Switching mobile provider is quick and simple using Text to Switch. You can switch by sending a free text, and You don’t need to speak to your current provider. The steps are slightly different depending on whether you want to keep your phone number or get a new one.
Switching provider can be a great way to save money if you are out of contract. You might find that buying mobile as part of a bundle with your broadband could help you save money, see our money-saving tips for more information.
Check your contract status
If you’re still in contract, you might have to pay an early termination charge to leave. Text ‘INFO’ to 85075 to check whether you’re in or out of contract.
How to switch your mobile
To keep your phone number, text ‘PAC’ to 65075.
To get a new number, text ‘STAC’ to 75075.
Your provider must reply with your switching code, called a ‘PAC’ or ‘STAC’, within one minute. The code is valid for 30 days. They must also send important information such as any early termination charges or your credit balance, if you’re a pay-as-you-go customer.
You can also request your PAC or STAC by phone or on your provider's website. You will need to use one of these methods if you have more than one number on your account, for example a family mobile package.
Give the PAC or STAC to your new provider, and they must complete the switch within one working day.
Your old provider must not charge you for any notice period after the switching date. Any loss of service must not last longer than one working day, and providers must compensate you if things go wrong. Providers cannot sell locked phones, so you can keep your current phone.
Keep your number after cancelling
If you have already cancelled your previous service, you can still keep your old phone number for free, as long as you ask within one month of cancelling. If your old provider did not already give you a PAC code when your service ended, contact them by phone or through their website to request this.