On this page:
- How does TextNow work?
- How do I get a SIM card?
- Does TextNow service work without Wi-Fi?
- How do I pay for my subscription?
- What are the acceptable monthly payment options?
- How can I pay if I don't have a credit card?
- Can TextNow receive collect calls, or calls from a correctional facility?
How does TextNow work?
TextNow offers affordable phone service that goes beyond traditional carriers. We're proud to be the first wireless provider in the United States to offer Free Essential Data! When you upgrade to any of our Data Add-Ons, you'll enjoy benefits like unlimited texting, calling, and data, no contracts or hidden fees, and the flexibility to use your TextNow phone number on multiple devices.
How do I get a SIM card?
If you have a compatible device, you can purchase a SIM card from us here to get unlimited calling and texting even when you're not connected to Wi-Fi. To see if your device will work with our service, you can use our Device Compatibility Checker.
Does TextNow service work without Wi-Fi?
Yes! If you have an active TextNow SIM card & wireless plan, your phone will work without Wi-Fi. When there is no WiFi available, our phones will use data from the Nationwide Network. You can use our coverage map to confirm there is 4G/LTE coverage in your area.
How do I pay for my subscription?
Once you subscribe to a monthly plan, we will automatically use the same payment card to renew your service every month. If you'd like to update the payment card used on your account, please go to your TextNow app, tap the main menu button (3 horizontal lines in the top left corner) and select My Account. Alternatively, you can sign into textnow.com and click the My Account tab to modify payment/billing information.
What are the acceptable monthly payment options?
We accept all major debit, credit, and prepaid cards:
- Visa
- MasterCard
- American Express
- JCB
- Discover
- Diners Club
For those who prefer to use cash, you can purchase a prepaid card or gift card with a Visa, MasterCard, or American Express logo (from a local grocery store/gas station/big box store) and use it to pay for your initial purchase as well as the monthly subscription.
How can I pay if I don't have a credit card?
If you do not have access to a credit card, you can sign up using a prepaid card or debit card as long as it has one of the following logos on it.
- Visa
- MasterCard
- American Express
- JCB
- Discover
- Diners Club
Can TextNow receive collect calls, or calls from a correctional facility?
No, the TextNow system cannot accept collect calls because we won't be able to bill you for individual calls. All calls to and from your TextNow phone from the US and Canada are free.
Correctional facilities will often have a list of phone carriers and services that will work with their phone systems. TextNow is generally not compatible with these; contact the correctional facility's head office for more information.