to check for any errors
Have your name removed from promotional lists operated by credit reporting bureaus and those who extend credit
Keep your wireless service agreement in a safe place
To help protect yourself from wireless phone fraud, please:
Lock your wireless phone (with a PIN code) when not in use
Immediately report a lost or stolen phone to U.S. Cellular
Look for any unusual activity on your bill
Report frequent wrong-number calls or hang-ups to U.S. Cellular customer service at 1-888-944-9400
Ask us to remove long-distance calling features if you have no need for them
Do not give out your electronic serial number over the phone unless you initiated the call to U.S. Cellular customer service
Here are additional tips to help protect yourself from subscription fraud:
Only give out your social security number when absolutely necessary. Do not give it out over the phone
Do not carry extra credit cards, your social security card, birth certificate or passport in your purse or wallet, except when necessary
Shred or rip up preapproved credit applications before throwing them away. Do the same with bank statements, phone bills and credit card receipts
Get a copy of your credit report regularly, if possible, to check for any errors
Have your name removed from promotional lists operated by credit reporting bureaus and those who extend credit
Keep your wireless service agreement in a safe place
All wireless phones that are sold in the United States, including those sold by U.S. Cellular, must meet minimum guidelines regarding safe exposure to radio frequency (RF) energy emissions. To learn about these guidelines and RF emissions and health, visit the following Web sites:
Federal Communications Commission (FCC)
Food and Drug Administration (FDA)
Cellular Telecommunications and Internet Association (CTIA)
Federal Communications Commission (FCC)
Food and Drug Administration (FDA)
Cellular Telecommunications and Internet Association (CTIA)
Press Room FAQs
Telephone and Data Systems (TDS) was established in 1968 by LeRoy T. Carlson, an entrepreneur from Chicago. In 1983, U.S. Cellular was founded as the cellular communications division of TDS. U.S. Cellular brings customers more of the things that matter most to them: coverage that works across the country, a network that works better in unexpected places, and a value that's better than Verizon and AT&T. Currently, U.S. Cellular serves approximately 4.8 million customers in 23 states.
U.S. Cellular is headquartered in Chicago with customer care centers in Cedar Rapids, IA, Knoxville, TN, Tulsa, OK, and Waukesha, WI.
U.S. Cellular is honored to have 7,000 customer-focused, passionate associates.
U.S. Cellular has a high-speed nationwide network with operations in the following 23 states: California, Illinois, Indiana, Iowa, Kansas, Maine, Maryland, Minnesota, Missouri, Nebraska, New Hampshire, North Carolina, Oklahoma, Oregon, Pennsylvania, South Carolina, Tennessee, Texas, Vermont, Virginia, Washington, West Virginia and Wisconsin.
U.S. Cellular operates a fourth generation (4G) Long Term Evolution (LTE) network along with a CDMA (Code Division Multiple Access) 3G 1XRTT network.
Currently, 61 percent of customers have access to 4G LTE speeds. By the end of 2013, 87 percent of customers will have access to these speeds that are up to 10 times faster than 3G. The company offers several 4G LTE devices, including smartphones, tablets and connected devices.
Cell Phone Users In The North Central Region." This is the 15th time in a row that U.S. Cellular has received a quality award from J.D. Power and Associates. Throughout the years, U.S. Cellular has been recognized with numerous Readers Choice awards in various local and national publications, including Best Cellular/Wireless Provider, Best Cellular Service, and Best Place to Work. For a complete list of awards, http://www.uscellular.com/about/awards.html
For more information about U.S. Cellular's recent operating performance, please visit the Latest Quarterly Resultssection found at http://phx.corporate-ir.net/phoenix.zhtml
U.S. Cellular's Shared Connect plans include unlimited minutes and messaging and provide customers flexibility in choosing a data plan to match how they use their wireless devices. Customers can share a single bucket of data among their smartphones, basic phones, tablets, hotspots and wireless modems. U.S. Cellular brings customers more of the things that matter most to them: coverage that works across the country, a network that works better in unexpected places, and a value that's better than Verizon and AT&T. Learn more about our service plans.
