You've picked a better deal.
Here's what happens next.
Once Taupia finds you a better mobile deal, the switch is fast and simple. There's one thing to do before you start: get your PAC code. Then Taupia takes it from there.
- Takes 1-2 working days
- No phone calls needed
- Your number comes with you
How the switch works
Before you start: text PAC to 65075
Under 2 min
Taupia finds your better deal
Automatic
Confirm on Taupia and paste your PAC
2 minutes
New SIM arrives
Automatic
Your number transfers
Next working day
Final bill from old provider
Automatic
The full timeline
One thing to do before you start. Then confirm on Taupia. Everything else is automatic.
- You need to act
- Happens automatically
- You're done
Do this first - before you switch
YOUBefore you switch - Under 2 minutesGet your PAC code
Tap to view details
Text PAC to 65075 from the number you want to keep. Some providers reply instantly with the code. Others ask for your date of birth to verify your identity first. Reply with it and your code will follow.
Either way, the whole thing takes under two minutes. Your code is valid for 30 days once you have it, so get it before you start.
The text reply includes your exit fee if one applies. Providers are legally required to disclose it. If it is not mentioned, you owe nothing.
- AUTOOn Taupia
Taupia finds you a better deal
Tap to view details
Taupia scans your current mobile bill and finds deals that beat what you are paying now. You see the savings clearly before committing.
Before this step, make sure you already have your PAC code ready by texting PAC to 65075. You need it in the next step.
No deal means no switch. Taupia only acts when it is worth it.
- YOUOn Taupia - 2 minutes
Confirm the switch and paste your PAC
Tap to view details
Review the deal Taupia found and confirm you want to switch. You then paste your PAC code.
Your PAC code is then used to begin the number transfer. That is your final action.
This is the only moment you need your PAC code. Have it ready.
- AUTODay 1-2 - 1-2 days
Your new SIM arrives
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Your new provider sends a physical SIM or an eSIM QR code. Insert the SIM when it arrives and it works immediately with a temporary number.
If it is an eSIM, scan the QR code and your phone activates instantly. Your old number transfers once the switch completes.
Using eSIM? Scan the QR code and continue.
- AUTOSwitch day - Next working day
Your number transfers
Tap to view details
Your old SIM stops working and your new SIM picks up your number. There is usually only a brief interruption.
If the PAC was submitted before 5pm on a weekday, the switch happens the next working day. After 5pm, it is usually within two working days.
Old SIM going dead means the transfer is in progress.
- AUTODays later - ~1 week
Final bill from your old provider
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Your old provider closes your account and sends a final bill. This can include remaining days in your billing cycle, any exit fee, and outstanding device payments.
If you overpaid, you should receive a partial refund for unused days. No action is needed unless there is an error.
Nothing to do beyond checking the final bill when it arrives.
- DONEDone
You're on your new network
Same number, better deal, and no phone calls. A process that used to take hours now takes minutes.
What happens on switch day
A few things can look like problems but are normal during the handover.
01
Your old SIM stops working
This is a good sign and usually means the transfer is in progress.
02
A brief service gap
Calls and texts pause during handover. Usually a few minutes, sometimes up to an hour.
03
Outgoing calls can work first
You may be able to call out before incoming calls land. This is normal mid-transfer behaviour.
04
Then you are done
Your number is on the new network. Same number, new deal, nothing else to do.
Will your phone work on the new network?
Almost certainly yes. Here is why.
Locked vs unlocked phones
A locked phone only works on one network. Since December 2021, UK providers are banned from selling locked phones. If you bought your handset from EE, O2, Vodafone, Three, or another UK provider since then, it is already unlocked.
If your phone is older, contact your current provider. They are required to unlock it for free.
Bought since 2022? Your phone is almost certainly unlocked and should work on any UK network without extra setup.
What happens to your old contract?
It depends on where you are in your term.
- Clean break
Your contract has already ended
Nothing owed and no exit fee. The PAC process closes the account automatically.
- Check first
You are still in contract
An exit fee can apply. It is usually months remaining multiplied by monthly cost, and the exact amount appears in your PAC text before you commit.
- 30 days
Rolling monthly SIM-only plan
Usually 30 days notice with no exit fee. The PAC process handles cancellation when you switch.
How exit fees work
Exit fees are tied to your contract end date. They only exist while you are still inside your minimum term.
If a fee applies, the calculation is simple: months remaining multiplied by your monthly cost. The PAC text gives the exact amount before you switch.
Under Ofcom rules, providers must disclose an exit fee in that PAC text if one applies. If none is shown, you owe nothing.
Where the exit fee gets charged: Any exit fee appears on your final bill from your old provider after the switch completes.
Things people wonder before switching
The questions worth answering before they become worries.
When should I get my PAC code: before or after finding a deal on Taupia?
Before. Get your PAC code first by texting PAC to 65075. It takes under two minutes and stays valid for 30 days. Some providers reply instantly, while others ask for your date of birth first. Have it ready before you confirm on Taupia.
Do I need to contact my old provider to cancel?
No. The PAC code cancels your old service automatically when the switch completes.
What if I change my mind after getting the PAC code?
If you do not use the PAC code within 30 days, it expires and your old service continues as normal.
I am on Pay As You Go. Can I still keep my number?
Yes. PAYG numbers transfer with a PAC code like contract numbers. Unused credit usually does not transfer.
Can I switch if I am still in contract?
Yes. An exit fee can apply. You will see the exact figure in your PAC text, then decide whether to switch now or wait until your contract ends.
Will my exit fee appear on my Taupia bill?
No. Exit fees are charged by your old provider and appear on your final bill from them after the switch.
My PAC text did not mention an exit fee. Does that mean I owe nothing?
Yes. Providers are legally required to disclose any exit fee in the PAC text. If none is shown, no exit fee is due.
What happens to my voicemail messages?
Voicemail is stored on your old network and does not transfer. Save important messages before switch day.
Can I switch while I am abroad?
You can request the PAC by text while abroad. The number transfer completes once your phone reconnects to a UK network.
What if something goes wrong?
Mobile switching is regulated by Ofcom. If your number has not transferred after 24 hours, contact your new provider because they own the transfer process.
Will I lose data and contacts when switching?
No. Contacts, photos, apps, and other data are stored on your phone and are not affected by network switching.
Taupia handles all of this for you.
Get your PAC code in 60 seconds, then confirm on Taupia. The switch milestones are then tracked for you.