To change your telephone number with your current carrier, you can often do it yourself online or through the carrier's app, which is typically free and avoids the fees charged for assisted changes.
How to change your telephone number online
The primary method for changing your number with the same carrier is through self-service on their website or mobile app. Only the account holder or an authorized user can request the change. To begin, log into your account and select the specific line or device you want to update. Look for an option like "Change phone number" or "Device options." From there, you can typically choose a new number based on a city, state, or ZIP code. Inquire about the availability of new numbers in your area and any specific requirements or restrictions. Clarify any potential impact on your current plan, such as contract terms, pricing, and bundled services. This self-service method is often free, while requesting the change through customer service may incur a fee.
What happens when you change your number
Changing your number has critical consequences you need to know. All existing voicemail messages are usually deleted, and you will need to set up a new voicemail box. While self-service changes online or via the app are often free, some carriers charge a fee for assisted changes made through customer service. For example, Verizon charges $15 and Bell Mobility charges $50 for this service. For some carriers like Telstra and Bell Mobility, changing your phone number may require contacting customer service directly.
What you need to switch carriers and take your number
If you want to keep your number while switching to a new carrier, a process called porting, you need specific information from your old provider. You will need your active phone number, account number, and a Number Transfer PIN (NTP). Many carriers allow you to generate an NTP through their app or website, for example, Verizon users can dial #PORT, and T-Mobile users can use the T-Life app or Account Hub. For the full process, see the sibling page on porting a number to T-Mobile duration.
How to transfer your number to a new iPhone with eSIM
If your carrier supports eSIM Quick Transfer, you can move your phone number from a previous iPhone to a new one without contacting the carrier. Both devices must be signed into the same Apple Account, be nearby with Bluetooth on, and be running iOS 18.4 or later. If you are transferring an eSIM from an Android or other non-Apple device to an iPhone, you typically need to contact your carrier for eSIM Carrier Activation or a QR code.
Reasons to change your phone number
Common reasons for changing your number include escaping spam or unwanted calls, getting a local area code after a move, and enhancing privacy after a data breach. A new number can also help you rebrand yourself or your business, or provide emotional relief after a breakup or harassment situation.
How to update your contacts and accounts with your new number
After changing your number, the essential follow-up tasks include updating your phone's contact list and changing your number on key online accounts. Start by adding your new number to your phone's contact list and deleting the old entry. Syncing contacts with your email account ensures your new number is updated across all your devices. Then, update your number on important accounts like email, banking, and social media. For critical accounts, contact customer support directly to verify your identity. You should also notify important people in your life and update any physical documents like business cards. Keep your old number active for a while to catch any missed updates from contacts. When changing your phone number on accounts, remember to also focus on updating phone number on apps and subscription services. If you need specific steps for a particular carrier, you can find instructions for how to change my number on T-Mobile through their app or website.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is there a fee to change my number?
Changing your number through self-service online or via the carrier's app is often free. However, requesting the change through customer service may incur a fee, such as $15 from Verizon or $50 from Bell Mobility.
Will I lose my voicemails?
Yes, when you change your number, all existing voicemail messages are usually deleted. You will need to set up a new voicemail box after the change.
Can anyone on my plan change the number?
No, only the account holder or an authorized user can request a number change. This is a security measure to prevent unauthorized changes.
How long does it take to change a telephone number?
The time can vary by carrier and circumstances, but it is typically done within a few hours to a few business days when done through self-service channels.
Can I choose my new telephone number?
Depending on your service provider and availability, you may have the option to choose your new number from a list of available options based on a city, state, or ZIP code.