U.S. Cellular believes in the power of community, and has made a commitment to invest $1 million to support students, teachers and schools this year through the Calling All Communities campaign. In 2012, the 18 schools that garnered the most community votes won a share of the $1 million prize. All schools are eligible to participate in this program— K through 12, urban and rural, big and small, private and public. To learn more, visit: http://www.uscellular.com/callingallcommunities
The Calling All Communities campaign is not the only way that U.S. Cellular is involved with local communities. Through the Associate Matching Gifts program, U.S. Cellular helps double the impact of its associates' personal contributions to the nonprofit organizations they are passionate about. The company matches their charitable donations dollar-for-dollar, up to $2,500 per year. Another way that U.S. Cellular helps local communities is by encouraging associates to give back by volunteering. Lastly, U.S. Cellular is proud to serve on the board of directors for many of our community partners and acts as a sponsor to many local community events. To learn more about U.S. Cellular's community involvement, visit: http://www.uscellular.com/about/community-outreach/index.html.
At U.S. Cellular, we support CTIA — The Wireless Association's efforts to promote proper use of cell phones. We encourage our customers to follow some common sense advice, such as pulling over when dialing phone numbers or sending and reading text and e-mail messages. Cell phones, when used responsibly, are a benefit to public safety by providing a lifeline to drivers when help is needed during an emergency.
U.S. Cellular® Home Phone FAQs
The U.S. Cellular® Home Phone allows you to make phone calls over the U.S. Cellular network using a corded or cordless telephone. The device provides dial tone and touch tone dialing for two telephones that are connected to its standard RJ-11 telephone jacks. Both jacks share a single Cellular Telephone Number. This device provides voice service only.
You can purchase a U.S. Cellular Home Phone at any U.S. Cellular retail location, online or by calling 611 on your U.S. Cellular Mobile Device.
The Home Phone is intended to be used within the U.S. Cellular network coverage area. Although the device will typically be stationary, it can easily be moved if you change residences. Roaming outside of U.S. Cellular's licensed markets must be limited and remain within the Terms and Conditions of the agreement.
The Home Phone includes many calling features: voice mail, call waiting, caller ID, call forwarding, E911 and three-way calling. Plug your existing corded or cordless phone into this base unit, and you are ready to start making calls.
Yes, you can add a U.S. Cellular Home Phone to any existing account.
Yes, you may use your own answering machine or the answering machine that comes with the cord or cordless phone that is plugged into the U.S. Cellular Home Phone device. Whichever answering machine is set up to answer calls on the fewest number of rings will take the message.
The U.S. Cellular Home Phone provides voice service only in conjunction with customer-supplied touch tone telephone. It is NOT compatible with the following devices and services:
- Bluetooth® headsets
- Collect calls
- Credit card terminals
- Dial-up or DSL internet
- DVRs such as DirecTV, DISH Network
- Fax machines
- Home security systems
- Mobile merchant machines
- Medical alert services
- PBX systems
- Rotary or pulse dialing phones
Yes, this device has an internal backup battery. Talk time is about 2 hours and standby time is about 36 hours, but the actual values vary with the network environment when the device is operating on battery backup.
NOTE: Service will only be available during a power outage if the home telephone connected to the device does not rely on external AC power to operate (as is the case with most corded phones).
NOTE: Service will only be available during a power outage if the home telephone connected to the device does not rely on external AC power to operate (as is the case with most corded phones).
Yes, 911 services are supported with the Home Phone just as they are on any wireless device. Because the device is intended mainly for indoor use, please be prepared to provide your location to the emergency response center responsible for sending first responders (e.g., police, medical assistance, or fire) to your location. The GPS chipset embedded in the Home Phone device will work best if the device is located near a window or other exterior opening.
