What's the catch with TextNow?

Out of the many frequently asked questions about TextNow, we get “Wait, really?” a lot.

As in “Wait, TextNow is really free?” Sometimes followed by, “What's the catch?”

Here's how TextNow keeps it free:

Free calling and texting off WiFi? What's the catch with TextNow?

We get it. We’re so conditioned to spending absurd amounts of money on a cell phone plan, when you first learn that it's possible to get 5G/4G nationwide coverage – for free! – it sounds too good to be true. But it's not!

How? It's simple – unlimited calling and texting is supported by advertising. That's always free with TextNow. And when you add the TextNow SIM Card to your phone, you can take the conversation anywhere on a nationwide network, also supported by ads. If you already use the TextNow app for free calling and texting, you're used to the ad experience, and it will be exactly the same. If you're not familiar, our ads run along a banner the bottom of the screen or alongside your conversations, but never in an obtrusive way.

Let’s say that again for the people in the back: With a TextNow SIM card, calling and texting from anywhere in the US is free of charge. No phone bill or charges.  

For many of our customers, the ability to call and text from anywhere for free is a fair trade even if they see a couple of ads. Some call TextNow service as a lifesaver, because having a phone number can mean the difference between landing that job or not. And it sure beats overpaying for basic connectivity from big mobile carriers.

And if ads aren't your thing, no problem. TextNow also offers optional add-ons to get rid of the ads, for a pure calling and texting experience that is still more affordable than the other options out there to get a phone number with reliable service.

So the next time you go to tell someone you have unlimited free calling and texting with TextNow on a nationwide 5G network, feel free to get ahead of their next question by saying: “Yes, really! It's free!”