Sometimes it feels like you are controlled by the cell phone service that you have. When it comes time to change, it may seem like a daunting task. Many times you are locked into a contract for multiple years. Doing research on all your options is the best way to make the most informed decision. Follow a few helpful suggestions and you can have the service that you want and need.
Service
Decide which service in your area has the features and plans that are best suited to your needs. Think about the following questions: Do you need a lot of minutes? Do you text often? Do you need a data plan to check email or surf the web? Research plans that cover the way that you need to use your phone. If you text frequently, look for unlimited text plans. If you use your phone for almost everything, look for unlimited phone, text and data plans.
Phone
Once you decide which new service is right for you, look at their phones. Some phone manufacturers produce the same phone more many service providers, so it may be an option to keep your existing phone. If not, look for features that you would want and also look at promotions. Cell phone providers are always having sales on new phones and discounts on old models.
Old Number
If you pick a new service and new phone, you'll have to decide if you want to keep your old number. Cell phone companies now give you the option to have your old number routed to a new line of service (many times at no charge). This may take a few hours to a day to complete, so you may have to bounce between old phone and new phone for the first day.
Cancelling
Now that you have a new phone, it's time to call your old service and cancel. If you have a contract, if it has not been met you may be charged certain early termination fees. These can range anywhere between 100 to 300 dollars. If you have your old number routed, your old service will be automatically canceled.
Tips
Make sure to back up your contacts and any other information from your old phone. Sometimes you are able to have this information transferred, but it's better to be safe than sorry!
Tags: your number, your phone, Cell phone, have your, have your number