It's easy to find yourself paying huge amounts for your monthly mobile phone bill, and you can end up paying for the phone as well as the network, even when your fixed contract period has ended.
How to find the best mobile provider deal
(TIME REQUIRED - 2 MINUTES)
- Go to phone comparison site Uswitch* to compare the best contract deals.
- Go to phone comparison site Uswitch* to compare the best SIM-only deals.
- Filter by monthly cost or data.
- Select preferred networks.
- Wait to receive the best mobile provider deals.
Once you have decided which mobile provider you want to switch to, follow the steps below.
How to switch mobile providers by text
Can I switch providers and keep my mobile number?
(TIME REQUIRED - 2 MINUTES)
- Text 'PAC' to 65075 to get a 'Porting Authorisation Code' (PAC).
- Receive a message containing the PAC number required to switch as well as important information regarding fees for early contract termination or any pay-as-you-go balances.
- Call your new mobile provider and give them the PAC number.
- Your network provider should be switched over within 1 working day.
The 'PAC' numbers are valid for 30 days before expiring.
Can I switch providers and get a new mobile number?
(TIME REQUIRED - 2 MINUTES)
If you want to switch mobile providers but don't mind the hassle of changing phone number:
- Text 'STAC' to 75075 to get a 'Service Termination Authorisation Code' (STAC).
- Receive a message containing the STAC number required to switch as well as important information regarding fees for early contract termination or any pay-as-you-go balances.
- Call your new mobile provider and give them the STAC number.
- Your network provider should be switched over within 1 working day and your new network provider should inform you of your new number.
The above process eliminates having to call your current provider if you just want to leave them for another provider.
Will I be charged any fees for switching?
If you are mid-contract then you may be charged an early termination fee. To find out how much, text 'INFO' to 85075. You'll also receive confirmation of the fees when you receive a reply to your 'PAC' text.
Do I have to give my current network provider notice before switching?
No. On the 1st July 2019, mobile network providers were banned from charging notice periods that run after the switching date, which in turn is likely to save customers up to £10 million a year. You need to ensure that you give your 'PAC' or 'STAC' number to your new mobile provider to prevent any double payments.
Alternatives to the text switching service
- Log in to your online mobile account via your current mobile network provider's website and request a PAC number. You should receive it by text message.
- Call your current mobile provider to request a 'PAC' number - note that this can result in them trying to convince you to stay.
Customers who have a family mobile package or more than one mobile number linked to their account will need to request a 'PAC' number online.
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