Cell Phone Number Portability Answers
It used to be that if you switched your cell phone carrier, you also lost that coveted cell phone number you had gotten so used to over the years. A lot of times, not wanting to change their number caused customers to stay with carriers they weren't happy with in order to avoid missing calls, changing business cards, etc.
Consumers complained and finally someone listened. On November 24, 2003, the FCC authorized cell phone number portability - which in plain English means the ability to keep your cell phone number when you change carriers. Below you will find a list of common questions that arise on the subject and their answers.
Does my existing service agreement still matter?
Yes. Cell phone portability allows you to take your number with you when you change carriers, but it does not affect the contract you signed with your current carrier.
If you switch carriers before your contract is up, you may find yourself hit with early termination fees. Look at your contract and find the information on it that details how, and when, you can cancel your plan with your current carrier.
Do I need any proof that the cell phone number is mine?
Yes. You must provide the new carrier with the billing information of the old account. And it must be 100% accurate. Keep a copy of your most recent bill from the old/current carrier and have it handy when contacting the new carrier.
Should I cancel my old plan first?
No. Do not cancel your old plan first. If you do so, then the number may be recycled if too much time passes by between when you cancel your current plan and when you try to port the number.
Instead, contact your new carrier and wait until your cell phone number is working with your new phone and carrier before canceling your old plan. Also be sure to time this with your contract for your existing carrier to avoid early termination fees.
Will I be charged for the number transfer?
There is usually a charge involved in transferring your number from your old carrier to your existing carrier. Each carrier is different, but most of the time the charge is between two to five dollars (and is a one time charge) and is added to your monthly cell phone bill.
How long will it take for the number to work with the new carrier?
Generally the switch should take affect after two to five hours. If more time than that has passed, call your new carrier to inquire if there were any problems with the switch.
Looking for a new cell phone carrier to port your current number to? Check out our deals on cell phones and cellular services to find a plan that fits your needs, within a budget you can afford. And almost all of our plans come with free phones!
|
