These days it can be almost impossible to operate and live our lives without a phone. Even, if we are self-sufficient, we need a phone to stay in touch with family and friends or in case of any emergency.
That said, we must act rather fast in case our phone stops functioning properly, breaks down, is lost, or stolen. If we take the right steps as promptly as possible, we ensure to get the best possible outcome in the given situation.
Why Do You Want to Replace Your Assurance Wireless Phone?
Are you wondering why you would even want to replace your Assurance Wireless phone? Well, some of the most common and obvious reasons to replace a phone are if the phone is lost, stolen, or irreparably damaged. However, most users also consider replacing their phones for other reasons.
For example, you may want to replace your phone if a specific feature is not working properly. Many users decide to replace their device if a certain app or feature doesn’t work, if the device has problems with connectivity, call interference, text messages not going through, etc., or if a mechanical part of the device gets broken, such as the speakers, the touch feature, or the screen. You may also consider replacing your phone simply because it is very old and outdated. Newer phones come with newer and more advanced features, and you may benefit greatly from some of those features. Other common signs that it may be time to replace your phone include trouble updating the operating system, slow performance, limited storage amount, a bad camera, trouble charging the device, etc.
What If Assurance Wireless Phone Doesn’t Work?
NOTE: This section covers phones malfunctioning without being physically damaged; meaning you haven’t caused the malfunction to occur.
Your phone might have stopped working properly, got super slow, perhaps only certain functions don’t work anymore, or maybe it is completely unresponsive or broken. Whichever the case, you must get your phone fixed or replaced.
Assurance Wireless is a part of Virgin Mobile, thus it follows the same Return Policy (a.k.a. Satisfaction Guarantee).
All NEW devices follow a 1-year warranty policy provided by phone manufacturers, not by the Assurance Wireless. So, if the phone stops working within the first year, the general warranty should cover the repair or provide you with a free NEW phone.
One-Year Warranty for New Phones:
- The policy states that if you get a defective device you can receive a new one within the first year.
- In order to replace your phone, you must, however, be able to prove the phone’s date of purchase and present a receipt.
- The warranty can only be exercised by the owner and is in no circumstances transferrable.
When it comes to the first year warranty, things are very case-sensitive, thus it is best to call the Assurance Wireless support at 1-888-321-5880 as soon as the issue occurs. You can also visit a local Assurance Wireless representative to assist you further. They will provide you with detailed further instructions.
If your phone breaks down after the first year, you are will likely have to pay for the repair or purchase a replacement phone. Again, it is best to call the Assurance Wireless support at 1-888-321-5880 and ask them specifically for your case.
What If Your Assurance Wireless Phone Is Lost, Stolen, Or Damaged?
We always try to take good care of our phones, however, sometimes we get distracted and we drop them or misplace them. Furthermore, they also get stolen.
Does Assurance Wireless Offer a Free Phone Replacement Warranty?
In certain situations, Assurance Wireless offers a free phone replacement, while in other situations the company may not offer you a replacement device completely free of charge.
If your free Assurance Wireless experiences any malfunctions within the first year of use without any signs of physical abuse of the device, you may be able to receive a free replacement phone, as all Assurance Wireless free phones come with a one-year warranty from the original manufacturer. So, if you are experiencing equipment malfunctions within the first year and you didn’t drop, spill, or otherwise damage the device, call Assurance Wireless’s customer support service at 1-888-321-5880 and the company will arrange for you to receive the same or a similar replacement phone (depending on availability).
If, on the other hand, your Assurance Wireless phone got lost or stolen, the company may not offer you a free replacement device. Chances are that you will have to pay for it yourself. However, if the phone was stolen, Assurance may waive the replacement phone cost after receiving the police report.
Does the Phone Manufacturer Have Any Replacement Policy?
As mentioned before, all phones received directly from Assurance Wireless come with a one-year manufacturer’s warranty. However, you don’t have to contact the manufacturer yourself, instead, you can simply contact Assurance Wireless and the company will contact your phone’s manufacturer on your behalf and arrange for a replacement phone that may be the same model or a similar model, depending on availability.
Note that this manufacturer’s warranty only applies if the phone was not physically damaged or misused by the user. The warranty only covers phone malfunctions that are not the user’s fault and only the ones that appeared within the first year of use.
