HOW TO SWITCH PHONE CARRIERS & SAVE MONEY WITH BOOST MOBILE

Switching phone carriers used to be a hassle, but switching to the right mobile plan can be an easy way to keep your budget in check. Whether you're tired of high bills, limited data, or lackluster service, Boost has some serious incentives to save you money on premium wireless. 

Here is a complete, step-by-step guide on how to switch phone carriers, keep your current number, and effectively lower your wireless bill.

How to Switch Carriers in Four Easy Steps

You're almost done. Just activate and start saving.

• Back up your data: Save your contacts, photos, and files before making the switch.

• Port your number: Don’t cancel your old plan. Boost will handle the number transfer for you.

• Or get a new number: Prefer a fresh start? That’s an option, too.

• Activate: Insert your Boost SIM card or activate via eSIM, follow the setup guide, and you're ready to roll.

What to Consider When Switching Phone Carriers

Early Termination Fees

If you are currently under contract, review your carrier’s ETF policy. In many cases, the long-term monthly savings of switching will outweigh the one-time cost of a final bill, but it is important to calculate this upfront.

Device Financing & New Phone Cost

If your phone is not entirely paid off, your current carrier will bill you for the remaining balance upon cancellation. You can either pay this off to unlock and keep your phone, or trade it in and take advantage of new customer device promotions.

Connecting Other Devices

If you need connectivity for tablets, smartwatches, or mobile hotspots, look for carriers that offer affordable add-on lines. BYOD data plans for secondary devices can often be added for as little as $10/month.

Price Guarantees

Many low-cost phone plans feature introductory pricing that quietly increases after a few months. With Boost Mobile, our $25/month unlimited plan comes with a price guarantee. As long as your account remains active and in good standing, your base monthly rate will not increase.

How to Keep Your Number When Switching Carriers

Keeping your current phone number (a process known as "porting") is a common part of switching carriers, especially if you plan to bring your own phone. To ensure a seamless transfer, follow these steps:

1. Do not cancel your current service. Your number must be active to be transferred.

2. Request a Transfer PIN. Contact your current carrier to request a specific Number Transfer PIN (this is different from your regular security PIN).

3. Provide the details to your new carrier. Give your new provider your account number, billing zip code, and Transfer PIN. Once they initiate the port, your old service will automatically cancel the line once the transfer is complete.

The 5 Best Reasons to Switch to Boost Mobile

1. Unlimited Talk, Text & Data for Just $25/Month — Forever

Yes, you read that right. Boost Mobile offers unlimited talk, text, and data for just $25 per month. No temporary promotions, no bait and switch. Just one price, for life. As long as you don’t pause or cancel service, you get a price guaranteed you won’t find anywhere else.

See how much you can save with our $25 Forever plan.

2. Reliable Nationwide Coverage

You won’t be sacrificing coverage when you switch. Boost offers extensive coast-to-coast coverage, giving you the power to stay connected wherever you go.

3. Bring Your Own Phone

Love your current phone? Keep it. Boost makes it easy to bring your own device. Just check compatibility and grab a plan.

4. Great Deals on New Devices

If you're ready to upgrade, Boost offers amazing deals on the latest smartphones from Samsung, Apple, Motorola, and more.

5. Flexible Add-Ons

Boost gives you the power to customize your plan with international calling, hotspot data, and device protection add-ons.

All Add-Ons

Finding the Best Wireless Deals

Bring Your Own Phone

Want to keep the phone you already have when you sign up for an affordable prepaid plan? If you aren’t looking to get locked into a costly payment plan for a new phone, bringing your own can be a great option to save both money and time.

Boost makes it easy to start the switch, offering new customers discounts when you sign up for a BYOD plan.

Bring Your Phone 

Savings for Students

For students managing tight budgets, affordable prepaid plans offer predictable monthly expenses without any long-term commitments. 

Right now, students can save big when they switch to Boost. Get unlimited talk, text and data for just $10/mo for the first 5 months, then $25/mo forever.

Boost Student Discount

Savings for Seniors

For those on a fixed income or trying to stick to a budget, predictable monthly bills are crucial. Boost Mobile provides seniors with straightforward, low-cost plans to stay connected with family, without the hidden fees or complex contracts common with major carriers.

Senior Savings

How Much Can You Save With Boost?

Switching to Boost Mobile isn’t just convenient, it’s a great way to lock in long-term savings. 

Most major carriers like Verizon, AT&T, and T-Mobile charge anywhere from $70 to $100 per month for unlimited plans. That adds up fast.

With Boost Mobile’s $25/month unlimited plan, here’s what your savings could look like:

Monthly savings: -$50

Annual savings: -$600

*Savings depend on your current monthly plan price.

That’s money back in your pocket, all without sacrificing any essentials like comprehensive coverage or unlimited talk, text, and data.

Things To Avoid When Switching Carriers

Switching phone carriers is simple, but there are a few common mistakes that can cost you time and money. Here’s what to watch out for:

1. Canceling Your Old Plan Too Early

Don’t cancel your current service before transferring your number. If you do, you risk losing your number permanently. Always let the new carrier handle the porting process.

2. Forgetting to Unlock Your Phone

Your phone must be unlocked to work on a new network. If it’s still tied to your current carrier, you won’t be able to activate it with Boost.

3. Not Checking Compatibility

Not all phones work on every network. Always use an IMEI checker to confirm your device is compatible before switching.

4. Ignoring Final Bills or Fees

Some carriers charge final bills, remaining device payments, or Early Termination Fees. Knowing what you owe upfront helps you avoid surprises.

5. Skipping the Data Backup

Before switching, back up your contacts, photos, and important files. While switching carriers doesn’t usually erase your data, it’s better to be safe.

6. Entering Incorrect Account Info

When transferring your number, your account number and PIN must match exactly. Even a small error can delay the process.

Bottom Line

Switching phone carriers doesn’t have to be complicated. With Boost Mobile, you can keep your phone, keep your number, and keep more money in your wallet. Whether you’re in it for the savings, the speed, or the simplicity, Boost has your back.