Changing your phone contract can feel like a pain, but it’s an option worth exploring when there are so many deals out there that could save you money. In this article, we’ll give you the low down on moving from O2. Fair warning, there are a few acronyms coming your way…

Cancel O2 Contract

To cancel your contract and move to a new provider you’re going to need one of two things, a PAC or a STAC. They’re easy enough to get from O2 and once you give them to your new provider you should be set up within one working day! The difference depends on whether or not you want to keep your number- read on to figure out your next steps!

I want to keep my phone number the same!

If you want to keep your phone number the same, understandable for those who have spent the last two years learning their number by heart (… just me?), then you need to get your hands on a magical thing called a PAC. A PAC or porting authorisation code is a combination of letters and numbers, used as an identifier that lets you retain your number when you swap operators.

There are a few ways to get your PAC when leaving O2. In 2019 text-to-switch was introduced, allowing you to get your code via text by messaging ‘PAC’ to 65075.

To get your code online, you’ll need to log in to your My O2 account, click on ‘My Details’ and then ‘Thinking of Switching from O2’.

If you fancy going old-school you can also get your code over the phone by calling 202 (free from an O2 phone) or 0344809 0202.

I fancy a new phone number

If you fancy a new phone, it would be in your best interest to plan for this purchase.

O2’s Charges and early exit fees:

If you’re leaving before your contract ends, you’ll need to pay an ETC (early termination charge) as well as your out-of-bundle charges. The ETC is the sum of all agreed tariff charges minus VAT for the rest of your minimum term. Details of any ETCs should come with your PAC or STAC.

For those on O2 Refresh, there aren’t any early termination charges, you’ll just have to pay those outstanding out-of-bundle fees

I’m not moving to a new provider

Strange though it may seem, cancelling your contract and not moving to another provider is the most tedious option. It has to be done over the phone (call 202 (free from an O2 phone) or 0344809 0202) and there’s a 30-day notice period. This means that during those 30 days you must continue paying your usual fees.

Advice: Compare Phone plans

Once you’ve made the decision to leave your current network, make sure you shop around for your new phone plan! There are loads of opportunities to save some cash on your phone- don’t always go straight to the major networks!

Hopefully, that’s answered your questions on switching your contract from O2! It’s always worth shopping around for better deals, especially when you’re trying to be responsible with your finances.

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