You can normally keep your mobile number when you move to a new provider.
The process is free and simple. You just need a PAC from your current provider, then give it to your new provider.
Get Your PAC
The easiest way to get your PAC is by text.
From the mobile number you want to keep, text:
PAC to 65075
Your provider should send your PAC within one minute.
The message will also tell you about any charges you may have to pay if you leave your contract early.
What Is a PAC?
PAC stands for Porting Authorisation Code.
It allows your mobile number to move from your old provider to your new one.
Your PAC is valid for 30 days, so give it to your new provider before it runs out.
If it expires, you can ask for another one.
Give It to Your New Provider
Next, give your PAC to the provider you are joining.
You can often do this when you sign up. However, you may also be able to give them the PAC after your new service has started.
Your new provider will then arrange the move.
How Long Does It Take?
Once your new provider has your PAC, your number should normally move within one working day.
You may first get a new SIM with a temporary number. Once the move is complete, your old number will replace it.
There may be a short break in service while this happens.
Keep Your Old SIM
Do not throw away your old SIM as soon as you order your new plan.
Instead, keep using it until your old service stops working.
Then use your new SIM or eSIM and check that:
- your old number is working
- you can make calls
- you can receive calls
- texts are working
- mobile data is working
If there is a problem, contact your new provider.
Already Cancelled?
You may still be able to keep your number even if you have already cancelled your old service.
In most cases, you have one month after cancellation to ask to move the number.
So, contact your old provider as soon as possible and ask for a PAC.
More Than One Number?
The text service is designed for switching a single mobile number.
If your account has several numbers, such as a family account, you may need to ask your provider for the PACs online or by phone.
Your provider can tell you what you need to do.
Staying With the Same Provider?
A PAC is mainly used when moving your number to a different provider.
If you are simply changing plan with the same provider, you should not normally need to move your number in this way.
Instead, ask your provider to keep your current number on the new plan.
Keep Your Number in Four Steps
First, choose your new mobile plan.
Then:
- Text PAC to 65075.
- Give the PAC to your new provider.
- Keep using your old service until the move takes place.
- Check your number on the new service.
That is normally all you need to do.
Key Points
- You can normally keep your mobile number for free.
- Text PAC to 65075 from the number you want to keep.
- Your PAC lasts for 30 days.
- Give the PAC to your new provider.
- Your number should normally move within one working day.
New provider. Same number.
Important Information
Energility provides general information to help you understand energy, household and business costs, services and ways to save money. It is not financial, legal, tax, technical or professional advice.
Prices, tariffs, grants, government schemes, regulations and other information can change. Costs, savings and calculator results are estimates and your actual results may be different.
Before making an important financial decision, signing a contract or carrying out significant work, check the latest information and consider getting advice from a suitably qualified professional where needed.
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