In the US you have the right to keep your phone number when you change wireless carriers. This is called number porting. The process is usually quick, as long as you have the right information ready and do things in the right order.
Before you switch
- Check coverage where you live and work. A cheaper plan isn't a deal if calls drop at home.
- Check what you still owe. If your phone is on a payment plan, the remaining balance usually becomes due when you leave. Some carriers offer to help cover it when you switch, so ask.
- Make sure your phone is unlocked if you're keeping it. Carriers unlock eligible phones once they're paid off; ask your current carrier.
- Confirm your phone works on the new network. Most recent phones do, but older models may not.
Information you'll need
- Your phone number
- Your account number with the current carrier
- A number transfer PIN (most carriers now issue one from their app or website)
- The name and billing address on the account, exactly as the carrier has them
The switch itself
- Sign up with the new carrier and give them your number and transfer details.
- Don't cancel your old service yourself. The transfer closes your old line automatically. Canceling first can release your number.
- Activate your new SIM or eSIM when the new carrier tells you to.
- Make a test call and send a text to confirm everything works.
Most transfers finish within minutes to a few hours. Moving a whole family plan works the same way, one number at a time, all in one order.
Common mistakes
- Typos in the account number or PIN, which stall the transfer
- Canceling the old line before the port completes
- Forgetting to back up photos, contacts and two-factor authentication apps before changing phones
We handle wireless activations every day and can do the porting with you. Get in touch or see our wireless plans.