SafeLink Wireless Customer Service

After spending significant amounts of time on the phone with Safelink, I'm fairly certain that you cannot apply or talk to a real person via this phone number. I tried to set up the service for my father, but we don't live together and I had some questions before I went through the application process. He lives away from the family, but I thought that he should be eligible for a free phone and this would help, since he's on a limited income. 

I called the number and it stated: "Thank you for calling Safelink Wireless," followed by the standard Spanish message and a note that the call might be recorded for quality assurance. It then added that due to a change in federal regulations, you need to make a phone call, text, or use Wi-Fi at least once every 30 days to keep the SafeLink services access. 

Then it finally said, "If you live in CA, press 2." There was a long pause, and since my father didn't, I waited. Then it said:

"Great news, you may be eligible to get a new phone. To apply for Lifeline Services, verify eligibility, or check the status of your phone, press 1.To add or buy airtime press 2. To transfer your number or benefits, press 3. To change your phone number, press 4. To change your current service plan benefits, press 5. For information about your current plan, press 6. For other services including technical support, press 7. To purchase phones, sim cards, or phone accessories, press 8." 

I chose option 1, and it told me to press 1 for English and reminded me calls are recorded. Then it stated:

"Benefits and eligibility vary by zipcode. It costs absolutely nothing. Once qualified we will send you a SIM card to place in your phone. Please note that you must have a compatible or unlocked phone. To apply or see additional information, visit our page www.safelink.com."

It then told me:

"to listen to this information again, press 1. To listen to more options, press 2. I chose 2 and then it offered me more options. It stated, "To apply, press 1. To obtain more information about how to recertify, press 2. To her information about plan options, press 3. To check the status of an application, press 4. If you have not received your monthly minutes or need technical support, press 5."

I pressed one, and then it started to script about benefits and eligibility and led me back to the same menu. After another attempt, I realized it just cycles and that there isn't going to be someone to talk to. I gave up and resigned myself to the fact I would have to apply online.