Billing FAQs
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
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
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.
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.
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.
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.
Online Account Management FAQs
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.
When I change my password
When I change my security question
When I change my e-mail address
Online Orders FAQs
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.
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.
Troubleshooting FAQs
Check the battery
Try recharging the battery
If you're using a vehicle cigarette lighter adapter, check the cable connection
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
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.
Check the volume control
Make sure the handset is properly set in the cradle
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 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 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)
Using Your Phone FAQs
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 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)
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
Connecting Your Device To Wi-Fi FAQs
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
Text Messaging service by U.S. Cellular must be on your account before sending an international text message.
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"
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.
Ringtones FAQs
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.
Roaming FAQs
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
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.
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.
Voice Mail To Text FAQs
You can also call 611. After the free trial expires, the only way to opt out of the service is to call 611.
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
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
E911 FAQs
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.
Mobile To Mobile FAQs
Number Portability FAQs
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
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.
Overage Protection FAQs
And best of all, it's FREE.
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.
* 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.
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
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
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.
Wireless Amber Alerts FAQs
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
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 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.
Voice Mail FAQs
- Standard: This is the default setting
- Rapid: Menu and command prompts are slightly abbreviated
- Extended: Menu and command prompts are slightly more verbose
Coverage Locator FAQs
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.
Simple Connect Prepaid FAQs
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
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
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.
Text Messaging FAQs
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.
For text-only service plans designed to meet the needs of the Deaf and Hard of Hearing, please visit our text-only plans page.
Please note: You may be able to send messages, but the recipient may not have a text messaging capable 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.
Lifeline FAQs
Speedtalk FAQs
Shared Connect Plans FAQs
The Monthly Recurring Charge (MRC) is calculated by adding together the Shared Connect Device Connection charges and the Shared Connect Plan Monthly Charge.
Read the Data Management FAQs to learn how to control and monitor your data usage.
Android-Powered Phones FAQs
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
Apple® iPhone® FAQs
4G LTE FAQs
Managing Your Data Usage FAQs
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.
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).
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.
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.
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.
Content Policies FAQs
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).
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
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
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
General Wireless FAQs
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
Federal Communications Commission (FCC)
Food and Drug Administration (FDA)
Cellular Telecommunications and Internet Association (CTIA)
Press Room FAQs
U.S. Cellular® Home Phone FAQs
- 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
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).
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.
Installment Pricing FAQs
Vehicle Monitoring FAQs
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.
- SD Access — Remote Monitoring — $5
- Vehicle Monitoring Service — $5
FCC Booster Registration FAQs
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.
- 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
Installment Pricing Early Upgrade Program FAQs
Picture & Video Messaging FAQs
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.
Anyone with an email address
Most other wireless carrier customers subscribed to a Picture and Video Messaging service
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)
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.
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.
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.