Hi MrsLakerFanBoston,
It sounds like you're having trouble with Personal Hotspot and with FaceTime and we want to help.
Are you able to send and receive iMessage without issue? Can anyone call you on FaceTime? Try having someone call you.
Take these steps if you're getting an error:
If you get an error when trying to activate iMessage or FaceTime
For the Personal Hotspot, we'd recommend completing a backup of your data and ensuring you're on the latest iOS version using: Update your iPhone, iPad, or iPod touch Once complete, check for any carrier updates by going to Settings > General > About. If you're not prompted to update your carrier settings, then you're up to date already. We'd also suggest ensuring that any devices that you are attempting to connect to your Personal Hotspot are updated as well. The steps here may also help: If Personal Hotspot is not working on your iPhone or iPad (Wi-Fi + Cellular)
If you continue having issues, contact Apple Support here:
Get Support
Thanks for using the Apple Support Communities.
Have a great day!