Just like our mobile phone plans, U.S. Cellular's standard international dialing rates apply to the Home Phone.
Battery: 1500mAh
Usage Time: Up to 230 minutes*
Standby Time: Up to 36 hours*
*Battery power consumption depends on factors such as network configuration, signal strength, operating temperature and frequency of data usage patterns.
Usage Time: Up to 230 minutes*
Standby Time: Up to 36 hours*
*Battery power consumption depends on factors such as network configuration, signal strength, operating temperature and frequency of data usage patterns.
Yes, U.S. Cellular offers the VTech Handset Cordless phone which is compatible with the U.S. Cellular Home Phone.
Installment Pricing FAQs
Installment Pricing gives you the option to spread out payments for a device across a 24 month period for Smartphones, Basic Phones, and Tablets on a Retail Installment Contract. On Shared Connect Plans, a Smartphone device purchased with Installment Pricing gives you the ability to upgrade to a new device in as little as 18 months.
Your eligibility depends on a credit check, the type of plan you choose, and your device selection. A higher down payment may be due at signing based on the credit check, and the total number of devices eligible for installment pricing may be limited in the future. Installment pricing is available on Shared Connect Plans for Smartphones, Basic Phones and Tablets.
Yes, but the remaining balance must be paid in full prior to activating a new device with installment pricing.
For Smartphones and Basic Phones, the full amount remaining on the Retail Installment Contract must be paid at the time of cancellation. For tablets, monthly installments can continue to be paid on the device after service is cancelled.
There is no penalty or fee for early payoff, just the remaining balance on the Retail Installment Contract is due.
No. A service plan is required to activate a financed tablet.
Maximum of 10 lines for a Shared Connect Plan. For Business customers, the maximum number of lines on Shared Connect Plans: 1GB-20GB plans: 10 lines; 25GB-60GB plans: 25 lines; 75GB-100GB plans: 50 lines; 150GB-200GB: 100 lines.
Vehicle Monitoring FAQs
Vehicle Monitoring keeps track of your family car or your company vehicles and driver safety. With this easy-to-install device, you can troubleshoot and monitor your vehicle from your Smartphone or computer. From checking your vehicle's location on a map, to deciphering engine codes from your couch, now you have the power to keep a close eye on your vehicle and have added peace of mind, anytime and anywhere.
With the Delphi Connect system, you can monitor and locate your car, as well as troubleshoot its problems. For a full list of features, visit the Delphi Connect Overview.
Delphi Connect comes with an easy-to-install module for your vehicle. To get information about your car and manage it, you'll use your Delphi Connect Account through a Smartphone app or the Internet.
Delphi Connect comes with an easy-to-install module for your vehicle. To get information about your car and manage it, you'll use your Delphi Connect Account through a Smartphone app or the Internet.
No, once you set up your Delphi Connect account, you can sign in to it through the Internet by visiting: uscc.delphiconnect.com.
Vehicle Monitoring can be added to any Shared Connect Plan. There is a $10 monthly charge, which appears as 2 separate $5 charges on the billing statement.
- SD Access — Remote Monitoring — $5
- Vehicle Monitoring Service — $5
You can install as many as you need. The module will only record data from the vehicle in which it is currently installed, but the recorded data from all vehicles is always available in the Smartphone app and website.
The Smartphone apps are designed to run on Smartphones (regardless of your service provider) with Android version 2.2 and later and Apple iPhones running iOS version 5.0 and later.
To set up the Delphi Connect system, you'll need to activate the Vehicle Monitoring module on the U.S. Cellular network with an associated data plan. Then, follow the setup and installation instructions in the Quick Start Guide.
Your module relies on GPS to determine vehicle location. Location accuracy is subject to GPS accuracy, which means that it could take minutes for a first-time position to be available and it may not work inside of garages or in other structures. It may also be possible that the location in the vehicle where the module is installed may create a weak GPS signal and use of an extension cable may be necessary to relocate the module to a better location for GPS reception.
