This guide explains how to switch your mobile phone service using Text to Switch.
You can do this by sending a simple text message, 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’re out of contract. For other ideas, have a look at our money-saving tips.
Top switching tips for mobile
Check if you're eligible for a social tariff
If you receive Universal Credit, Pension Credit or certain other benefits, you might qualify for a social tariff. This is a cheaper mobile deal, with no mid-contract price rises, for people on lower incomes. Check our social tariff guide.
Check your contract status
Text ‘INFO’ to 85075 to check whether you’re in or out of contract. If you’re still in contract, you might have to pay an early termination charge to leave.
Switch your mobile in three easy steps
- Request your PAC or STAC switching code
To keep your phone number, text ‘PAC’ to 65075.
If you do not want to keep your phone number, text ‘STAC’ to 75075. This ensures the switch is done for you without paying notice period charges or double paying for your old and new contract.
You can also request your PAC or STAC by calling your provider 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.
Check our guide on choosing the right mobile package for your needs. If you already have a phone, SIM-only deals are usually the best value. Providers cannot sell locked phones, so you should be able to keep using your current phone with your new provider.
- Give the switching code to your new provider
Your current provider must reply with your switching code, called a ‘PAC’ or ‘STAC’, within one minute. The code is valid for 30 days.
Your current provider must also send important information such as any early termination charges or your credit balance, if you’re a pay-as-you-go customer. Check this information carefully before you decide to go ahead.
Give your PAC or STAC code to your new provider, so they can arrange the switch. You can often do this when signing up to your new service with them. It is also usually possible to sign up first and provide your PAC or STAC later, but do remember to give it to them before your PAC or STAC expires.
- Your service will be switched
Your new provider must complete your 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. Providers may need to compensate you if the switch is delayed or you are left without service for longer than allowed.
If you plan to use your old phone with a new SIM-only deal, you might need to replace your old SIM card with the one your new provider sends you.
Keep your number, even after cancelling
Even if you did not ask to keep your phone number when you cancelled, in most cases, you can still transfer your old phone number to your new service within one month of cancelling. If your old provider did not give you a PAC, contact them by phone or through their website to request this. You can then give this PAC to your new provider to transfer the number.
Related content