Cricket Wireless – Switch and Save on Every Plan

March 22, 2026

Cricket Wireless is a prepaid phone service that lets you avoid big bills and long contracts. In this guide, we’ll break down Cricket Wireless plans, coverage, customer support, and all the ways you can save by switching. We cover things like Auto Pay credits, multi-line family plans, and even Cricket’s 14-day free trial – so you can see why switching to Cricket Wireless can cut your wireless costs without cutting your service quality. By the end, you’ll have a clear picture of whether Cricket Wireless is right for you.

Why Switch to Cricket Wireless?

Making the switch to Cricket Wireless offers many advantages, especially if you want to cut your monthly phone bill. Here are just a few reasons why Cricket Wireless stands out:

Affordable Plans: Cricket Wireless plans start at just $25 per month (for the prepaid 12-month Unlimited plan) and go up to $55 per month for its top Unlimited plan. All plans include taxes, so your bill is the price you see. This means a plan that looks like $35/month will never jump to $45 after adding government fees.
No Contracts or Surprise Fees: Enjoy month-to-month service without any annual contracts. There are no activation fees or data overage charges on unlimited plans – you only pay for what you choose.
Multi-Line Savings: Cricket makes family plans budget-friendly. For example, you can get 4 lines for as low as $25 each when you switch to a Cricket plan with Auto Pay. The more lines you add, the more you save per line. This is ideal for families or roommates wanting high-speed data on every phone.
Included Extras: Higher-tier plans come with free extras. Supreme Unlimited plans include 50GB of mobile hotspot data per line, ad-supported HBO Max streaming, and even a Sam’s Club membership for the first year. These perks add value beyond just talk and text.
Risk-Free Trial & Deals: Cricket offers a 14-day free trial (via the tryCricket app) so you can experience unlimited talk/text, 5G access, and 3GB of data at no charge. The company also runs frequent promotions, device trade-in deals, referral credits, and discounts for new customers – so you often get extra savings or gift cards when you switch.
Bring Your Own Phone: If you have an unlocked phone, you can usually bring it to Cricket Wireless on your new plan. This means you don’t have to buy a new phone to switch. (Cricket’s online compatibility checker can confirm which devices work.) You can keep your current smartphone and simply insert a Cricket SIM card to activate service.
Easy Signup (No Credit Check): As a prepaid provider, Cricket does not require credit checks or deposits. Signing up is simple: pick a plan, pay for the service (or activate via Auto Pay), and start using your phone immediately. This also means you won’t be stuck paying for expensive carrier plans if your credit isn’t perfect.
All-Inclusive Pricing: Every Cricket Wireless plan includes taxes and regulatory fees. There are no hidden extra charges. The monthly rate you see is exactly what you pay each month. No surprises on your bill makes budgeting easier.
Award-Winning Experience: Cricket’s focus on customer satisfaction is proven – it has ranked #1 in J.D. Power’s prepaid wireless purchase experience study multiple times. Customers often praise the friendly store staff and clear pricing.
Family-Friendly Plans: If you need multiple lines, Cricket rewards you. Each additional line on the same plan gets a discount (typically $5 off per line with Auto Pay). This means a family of four can often pay as little as $25 per line for high-end unlimited service.
Device Deals and Financing: Cricket Wireless also offers promotions on devices. You can trade in your old phone for credit and finance new phones over time. The carrier frequently features deals like free phones or discounts when you add a line or prepay for service.
No Annual Commitment: You can switch plans or cancel at any time without fees. Cricket also runs a Refer-a-Friend program: refer someone and both of you earn bill credits once they sign up.

With these benefits, switching to Cricket Wireless can keep more money in your pocket and give you peace of mind. The process is simple: choose a plan, get a SIM card (or bring your own phone), and activate service. No credit checks, no contracts, and plenty of savings make Cricket Wireless a compelling choice for budget-conscious wireless users.