If the second module is on an account that you have used, first remove the module from that account using the Remove feature. Then, log in to your account and use the Add Module feature under Settings --> Account Settings --> Manage Module, to add the additional module.
On an iPhone, you can select a different vehicle by tapping on the vehicle icon in the upper right hand corner. On an Android device, you can select a different vehicle by tapping on the vehicle name at the top of the screen. On the website, you can select a different vehicle by clicking on the drop down arrow located to the right of your vehicle name at the top of the screen.
If the LED is solid blue, then begin with step 5 in the Quick Reference Guide to re-initialize your module. If the LED is not solid blue, disconnect the unit from your vehicle, wait 10 seconds, reconnect it and wait for the solid blue LED (about 25 seconds). Begin with step 5 in the Quick Reference Guide to re-initialize your module.
Text notifications will be billed per your U.S. Cellular plan.
Yes, it will. However, initial setup must be completed in a U.S. Cellular coverage area.
Access the automated system to retrieve your login information. On the app login page, tap "Forgot Username" or tap "Forgot Password". On the web login page, click "Forgot your username?"" or "Forgot your password?"
Vehicle Monitoring works with most cars manufactured after 1996. Simply enter your vehicle's info here: delphiconnect.com/fitment, and find out if your vehicle is compatible.
Average monthly data usage is typically less than 10 MB per month per module. This may vary depending on how you use your vehicle and how often you enable the live tracking feature.
FCC Booster Registration FAQs
Signal boosters are devices that amplify wireless signals to improve coverage. Mobile voice and mobile broadband services are increasingly important to consumers and to our nation's economy. Coverage gaps that exist within and at the edge of service areas can lead to dropped calls, reduced data speeds, or complete loss of service. Robust signal boosters can bridge these gaps and extend coverage to the fringe of service areas. Signal boosters can also improve public safety by enabling consumers to connect to 911 services in areas where wireless coverage is poor.
The Federal Communications Commission (FCC) recently adopted new rules for wireless signal boosters that have gone into full effect as of March 1, 2014. These new rules require consumers to obtain their wireless carrier's approval before operating a signal booster and to register their devices with their wireless carrier. With these changes, U.S. Cellular® will now allow the use of FCC-certified consumer signal boosters on our network. A simple registration site has been set up on to allow you to register your devices. Register your Signal Booster
Most FCC-certified signal boosters are available as of April 30, 2014. U.S. Cellular is allowing the use of properly certified consumer signal boosters on its network. For one of the new signal boosters to operate properly on the U.S. Cellular network, it must be FCC-certified and have labeling that instructs the consumer to register it before use.
IMPORTANT: Not all FCC-certified signal boosters will work on the U.S. Cellular network. U.S. Cellular's network operates on specific frequencies licensed by the FCC, and the signal booster must be compatible with those frequencies to enhance coverage. Since U.S. Cellular will not be selling consumer signal boosters at this time, it is the responsibility of the consumer to ensure that the booster is compatible with the U.S. Cellular network and to troubleshoot any operational issues directly with the booster manufacturer. Even so, any consumer wishing to register a purchased booster with U.S. Cellular can do so at the registration site.
IMPORTANT: Not all FCC-certified signal boosters will work on the U.S. Cellular network. U.S. Cellular's network operates on specific frequencies licensed by the FCC, and the signal booster must be compatible with those frequencies to enhance coverage. Since U.S. Cellular will not be selling consumer signal boosters at this time, it is the responsibility of the consumer to ensure that the booster is compatible with the U.S. Cellular network and to troubleshoot any operational issues directly with the booster manufacturer. Even so, any consumer wishing to register a purchased booster with U.S. Cellular can do so at the registration site.
