Have you been thinking of getting a secondary phone? Do prepaid phones come with a phone number? These are just some of the important questions you need to be asking yourself before you take that step.
Prepaid phones that come with a phone number save you the hassle of subscribing to long-term contract requirements that post-paid phones have.
If you have been thinking of getting a prepaid phone, worry not, we share a comprehensive guide on how to go about it. Your phone number will depend on the selected phone company that you will register with.
Major carriers such as Verizon and T-Mobile have different prepaid plans to help you make a selection of the most suitable option according to your consumption.
Some prepaid phones come as a package with a phone number, while others require you to purchase your phone number separately.
Why Do Prepaid Phones Come With A Phone Number?
Price Control
When a prepaid phone comes with a phone number, you can choose whether to use the Pay As You Go (PAYG) option or register for a post-paid service.
The beauty of the prepaid option is you get to control how you use your money. You can purchase data, texts, or voice calls when needed.
No Credit Check
When you are on the prepaid option, you are not required to submit any credit checks. With post-paid phones and phone numbers, you are required to submit credit checks regularly so that your credit score can be updated.
If it falls, you could be barred from other services. A prepaid phone saves you from getting a negative credit score.
Freedom To Change Plans
You will find that with prepaid phones and phone numbers, you are at liberty to change your carrier as often as you would like.
Post-paid phones and numbers usually tie users to sign contracts that must be followed until they expire. A contract breach could end up badly for you.
No Surprises
A prepaid phone saves you from the element of surprise. You know what you are paying for and spend only what you can afford.
Unlike post-paid phones and phone numbers, anything can happen, and you may find yourself with an unexpected bill.
Note: Prepaid phone numbers may be different as a result of the area codes.
How Can I Tell If My Prepaid Phone Has A Phone Number
Every prepaid phone is typically accompanied by a small SIM card that identifies your account credentials. You may be wondering, do prepaid phones come with a phone number?
Depending on the model and type of phone, the SIM card placement location will vary. If you are looking for a way to find out if your prepaid phone comes with a phone number, here are some signs you need to look out for:
Network Bars
Once you get your prepaid phone and switch it on, observe the bars or dots at the top of the screen. This will depend on the phone model.
These dots or bars exist to indicate the strength of the phone signal. The more the bars, the greater the strength. If the bars are present, it means your phone has a phone number.
Disassemble Your Phone
If you are not sure whether your prepaid phone comes with a phone number, you can choose to disassemble your phone. Depending on your phone model, your SIM card can be located either at the back of your phone or at the side.
If you are not sure how to disassemble, look for instructions on your phone manual to avoid damaging your phone. Once you disassemble, you will find a SIM card slot. Check whether the slot is empty or has a SIM card.
What To Do If My Prepaid Phone Does Not Come with A Phone Number
Sometimes, your prepaid phone may not come with a phone number because your area code may be unavailable at the time of your purchase. You will therefore be given one for a city near you.
To get a new phone number, you will need to follow the below steps;
Step #1: Select A Service Provider
There are a couple of service providers, so select one that you like or ask your phone company to recommend one for you.
Step #2: Insert The SIM Card
After selecting your sim card, you will also select your chosen phone number. Remove the battery and insert the sim card or pull out the sim card tray located at the side of your phone. Replace the battery and power on your phone.
Step #3: Register Your Phone Number
Call your associated provider to register your phone number. You will be asked to provide some personal details, so ensure you gather all necessary details close by.
Note: Some phones come with an e-sim, so you may not see the physical SIM card.
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Conclusion
So, do prepaid phones come with a phone number? Yes and no. Some do, and some don’t. You simply have to follow the instructions and check whether the phone number has been registered.
If not, you can still get a phone number for your prepaid phone by purchasing one.
Note that some new generation prepaid phones have an e-sim, so you may not see the sim card physically. However, the best way is to purchase a sim card from a verified service provider if your prepaid phone does not come with a phone number.
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. Check out more about him here.