How to switch to a cheaper phone plan without losing your number

1. Check what you actually use

Look at your last few bills for data usage. Many people pay for far more data than they use. Your phone's settings also show data used per month, and how much of it was on Wi-Fi. Try our Phone Plan Savings Calculator to see what switching could save.

• Under a few GB a month: a basic prepaid plan may be plenty.
• Heavy streaming or hotspot use: compare unlimited plans, and check what happens after a set amount of priority data.
• Several lines: compare per-line prices, since family discounts vary.

2. Compare prepaid and low-cost plans

Prepaid carriers often run on the same major networks. Compare coverage in your area before switching. Check whether the advertised price includes taxes and fees, needs autopay, or requires paying several months up front.

3. Check your phone and your contract

• Is your phone unlocked? If you're still paying it off, you may need to finish payments first.
• Use the new carrier's compatibility checker with your phone's IMEI number.
• Review your current contract for early termination fees or remaining device balances; the FCC notes these may still be owed.

4. See if you qualify for Lifeline

Lifeline is an FCC program that gives eligible low-income households up to $9.25 a month off phone or internet service (up to $34.25 on Tribal lands). You may qualify through income at or below 135% of the Federal Poverty Guidelines or programs like SNAP, Medicaid, SSI, Federal Public Housing Assistance or Veterans Pension benefits. Apply at lifelinesupport.org.

5. Keep your number

Ask your current carrier for a transfer PIN and your account number, then start the switch with the new carrier. Don't cancel your old service first.

The FCC says your old company can't refuse to port your number, even if you owe a balance or termination fee, and simple ports are generally processed within one business day. Moving to a new area can make porting impossible in some cases.

The bottom line

A few minutes of comparison can make a real difference month after month. We hope this helps.