Assurance Wireless Government Replacement Policy
The government offers tons of benefits to low-income citizens. The government is the one that funds Assurance Wireless’s Lifeline and ACP programs and thus offers eligible customers free phone and wireless services as well as free phones.
However, the government does not offer any replacement policies or replacement phones. These types of policies and services depend fully on each individual provider.
Assurance Wireless General Phone Replacement Policy
Assurance Wireless is rather vague about their replacement procedure. If your phone is lost, stolen, or damaged they instruct you to call their customer support at 1-888-321-5880 and report the situation. Being as prompt as possible helps you ensure that no one else uses your remaining account balance.
“You may be charged for a replacement device and shipping.” This is written in their FAQs section. The word ‘may’ tells you that you also may not be.
Often times, they help their customers get a FREE replacement phone and can have it ready for you in just a few days.
GENERAL ASSURANCE WIRELESS REPLACEMENT PHONE PROCEDURE:
- If you have lost your phone or it has been stolen, call the Assurance Wireless customer support at 1-888-321-5880 and explain your situation.
- Ask them if you could get a FREE replacement phone. They will let you know what your options are. You will either get a FREE replacement phone or might have to pay a small fee for a replacement device.
Assurance Wireless Phone Replacement Online Policy 2023
As we have mentioned before, the first thing you need to do if your cell phone gets lost, stolen, or broken is to call Assurance Wireless customer service and tell them about the situation. Then, you can take the process online.
Log in to Virgin Mobile’s website at https://mobile.virginmedia.com/ecare/login, complete the application form and enter your ZIP code. Once you have entered all the required details, you can submit your filled form to Assurance wireless through email. You can also submit the form through fax or by phone. The replacement method is the same online as it is by phone.
Assurance Wireless SIM Replacement Policy
If you have somehow managed to lose your SIM card alone or somehow damaged it (maybe as you were changing it between phone), you will need to follow the same procedure as if your phone was lost, stolen or severely damaged. This means that you must call Assurance Wireless support at 1-888-321-5880. However, make sure to explain that only your SIM card got lost, damaged, or stolen and that you only need a new Assurance SIM.
They will deactivate your old SIM and send you a new one for free. Once you receive it, simply install it in your phone and activate it. If you wish to continue using your old phone number, make sure to call the support after you’ve activated new SIM and request number port-in.
When Will I Receive the Replacement Phone?
If and when the representative determines that you are eligible to receive a replacement phone (regardless of whether it’s free or you have to pay a fee), they will ship the device within 24 hours. However, the exact time of arrival depends on your location, the date, etc.
Can I Cancel an Order for a Replacement Phone?
If you have ordered an exchange phone, you can’t cancel the order. However, if you wish to receive a replacement for a lost, stolen, or malfunctioning phone, you can cancel it. For example, if your phone was missing and you find it, you can cancel the order by calling the company’s customer service or visiting its website within 24 of placing the order. However, if you call after the 24-hour window, the company will not be able to cancel the order.
Does Assurance Wireless Offer Any Warranty on Phone Accessories?
Assurance Wireless never specifically mentions offering warranties on accessories in particular. However, if the accessory is essential, such as a phone charger, it should be included in the one-year manufacturer’s warranty. Again, this warranty is only available for the first year and it only covers malfunctions that are not a result of physical misuse or damage.
Does The Insurance Company Replace The Phone If Lost Or Broken Or Damaged?
This fully depends on your mobile insurance policy. As you know, insurance companies do the best they can to avoid paying out their service. As such, many phone insurance companies avoid paying for replacement phones at all costs. Instead, they will offer you to pay for the repair (if applicable) or try providing you with a refurbished or used replacement phone.
If you decide to ensure your phone via an insurance option provided directly by the carrier or get your phone insured individually through your insurance company, you always need to choose carefully. Many insurances offer cover only a very limited number of situations, typically the ones that rarely happen. As such many people who think that they have good insurance end up realizing it does not cover their case when something actually goes wrong.
To ensure that your policy meets your expectations, make sure to read the fine print before signing the insurance policy. Make sure that you are cover for the situations that you want to be covered for.
How To Submit Assurance Wireless Phone Replacement Claim If Not Replaced By The Authority
Assurance will always do their best to help you replace your phone. In some cases, they may provide you with a free replacement phone, in others, you may have to pay a smaller fee.
