FAQ

Frequently Asked Questions

Find answers to common questions about our US eSIMs, physical SIM cards, plans, activation, and using your US number internationally.

General Questions

What is a US Tello SIM?

A Tello SIM gives you a US phone number and access to Tello’s mobile service. Depending on the option you choose, you can receive the service through an eSIM or a physical SIM card.

What is the difference between an eSIM and a physical SIM?

An eSIM is a digital SIM that is installed directly on a compatible phone. A physical SIM is a small card that you insert into your phone.

Do I need an unlocked phone?

Yes. Your phone should be unlocked and compatible with the Tello service. This allows the SIM to connect to the network properly.

Can I use my US number outside the USA?

Yes, you can use your US number outside the USA through Wi-Fi Calling, where supported. Connect to Wi-Fi and use your Tello SIM for calls and texts without relying on US mobile data.

eSIM Questions

What is an eSIM?

An eSIM is a digital SIM that is installed directly on a compatible phone. You do not need to insert a physical SIM card.

How will I receive my eSIM?

Your eSIM details will be delivered digitally after the activation process. You will receive the information needed to install and activate your eSIM.

Physical SIM Questions

How will I receive my physical SIM?

Your physical SIM will be shipped to the delivery address provided when you place your order. Delivery time depends on your destination and the shipping method available.

How do I activate my physical SIM?

Once you receive your SIM, insert it into your compatible unlocked phone and follow the activation instructions provided with your order.

Using Your US Number Outside the USA

Can I use my US number outside the USA?

Yes. You can use your US number outside the USA through Wi-Fi Calling, where supported. Connect your phone to Wi-Fi and use your Tello SIM for calls and texts.

Does mobile data work outside the USA?

US mobile data is intended for use in the USA. When you are outside the USA, you can use Wi-Fi or a local SIM for internet access.

Can I use my local SIM and Tello SIM together?

Yes, if your phone supports dual SIM. You can use your local SIM for internet data while using your Tello SIM for your US number and Wi-Fi Calling.

Plans & Payments

What plans are available?

Tello offers different plans depending on how much data you need. The available options include Economy, Value, Smart, and Unlimited plans.

Is the first month included?

Yes. The first month is included with your purchase as stated in the product offer.

Is there a contract?

No. Tello service does not require a long-term contract.

Before You Buy

What should I check before buying?

Make sure your phone is unlocked and compatible with the SIM option you choose. If you want an eSIM, your phone must also support eSIM.

Can I use the Tello SIM with my local SIM?

Yes, if your phone supports dual SIM. You can use your local SIM for internet data and your Tello SIM for your US number.

What if I need help before ordering?

You can contact us before placing your order. We will help you understand the SIM options and activation process.

Recurring Payment Management

Can you manage my SIM’s recurring payment for me?

Yes. We offer an optional Recurring Payment Management service. You can pay us the renewal amount, and we will make the recurring payment for your SIM on your behalf.

How much does the payment management service cost?

There is a $5 management fee in addition to the SIM’s renewal amount. The total price is shown when you select the “Yes- Manage monthly refills ($5/mo fee)” option.

Do I have to use your recurring payment management service?

No. It is completely optional. You can choose to manage your own recurring payments directly with the carrier.

What happens when my renewal is due?

If you have chosen our payment management service and have paid the required renewal amount, we will use the funds you provided to make the renewal payment on your behalf.

Do I need to remember to make the payment myself?

If you have chosen our management service and provided the renewal funds as required, you do not need to make the carrier payment yourself. We handle the payment for you.

Is the $5 fee charged every time you manage a renewal?

Yes. The $5 management fee applies to each renewal payment that we process on your behalf.

What if I want to stop using the payment management service?

You can choose not to use the service for future renewals and manage your recurring payments directly with the carrier.