How to Upgrade a Prepaid Phone
If you have a prepaid cell phone and would like to upgrade it to a contract phone, you are in luck. You can use your current prepaid cell phone, or you may be able to use your previous one. You only need a few items to get started and an idea of what kind of plan you would like to upgrade to.
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Instructions
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1
Remove the SIM card from near the battery pack in the back of the cell phone. Write down the numbers located on the SIM card and the number under the battery pack, which is called the IME number. Your cell phone company may require this information.
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2
Go to a cell phone store, and choose the plan you would like. If you do not live near a phone store, you can find cell phone plans online, or call your wireless provider to inquire about upgrade options.
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3
Choose the upgrade option you want and give your previous account information to the customer service agent along with your current phone number. If you would like to keep your phone number, make sure to let the agent know right away.
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4
Choose to keep your handset. Your service provider will send you a new SIM card, which will house all of your new account details, including your phone number.
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5
Insert the new SIM card into the back of your old handset. Your account details should automatically be saved on your phone.
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6
Choose a free phone or discounted phone according to your service plan, if you cannot have the SIM only option. The service provider will ship the phone to you along with the new SIM card and welcome package. Put the new SIM into your old phone.
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Tips & Warnings
In some instances, you will not be able to use your prepaid number and will instead be given a new number when you upgrade.
You may be asked to provide your social security number, date of birth or identification card number for a credit check before the phone can be upgraded. Also, you may have to pay a deposit or activation fee in order to complete the upgrade.
You can only use your current provider if you wish to upgrade using your current handset.