If you insured your phone before the incident, you may submit a phone replacement claim to your insurance company. However, if you have no phone insurance, the Assurance wireless is your only chance.
In either case, you are always best off by submitting your claim with Assurance Wireless first and see what they say. Simply can the Assurance support team on 1-888-321-5880 and explain your situation.
There are companies that help you file a claim, track it, and keep an eye on it all through the process. The leading company that covers this most professional and is super friendly for an online user, is Asurion. Another option is PhoneClaim.com, however, they too operate based on Asurion’s platform.
These companies enable you to visit their site, select your provider (there is a wide list of carriers that they cove, yet there might be some smaller ones that are not included), and file your claim. Their platform lets you keep a close eye on your claim’s progress.
This process may be useful in some cases when you feel like your provider is violating your rights and refuses to respect warranties. However, if you don’t have any special insurance on your phone and your warranty has expired, claim trough those sites won’t help you get a replacement phone. So don’t even consider using them to try and get a replacement phone in cases you know you are not entitled to.
What Type of Replacement Phone Does Assurance Wireless Provide?
In case your Assurance Wireless phone gets stolen, lost, or broken, you must first contact Assurance Wireless customer service to avoid anyone else using your remaining balance. Afterward, you will receive a replacement phone, for which you may be charged.
While Assurance Wireless Lifeline-provided free phones are new, their replacement devices may be new or refurbished. As Assurance Wireless follows a strict refurbishment protocol, the replacement device you receive will surely be in a good condition.
List of Assurance Wireless Replacement Phone in 2023
Replacement phones are treated the same as the free government phone. This means that a client cannot choose the phone, which is selected solely based on carriers’ stocks and range that suits their current standing.
Moreover, there is no detailed information, which exact models fall into the category of a replacement phone. However, we have performed extended research to present you with a list below that has a great possibility of including Assurance replacement phones that are currently possible pick.
- ZTE Prestige 2
- ZTE Quest
- ZTE Quest Plus
- ZTE Tempo X
- Kyocera DuraForce
- Kyocera JAX S1360
- Kyocera Hydro Reach
- Kyocera DuraForce XD
- Kyocera DuraForce XV+
- LG Optimus F3
- LG Aspire T40C
- Alcatel OneTouch Retro
- Alcatel ONETOUCH Cinch
- ALCATEL Dawn
- Samsung Entro Mobile Phone
- Jitterbug Smart 2
- Coolpad Illumnia
- Coolpad Avail
- ANS Wiko Life
- ANS UL40
- ANS Rapidz
- Unimax U673c
- Unimax U683CL
NOTE: It is impossible to know which exact models will be provided by the Assurance as the replacement phones. Their availability is constantly changing and evolving as the new phones populate the market and changes to 2G and 3G networks take place.
Top Assurance Wireless Replacements Phones in 2023
When it comes to Assurance Wireless replacement phones, there are three major options you have as a client:
- After reporting your situation at 1-888-321-5880, you will find out if you are eligible for A FREE REPLACEMENT PHONE. If they do grant you a free replacement phone, you won’t be able to choose a specific device.
- If they do not grant you a FREE replacement phone, you will still be offered a replacement device at a reasonably low cost.
- You also have the option of upgrading your device. In this case, you are able to choose a device of your taste.
Below are some very solid affordable options you can choose from in 2021 at Assurance Wireless. Of course, if you can afford high-end smartphones, the Assurance Wireless offers those too. Visit their online store to find out more.
LG Optimus F3
LG Optimus F3 is a very solid entry-level smartphone. It has all the function one need to organize day-to-day schedules and communications. It also has a reasonably good rear camera and solid talk time on a single charge.
Specifications & Mean Features:
- Display 4.0″ 480 x 800 pixels
- 5MP rear camera and 0.3MP VGA front camera
- Mobile OS: Android 4.2
- Battery 2460 mAh(16h talk time)
- Processor Qualcomm Snapdragon 400, Dual-core, 1200 MHz
- Storage 4 GB + microSDHC
ZTE PrestigeTM 2
ZTE is one of the best Assurance Wireless free phones. It is suitable for those who prefer a large screen since it is equipped with a 5.0” display. It also has a solid 5MP rear camera.