Cricket Wireless Plans and Pricing

Cricket Wireless offers a range of prepaid plans designed to suit different needs. All Cricket plans are no-contract and include unlimited talk and text. Here’s a look at the key offerings:

Sensible 10GB ($35/mo): Includes 10 GB of high-speed data, then speeds slow to 128 Kbps. Unlimited talk & text are included. This plan is great for light data users who mostly use Wi-Fi but need some mobile data.
20GB Data Only ($35/mo): 20 GB of high-speed data (no voice service), for tablets or hotspots. This plan has no calls, just data + unlimited text.
Select Unlimited ($40/mo; $35 with Auto Pay): Unlimited data, talk, and text. This plan comes with SD video streaming and deprioritized data if the network is busy.
Smart Unlimited ($50/mo; $45 with Auto Pay): All Select plan features plus 15 GB of mobile hotspot data per line. Also includes texting to 200+ countries and calling/texting to Mexico and Canada.
Supreme Unlimited ($60/mo; $55 with Auto Pay): Top-tier plan with 50 GB mobile hotspot data per line, HD streaming, 150 GB cloud storage, HBO Max (ad-supported) and a year of Sam’s Club membership for new customers. Also unlimited talk/text to Canada, Mexico, and 200+ countries.
12-Month Unlimited ($25/mo): Prepay $300 upfront for 12 months of service ($25 x 12). This plan offers unlimited talk, text, and data for a year (no Auto Pay needed since you paid in full).
3-Month Unlimited ($15/mo for 3 mo): Prepay $45 for 3 months ($15/mo). This limited-time intro plan is sometimes offered to new customers and gives you short-term unlimited service.
Data-Only Plans (Hotspots/Tablets): High-data plans like 20 GB ($35/mo), 100 GB ($55/mo), or 150 GB ($90/mo). These include unlimited text but no voice calls.

Key Plan Features: – Auto Pay Discount: Enroll in Auto Pay and save $5 off each line on plans $35 and above. For example, the $40 Select Unlimited plan drops to $35 with Auto Pay. – Multi-Line Discount: Each additional line on the same plan saves $5 more (with Auto Pay). On a 4-line account, this can lower the per-line cost to about $25. – Taxes Included: All taxes and fees are included in the listed price. – No Activation or Overage Fees: There are no extra activation charges, and on unlimited plans you never pay overage (the speed just slows if you hit data limits on lesser plans).

Overall, Cricket Wireless plans are straightforward and budget-friendly. With no surprises on your bill and simple pricing, it’s easy to pick a plan and know exactly what you’ll pay each month. By choosing the right plan and enabling Auto Pay, you could significantly lower your wireless costs.

Reliable Coverage on the AT&T Network

A big advantage of switching to Cricket Wireless is the network coverage. Cricket runs on AT&T’s nationwide network, which covers hundreds of millions of Americans. This means Cricket provides service virtually everywhere AT&T does:

Nationwide Coverage: You’ll get 4G LTE in most cities and many rural areas. AT&T’s towers cover interstates and popular destinations, so you should stay connected nearly everywhere.
5G Access: All Cricket plans include access to AT&T’s 5G network (on compatible devices) at no extra charge. In markets where AT&T’s 5G is live, you can enjoy faster data speeds and better performance.
International Features: Smart and Supreme plans include unlimited calling/text to Mexico and Canada and texting to 200+ countries. This makes it easy to stay in touch while traveling or calling family abroad.
Wi-Fi Calling & HD Voice: Most smartphones on Cricket support HD Voice and Wi-Fi calling. Calls sound clearer, and you can make calls over Wi-Fi if cell signal is weak.
True Unlimited Speeds: Cricket no longer caps unlimited plans at slower speeds. With the latest plans, if you choose unlimited data, you get whatever speed the network provides (though AT&T may temporarily slow data in rare congestion).
Reliability: Since it’s AT&T’s network, large outages are rare. In daily use, performance is generally steady and dependable.

Cricket Wireless coverage is robust and reliable. You’ll get nationwide service with the latest network features, but at a fraction of the cost of many big-name carriers.

Cricket Wireless Customer Service and Support

Cricket Wireless provides multiple ways to get help:

Phone: Call 1-800-CRICKET (274-2538) or dial 611 from your Cricket phone. Support reps are typically available Monday–Saturday (around 9am–9pm ET).
Chat: Use the live chat on the Cricket website or app to connect with a support agent (often 9am–11pm daily).
Online Help Center: The Cricket website and app have FAQs, articles, and guides for common issues (activation, billing, device setup, etc.).
In-Store Help: There are thousands of Cricket Wireless and authorized retailer locations. In-store staff can activate your service, troubleshoot basic issues, and explain plans in person.
Accessibility: Cricket offers TTY 711 support and Spanish-language service for customers who need it.
Customer Satisfaction: Cricket often ranks highly in customer satisfaction surveys for prepaid brands. Friendly store staff and straightforward plans contribute to the positive experience.

These support options mean you can usually find help in the way you prefer: by phone, online chat, or in person.

