You shouldn’t have to lose your phone number just to get better coverage or a plan that fits your life. The good news: you can switch your Lifeline provider and keep the same number without messy downtime—if you follow a clear, simple path. This guide walks you through it in plain English.
What actually happens when you “switch”
There are two things happening at the same time:
- Your Lifeline benefit moves (the monthly discount) from your old company to your new one.
- Your phone number ports from your old network to your new network.
Your new provider handles both pieces once you give them permission. Your job is getting a few details ready and keeping your current line active until the transfer finishes.
Before you start: quick reality check
Switching providers is smart when you want stronger signal, better customer care, hotspot data, or a reliable device. You can usually change any time, and you’re allowed to keep only one Lifeline benefit per household. If you also had the ACP discount before, note that it ended in 2024; your Lifeline benefit still continues.
How to switch and keep your number
1) Pick the right new provider
Check coverage where you live, work, and commute. If you use hotspot, make sure the new plan includes it. If you use international calling, ask about it up front. A quick call or chat with sales support can save headaches later.
2) Gather what the new provider needs
Have these ready so the transfer flies through on the first try:
| What you’ll need | Where to find it | Why it matters |
|---|---|---|
| Full legal name & date of birth | Your ID or current carrier profile | Must match records exactly |
| Last 4 of SSN or full Tribal ID | Program documents | Identity check for Lifeline |
| Primary (home) address | Your account records | Must match National Verifier/NLAD |
| Current phone number | Your phone | The one you’re keeping |
| Account number (old carrier) | On bill or account page | Needed for number port |
| Port-out/Transfer PIN (old carrier) | Request from old carrier (text, app, or call) | Authorizes the port |
If anything here doesn’t match the old carrier’s file like a middle initial, ZIP+4, or apartment number ports can fail. Copy the info exactly as it appears on your old account.
3) Keep your current service active
Do not cancel your old line. Your new company will pull (port) your number over. If you cancel first, your number may get disconnected and be harder or impossible to recover.
4) Tell the new provider you want two things
Use clear words:
- “Please transfer my Lifeline benefit to your company.”
- “Please port my existing number to your service.”
They’ll ask for consent (verbal or written) and then start the electronic transfer in the federal database for Lifeline, plus the number port with your old carrier.
5) Watch for a short handoff window
Wireless to wireless ports often finish in a few hours; many complete within one business day. Landline or VoIP numbers may take longer. During the switch, you might get a brief period where calls/texts behave oddly—this is normal and should settle once activation completes.
6) Activate and test
Pop in the new SIM (or install the eSIM), follow the activation steps, and test:
- Call a friend
- Send and receive a text
- Load a web page
- Toggle hotspot if your plan includes it
Once everything works, your old service will end automatically for that number.
Avoid service gaps with this simple checklist
- Keep your old line active until the new one is working.
- Double-check name, address, and birth date match your current records.
- Make sure your account number and port-out PIN are correct and fresh (some expire in days).
- If you’re bringing your own phone, confirm device compatibility and unlock status.
- Use your Lifeline service at least once every 30 days so it stays active during the switch.
Common roadblocks (and easy fixes)
“Port rejected: information mismatch.”
Ask your old carrier for your Customer Service Record (CSR) or confirm the exact spelling, address format, and account PIN. Resubmit with the corrected details.
“Line suspended or past due.”
Most carriers still must port your number even if you owe money, but a suspended line can stall the process. Bring the line back to active or ask your old carrier to temporarily lift any block so the port can go through.
“My phone is locked.”
If your phone is carrier-locked, request an unlock from the old carrier (many will unlock if you meet basic conditions). If timing is tight, you can still port the number and temporarily use the new provider’s device or a compatible unlocked phone.
“I’m moving to a different state.”
Update your address for Lifeline eligibility in the new state. Keeping the same mobile number is usually fine, but confirm coverage and plan terms with your new provider.
BYOD vs. taking a new phone
Bring Your Own Device (BYOD) saves setup time and keeps your familiar phone—just confirm compatibility and ask for an eSIM if you want a quick, no-mail activation.
New phone from the provider can be easier if your old device is broken, incompatible, or hard-locked. Weigh battery life, storage, and support options, not only the price tag.
Timing and expectations
For most mobile-to-mobile moves, expect same day or within one business day. Plan for a brief overlap where you keep both SIMs handy. If you’re moving a landline or VoIP number, ask the new provider for a target port date and keep your old equipment plugged in until the port completes.
Quick FAQs
Can I switch Lifeline providers anytime?
Yes. You can transfer your Lifeline benefit to a new company when you choose. You’ll need to give consent.
Will I lose service during the switch?
Most people don’t. Keep your old line active until the new one is live, then test calls, texts, and data.
Do I have to pay to keep my number?
Many providers don’t charge a port-in fee, but always ask. Even if you owe your old carrier, they generally cannot stop a valid port request.
What if my transfer gets stuck?
Check that your name, address, DOB, last-4 SSN/Tribal ID, account number, and PIN match exactly. Ask your new provider to resubmit.
What if I was on ACP too?
ACP ended in 2024. Your Lifeline benefit is separate and can still be used with your new provider if you qualify.
Copy and use script for calling the new provider
“Hi, I’m a current Lifeline customer. I’d like to transfer my Lifeline benefit to your company and keep my current phone number. I have my account number and port-out PIN. I consent to the transfer and understand my old benefit will stop once this completes. What else do you need from me to start right now?”