Specifications & Mean Features:
- 0″ Touchscreen Display (854×480) TFT
- M3/T4 HAC Rating for the hearing impaired
- Bluetooth 4.1, Speakerphone, Calculator, Calendar, Access Public Wi-Fi, up to 32GB microSDTM Card Compatible
- 5MP Rear Facing Camera
- Removable Li-ion 2035mAh Battery (up to 17 hours talk time)
- 1GHz Quad-Core Processor
- 16GB ROM/2GB RAM
Coolpad Illumnia
Coolpad Illumnia is another decent option. Compared to ZTE Prestige 2 has less RAM, which will make it slower when it comes to processing more advanced tasks, however, it also has a 5MP camera with flash and all other useful features, including calculator, calendar, and Wi-Fi.
Specifications & Mean Features:
- 0” Touchscreen Display (854×480) FWVGA
- M4/T3 HAC Rating for the hearing impaired
- Bluetooth 4.1, Speakerphone, Calculator, Calendar, Access Public Wi-Fi, up to 32GB microSDtm Card Compatible
- 5MP with Flash, Rear Facing Camera
- Removable Li-ion 2150mAh Battery (up to 12 hours talk time)
- Android Go Operating System
- 8GB ROM/1GB RAM
ANS WikoTM Life
ANS Wiko Life has also a slightly less powerful processor, however, it has an even larger 5.5” touchscreen and very good battery time.
Specifications & Mean Features:
- 5” Touchscreen Display (960×480) FWVGA
- M4/T3 HAC Rating for the hearing impaired
- Bluetooth 4.1, Speakerphone, Calculator, Calendar, Access Public Wi-Fi, up to 32GB microSDtm Card Compatible
- 5MP with Flash, Rear Facing Camera
- Removable Li-ion 2500mAh Battery (up to 16 hours talk time)
- Android Go Operating System
- 8GB ROM/1GB RAM
ZTE QuestTM Plus
ZTE Quest Plus is suitable for those who are looking for a smaller smartphone that will feat your hands and pockets more easily. It has a solid processor and even a front camera.
Specifications & Mean Features:
- 0″ Touchscreen Display (800×480) TFT WVGA
- M3/T3 HAC Rating for the hearing impaired
- Bluetooth 4.1, Speakerphone, Calculator, Calendar, Access Public Wi-Fi, up to 32GB microSDTM Card Compatible
- 0 MP Rear-Facing Camera/0.3 MP Front Facing
- Removable Li-ion 1600mAh Battery (up to 14 hours talk time)
- 1GHz MSM8909 Quad Processor
- 8GB ROM/1GB RAM
ALCATEL ONETOUCH CinchTM
Alcatel Onetouch Cinch is a basic phone, suitable for those who prefer to avoid touch screens. It is equipped with a responsive dial pad, which makes navigating the menu and operations like calling, texting, and calculating as simple as possible.
Specifications & Mean Features:
- 8-inch QQVGA (128×160) Display
- M3/T4 HAC Rating for the hearing impaired
- Alarm Clock, Calculator, Calendar, Stop Watch, World Clock
- Removable 750mAh Battery (talk time up to 4 hours)
How do I Permanently Deactivate Assurance Wireless Lost or Stolen Phone?
The simplest way to permanently deactivate your lost or stolen Assurance Wireless phone is by calling their customer service at 1-888-321-5880. It’s best to call them as soon as possible and thus ensure nobody will use up your remaining account balance. Tell the customer care representative about what happened and ask them to deactivate your phone. The representative will be able to either temporarily suspend your service or permanently deactivate the phone.
Assurance Wireless Replacement Phones and New Phones – is the Activation Process the Same?
Yes, the Assurance Wireless new phone and replacement phone activation process is basically the same. To activate your Assurance Wireless replacement phone, simply follow the steps below.
- Step 1: Press and hold the Power button to turn off your phone. Enable hands-free activation to connect the phone to the Assurance Wireless network and allow the device to check for updates. The phone will turn off.
- Step 2: Turn the device back on and once you do so, it may ask you to customize your phone. You may need to skip the setup screen and first complete step 3.
- Step 3: Dial 611 and follow the provided instructions.
- Step 4: Sometime during the process, you will be asked to submit your Assurance Wireless account PIN. You will be able to find it at the top of the Assurance Wireless approval letter. Once you do, submit it.