How to Pay Your Cricket Wireless Bill

Cricket makes it easy to pay your bill:

Online/App: Log in to your account or use the myCricket app to pay with a saved payment method.
Auto Pay: Set up Auto Pay and save $5 per line. Auto Pay automatically charges your card each month on the due date.
Quick Pay: Make a one-time payment using Cricket’s Quick Pay page or by calling 1-800-CRICKET and following prompts.
In-Store: Pay in person at any Cricket Wireless store or authorized retailer with cash or card.
Mail: You can mail a check or money order to Cricket’s payment address (found on your bill).
Reminders: Set up email or text bill reminders so you never miss a due date.

By choosing the method you like, you can always keep your service active. And with Auto Pay discounts, you even save money while paying your bill!

Finding a Cricket Wireless Store Near You

Need in-person help or a SIM card? Follow these steps:

Use the Cricket Store Locator on the official site to find stores in your area.
Search online: Just type “Cricket Wireless near me” in Google or Maps, and local stores will appear.
Major retailers: Best Buy, Walmart, Target, and other large stores often carry Cricket.
Store hours vary: Most Cricket stores open around 10am and close by 8–9pm on weekdays. Sundays are often shorter (e.g. 11am–5pm).
In-store activation: Walk in, and the staff can activate your new SIM, transfer your number, and start your service.

Whether you prefer shopping in person or online, there’s a way to get Cricket service nearby.

How to Switch to Cricket Wireless

Switching to Cricket is simple:

Pick a Plan: Choose which Cricket plan you want (see the list above).
Get a SIM or Phone: If keeping your phone, buy a Cricket SIM kit or get one in a store. If you need a new device, Cricket sells phones online and in stores.
Port Your Number (Optional): If you want to keep your current number, provide your old carrier’s account number and PIN during signup. Cricket will transfer your number during activation.
Activate Service: Insert the SIM or use the eSIM code and follow the activation steps on the website or app. This completes your plan setup and number port.
Free Trial: Consider the 14-day free trial first (via the tryCricket app) if you’re unsure. You’ll get 3GB of data to test the service at no charge.
Enjoy: Once activated, your service is live. Use the myCricket app or website to manage your account. Don’t forget Auto Pay for the $5/line savings each month.

No credit check is needed, and many customers find they can complete the switch in one visit or online. You’ll soon be saving on your wireless bill!

Frequently Asked Questions

Who owns Cricket Wireless?

Cricket Wireless is owned by AT&T Inc. (AT&T acquired Cricket in 2014).

Is Cricket Wireless good?

Yes, Cricket Wireless is considered a good, budget-friendly carrier. It uses AT&T’s strong network and offers straightforward plans. Most customers get reliable coverage and are satisfied with the value. For the price, Cricket’s service compares favorably to other prepaid options.

Is Cricket Wireless down?

Widespread outages are rare. If you lose service, try restarting your phone first. Check online (Downdetector or Twitter) to see if others report issues. Any disruption is usually brief and resolved quickly.

How do I pay my Cricket Wireless bill?

Log in to your account or use the myCricket app to pay online, or call 1-800-CRICKET to pay by phone. You can also pay in person at a store. Auto Pay is recommended – it automatically pays your bill and gives a $5 discount per line.

How do I contact Cricket Wireless customer service?

Call 1-800-CRICKET (274-2538) or dial 611. You can also chat online via the website/app or visit a Cricket store. Cricket provides FAQs and support pages on its website, and responds to customers on social media as well.

Where can I find a Cricket Wireless near me?

Use the Cricket Store Locator or search Google Maps for “Cricket Wireless.” Nearby stores and authorized retailers will be listed with addresses and hours.

What time does Cricket Wireless open and close?

Hours vary by location. Generally, Cricket stores open around 10:00 AM and close by 8–9:00 PM local time on weekdays and Saturday. Sunday hours are often shorter (for example, 11:00 AM – 6:00 PM). Check the specific store listing online for exact times.

Conclusion

Switching to Cricket Wireless can help you save on every line while still getting nationwide coverage. With AT&T’s network, no-contract plans, and built-in savings (taxes included, Auto Pay discounts, etc.), Cricket offers great value. If you’re fed up with high phone bills, give Cricket a try. Check out the plans, sign up, and start saving today.

Have you tried Cricket Wireless or made the switch? Share your experience in the comments below! And feel free to share this guide with anyone looking for a cheaper wireless alternative. By choosing Cricket Wireless, you’ll likely keep more money in your pocket without sacrificing service.