Before you switch
- Exit fees: if you’re still in your minimum term, check what you’ll pay. Sometimes a new deal still works out cheaper overall.
- Email addresses: if you use your provider’s email address, check whether you can keep it (sometimes for a fee) and update your accounts.
- Bundles: leaving one part of a bundle can change the price of the rest.
- Equipment: you may need to return the old router or TV box.
Switching in the US
In the US, you keep your mobile number by asking your new carrier to port it. You’ll usually need your account number and a number transfer PIN from your current carrier. For home internet, you normally cancel the old service yourself once the new one works, and return any rented equipment to avoid fees. See our US guide.
Switching in the EU
EU rules give you the right to keep your number, with porting completed within one working day of the agreed date, and limit consumer contracts to an initial commitment of no more than 24 months. Your new provider leads the switch. See our Europe guide.
Last updated: 14 October 2026
