How do I switch phone carriers?

Has your wireless plan started feeling a little outdated? Have your bills slowly crept up without much to show for it? Or did you just type “how do I switch phone carriers” into Google and land on this page? Whatever brought you here, the good news is switching carriers is a lot simpler than you might think. In this article, we’ll walk you through everything you need to know – how to prepare before switching, how to choose your next carrier, what to expect when you make the move and how to officially close things out with your old carrier once you’ve switched.

What to do before switching phone carriers

Before you officially say goodbye to your current carrier, make sure to keep your service active and complete the few key steps below:

Check your current contract and phone status

Some carriers charge early termination fees (ETFs) if you leave early, and if you’re paying off a phone through your carrier, you’ll need to cover the remaining balance before transferring your number. If you’re wondering how to switch carriers if you owe money, we’ve got a guide for that too.

Also, if you plan to bring your current phone with you, make sure it’s unlocked. That’s what allows it to work on a new network. You can usually check that in your phone’s settings or by contacting your current carrier. If you want a step-by-step walkthrough, check out our guide on how to see if your phone is unlocked.

Gather account transfer information

Your new carrier will need your account number, and if you’re wanting to keep your number, you’ll need your Number Transfer PIN as well. You can usually find both in your carrier’s app or by contacting their support team.

If you’re thinking of switching to Mint, we already have a handy, step-by-step guide that explains how to bring your number by carrier.

Selecting a new phone carrier

Start by checking coverage maps to make sure you’ll get reliable service wherever you go. At home, at work and everywhere else your phone follows you.Next, compare plan prices and features that actually fit your lifestyle, like Wi-Fi Calling, mobile hotspot or international roaming options. Keep an eye out for activation fees or other hidden costs while you’re at it.Then decide whether you want to bring your own phone (BYOP) or get a new one. Some carriers offer discounts if you bring your current device, while others include a new phone in the plan price, often tied to a long-term contract. Once you’ve compared everything, you’ll be ready to pick the carrier that fits your needs and budget best.

Making the official switch to a new carrier

When you’re ready to switch, your new carrier will need a few details from your current account, including your account number and billing ZIP code. If you’re bringing your current number, you’ll also need your Number Transfer PIN that we mentioned earlier. Keep that info handy so your new carrier can make the switch quick and easy, and don’t cancel your old service until your number has successfully transferred. Cancelling it early could interrupt your service or cause you to lose your number. For more details on how number transfers work, you can check out our blog on keeping your phone number when you switch carriers.

How long does it take to switch?

When it comes to how long it takes to switch carriers, in most cases, your number transfer and activation can happen within minutes. Once you’ve purchased your new plan, your new carrier will guide you through the activation process, whether that means setting up an eSIM you can start using right away or waiting for a physical SIM card to be delivered, or until you can pick one up in-store. After activation, your new service should be ready to go. 

Closing out with your previous carrier

Once your new service is active, it’s time to close things out with your old carrier.

Start by reviewing your final bill and settling any remaining phone payments or plan balances to avoid unexpected charges. You may also need to pay any early termination fees if you ended a contract before it was up, so check your statement carefully before you pay.

If you were on a device payment plan, make sure your phone is fully paid off or returned if required. Once your number has been successfully transferred and your balance is cleared, your old carrier should automatically close your account. If you still see charges afterward, contact your previous carrier to confirm everything is finalized.

Switching doesn’t have to be a headache

Changing phone carriers is easier than most people think. All it takes is the right timing and a little know-how. If you are still debating whether to make the move, check out our blog on whether you should switch phone carriers. And if you are thinking about switching your whole family over, we also have a post on how to switch family phone plans.

If premium wireless on the T-Mobile network starting at $15/mo* with no gimmicks or overpriced nonsense sounds like your kind of thing, you can learn more here about why people are switching to Mint Mobile.

_{*Upfront payment of $45 for 3-month plan (equiv. to $15/mo.) req’d. New customer offer for first 3 months only; then full-price plan options available. Taxes & fees extra.}