Switching mobile networks doesn’t have to be a hassle, but it can feel overwhelming, especially when you’re trying to hold onto your beloved phone number. After all, we’ve all grown attached to our phone numbers—it’s more than just digits. It’s the number you’ve shared with family, friends, colleagues, and even your bank. So, understandably, the thought of losing it when switching to a new provider can feel daunting. The good news? Switching your network while keeping your number is simpler than ever, thanks to PAC codes.
A PAC (Porting Authorization Code) code is your golden ticket to keeping your number while transitioning to a new provider. This nine-character code allows you to easily move your number from your current network to another. Think of it as your number’s passport—allowing you to travel between providers without having to leave anything behind. No more awkwardly messaging all your contacts with “This is my new number” updates!
Why switch networks?
Before diving into how to use a PAC code, you might be wondering why switching networks could benefit you. There are many reasons people choose to switch mobile providers. Perhaps you’re looking for better coverage in your area—there’s nothing worse than dropped calls in the middle of an important conversation. Or maybe you’ve found a better deal elsewhere, offering you more data or lower prices for the same or better service. Switching networks can also be the perfect opportunity to upgrade your phone plan or explore better options for roaming and international calls.
Whatever the reason, using a PAC code gives you the flexibility to make the switch without the inconvenience of changing your number. It’s empowering to know that you’re not tied to one provider just because of your phone number. So, if you’re considering a switch to a provider that offers faster speeds, better coverage, or more affordable rates—go for it!
What is a PAC code, and why do you need one?
You might be wondering, “What exactly is a PAC code?” and “How does the whole thing work?” Don’t worry! We’ll cover everything you need to know about PAC codes—from requesting one to using it to switch networks and all the little details in between.
A PAC code is essentially a security measure that ensures your number isn’t transferred to another network without your consent. It’s a simple, yet powerful way to control your mobile number when changing providers. Think of it as a protective layer—without it, your number would be at the mercy of whoever wanted to claim it. But with a PAC code, only you have the authority to move your number to a new home.
In practical terms, a PAC code is necessary because mobile networks need to “authorize” the transfer of your number. When you provide your PAC code to your new provider, they use it to inform your old provider that you’re leaving—and taking your number with you. This ensures that the transition happens smoothly and your number remains intact during the switch.
When should you request a PAC code?
You should request a PAC code when you’re absolutely ready to switch providers but don’t want to lose your current phone number. It’s important to note that PAC codes are valid for 30 days, which means once you get it, you need to act fast. If you don’t use it within that timeframe, it will expire, and you’ll have to request a new one.
So, timing is key. Don’t request your PAC code too early if you’re just exploring options, but don’t wait too long either if you’re serious about making the switch. Having everything ready—your new plan, a compatible phone, and your PAC code—ensures a smooth transition without any hiccups.
How to request a PAC code
Getting a PAC code is easier than ever. In the UK, all you need to do is text “PAC” to 65075, and your current provider will respond with your PAC code, along with any important details about fees or outstanding charges on your account. This text service is free, and you’ll typically receive your PAC code within minutes.
Alternatively, you can request a PAC code through your provider’s customer service line or through their online portal or mobile app. However, the text option is by far the quickest and most convenient method. Once you’ve received your PAC code, you’re ready to proceed with your switch.
How do PAC codes work?
PAC codes function as a bridge between two mobile networks. When you decide to switch providers, you request a PAC code from your current provider. Once you’ve received it, you give that code to your new network, and they use it to port your number over. This process usually takes about 1-2 business days, during which your phone might experience brief service interruptions.
But here’s the important part: PAC codes are only valid for 30 days. That means once you request one, you have a month to give it to your new provider before it expires. If it does expire, you can always request a new one, but to avoid any unnecessary delays, it’s best to act within that 30-day window.
How to get your PAC code
Getting a PAC code from your provider is easy, and there are multiple ways to go about it. The quickest and most convenient method is by texting your provider. In the UK, you can text ‘PAC’ to 65075, and your PAC code will be sent back to you almost instantly. It’s a free service, and there’s no need to speak with customer service.
If you prefer other methods, many providers allow you to request a PAC code through their mobile app or online account portal. You can also call customer service directly, though this might take a bit longer. For example, EE customers can request their PAC code through the app or by calling EE directly. No matter which route you choose, the process is smooth and free of charge—mobile providers are legally obligated to provide your PAC code when requested.
How to check if there’s anything to pay on your account
Before making the switch, it’s a good idea to check whether you owe your current provider any outstanding fees. If you’re on a contract, there could be early termination charges if you leave before the end of your contract term. These charges vary depending on how much time is left on your contract, so be sure to check your terms carefully.
Most mobile providers make it easy to view any remaining balances or termination fees. You can log into your account on their website or mobile app, or give customer service a quick call to confirm if you owe anything. If you’re on a Pay As You Go (PAYG) plan, you don’t have to worry about contract fees, but you will want to use up any remaining credit before switching, as it won’t transfer to your new provider.
