Phone Number Porting FAQ

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# Phone Number Porting FAQ 📱 Keeping your number when switching service providers is easier than ever, thanks to number porting. Whether you’re moving from mobile to mobile, landline to VoIP, or taking your business numbers to a new carrier, here’s what you need to know. - What is phone number porting? Porting is the process of moving your existing phone number from one carrier to another so you don’t have to share a new number with contacts. - How does porting work? You submit a port request with your new provider. They verify your details with your current carrier, schedule a transfer (a “FOC” date/time), and then activate the number on their network. You’ll pop in a new SIM/eSIM or configure your VoIP service when told. - How long does it take? • Mobile: 15 minutes to 24 hours (often same day) • Landline/VoIP: 1–7 business days • Toll‑free: 3–10 business days Timing depends on carrier responsiveness, holidays, and accuracy of your info. - What information do I need? Have these ready: • Account number and PIN/passcode from your current carrier • Exact billing name and address on file • Recent bill copy (helps resolve mismatches) • Business ports may require a Letter of Authorization (LOA) - Will there be downtime? Usually minimal. Expect a brief window (often under an hour) where calls or texts may route inconsistently. Data and calling typically resume quickly once the port completes. - Should I cancel my old service first? No. Keep your current line active. Canceling before the port completes can cause the number to be lost or the request to be rejected. - Does porting cost money? Many carriers port for free, but you may see: • Early Termination Fees if you’re under contract • Number unlock fees (e.g., for some virtual numbers) • Lost prepaid balances—those don’t transfer - Can I port any number? Most domestic numbers are portable. Exceptions include inactive numbers, some rural exchanges, numbers outside the local rate center, or lines tied to special services (alarm systems, DSL) unless properly separated. - What about Google Voice, VoIP, landline, and toll‑free numbers? Generally yes: • Google Voice: unlock the number in your GV settings (a small fee may apply) • VoIP/Landline: allowed, may take a few days • Toll‑free: involves a RespOrg change; your new provider guides the process - Why do ports get rejected? Common reasons: incorrect account number or PIN, name/address mismatch, disconnected number, a fraud/security freeze, or unpaid balances. Fix the data, provide a recent bill, and resubmit. - Will I lose texts, voicemail, or contacts? Contacts stay on your device/cloud. Old voicemails don’t transfer—set up a new mailbox and save any important messages first. SMS/MMS may be spotty during the cutover. Turn off iMessage/RCS on the old device before porting to avoid misrouting. - How do I track status? Your new provider should share milestones: submitted, pending, FOC (scheduled), and completed. If it stalls, ask them to escalate with the losing carrier’s port-out desk. - Tips for a smooth port • Double-check your account number, PIN, and billing address • Start early and schedule during low-impact hours • Keep the old service active until the new one works • Update 2FA logins and business listings once the port completes

Need help? Your new carrier’s porting team can review your documentation and give you a precise timeline based on your number type and location.