How to switch phone carriers: 6 tips

The process to switch phone carriers was once long and drawn out. It often required you to contact your current carrier, cancel your plan, swap out the SIM card, and start service with a new provider.

Switching cell phone providers is easier today thanks to options like eSIMs. An eSIM, or embedded subscriber identity module, allows your device to connect to a wireless network without a physical SIM card, making it easier to activate compatible wireless service when switching.

• You can often keep your current phone number when switching carriers, as long as your existing service is still active during the transfer.
• Many phones can move with you to a new carrier, but the device may need to be unlocked and compatible with the new network.
• If your phone isn’t fully paid off, you may need to settle the remaining balance before it can be unlocked or used with a new carrier.
• Comparing phone plans before you switch can help you choose an option that better fits your data needs, budget, and lifestyle.

Before you switch to a new carrier, it helps to understand the process to ensure you don’t lose service or access to your phone.

1. Transfer your old number

Long gone are the days when you had to get a new number when you wanted to switch phone carriers. In many cases, you can transfer your current number to your new carrier. Make sure your current phone plan is still active when you initiate a number transfer (also called porting). Don’t cancel your current plan before you set up service with your new carrier.

Have your current account information ready to give to your new carrier to expedite your transfer. You’ll need the name on your current plan (either your name or the primary account holder’s name on a family plan), your account number, and a port-out PIN or account passcode (if applicable).

Once you provide this information to your new carrier, they can ​activate your new wireless plan.

2. See if you can keep your device 

Many carriers let you bring your own device (BYOD) as long as it is compatible. However, if you want to upgrade to a new phone, your new service provider may have options available to suit your needs. You can check with a carrier to learn more about any upgrade deals to help you get a phone that fits your needs and lifestyle.

While many devices are compatible across multiple networks, there are still some that aren’t. You can check your device compatibility on your new carrier’s website to make sure your phone will work there. If not, you may need to choose a new smartphone.

3. Have your current carrier unlock your phone

If your device is eligible, your current carrier can unlock it for use with your new carrier. Most carriers can do this over the phone or online. Contact your current provider to have your phone unlocked before switching to a new provider. Depending on your device and carrier, you may need to replace your SIM card or activate an eSIM.

4. Make sure your phone is paid off

Many providers offer installment plans to split the cost of a phone into monthly payments. However, if you still owe a balance on your phone, you may need to pay it off before your current carrier unlocks it. Otherwise, you may need to purchase a new phone or use a different unlocked phone.

You’ll also want to make sure there aren’t any early termination fees. In some cases, your new carrier may offer a promotion that helps cover early termination fees or remaining device payments, but terms vary.

5. Make sure the data on your phone is backed up

Transferring contacts, photos, videos, and files is easier than ever through a device-to-device transfer or a cloud account. Still, it’s a good idea to protect data on your mobile device by backing it up. Before you start the process, back up your phone data to a cloud service or your computer for safekeeping.

6. Choose the best phone plan for you

We make it easy to bring or trade in your phone to AT&T. Once you’re ready, you’ll need to choose a plan that fits your needs. Our wireless plans are made for the way you live. You can choose an Unlimited Your Way plan just for you or mix and match plans with family savings.¹

Compare our wireless plans based on your budget, data usage, and the features that matter most to you. We also offer a plan for our customers who are 55+. And all of our plans come with AT&T ActiveArmor® mobile security to help protect your data.²

If you don’t need an unlimited postpaid plan, an AT&T prepaid phone plan may be a better fit. Not sure which option to choose? See how a prepaid phone plan compares with a postpaid phone plan before deciding.

When you’re ready to switch and save, explore the latest phones and choose the combination of device and plan that works for you.

Connecting changes everything, and we’re here to help keep you connected.