Checking for any outstanding balances helps avoid unexpected bills down the road. There’s nothing worse than thinking you’ve switched successfully, only to receive a surprise bill for an early exit fee!
What if you’re on Pay As You Go?
Switching with a Pay As You Go (PAYG) plan is a fairly straightforward process, similar to switching from a contract plan, but there is one key distinction: your credit doesn’t follow you. Any remaining balance on your PAYG account stays with your old provider, which means you could end up losing out if you’ve topped up recently. To avoid this, make sure to use up your credit before requesting your PAC code. For example, consider using it for a quick purchase, stocking up on mobile data, or enjoying some extra minutes on calls. Essentially, find ways to maximize that balance, so you don’t leave any money behind.
Although it’s rare, some networks may offer refunds on unused credit, but this usually depends on the specific terms and conditions of your provider. It’s always worth checking with customer service. As one savvy mobile user put it, “It’s better to check with your provider to see if they offer any sort of credit refund before switching, just in case there’s a chance to recoup your funds.” However, don’t count on this as a guarantee. Your safest bet is to make the most of your existing credit before making the switch.
What happens to unused bundles or packages?
If you’re on a PAYG plan with active bundles—such as a data package or a call minutes deal—those won’t transfer either. This means if you’ve recently purchased a bundle, you’ll lose access to it once you switch networks. Before initiating the switch, assess the value of any remaining bundles. You might want to time your switch at the end of your bundle’s cycle to avoid wasting any data or minutes you’ve already paid for.
Does it cost anything to get a PAC code?
No! The good news is that requesting and using a PAC code is entirely free. Mobile providers are legally required to issue PAC codes without charging any fees, whether you request it via text, phone, or online through their customer portal. This is part of a consumer protection regulation that ensures switching providers remains a simple and affordable process for everyone.
So, when you’re ready to switch, you can rest easy knowing that there are no hidden costs associated with keeping your number. In fact, providers are not only required to give you the PAC code for free, but they must also do so quickly—usually within a few minutes if you request via text or within a couple of hours if you call customer service. The entire process is designed to be as smooth and cost-effective as possible, giving you the freedom to move between networks without worrying about extra charges.
That said, while the PAC code itself is free, be mindful of any fees associated with terminating your existing contract early. If you’re still under contract, your current provider may charge an early termination fee for leaving before the agreed-upon date. It’s always a good idea to review your contract or speak with your provider to clarify any potential costs before making the switch.
How to use your PAC code
After you’ve successfully obtained your PAC code, the next step is to pass it to your new mobile provider. This can typically be done during the sign-up process for your new plan or when you’re activating your new SIM card. The PAC code is like a golden key that ensures your phone number makes the transition smoothly from your old provider to the new one. It’s important to double-check that the code has been entered correctly to avoid any delays or issues with the transfer. Once you provide the code, the rest of the process is handled by your new provider.
Usually, the number transfer process takes about 1-2 working days. During this time, you might experience a brief disruption in service. This could mean that for a few hours, you may not be able to receive calls or texts, but don’t worry—this is completely normal. It’s simply the time it takes for your number to move from one network to another. Some providers even offer an exact window during which the switch will occur, allowing you to plan ahead.
After the number transfer is completed, your new provider will send you a confirmation message. At this point, you’re all set and can start using your phone as usual. It’s a good idea to test your new service immediately by making a call or sending a text message. If everything is working fine, you can rest assured that your number has successfully ported over. If something feels off, don’t hesitate to contact your new provider for assistance.
How long does it take to switch?
Switching mobile networks using a PAC code is typically a fast process, but it’s important to understand the timing nuances involved. For most people, the switch happens within 24-48 hours of providing their PAC code to the new provider. This timeframe is standard across all major networks, and in some cases, the process may even be quicker. However, there are a few factors that can affect how long it takes, such as weekends and bank holidays. Providers don’t process number transfers on these days, so if you request your PAC code late on a Friday, you might not see the switch completed until Monday or Tuesday.
It’s also common to experience a brief service outage while the switch is happening. This interruption is usually only a few hours, but it can still catch you off guard if you’re not prepared for it. During this time, you may not be able to make calls or send texts, and your data connection might be disrupted. This is nothing to worry about—it’s just part of the process as your old provider disconnects your number and your new provider takes it over.
To minimize any inconvenience, it’s a good idea to request your PAC code and start the transfer process during a time when you won’t need your phone for anything urgent. Midweek switches often provide the fastest turnaround and ensure that your service downtime is minimal.
What to expect when the switch happens
When the switch is complete, your new provider will notify you via text or email that your number has successfully ported over to their network. At this point, you’ll want to insert your new SIM card into your phone (if you haven’t done so already), and restart the device. This allows your phone to connect to the new network and activate all the necessary settings.