Yes. You need to register your new signal booster online. Registering your booster is important to ensure you are in compliance with the new FCC rules and it allows U.S. Cellular to locate problematic boosters in the event of interference, so that we can maintain our network's reliability.
No. There is no fee to register or use a signal booster.
No. U.S. Cellular does not sell consumer signal boosters at this time.
The two booster installation types — called "fixed" and "mobile" — depend on where the booster will be operated. If you plan to use your booster in your home, office or other stationary location, then choose "fixed". If you plan to use it in a moving vehicle like a car, boat or recreational vehicle, then choose "mobile".
The following information will be required for the registration:
- Name of booster owner and/or operator (include both if different individuals)
- U.S. Cellular wireless telephone number
- Booster location address (where it will be operated)
- Date of booster's initial operation
- Booster manufacturer, model number, serial number and FCC ID label
The new FCC rules prohibit signal booster users from causing interference to wireless networks, so the registration information is used in case interference is detected. You may be contacted by U.S. Cellular or the FCC in case interference issues are seen and in extreme cases, you may be asked to turn off the booster.
Yes. U.S. Cellular requires that you register each booster that is operated on the network.
Yes. You need to re-register the booster on the registration site. The date of operation will be a key indicator used to determine the most recent location.
No. The FCC has established special rules for Consumer Signal Boosters to make sure they are simple to install and use, and don't interfere with wireless networks. U.S. Cellular customers can only purchase and install signal boosters that are designated for consumer use. "Industrial Use" boosters require an FCC license and special installation, and unauthorized use of these boosters could result in severe penalties.
Installment Pricing Early Upgrade Program FAQs
Any new or existing U.S. Cellular customer who is eligible for an early upgrade and whose account is in good standing may participate. All applicants are subject to a credit approval.
Sales tax and an activation fee are charged on your new device at the time of sale. There is no down payment.
The Early Upgrade Program requires that you sign an installment agreement to pay for the device in monthly payments. If you cancel your wireless service, the remaining unpaid balance on the device is due. A Wireless Customer Service Agreement (voice and data service) is required.
A variety of devices are eligible for the Early Upgrade Program, including Smartphones.
This is not a leasing program. The device is yours and you're responsible for the monthly payments. You're also responsible for any loss, theft, or damage to the device — both during the installment agreement period and after. We recommend you purchase the optional Device Protection+ to protect your investment.
After your 18th monthly installment payment under a 24 month plan, if your wireless account is in good standing, you can turn in your current device. The device must be fully functional and in good physical condition. You may then select a new device under a new installment agreement.
You can purchase a tablet with installment pricing, but tablets are not eligible for the Early Upgrade Program.
When you trade in your Smartphone, no further installments are billed for the original Smartphone. You'll start over with a new installment plan on your new Smartphone. Currently, available installment plans are 24 months with an 18 month upgrade.
Yes, you have the option to prepay additional installments or the remaining balance at any time.
The remaining balance on your installment agreement becomes due.
Device turn in is only required if you upgrade early, however, it is not required. If you elect not to upgrade early you can continue to make your monthly installment payments until all 24 installment payments have been completed. When all your installment payments have been made, you can continue to use your device and have no additional installment payments. Alternatively, you may upgrade to a new device, to take advantage of a new promotion.
The device must be in good physical condition and fully functional to trade it in. If the device isn't in good working condition, you'll be responsible for the remainder of your installment payments. Or, if you have Device Protection+, you may file a claim and pay the deductible for a replacement device, then trade in the replacement.
Picture & Video Messaging FAQs
Picture and Video Messaging allows you to send and receive picture and video messages right from your wireless device. U.S. Cellular customers can also exchange picture and video messages with customers of partnered carriers.
In the wireless communications industry, Picture Messaging is often referred to as MMS, or Multimedia Messaging Service (MMS), and MMS is the underlying technology for U.S. Cellular's Picture and Video Messaging Service.
