Are you tired of your current mobile carrier and looking for a change? Perhaps T-Mobile's "Un-carrier" philosophy, their expanding 5G network, or attractive deals have caught your eye. Whatever your reason, transferring from AT&T to T-Mobile can be a seamless process if you follow the right steps. Let's get you set up for success!
The Ultimate Guide: How to Transfer from AT&T to T-Mobile
Switching carriers, often referred to as "porting" your number, involves a few crucial steps to ensure you keep your current phone number and transition smoothly. Don't worry, we'll walk you through each one.
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| How To Transfer From Att To T Mobile |
Step 1: Are You Ready for the Un-carrier? Check Your Eligibility and Current Status!
Before you even think about T-Mobile's awesome plans, let's confirm a few things on your AT&T side. This initial check is crucial for a smooth transition and to avoid any hiccups.
Sub-heading: Verify Account Details and Unlocking Your Device
Gather Your AT&T Account Information: You'll need your AT&T Account Number and your Number Transfer PIN (sometimes called a Port-Out PIN). These are essential for T-Mobile to initiate the transfer of your phone number.
How to get your AT&T Number Transfer PIN:
From your AT&T mobile device: Dial *PORT (7678) and follow the prompts. You'll need your account passcode. The PIN will be sent to you via text.
Using the myAT&T app: Sign in, go to "More," then "Manage profile," select "People & Permissions," scroll to "Transfer phone number," and select "Request a new PIN." The PIN will display on your screen.
Online via myAT&T: Go to "People & permissions" in your myAT&T profile, select "Wireless," scroll to "Transfer phone number," and select "Request a new PIN."
Important Note: This PIN is time-sensitive and typically expires in four days. Request it only when you are ready to begin the transfer process with T-Mobile. If it expires, you'll simply need to request a new one.
Check Your Phone's Unlock Status: If you plan to keep your current phone, it must be unlocked by AT&T to work on the T-Mobile network.
AT&T's Unlock Requirements: Generally, your device needs to be fully paid off and active on AT&T's network for a certain period.
How to request an unlock from AT&T: Visit the AT&T device unlock portal online. You'll need your device's IMEI number (you can usually find this by dialing *#06# on your phone or in your phone's settings under "About Phone").
Sub-heading: Don't Cancel AT&T Yet!
Crucial Warning: DO NOT CANCEL YOUR AT&T SERVICE BEFORE YOUR NUMBER IS FULLY TRANSFERRED TO T-MOBILE! If you cancel your service, your phone number may be lost, and you won't be able to port it to T-Mobile. Your AT&T service will automatically terminate once the number transfer is complete.
Step 2: Explore T-Mobile's World: Plans, Deals, and Device Compatibility
Now that you've got your AT&T ducks in a row, it's time for the exciting part: choosing your new T-Mobile experience!
Sub-heading: Research T-Mobile Plans and Deals
Tip: Look for examples to make points easier to grasp.
Compare Plans: T-Mobile offers a variety of plans, from basic to premium, with different data allowances, streaming perks, and international features. Visit their website or a T-Mobile store to compare and find the best fit for your needs and budget. Look for options like:
Unlimited talk, text, and data
5G access
Scam Shield protection
Roaming in Mexico and Canada
Streaming perks on select plans
Check for Switching Deals: T-Mobile frequently offers incentives for new customers switching from other carriers like AT&T. These can include:
Free or discounted smartphones: Often via monthly bill credits when you port an eligible number and add a new line.
Phone payoff offers: T-Mobile might offer to pay off your current phone's remaining balance (up to a certain amount, like $800 per line) via a virtual prepaid Mastercard after you switch. This is a fantastic perk if you're still paying off a device with AT&T.
Special family plan discounts.
Always read the fine print! Deals usually have requirements like qualifying credit, specific plan types, and maintaining service for a certain period.
Sub-heading: Determine Device Compatibility
Bring Your Own Device (BYOD): If you plan to keep your unlocked AT&T phone, you'll need to confirm it's compatible with T-Mobile's network. T-Mobile has a compatibility checker on their website where you can enter your phone's IMEI number. Most modern unlocked smartphones are compatible, especially those supporting GSM and T-Mobile's 5G bands.
New Phone Purchase: If you decide to get a new phone with T-Mobile, you can often take advantage of their new customer deals.
Step 3: Initiate the Transfer with T-Mobile
This is where the magic happens! Once you've chosen your plan and decided on your device, you'll start the actual porting process with T-Mobile.
Sub-heading: Online, In-Store, or Over the Phone
Online: The easiest way for many. When you sign up for a T-Mobile plan online, you'll typically be prompted to transfer your existing number during the checkout process. Have your AT&T account number and Number Transfer PIN ready.
In-Store: Visit a T-Mobile retail location. A sales associate can guide you through the entire process, help you choose a plan, and initiate the number transfer. This is a great option if you prefer in-person assistance.
Over the Phone: Call T-Mobile customer service (1-800-T-MOBILE). A representative can set up your new account and port your number.
Sub-heading: Providing Your Information to T-Mobile
When initiating the transfer, T-Mobile will ask for:
The phone number(s) you wish to transfer.
Your current service provider's name (AT&T).
Your AT&T Account Number.
Your AT&T Number Transfer PIN.
Your billing address, including the Zip Code, as it appears on your AT&T bill.
Accuracy is key here! Any discrepancy in the information can delay the porting process.
Step 4: Activating Your New T-Mobile Service
Once T-Mobile has submitted your porting request, there are a few more steps to get you up and running.
QuickTip: Break reading into digestible chunks.