Once your phone restarts, test it by making a call or sending a text. This will confirm that the number has been transferred correctly and that your phone is fully operational on the new network. If everything is working as expected, congratulations! You’ve successfully switched networks while keeping your number. If you encounter any issues, such as not being able to receive calls or send texts, it’s important to contact your new provider’s customer service as soon as possible. Most problems can be resolved quickly, but it’s always better to address them right away.
Sometimes, certain features like mobile data or visual voicemail might not work properly after the switch. This can usually be fixed by adjusting your phone’s settings or updating the Access Point Name (APN) configuration. Your new provider can guide you through any adjustments that might be needed.
What happens to your Pay As You Go balance?
If you’re switching from a Pay As You Go (PAYG) plan, it’s crucial to remember that any remaining credit you have won’t transfer to your new provider. Once your PAC code is used and the switch is complete, any unused credit will likely be lost unless your provider offers a refund—though this is rare. Most PAYG users find themselves with a small balance left on their accounts when switching, and losing this money can be frustrating.
To avoid wasting your remaining credit, make sure to use it before initiating the switch. This could mean buying extra data, calling loved ones, or even purchasing apps and media from your provider’s store if they offer that option. It’s better to maximize the value of your balance than to let it expire along with your old service.
While a few networks might offer a credit refund upon request, this isn’t a guarantee, and you’ll need to contact customer service to explore this possibility. In most cases, it’s simpler to assume that your remaining balance won’t carry over and plan accordingly.
Can I switch my number if it’s disconnected?
A common question many users have is whether they can still port their number if it has been disconnected by their current provider. Unfortunately, the answer is no—once a number has been disconnected, it’s no longer eligible for porting using a PAC code. This is because a PAC code can only be issued for active numbers. If your account has been terminated or your number has been deactivated, you’ve lost the option to transfer that number to a new network.
To prevent this situation, make sure your account is in good standing when requesting your PAC code. If you’ve missed payments or your account is at risk of being shut down, it’s vital to resolve these issues before starting the switch process. This ensures that you can smoothly transition to your new provider without losing your phone number in the process.
What happens if my PAC code expires?
PAC codes are valid for 30 days from the time they’re issued. If you don’t use the code within that period, it will expire, and you’ll need to request a new one from your provider. Fortunately, there are no penalties or fees for letting a PAC code expire, so if life gets in the way and you miss the deadline, don’t stress. Simply text or call your provider again to request a new code, and you’ll be back on track.
The process for getting a new PAC code is exactly the same as the first time, and your provider is legally obligated to issue you a fresh code upon request. There’s no need to worry about extra charges or complications if you need a replacement PAC code—just be aware that the switching process will only begin once the code is used.
If you anticipate any delays in completing your switch, it’s a good idea to set a reminder so you can use your PAC code before it expires. This way, you won’t need to go through the hassle of requesting a new one.
Transferring your contacts, apps, and data
Switching networks doesn’t just involve your phone number—your contacts, apps, and personal data also need to make the transition. Thankfully, modern smartphones have made this process much easier with cloud backup services. Whether you’re using an iPhone or an Android device, you can back up all your essential information to the cloud, ensuring that nothing is lost during the switch.
For iPhone users, iCloud offers seamless backup and restore functionality. You can back up everything from contacts to photos, apps, and even settings. Once you sign in to your iCloud account on your new device, all your data will be restored as if nothing changed. Android users have access to Google’s backup services, which similarly store your contacts, apps, and data in the cloud, ready to be restored when you sign into your Google account on a new device.
Before you switch, it’s a good idea to manually back up your data to ensure nothing is missed. Even though most smartphones offer automatic backups, double-checking gives you peace of mind. If something does go wrong during the switch, a cloud backup ensures you can restore your data quickly and easily.
Conclusion
With your PAC code in hand, you’re ready to make the switch! Your next step is to give this code to your new provider. They will handle everything from there—communicating with your old network, porting your number, and ensuring your service is switched seamlessly. The entire process generally takes about 1-2 business days, and during that time, your phone might experience brief service interruptions (usually only a few hours).
What’s great is that most providers nowadays make the switch so painless that you won’t even have to think about it. You’ll usually receive a notification once your number has been successfully transferred, allowing you to continue using your phone as if nothing changed—except, of course, that you’re now enjoying the benefits of your new provider.
So, whether you’re eyeing a better deal, faster data speeds, or simply want to switch to a provider with better customer service, don’t let the fear of losing your number hold you back. Switching mobile networks with a PAC code gives you the freedom to find the best deal for your needs without the hassle of starting from scratch with a new phone number.
As the famous author Anthony J. D’Angelo once said, “When you stop changing, you stop growing.” This applies just as much to your mobile network as it does to life. So don’t hesitate—take control of your number, switch providers, and keep growing!
