What happens when my phone contract ends?

Dan Howdle • August 28th, 2024

Your service doesn’t switch off, your phone won’t explode. No, what actually happens when your contract ends – for the large majority – is that you’ll carry on with your old provider on the same old tariff. But you can do better than that.

Instead, you could be sporting a brand new handset, taking advantage of sale prices and free gifts and still be paying less than you are now. You have two choices when your mobile contract comes to an end, each of which has its pros and cons. Let’s look at them in turn.

Switch to a new provider

You may very well be happy with your existing provider. You may have been with them for years, but out there in the competitive mobile market, loyalty doesn't always pay off. It’s a buyer’s market, and providers are constantly offering tempting deals to attract new customers. Whether you’re with Vodafone, EE, O2, or another provider, there’s a good chance you could find a better deal elsewhere.

When your contract is nearing its end, your provider will notify you, often with offers to upgrade your handset or plan. While these offers can be convenient, they are not always the best deals available. If you want the best possible deal, you’ll need to compare what’s available from other providers. Shopping around can reveal significant savings, more data, or added perks that your current provider isn’t offering.

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Don’t forget to check coverage

While mobile networks have improved their coverage considerably over the years, switching providers can sometimes result in less reliable service depending on where you live or work. Before committing to a new provider, make sure to use their coverage checker to confirm that you’ll get good reception in the places you spend the most time.

Coverage checkers can be found on each provider's website. Clicking these logos below will take you directly to the coverage checker for each major provider.

If you choose to switch, do it right

If you’ve decided to switch, congratulations. We know how tempting it is to stick with what you know, but exploring new options can be rewarding. To make the switch smoothly, follow these steps:

• Ensure your current contract is at or near its end to avoid early termination fees.
• Choose a new deal and sign up with your new provider.
• Once your new phone arrives, set it up as normal.
• Contact your old provider to request a PAC code, which allows you to keep your current phone number. Requesting this after setting up your new phone can prevent your old provider from trying to dissuade you from leaving.
• Provide the PAC code to your new provider, who will handle the number transfer. The process usually takes two to three days, so keep your old phone active until the transfer is complete.

Upgrade, downgrade or stick with your tariff

If you’re content with your current provider and don’t want to deal with the hassle of switching, upgrading, downgrading, or sticking with your current plan are all viable options. However, it’s important to be aware that these options might not be the most cost-effective.

When your contract ends, your provider will likely offer you an upgrade to a new handset or a more expensive plan. While this might seem convenient, remember that switching providers could offer better value for money. But if you prefer to stay with your current provider, here’s what you can do:

Upgrade your phone with your existing provider

Your provider will be eager to keep you, and they’ll offer you a new handset as an incentive. While this is an easy way to get a new phone, it's often not the best deal available. Many providers save their best offers for new customers, so you may find that upgrading with your current provider isn't as cost-effective as switching.

If you decide to upgrade, simply log into your provider’s website, and you should find an option to view your upgrade deals. However, don’t forget to compare these offers with what’s available from other providers before committing.

Downgrading could save you money

At the end of your contract, it’s worth assessing whether you’re using all the data, minutes, and texts included in your plan. Many people find they are paying for more than they actually use. Most providers offer apps that track your usage, which can help you decide if downgrading to a cheaper plan is a good option.

To downgrade, you’ll typically need to call your provider, who may try to convince you to stick with your current plan. Be firm about your decision if saving money is your goal. And while you’re at it, consider reviewing your broadband and TV services for potential savings, too. We can help you find a cheaper broadband deal as well.

Stick with what you’ve got

If you’re happy with your current plan and don’t want to make any changes, you can simply continue with your existing service. However, keep in mind that once your contract ends, you may be paying more than necessary for the same level of service. It’s always worth checking if you can get a better deal by switching or downgrading, even if you stay with the same provider.

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