To unlock a Walmart phone, you must contact the carrier that locked it, most commonly Walmart Family Mobile, because neither Walmart retail stores nor the phone manufacturer can remove the carrier lock. Only the current carrier has the authority to process an unlock a walmart phone request, and the process always starts with your phone’s unique IMEI number.
How to unlock a Walmart phone: what you need to know first
A “Walmart phone” almost always refers to a device sold through Walmart Family Mobile, a prepaid carrier service. The phone is locked to that carrier, and Walmart itself (the retail store) cannot unlock it. Only Walmart Family Mobile support, not a store associate, not Apple, and not Google, can authorize the unlock. Before you call, gather your phone’s IMEI number and be ready to confirm your account details.
Step 1: find your phone's IMEI number
The carrier needs the IMEI (International Mobile Equipment Identity) to identify your device and check its unlock eligibility. To find it:
- Open your phone’s dialer and enter
*#06#. The IMEI will appear on the screen. - Alternatively, go to Settings > About Phone (or About Device) and look for “IMEI” or “IMEI number.”
Write down the number exactly as it appears. The carrier will ask for it when you request the unlock.
Step 2: contact Walmart Family Mobile support to request an unlock
Call Walmart Family Mobile at 1-888-442-5102. If that line is busy, you can also try 1-877-440-9758. When you call, explain that you want to unlock your device for use with a different carrier. A support agent will verify your account and IMEI, then submit the unlock request on the carrier’s side. Chat support is also available through the Walmart Family Mobile website if you prefer not to call. For guided help, call Phone Support at 1-877-440-9758.
Why the phone manufacturer cannot unlock your device
Apple states clearly: “Apple can't unlock your iPhone for use with a different carrier. Only your current carrier can unlock your iPhone.” Google’s Android Community guidance agrees that the phone manufacturer cannot remove carrier locks; the user must contact the original carrier that sold the device. For Android, the carrier may use an unlock code or a software update to finish the switch. This is a common misconception, neither Apple nor Google has the tools or authority to override a carrier lock, so save time by going straight to Walmart Family Mobile.
What if your phone is locked to a different carrier?
If your Walmart phone is locked to a carrier other than Walmart Family Mobile, for example, Verizon, AT&T, or T-Mobile, you must contact that original carrier to request the unlock. The process is the same: provide the IMEI and follow the carrier’s specific requirements. For detailed steps, see our hub page about unlocking carrier phones from Verizon, AT&T and T-Mobile, which covers how to unlock a Verizon phone and what does an unlocked phone mean for network compatibility.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I unlock a Walmart phone for free?
Walmart Family Mobile’s official support pages do not list a fee for unlocking, but they also do not guarantee free service in every case. Contact support to ask about any costs before proceeding.
What information do I need to unlock my Walmart phone?
You need the phone’s IMEI number (found by dialing *#06# or in Settings), the account holder’s name, and proof of purchase or account details. The carrier uses this to verify you own the device.
Will unlocking my Walmart phone let me use it with any carrier?
Unlocking removes the carrier lock, but the phone must still be compatible with the new carrier’s network technology (GSM or CDMA). Check the phone’s specifications and the new carrier’s compatibility list before switching.
How long does the unlock process take?
Walmart Family Mobile’s official pages do not publish a standard timeframe. Some requests are processed within a few days, but you should ask the support agent for an estimated timeline when you call.
What if Walmart Family Mobile refuses to unlock my phone?
If the carrier denies the request, ask for the specific reason, common reasons include an unpaid balance or an active contract. Resolve that issue and resubmit the request. No official third-party unlocking service is documented as an approved alternative by Walmart Family Mobile, Apple, or Google.
