SIM Only Deals with Unlimited Minutes

Frequently asked questions

• 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.

• 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.

• 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 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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