The exact change your phone number cost depends entirely on your carrier and how you request it. With Verizon, changing your number is free if you do it yourself through the My Verizon app or online, but it costs $15 if you call customer service. AT&T charges a $36 fee to change your number if it has been more than 30 days since activation, but the change is free within the first 30 days. T-Mobile typically charges a one-time fee of around $15, though this may be waived for postpaid customers or those facing harassment. Google Voice offers a free process to delete your current number and select a new one, though porting a mobile number into Google Voice costs $20, and unlocking a Google Voice number to port out to a carrier costs $3.
What is the change your phone number cost by carrier?
Below is a direct summary of the fees for major carriers, including when the service is free versus when a charge applies.
- Verizon: Free via the My Verizon app or online; $15 if done through customer service. Some Verizon plans may offer one or two free number changes per year.
- AT&T: Free within the first 30 days of activation; $36 fee after that. AT&T may waive the fee if you're facing harassment or have a valid reason for changing your number.
- T-Mobile: Typically $15, but may be waived for postpaid customers or those with a valid reason like harassment.
- Sprint: Sprint generally charges a fee of $36 to change your phone number.
- Google Voice: Free to delete and select a new number; $20 to port a mobile number into Google Voice; $3 to unlock a Google Voice number to port out.
How to change your phone number with Verizon
You can change your number for free using the self-service method. Follow these steps in the My Verizon app:
- Open the My Verizon app and go to the "Mobile" tab.
- Select "Device Management."
- Choose the current number you want to change.
- Select "Get a new number" and follow the prompts to choose an available number.
If you call Verizon customer service to request the change, a $15 fee will apply. The free self-service option is the best way to avoid that charge.
How to change your phone number with AT&T
AT&T allows you to change your number online for free if you are within the first 30 days of activation. After 30 days, a $36 fee applies. Before starting, you must turn off "Wireless Account Lock" if it is enabled on your account. Here are the steps:
- Log into your wireless account on the AT&T website.
- Navigate to "Device options."
- Select "Change phone number."
- Follow the prompts to choose a new number from the available options.
If you are within the first 30 days, the change is free. After that, the $36 fee will be applied to your next bill.
How to change your Google Voice number
Changing your Google Voice number is a free process that requires deleting your current number and then selecting a new one. To do this:
- Open Google Voice on a computer.
- Go to "Settings," then "Account."
- Click "Delete" under your current number.
- Then click "Get a number" to select a new one from the available options.
If you want to bring a mobile number into Google Voice, it costs $20 to port it in. If you want to take your Google Voice number to another carrier, unlocking it costs $3. This is useful if you want to forward calls from cell phone to Google Voice and then keep that number permanently.
What happens when you change your number
When you change your phone number with most carriers, including AT&T and T-Mobile, all existing voicemail messages are deleted and cannot be transferred. You will also need to update your contacts and any accounts linked to your old number, such as banking apps, two-factor authentication services, and social media. If you are switching carriers entirely, do not cancel your old service until the porting process is fully complete, or you risk losing your number permanently. Also, ensure your device is unlocked and compatible with the new network before making the switch.
Frequently Asked Questions
Are there restrictions on what number I can choose?
Yes, you may be limited to available numbers within your area code or exchange. Some carriers also restrict how often you can change your number, so check your carrier's policy before requesting a change. Some carriers may impose a limit on the frequency with which you can change your number.
How long does it take to change my number?
For most carriers, the change is immediate when done online or through an app. Wireless number transfers between carriers usually complete within a few hours to one business day, while landline transfers can take 2-10 business days. Changing your number can take a waiting period of 24 to 48 hours with some carriers.
What information do I need to verify my identity to change my number?
You will typically need your account number, account password or PIN, and personal identification details like your billing ZIP code. For porting a number to a new carrier, you also need a Number Transfer PIN or security code.
Can I keep my old number if I switch carriers?
Yes, you can port your number to a new carrier. Do not cancel your existing service until the transfer is fully complete, or you will lose the number. You will need your current carrier's account number, billing ZIP code, and a Number Transfer PIN.
What about changing my number on T-Mobile?
To change my number on T-Mobile, you can typically do so online or by contacting customer service. The fee is usually $15, but it may be waived for postpaid customers or if you are a victim of harassment. Check with T-Mobile for your specific options.
Are there any deals for free phones for switching carriers?
Yes, many carriers offer promotions like free phones for switching to their network. These deals often require you to port your number and sign up for a qualifying plan. Always read the terms, as you may need to trade in a device or commit to a contract.
For the wider topic, see changing your phone number.
