You can keep your phone number with Mint Mobile by porting it from your current carrier during activation. The key is to never cancel your old service before the transfer completes, or you will lose your number permanently.
Before you start: do not cancel your old service
This is the most critical rule: do not cancel your old service until your number transfer to Mint Mobile is complete. If you cancel early, your phone number will be lost permanently and cannot be recovered. Keep your current plan active until you receive confirmation that the port is finished.
What you need to keep your phone number with Mint Mobile
To port your number, you will need three pieces of information from your current carrier:
- Account number, This can typically be found on your billing statement or by contacting your current carrier.
- Number Transfer PIN, This is often different from your regular security PIN and may need to be specifically requested from your old carrier.
- Billing ZIP code, The ZIP code associated with your account.
Having these ready before you start will prevent delays.
How to get your Number Transfer PIN from your old carrier
The Number Transfer PIN is not always the same as the PIN you use to log into your account or verify your identity. Many carriers require you to request this PIN specifically for porting purposes. Mint Mobile's "Switch it up" blog provides an A-to-Z list of wireless carriers and instructions on how to find their specific number transfer details, so you can look up your carrier's exact process.
Step 1: purchase a Mint Mobile plan
Before you can transfer your number, you need to purchase a Mint Mobile plan. Choose the plan that fits your needs and complete the purchase. You will initiate the number transfer during the activation process, not before.
Step 2: initiate the transfer during activation
After purchasing your plan, begin activation. During activation, select the option "Transfer My Number" and follow the prompts. You will be asked to enter your current phone number, your previous carrier's name, your account number, and the Number Transfer PIN.
- Your current phone number
- Your previous carrier's name
- Your account number
- Your Number Transfer PIN
Enter each piece of information exactly as it appears on your old carrier's records. Any mismatch can cause delays.
Step 3: wait for confirmation while keeping your old service active
Once you submit the transfer request, the timeline depends on the type of number:
- Most mobile numbers complete within a few hours.
- If any information is submitted incorrectly, the transfer could take up to 48 hours for mobile numbers.
- Landline transfers can take up to five business days.
During this time, keep your old service active. Once the number transfer is successful, Mint Mobile will send you a text and email confirmation. After you receive confirmation, you can safely cancel your old service.
Transferring multiple numbers to Mint Mobile
If you are transferring more than one phone number to Mint Mobile, transfer the non-primary account holder's number first. This prevents you from being locked out of the account for subsequent transfers. After the first number completes, proceed with the remaining numbers.
What to do if your transfer has problems
If your transfer is delayed or fails, the most common cause is incorrect information. Double-check your account number, Number Transfer PIN, and billing ZIP code. If you still have issues, contact Mint Mobile's Care team by calling 800-683-7392 or using their chat service at mintmobile.com/chat.
Mint Mobile does not charge a fee for transferring your number, but your previous carrier might. Check with them before you initiate the port.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I keep my current phone number when switching to Mint Mobile?
Yes, you can bring your current phone number to Mint Mobile by porting it during activation. This is a standard process supported by FCC regulations.
What information do I need to keep my phone number with Mint Mobile?
You need your current account number, a Number Transfer PIN (which may need to be requested separately from your regular PIN), and the billing ZIP code associated with your old account.
How long does it take to transfer my phone number to Mint Mobile?
Most mobile number transfers complete within a few hours. If information is incorrect, it can take up to 48 hours.
Are there any fees to keep my number when I switch to Mint Mobile?
Mint Mobile does not charge a fee for transferring your number. However, your previous carrier might charge a fee, so check with them before starting the port.
Can I transfer a landline number to Mint Mobile?
Yes, Mint Mobile supports landline number transfers. However, landline transfers can take up to five business days to complete.
