How do I change my phone number with Consumer cellular? If you’re considering switching from your current provider to Consumer Cellular, this is probably a question running through your mind.
Well, you’re in the right place.
You’ll first have to notify your current provider to make this change. The following steps involve contacting Consumer Cellular from My Account or the (888) 345-5509 hotline. They will guide you through the process.
Consumer Cellular offers a lot of perks. However, the thought of having to lose your number during the switching process is a turn-off.
I will be guiding you through the best way to switch from your provider to My cellular without changing your number.
Can I Use My Old Phone Number With My New Carrier?
The short answer is yes, you can! I’m sure it is inconvenient to inform all your contacts that you’re using a new line.
It is not only possible to keep your old phone number after switching, but it is made that much easier with Consumer Cellular.
The process, called porting, may vary slightly depending on your previous carrier and geographic location.
Before we look at the procedure, here are some prerequisites:
- Invoice from your current provider.
- Your billing information.
- Address information
- Account passwords and pins.
Which Numbers Can I Use With a New Carrier?
Most carriers allow you to port your mobile phone number as well as landline numbers.
For prepaid numbers, the service must be active at the time you wish to transfer.
Note that you can’t port a number to an already existing line. The line has to be new to give it your old number.
Can I Use My Phone During the Switching Process?
During the switching process, both phone lines are active. However, you can only make outgoing calls with the old carrier.
Incoming calls will only go to the Consumer Cellular devices. This happens until the process is complete.
Your old line then becomes inactive. This is however on a case-by-case basis
How Much Does It Cost To Port My Number?
In theory, some providers may charge a small amount to process the switching, but it rarely happens due to high competition and the fact that most plans don’t require a contract.
Your previous carrier may also charge you any outstanding debt. Ensure you confirm to avoid unknown/hidden charges.
You’ll, however, have to pay for the Consumer Cellular plan you’re switching to before the transfer is processed.
Can My Carrier Refuse a Porting Request?
No. Your previous carrier cannot refuse to switch your number to Consumer Cellular even considering whether or not you have an outstanding balance on your account.
However, my Consumer Cellular still reserves the right to refuse to use your old phone number. It is best you contact support to find out.
How Do I Know If My Phone Number Is eligible For Transfer?
Most carriers, e.g., AT&T, have an online portability checking tool you can use to confirm whether they can port your number.
You can also consult support for further information on the limitations.
How Do I Change My Phone Number with Consumer Cellular?
Now that you know what you’ll need, let’s look at the steps you’ll take.
Step #1: Confirm Your Eligibility
Before doing anything, you should ensure that the phone number you want to use is eligible with Consumer Cellular.
Certain providers may set up restrictions or use different systems from Consumer Cellular.
These discrepancies may make your old phone number ineligible for the switch.
Consumer Cellular has limited restrictions meaning that most numbers will be eligible. Contact them through their (888) 345-5509 hotline to confirm.
Step #2: Determine the Type Of SIM You’re Using
You need to identify the type of sim card you’re using.
There are users with traditional SIM cards, which you can physically remove from the phone.
There are also eSIMs, which are embedded digitally on a device.
Both have different working mechanisms which might affect the switching process. If you’re unsure about the type of card you’re using, consult your carrier.
Step #3: Notify Your Current Carrier
You must notify your current provider before you make a switch. This is because some providers don’t allow cross-carrier switching.
You can call the customer service helpline and inform them of your decision.
They will advise accordingly. If you don’t have an invoice from them, you can ask for one.
Note: Don't cancel your existing cellular service right away. Your phone number needs to remain active for a successful transfer process.
Step #4: Contact My Consumer Cellular
This step involves you reaching out to Consumer Cellular to set up your new plan. You can do this in three ways:
Contact Them Directly
Call any one of their hotlines. An assistant will guide you through the procedure over the phone.
They are compelled to ask you whether you want to keep your old phone number or need a new one.
Confirm that you want to keep the old one and proceed to give the information they’ll need. They will need to liaise with the other carrier to perform the transfer.
Visit a Retailer
Certain retailers such as Walmart and Target have Consumer Cellular stands at their stores.
An attendant or staff member will guide you through the process. Pick the Use my old phone number option and fill in the required information.
My Consumer Cellular Website
You can also purchase and set up your plan from the official Consumer Cellular website.
To do this:
- Open my consumer cellular on any website.
- Sign up or Log in to an account.
- Click the Switch today icon on the homepage.
- Pick your preferred plan and device and proceed.
- Click Yes on the “KEEP YOUR EXISTING PHONE NUMBER?” option.
Complete the process by adding all your items to the cart and filling in your billing/account information.
In all these procedures, Consumer Cellular has to contact your current provider and handle the transfer process.
The switching process automatically starts seven days after activation or shipping of your phone if you’ve bought one.
Note: If you’ve opted to use your own device with the plan, you’ll be required to provide your phone’s IMEI/ESN to ascertain that the device is supported.
Step #4: Finalize the Transfer
Once your Consumer Cellular plan is activated with your old number, your previous service should have been canceled.
However, it is recommended that you call your previous provider to finalize the transfer to avoid being charged by mistake.
This allows you to negotiate any fee charged due to premature termination. You will receive a bill for any outstanding debt in time.
Note: Listen to your voicemail messages and texts as they're not transferred to your new plan when switching.
You’ll be required to reset your call forwarding and caller id with your new provider.
Read Next: How to Fix Consumer Cellular Voicemail Not Working?
Conclusion
From what we’ve covered, I believe you have all the information necessary for your question, “How do I change my phone number with Consumer cellular?”.
The steps are well laid out and easy for anyone to follow.
If you face any challenges, ensure you contact your provider’s support team or the Consumer Cellular support through their various hotlines.
Kevin has over five years of experience working in various Tech startups and providing Technical solutions. He has contributed to many Tech publications and websites.