Difficulty: Moderately Easy
Step1
Call your local phone company to see if you can close your phone account and receive a new number (if desired). If you do not want a new number, simply close your home telephone account.
Do not forget about items such as Internet, Cell phone and satellite dish services you may have bundled with the account.
You could lose your discount, email tied to your Internet service, or even repair services if you end phone service.
Step2
Call your cell phone provider and tell them you have a number you would like to port to your current handset. It should take anywhere from a few minutes to a few days. This depends on your cell phone provider.
Step3
Your cell phone number will cease to exist, so be sure to inform your contacts ahead of time. The good news is you can take your time handing out your new home number, because your old home number calls will go right to your cell phone.
Step4
Once you have completed the transfer process, inquire if there are any fees for setting up a new phone number and Internet account (if needed). Give your new phone number out to those who call you the most. Make sure your children and neighbors know this number, in case of emergency.
Comments
Lindaperry said
on 9/4/2008 Now that is great advice. Interesting article. Five stars * * * * *
SocialNetwork said
on 8/29/2008 ...with the difference of it being a cell number being ported from a contract carrier to the Virgin Mobile phone on a $30 "Minute Pack" as the destination phone. How do the rules differ (if any) coming from a cell carrier as opposed to a landline carrier?
SocialNetwork said
on 8/29/2008 Why not?
"Do not try this if you are using a disposable or rechargeable type "go" phone. Only use for permanent cell phone carriers where you receive a monthly bill and/or have a contract."
This person seemed to be successful with porting to a Virgin Mobile phone on a $30 "Minute Pack":
http://blogs.technet.com/keithcombs/archive/2008/08/14/porting-your-phone-number-can-be-fun.aspx
amylaine said
on 7/8/2008 Thanks for the info