You can switch carriers and keep your phone number by requesting a transfer code before you sign up with the new company

Changing cell phone carriers means moving your service from one company (like Verizon or T-Mobile) to another. The process takes about a week, and you keep your existing phone number if you request it. You will need your account number and a transfer code from your current carrier, then provide both to the new carrier during signup. Your old service stops when the new one activates, so there is no gap in coverage if you time it right.

The main decision is whether to keep your current phone or buy a new one. If you keep your phone, check that it works on the new carrier's network before you switch — not all phones work on all networks. If you buy a new phone, the new carrier usually sells it to you at a discount when you sign a contract, though you can also buy one separately and bring it with you.

Key Takeaways

  • Request a transfer code from your current carrier before signing up with a new one; this code proves you own the number and lets you take it with you.
  • Check that your phone works on the new carrier's network, because some phones only work on certain networks even if they look the same.
  • Your old service stops when the new carrier activates your number, so time the switch for a day when you will be home to set up your new phone.
  • Cancelling your old account after the switch is complete prevents accidental charges, though some carriers charge an early termination fee if you are still under contract.
  • The entire process usually takes three to seven days from the moment you sign up with the new carrier.

Getting a transfer code from your current carrier

A transfer code (also called a port authorization code or PAC) is a temporary password that proves you own your phone number. Your current carrier generates it when you ask, and you give it to the new carrier as proof that you have permission to move the number. Call your current carrier's customer service line or log into your account online to request it. Most carriers generate the code when ready, though some take up to 24 hours.

Write down the code as soon as you receive it, because it usually expires after 30 days. You will also need your account number, which appears on your bill or in your account settings. Have both pieces of information ready before you contact the new carrier, because you will need to provide them during signup.

If you are on a family plan, only the account holder can request the transfer code. If you are not the account holder, ask the person who is to request it for you, or ask them to add you as an authorized user so you can request it yourself.

Checking whether your phone works on the new network

Cell phone networks use different technology, and not every phone works on every network. The three major carriers in the United States are Verizon, AT&T, and T-Mobile, and each uses slightly different technology. Before you switch, check the new carrier's website to see if your phone is compatible. Enter your phone's model number (found in Settings on most phones), and the website will tell you whether it will work.

If your phone does not work on the new network, you have two options: buy a new phone from the new carrier, or buy one separately and bring it with you. New carriers often discount phones when you sign a contract, so compare the carrier's price to the price of buying the phone outright elsewhere. If you buy a phone separately, make sure it is unlocked — a locked phone only works on the carrier that sold it.

If you are switching from a very old phone, the new carrier may not support it even if it technically works, because older networks are being shut down. Ask the new carrier's customer service whether your specific phone model will work before you commit to switching.

Signing up with the new carrier

Contact the new carrier online, by phone, or in person at a store. Tell them you want to switch and keep your current number. They will ask for your transfer code and account number from your old carrier. Provide both, then choose your plan and any new phone you want to buy. The new carrier will process the switch, which usually takes three to seven days.

During this time, your old service is still active. Do not cancel your old account yet — wait until the new carrier confirms that your number has been transferred and your new service is working. This prevents a gap where you have no service at all.

The new carrier will give you a new SIM card (a small chip that connects your phone to the network) if you are keeping your old phone. Insert it into your phone, and follow the setup instructions they provide. If you bought a new phone from the new carrier, it will come with the SIM card already installed.

What happens during the transfer period

Once you sign up with the new carrier, the transfer process begins. During this time, calls and texts may route unpredictably — some might go to your old carrier, some to your new one. This usually lasts only a few hours, but can take up to a day. Avoid making important calls during this period if possible.

The new carrier will send you a text or email when the transfer is complete and your new service is active. At that point, your old service stops automatically. Test your new phone by making a call and sending a text to confirm everything works.

If the transfer fails, the new carrier will contact you with the reason. Common reasons include a typo in the transfer code, an account number mismatch, or an outstanding balance on your old account. Fix the issue and try again, or contact your old carrier's customer service for help.

Cancelling your old account

After your new service is confirmed working, contact your old carrier and cancel your account. This stops any charges from continuing. Ask whether you owe an early termination fee — if you signed a contract with your old carrier and are cancelling before the contract ends, they may charge you a fee. The amount varies by carrier and how much time is left on your contract.

Request a final bill showing that your account is closed and any remaining balance. Keep this for your records. Some carriers mail a final bill, while others email it or make it available in your online account.

If you have a balance on your old account, you can usually pay it by phone or online. Paying it before you cancel may help you avoid late fees, though the final bill will show what you owe regardless.

Bringing your own phone versus buying a new one

If you already own a phone that works on the new network, bringing it with you saves money. You only pay for the service plan, not a new device. Make sure the phone is unlocked before you switch — contact your old carrier and ask them to unlock it. Unlocking is usually free and takes a few minutes.

If you buy a new phone from the new carrier, they often discount it when you sign a contract. Compare this price to buying the same phone outright from a retailer like Best Buy or Amazon. Sometimes the carrier's deal is better, sometimes it is not. Also consider whether you want to be locked into a contract — if you buy the phone outright, you can switch carriers again more easily later.

Some carriers also offer trade-in credits if you bring your old phone with you. Ask about this when you sign up, because it can reduce the cost of a new phone or lower your first bill.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I keep my phone number when I switch carriers?

Yes. Request a transfer code from your current carrier, then give it to the new carrier during signup. The new carrier will move your number to their network during the transfer process, which takes three to seven days. Your number stays the same throughout.

What if my phone does not work on the new carrier's network?

Check the new carrier's website to confirm compatibility before you switch. If your phone does not work, buy a new one from the new carrier or purchase an unlocked phone separately. Make sure any phone you buy separately is unlocked, or it will not work on the new network.

Do I have to pay an early termination fee?

Only if you signed a contract with your old carrier and are cancelling before the contract ends. The fee amount varies by carrier. Check your contract or call your old carrier to find out whether you owe one before you switch.

What if the transfer fails?

The new carrier will contact you with the reason, usually a typo in the transfer code or account number. Fix the issue and try again, or call your old carrier's customer service for help. Transfers rarely fail if you provide the correct information.

How long does the whole process take?

From the moment you sign up with the new carrier, the transfer usually takes three to seven days. During this time, your old service stays active. Once the new carrier confirms your service is working, you can cancel your old account.