This will activate your replacement phone and both your phone number and account balance will be transferred to the phone. Allow your phone to finish all the updates. In case you have any trouble activating the phone, make sure to contact Assurance Wireless customer support from another phone – they will surely be able to help you out.
Difference Between Assurance Wireless Phone Replacement and Phone Upgrade
Generally, phone upgrade refers to a purchase of a new/refurbished phone, typically better than the current one. Replacement, on the other hand, refers to a phone that is provided as a replacement phone in case of an incident (lost/stolen/damaged phone).
Most carriers offer phone upgrades, however, Assurance Wireless does not offer that option. Neither do they offer a Bring Your Own Phone option, which means that the only way to operate on the Assurance Wireless system and use their free Lifeline service is with free phones that they provide. Those phones can only be replaced and do not offer the possibility of being upgraded.
How Do I Switch My Assurance Wireless Service From Old Phone To New Phone?
Since Assurance Wireless only operated on the phones that are provided by them for free, you must simply insert your SIM card into a new phone provided by the Assurance Wireless, turn it on, and you are good to go.
REMEMBER: The Assurance Wireless services are only available on free phones provided by the Assurance Wireless.
Tricks to Help You Locate Your Phone If Lost or Misplaced
Oftentimes the phone is just misplaced and knowing the following tricks can help you find it. If it’s turned on, it can be rather easy to do so.
If you believe that your phone has just been misplaced, then try one of the following actions (depending on the type of phone you have) to help you locate it:
- Call your number – use another phone and call yourself. Listen carefully because it might be in your proximity. If some else answers, ask them kindly to store it for you until you come to pick it up or to send it to you.
- Find your Android phone using Google Android Manager – if you’ve used your Android phone for any of Google services (Gmail, Chrome Browser, Google Play, …), then use a laptop or a tablet, log in to your Google account and enter “Find my Android phone” into the Google search bar. Then scroll down until you find a result that says ’Find your phone – My Account – Google’’. Click on that result and follow the on-page instructions.
- If you have an iPhone, you may use ‘Find my iPhone’ or iCloud to locate it. It works similarly to the above android phone finder.
- Let your mobile service provider help you locate your phone. Call your provider’s customer support and ask them if they can help you locate your phone.
If none of the above options worked for you or if you are certain that your phone has been stolen, proceed to the next section.
Assurance Wireless Phone Replacement Other Things You Need To Knew
Does Assurance Wireless really replace a lost phone?
Of course, they do. The replacement phone may not be new, but even in case it is refurbished, it will be in great condition.
Can I find my friend’s lost Assurance Wireless phone using my Assurance Wireless phone?
Yes, if your friend has an Android phone, you can find it by using the Google Android manager. Let your friend log into Google using your account and he or she will be able to find his or her other Google devices.
How long does it take to replace an Assurance Wireless phone?
Depending on where you live, it takes a few days to receive a replacement phone.
Does Assurance Wireless charge me when I replace my phone?
In case your cell phone got lost, stolen, or broken, Assurance Wireless may or may not charge for a replacement phone and shipping.
How to cancel Assurance Wireless service if I lost my phone?
The simplest way to cancel your Assurance Wireless service if you lost your phone is by calling their customer service at 1-888-321-5880 and asking them to cancel the service.
Can I Change My Assurance Wireless Phone Number when I replace my phone?
Yes. Contact Assurance Wireless customer care and while applying for a replacement phone, you can ask a representative to either keep or change your phone number.
Can I use my old Assurance Wireless SIM in a new Assurance Wireless replacement phone?
Yes, you can. If you have only lost your Assurance Wireless phone and not your SIM card (which rarely happens), you can use your old Assurance Wireless SIM card in an Assurance Wireless replacement phone.
Can I change Assurance Wireless to another Lifeline provider?
Yes, you can transfer your Lifeline benefits to a new provider at any time.
Final words
Assurance Wireless is one of the largest Lifeline providers serving a great number of customers all across the country. It offers very generous Lifeline FREE deals, good free government phones, and in some cases that are even so kind to provide you with a free replacement phone.
If you want to know about How To Replace SafeLink Phones
If you want to know about Qlink replacement visit How To Replace Qlink Wireless Phone
If you want to know about free Government smartphone phones read Free Touch Screen Government Phones