How to Switch from AT&T to T-Mobile? Complete Guide

If you’ve ever wondered how to switch from AT&T to T-Mobile, know that the process is relatively simple.

If you don’t see yourself as much of a techie, representatives at a T-Mobile retail location are standing by to make the transition as painless as possible.

Before you take the plunge and make a switch, visit T-Mobile’s website. There you will find a compatibility tool to discover the trade-in estimate of your old phone’s value.

Contract Considerations

Knowing the process of switching to T-Mobile from AT&T involves some important financial considerations.

The most important of which, with regards to financial choices, is the terms and agreements of your current contract.

Making the switch from a pay-as-you-go plan is much simpler. But subscribers locked into contracts with AT&T are faced with worries about early termination policies and potential debt inherent with financing options.

How to Switch From AT&T to T-Mobile – Steps

Logically, it may seem like the very first thing to do is to cancel your old plan. But this is a huge mistake. Your new T-Mobile plan needs to be active at the same time your old plan is active.

Otherwise, T-Mobile won’t be able to properly switch your phone number over to their network.

Also, it’s advisable to collect all of your paperwork and overhead information, including account numbers, PIN numbers, passwords, and billing information.

Having this information collected ahead of time makes the whole process smoother.

Step #1: See If Your Old Phone Qualifies

The very first thing you must consider before switching phone plans is whether or not your current phone is compatible with the T-Mobile network.

If your phone does qualify, T-Mobile offers some attractive trade-in programs that credit your account to defray the costs associated with switching.

T-Mobile does seem to support most of the popular leading manufacturers, including big names like Google, Apple, and Samsung.

But, of course, this step is only necessary if you want a completely new phone. With most models, you do have the option to keep your old phone and use it on the T-Mobile network.

Trade-In Value

I was a little disappointed to see that some of the phones had a trade-in value as little as $9, or even $0.

However, be aware that a newer iPhone model can go for around $400. Furthermore, T-Mobile will help you pay off your old phone, with the maximum limit being $800.

I was impressed to see that T-Mobile even helps pay off contract and early-termination fees.

But, of course, this step is only necessary if you want a completely new phone. With most models, you do have the option to keep your old phone and use it on the T-Mobile network.

Note: If the trade-in value of your old phone is unattractive, it may be possible to receive a higher price by selling your phone online through third-party marketplaces like Amazon and Facebook.

For instance, Amazon offers a trade-in program as well, which could offer you a better deal for a new phone that is still supported by T-Mobile’s network.

Step #2: Backup Your Data

When asked what the most important part of any phone is, some people will say it’s the screen or the internal CPU. But really, the most important part of any phone is the data.

Whether you’re using your old phone or buying a brand new one, you need to make sure all of your old phone’s data is backed up as a preventative measure.

Though it is true that T-Mobile employees can help you transfer your data, it’s still safer to have everything backed up, just in case something goes wrong.

To back up your data on Android, use the following steps:

1. Tap Settings.
2. Tap System.
3. Tap Backup.
4. Choose either Backup & Restore or Google Backup.
5. Tap Backup.

Step #3: See If Your Number Qualifies for a Transfer

T-Mobile specifies you will need your PIN and password, in addition to your account number and ID, to successfully transfer your old number to T-Mobile’s network.

Though you can get a new number, it’s more convenient to transfer your old number so your current contacts can still reach you.

Visiting a T-Mobile store and speaking with a representative will determine whether or not your number is eligible for transfer. Alternatively, you can call 1-800-937-8997, or call 1-877-778-2106 if you opt for a prepaid plan.

Step #4: Find a Wireless Plan That Suits You

Present plans start at $90 a month up to $140 per month, excluding any promotional pricing discounts.

In addition, the entry level plan allows for 50 GB per month, and includes unlimited talk & text. The maximum 3-line plan offers unlimited data as well as a free Netflix package.

Please be aware that pricing plans are dynamic and subject to change. All of the previously mentioned plans only offer 3G speeds as well, although T-Mobile has already started rolling out 5G coverage for blazing fast speeds.

Step #5: Get a New Sim Card

A SIM card (Subscriber Identity Module) is essentially the address of your phone. This chip is what allows a smartphone to place calls, receive SMS data, and connect to cell towers.

Without a SIM card, a user can still connect to wireless networks and use apps. However, a smartphone without a SIM card is denied access to a carrier’s network.

You can visit a T-Mobile location to acquire and install a SIM card and activate your mobile device.

Alternatively, you can purchase a T-Mobile prepaid SIM card. Many of the prepaid card options provide basic services for people on a budget. Some offer only the essentials, such as talk and text, for as little as $10.

Step #6: Activate Your Plan

The very final step for switching to T-Mobile from AT&T is activating your plan.

Be aware that activating your plan consists of signing up for a monthly payment plan. If you opt for financing, the terms stipulate a 24-month term of payment.

That said, it’s worth noting that T-Mobile does not require or offer an annual service contract, unlike most other carriers.

If you want to switch to another network, you can do so without the looming fear of penalties or additional service charges.

If you’re not sure about signing up for a monthly T-Mobile plan, I recommend trying their network before you sign up for a monthly plan. If you want to test the waters, you can start with an inexpensive prepaid plan.

Read Next: How to Hide Text Messages on T-Mobile Bill?

Bottom Line

T-Mobile is attractive to subscribers due to its flexibility and lack of contracts. Frequently, AT&T users ask themselves how to switch from AT&T to T-Mobile because they don’t feel trapped by lengthy annual agreements.

The transition process isn’t overwhelming or complicated, though I cannot stress this point enough: make sure you back up all of your data before switching carriers.

Your data is irreplaceable, and failing to back it up could introduce unnecessary headaches and stress.