You Don't Have to Lose Your Number When You Switch
One of the most common reasons people stay with a carrier they're unhappy with is the fear of losing their phone number. The good news: you don't have to. By law, wireless carriers are required to allow customers to transfer — or "port" — their existing number to a new carrier. It's called number portability, and it's been in place since 2003.
At TeleTech Wireless in West Haven, CT, we handle number porting every day. Most transfers complete within a few hours, and many are same-day. Here's exactly how the process works.
Step-by-Step: How to Switch Carriers and Keep Your Number
Step 1: Do NOT cancel your current service
This is the most important rule. If you cancel your account before initiating the port, your number may be permanently lost. Keep your current service active until your new carrier has successfully taken over your number.
Step 2: Get your account number and PIN from your current carrier
Your new carrier needs these to initiate the port request. Your account number is usually found on your monthly bill. Your port-out PIN may be different from your account password — call your current carrier to confirm it or set one if you haven't already.
Step 3: Choose your new carrier and plan
Visit TeleTech Wireless and compare plans from Simple Mobile, Mint Mobile, Ultra Mobile, T-Mobile, AT&T, Verizon, Cricket Wireless, and others. Our team checks coverage for your specific area in West Haven or New Haven County and recommends the best fit for your needs.
Step 4: Initiate the port request
Our team submits the port request to your new carrier with your current account number and PIN. The new carrier contacts your current carrier electronically to begin the transfer.
Step 5: Wait for port completion
Most ports complete within 1 to 4 hours. During this time, your current service continues to work normally. You'll receive a confirmation once the transfer is complete and your new SIM is fully active.
Important: Do not restart or remove your SIM during the porting process. Once confirmed complete, insert your new SIM (or activate eSIM) and your existing number will ring on your new carrier immediately.
Common Questions About Number Porting
Does it cost extra to keep my number?
No. Number porting is free. Carriers are legally required to allow it at no additional charge.
What if I'm still under contract?
You can still port your number. However, your current carrier may charge an early termination fee (ETF) if you're under a postpaid contract. Prepaid plans have no such fees — another advantage of prepaid wireless.
Can I keep my number if I'm switching from postpaid to prepaid?
Yes, absolutely. Porting works regardless of the account type — postpaid to prepaid, prepaid to postpaid, or prepaid to prepaid.
Switch Carriers at TeleTech Wireless in West Haven, CT
TeleTech Wireless handles the entire porting process for you. Stop by our store at 226 Captain Thomas Boulevard, West Haven, CT — bring your current phone, account number, and port PIN, and we'll take care of the rest. Most transfers complete the same day.