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Sub-heading: SIM Card or eSIM Activation
Physical SIM Card: If you ordered a new physical SIM card from T-Mobile, it will be mailed to you. Once it arrives, insert it into your unlocked phone (or new T-Mobile phone) and follow the activation instructions provided.
eSIM (Embedded SIM): Many newer phones support eSIM, which is a digital SIM. If your device supports it, T-Mobile may allow you to download and activate an eSIM profile directly to your phone.
For iPhones: After connecting to Wi-Fi, your iPhone may prompt you when the T-Mobile Cellular Plan is ready to be installed. Alternatively, go to Settings > Cellular > Add Cellular Plan.
For Android devices (Samsung, Google Pixel, etc.): During initial setup or in Settings (Connections > SIM card manager or Network & Internet > SIMs), you'll find options to add or download an eSIM. T-Mobile may send you an email with steps or a QR code.
Sub-heading: Monitor the Porting Process
Keep both phones active (if applicable): Until the transfer is fully complete, keep your AT&T phone active. Your old service should continue to work.
"Mixed Service" Period: For a few hours (typically 10 minutes to 3 hours for wireless transfers, though sometimes up to 8 hours for messaging), you might experience "mixed service." This means your old AT&T device might still receive calls while your new T-Mobile device can make calls. Data should generally work immediately on your new T-Mobile phone after activation.
T-Mobile Updates: T-Mobile will work with AT&T to approve the number transfer. They will usually email you with updates if more information is needed or if there's a delay.
Step 5: Confirm Transfer and Handle Your AT&T Account
Once your T-Mobile service is fully active and your number has successfully transferred, it's time to finalize things with AT&T.
Sub-heading: Verify Number Transfer
Make and Receive Calls/Texts: Test your T-Mobile service thoroughly. Make calls, send texts, and use data to ensure everything is working correctly with your ported number.
Confirm with T-Mobile: If you have any doubts, you can contact T-Mobile customer service to confirm the porting process is complete.
Sub-heading: AT&T Account Closure and Final Bill
Automatic Cancellation: When your number is successfully ported to T-Mobile, your AT&T service for that specific line should automatically cancel. You typically do not need to call AT&T to cancel that line.
Final AT&T Bill: You will receive a final bill from AT&T. This bill will include:
Remaining installment plan balance: If you were on an equipment installment plan with AT&T, the remaining unpaid balance will be due immediately and appear on your final bill.
Early Termination Fees (ETFs): If you were on a contract with AT&T and canceled before the end of your service commitment, you might incur an Early Termination Fee. However, many current AT&T plans are installment-based, so ETFs are less common now. Check your AT&T contract if you're unsure.
Prorated charges: Keep in mind that AT&T typically charges for the entire billing period, even if you cancel in the middle of it.
Pay Your Final AT&T Bill: Ensure you pay your final AT&T bill to avoid any collection issues.
Return AT&T Equipment (if applicable): If you had any leased equipment from AT&T (like modems for internet service if you had a bundled plan), make sure to return them to avoid additional charges.
Step 6: Enjoy Your New T-Mobile Experience!
Congratulations! You've successfully transferred from AT&T to T-Mobile. Take advantage of your new plan, explore the T-Mobile network, and enjoy your new mobile experience.
10 Related FAQ Questions
Tip: Don’t rush — enjoy the read.
How to Check if my AT&T Phone is Unlocked?
You can check your AT&T phone's unlock status by visiting AT&T's device unlock portal online and entering your phone's IMEI number.
How to Get my AT&T Account Number?
You can find your AT&T account number on your monthly bill, by logging into your myAT&T account online or via the app, or by calling AT&T customer service.
How to Find my AT&T Number Transfer PIN?
Dial *PORT (*7678) from your AT&T mobile device, use the myAT&T app (More > Manage profile > People & Permissions > Transfer phone number > Request a new PIN), or access it online through your myAT&T profile (People & permissions > Wireless > Transfer phone number > Request a new PIN).
How to Transfer an eSIM from AT&T to T-Mobile?
If your new T-Mobile service supports eSIM, you'll generally activate it by connecting to Wi-Fi and following prompts on your device, or by going to your phone's cellular/SIM settings to add a new cellular plan or download an eSIM. T-Mobile may provide a QR code or email instructions.
How to Keep My Phone Number When Switching to T-Mobile?
Provide your AT&T account number and the Number Transfer PIN to T-Mobile during the signup process. Do not cancel your AT&T service beforehand.
Tip: Reread sections you didn’t fully grasp.
How to Know if My Phone is Compatible with T-Mobile?
Visit T-Mobile's website and use their compatibility checker, entering your phone's IMEI number. Most unlocked GSM-compatible smartphones will work.
How to Get the Best Deals When Switching to T-Mobile?
Check T-Mobile's website for "Switching Deals" or "New Customer Offers." These often include phone payoffs, free phones with new lines, or special family discounts. It's also worth visiting a T-Mobile store or calling their sales line.
How to Cancel AT&T Service After Transferring to T-Mobile?
Once your number is fully ported to T-Mobile and your new service is active, your AT&T service for that line should automatically cancel. You do not typically need to call AT&T to cancel the specific line you transferred.
How to Pay My Final AT&T Bill After Switching?
You will receive a final bill from AT&T that includes any remaining device installment balances or applicable early termination fees. You can pay this bill online via your myAT&T account, through the myAT&T app, or by mail.
How to Handle Early Termination Fees (ETFs) from AT&T?
If you have an ETF from AT&T, you are responsible for paying it. However, T-Mobile sometimes offers promotions to help "pay off" your old carrier's early termination fees or remaining device balances, so check for those deals when you switch.
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