Quick guide
Keep your number in 4 easy steps
Text PAC to 65075
Send it from the phone whose number you want to keep. It's free, and your code arrives by text within a minute.
Choose your new deal
Pick a SIM only plan or a new phone contract with the network you want to join.
Give the PAC code to your new network
Enter it at checkout or when you activate your new SIM. Your code lasts 30 days.
Put in your new SIM on switch day
Your number moves across, usually within one working day. Your old plan ends automatically.
Don't cancel your old contract yourself — you could lose your number. Want a new number instead? Text STAC to 75075.
Before you switch: three quick checks
1. Check your contract end date and any early exit fee. Text INFO to 85075 for free — your current network replies with your contract end date and any charge for leaving early.
2. Check your phone is unlocked if you are keeping it. Phones bought from a network before December 2021 may still be locked; ask your network to unlock it, which is usually free.
3. Check coverage where you live and work using the new network's own postcode checker.
Switching to a SIM only plan
Text PAC to 65075 from the phone you want to move. Order your new SIM only plan and enter the PAC code during checkout, or when you activate the SIM. The new network tells you the switch date.
Put the new SIM in on switch day. You may have a short gap of a few hours without calls or texts while the number moves. Your old plan ends automatically on the switch date — do not cancel it yourself first, or you could lose the number.
Switching with a new phone contract
Text PAC to 65075, then order your new phone contract online, by phone or in a shop and give the code when asked. Most networks let you pick a switch date once the new phone has arrived.
If your old contract included a phone, you must still pay any remaining device instalments — the PAC only ends the airtime part. Back up your old phone before you hand it on or trade it in.
Leaving without keeping your number
If you want a brand-new number, text STAC to 75075 instead. You get a code to give your new network, and your old service ends when the new one starts. Either way you do not need to phone your old network or argue with a retentions team.
Your rights when you switch
Under Ofcom rules your old network must send the code by text within one minute, free of charge. You cannot be charged for a notice period after your switch date. Valid early exit fees and remaining handset payments still apply.
The code lasts 30 days. If it expires, simply text PAC to 65075 again for a new one.
Frequently asked questions
How do I get a PAC code?
Text PAC to 65075 from the phone whose number you want to keep. It is free and the code arrives by text, normally straight away.
How long does a number transfer take?
Usually one working day after the new network receives your PAC code.
How long is a PAC code valid?
30 days. Text PAC to 65075 again if it expires.
Should I cancel my old contract first?
No. Your old service ends automatically on the switch date. Cancelling first can mean losing your number.
Can I switch while still in contract?
Yes, but you may pay an early exit fee and any remaining phone instalments. Text INFO to 85075 to find out.
Does it cost anything to get a PAC code?
No. Requesting a PAC or STAC code by text is free.
Official sources
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