In the wireless communications industry, Picture Messaging is often referred to as MMS, or Multimedia Messaging Service (MMS), and MMS is the underlying technology for U.S. Cellular's Picture and Video Messaging Service.
U.S. Cellular customers subscribed to Picture and Video Messaging
Anyone with an email address
Most other wireless carrier customers subscribed to a Picture and Video Messaging service
Anyone with an email address
Most other wireless carrier customers subscribed to a Picture and Video Messaging service
U.S. Cellular customers subscribed to Picture and Video Messaging
Most other wireless carrier customers subscribed to a Picture and Video Messaging service
Anyone can send pictures to your phone by sending from their computer to your free U.S. Cellular Picture and Video Messaging e-mail address (your 10-digit wireless phone number followed by @email.uscc.net - for example, 7733994248@email.uscc.net)
Most other wireless carrier customers subscribed to a Picture and Video Messaging service
Anyone can send pictures to your phone by sending from their computer to your free U.S. Cellular Picture and Video Messaging e-mail address (your 10-digit wireless phone number followed by @email.uscc.net - for example, 7733994248@email.uscc.net)
Snap a photo or shoot a video clip and send it to any valid wireless telephone number or email address. You can even personalize pictures with text and sound.
Recipients will receive the picture or video message directly on their phone.
All of our current plans offer unlimited picture and video messages to be sent or received from your device.
For older plans, you pay only for the transmission of messages you send, based upon your Picture and Video Messaging usage plan. With these plans, you will be charged for picture and video messages sent from your phone, even if not delivered to the intended recipient. A common reason for non-delivery is sending a message to an invalid email address or telephone number.
For older plans, you pay only for the transmission of messages you send, based upon your Picture and Video Messaging usage plan. With these plans, you will be charged for picture and video messages sent from your phone, even if not delivered to the intended recipient. A common reason for non-delivery is sending a message to an invalid email address or telephone number.
Picture and Video Messaging Service can accommodate files of many types including:
Pictures: jpg, gif, bmp, png
Sound: qcelp, mid, midi
Presentations: smil
Text: plaintext, html
Videos: avi, mpeg, wmv
To make the service even easier to use, some file types are automatically converted and/or resized so that they can be properly displayed on your device. File compatibility and size limitations vary by device model.
Pictures: jpg, gif, bmp, png
Sound: qcelp, mid, midi
Presentations: smil
Text: plaintext, html
Videos: avi, mpeg, wmv
To make the service even easier to use, some file types are automatically converted and/or resized so that they can be properly displayed on your device. File compatibility and size limitations vary by device model.
Picture and video messages sent between devices are only limited by the device itself. For videos, 15 seconds is a good rule of thumb for maximum length. Incoming picture and video messages from email are limited to 5MB.
For emails greater than 5MB: If an email is sent to a Picture and Video Messaging device that exceeds the 5MB limit, the person sending the email will receive a 'Message Failure' email to indicate that the message is too large and therefore was unable to be sent. You can check the total size of the email being sent to help predict if the email will exceed this limit.
For emails less than 5MB, the file will be reduced to a size the phone can handle. The conversion process will lessen the quality of the picture or video along with the file size.
For emails greater than 5MB: If an email is sent to a Picture and Video Messaging device that exceeds the 5MB limit, the person sending the email will receive a 'Message Failure' email to indicate that the message is too large and therefore was unable to be sent. You can check the total size of the email being sent to help predict if the email will exceed this limit.
For emails less than 5MB, the file will be reduced to a size the phone can handle. The conversion process will lessen the quality of the picture or video along with the file size.
Picture and Video Messaging service is available in all U.S. Cellular service areas.
Picture and Video Messaging requires a U.S. Cellular-approved phone and usage plan. Picture and Video Messaging is not available in all areas. You may be charged for picture and video messages sent from your device, even if not delivered to the intended recipient due to system or compatibility issues. U.S. Cellular is not responsible for content of pictures or videos.
