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Frequently Asked Questions

Switching mobile networks can be daunting – you know you can save money, but is it worth the hassle? We’ve put together answers to the questions we get asked most often – so don’t let uncertainty put you off!

Frequently asked questions

  • What is a SIM Only deal?▼

    A SIM Only deal means only paying for your minutes, texts and data.

    A contract that includes a new or upgraded phone means you will pay for the full cost of that phone (or more) by the time your contract ends.

    SIM Only deals don’t include this extra cost so, if you already own a phone, you can save hundreds of pounds a year by switching to SIM Only.

    SIM Only deals can be pay monthly or pay as you go. If you use your phone a lot, pay monthly is usually the better option. Pay as you go is ideal for modest phone use – saving you money and giving added flexibility.

  • Can I keep my number when I switch to SIM Only?▼

    Yes. To keep your number with a new SIM you will need to call your current mobile operator and ask for a Porting Authorisation Code (PAC).

    The PAC is a 9-digit number and you should receive it within two working days.

    Use the PAC when buying a SIM Only contract, or afterwards by calling your new provider, to keep your old number.

    Your PAC will expire 30 days after obtaining it, so don’t wait too long.

    You can’t use the number of a disconnected phone, so make sure to change numbers before you cancel your old contract.

  • Do I need a credit check to get a SIM Only deal?▼

    If you have been refused handset contracts due to bad credit, you could be accepted as a SIM Only customer instead.

    The cheapest contracts only require a minimal credit score and can be a good way to improve your credit rating over time.

    Pay-as-you-go (PAYG) SIMs don’t require a credit check, and neither do most short-term 30-day contracts.

    If you’re signing up for a longer term contract, say six or 12 months, it’s likely you’ll be put through a credit check.

    A contract that includes a handset will demand a higher credit score than a SIM Only deal.

  • What happens when my phone contract ends?▼

    When your contract term expires you will ‘roll-over’ to a monthly subscription.

    You’ll be paying the same amount each month, but you’re out of contract so you can leave at any time. You’ll need to give your provider 30 days notice before leaving, so it’s best to plan a switch ahead of time.

    If your contract included a phone, rolling over means you’ll keep paying for it when you don’t have to. Switching to SIM-only when your old contract ends lets you keep your old phone and pay less money each month. You can even keep your old number.

  • How much data do I need?▼

    How much data you need really depends on how you use your phone when you’re out and about, but a data allowance between 2GB and 4GB is suitable for the majority of people.

    Downloading apps, watching YouTube and using Skype or Facetime will eat through your data pretty quickly.

    If you save these tasks for when your phone has a WiFi connection, your data usage will be significantly reduced.

    Automatic updates are also something to watch out for. Your phone can download large files without warning when it automatically keeps apps and the operating system up to date. If you’re not careful, these updates can take up a sizeable chunk of your data.

    Depending on your phone, you may be able to tweak the data usage of specific apps to make sure large files are only downloaded when you’re connected to WiFi.

  • What size SIM (standard/micro/nano) do I need?▼

    The size of SIM card you need depends entirely on your phone.

    Very few modern phones use the standard size, so you’re probably going to need a micro or nano SIM. If you know the make and model of your phone, a quick Google search should tell you what size you need.

    If you do have the wrong size SIM, there’s no need to fret.

    A SIM that’s too small will fit into a bigger socket with the use of an inexpensive adapter (these can cost as little as £1).

    A SIM that’s too big can be fixed with a pair of scissors by simply cutting away the extra plastic. If you’re confident, you can trim a SIM card down yourself by using instructions and templates which can be found online.

    Otherwise, take your SIM card to your local phone shop where a professional can cut it down for you.

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