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How to upgrade your mobile phone contract in the UK

Last updated: 22 October 2026

Upgrading means ending your current phone contract and starting a new one — either with the same network or a different one. Done at the right time it gets you a new phone for less; done too early it can cost you hundreds in exit fees. This guide walks you through it step by step.

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Step 1: Find out where you stand with your current contract

Before anything else, find your contract end date and what you still owe. The quickest way is to text INFO to 85075 — free, instant, and it does not commit you to anything. Your network must reply with your end date, any early exit charge and any notice period.

You can also check in your network's app or online account. If your handset and airtime are separate agreements (a split contract), check the device plan balance too — that is the figure that matters for upgrading early.

Step 2: Decide whether to upgrade or switch

Upgrading with your current network is the simplest route: you keep your number automatically and there is no switching paperwork. But loyalty rarely gets the best price — networks often save their sharpest deals for new customers.

Switching to a different network takes one extra step (moving your number, covered in step 5) but opens up every deal on the market. Always price both routes before you decide.

Step 3: Compare the total cost, not the monthly price

Multiply the monthly payment by the number of months and add any upfront cost. That total is the only fair way to compare two upgrade offers — a low monthly figure over a long device plan can cost more than a higher one over a shorter term.

Also price the alternative: buy the phone outright (or with trade-in credit) and pair it with a cheap SIM only plan. Over two years this is frequently the cheapest way to upgrade, and it keeps you free to move networks whenever you like.

Step 4: Check what leaving early would cost

If your contract has not ended, leaving early normally means paying the remaining months or the outstanding device balance. Ask your network for the exact early-termination figure in writing before you commit to anything.

The cheapest moment to upgrade is usually the last month of your contract, or the day your device plan is paid off. Some networks offer early-upgrade schemes that waive part of the balance in return for a new contract — read what you are signing up to, because these reset your tie-in period.

Step 5: Move your number (only if you switch network)

Text PAC to 65075 to get your switching code free and instantly, then give it to your new network when you order. Your number moves across, normally within one working day, and your old contract cancels automatically.

If you want to leave without keeping your number, text STAC to 75075 instead. Either way, do not cancel your old contract yourself — the code does it for you and avoids double-paying.

Step 6: Get value from your old phone

Your old handset is worth money. Networks, manufacturers and specialist recyclers all offer trade-in credit, and a phone in good condition can take a serious chunk off the cost of the new one. Get quotes from more than one buyer — prices vary widely.

Before you hand it over, back up your photos and contacts, sign out of your accounts, and factory-reset the phone.

Your rights when you upgrade

If you order online or by phone you normally have 14 days to change your mind under distance-selling rules — check the network's returns policy for the exact terms.

Since January 2025, networks must show any mid-contract price rise in pounds and pence when you sign up, so check the figure before agreeing. Phone contracts involve a credit check because the handset is financed. CompareDirect is not a credit broker or lender and gives no financial advice — we list advertised terms and link you to the network to buy.

Frequently asked questions

When can I upgrade my phone contract?

Most networks let you upgrade in the last 30 days of your contract without any exit fee. Earlier than that you normally pay the remaining device balance, unless your network runs a specific early-upgrade scheme.

Is it cheaper to upgrade or switch network?

Switching is often cheaper because networks save their best prices for new customers. Price your network's upgrade offer against the market total — monthly price times months plus upfront cost — before you decide.

Do I keep my number when I upgrade?

If you stay with the same network, yes, automatically. If you switch, text PAC to 65075 and give the code to your new network — your number moves, usually within one working day.

What happens if I upgrade early?

You normally pay off the rest of your device plan, either as a lump sum or rolled into a new agreement. Always ask for the exact early-termination figure in writing first.

Can I upgrade if I have a split contract?

Yes — in fact split contracts make it clearer. Once the device plan is paid off, your monthly cost should drop to the airtime only, and you can upgrade the handset or move the airtime to a cheaper SIM only deal.

Will upgrading affect my credit score?

A new phone contract usually involves a new credit check, which leaves a mark on your credit file. Upgrading with the same network may reuse an existing agreement — ask before you apply.

Should I trade in my old phone?

Usually yes. Trade-in credit from the network, the manufacturer or a recycler can cut the cost of upgrading significantly. Compare a few quotes, and wipe the phone before you send it.

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Listings are dated snapshots of providers' own pages, not live prices, and CompareDirect does not sell the products we list. We are not a credit broker or lender and give no financial advice.