How To Activate a Jitterbug Phone (Lively) in 2024

Q: What information do I need to activate my Jitterbug phone?

Includes ESN/IMEI, personal info, payment method. -->

To activate a Jitterbug phone, you will go through Lively (formerly GreatCall) either online or by phone. This process requires your device's IMEI and SIM ICCID, personal information, and a payment method to cover the activation fee.

Before you activate a Jitterbug phone: what you need

Before starting, gather these items to ensure a smooth activation:

Your Jitterbug phone and its physical SIM card (or eSIM-ready device).
The IMEI number, a unique 15-digit identifier. You can find it by dialing *#06# on the phone's keypad, checking the phone's settings, or looking on the device's box.
The SIM ICCID number, which is printed under the barcode on the physical SIM card.
Your personal information (name, address, date of birth).
A valid payment method for the activation fee and your chosen plan.
The phone has a built-in emergency response system with a dedicated button for 24/7 emergency assistance.
A medication reminder function is included.
The phone is compatible with hearing aids.
A powerful speakerphone allows for hands-free conversations.
An easy-to-use camera is built in.

You can activate online for a $25 fee or by calling customer service for a $35 fee. Both methods let you select a plan and start service.

How to activate a Jitterbug phone online via Lively

Visit lively.com/activate on a computer or smartphone with a stable internet connection.
Create a Lively account if you don't have one, or log in to your existing account.
Enter your phone's IMEI and SIM ICCID numbers when prompted.
Choose a service plan that fits your needs, prepaid or monthly, with no long-term contracts.
Enter your payment details to pay the $25 activation fee and set up your plan.
Review all information and submit your activation request. You'll receive a confirmation email with next steps.

If your device uses an eSIM, after completing the online activation you must connect the phone to a Wi-Fi network and scan a QR code provided by Lively to enable services.

How to activate a Jitterbug phone by calling customer service

Call Lively's Retail Activations team at 800-397-0588 from a separate phone (landline or another mobile). The customer service number can be found in the phone's packaging or on the GreatCall website.
Provide the representative with your IMEI and SIM ICCID numbers, along with your personal information. You may need your Social Security number.
Select a service plan with the representative's guidance.
Pay the $35 activation fee using your payment method.
Follow any additional instructions the representative gives, this may include restarting your phone or waiting for a confirmation.

After the process, test your Jitterbug phone by making a call or sending a text to confirm it is working.

Setting up your Jitterbug Smart4 after activation

For the Jitterbug Smart4, after activation it is recommended to connect the phone to a Google account (Gmail). This enables backups of your data and gives you access to the Google Play Store for downloading apps. If you are using basic flip phones, this step does not apply.

Transferring your existing phone number to Jitterbug

You can transfer your current cell or home phone number to your new Lively phone at no additional cost. During the activation process (online or by phone), you will be asked whether you want a new number or to transfer an existing one. To transfer, you will need your current carrier's account information, including your account number and any PIN or password. The transfer is free, and your existing number will move to your Jitterbug device once the process completes.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long does it take to activate a Jitterbug phone?

Online activation typically completes within a few minutes, while phone activation may take slightly longer due to speaking with a representative. In most cases, service begins shortly after you submit your information.

What should I do if my Jitterbug phone fails to activate?

First, double-check that the IMEI and SIM ICCID numbers were entered correctly. If you activated online, ensure you followed any eSIM Wi-Fi and QR code steps. For persistent issues, contact Lively customer service at 800-397-0588 for troubleshooting assistance.

How do I find the IMEI on my Jitterbug phone?

Why does online activation cost less than phone activation?

Online activation costs $25, while phone activation costs $35. The difference reflects the additional support provided by a customer service representative during the phone activation process.

Can I activate a Jitterbug phone without a SIM card?

No, a SIM card is required for activation. If your device supports eSIM, you will activate online and then scan a QR code over Wi-Fi to enable service, no physical SIM is needed in that case.