My mobile contract is ending. What should I do?
When your mobile contract ends, the best next step depends on whether you are still in contract, whether your handset is paid off, and whether you are happy with your current deal. Start with the facts rather than a sales pitch.
Are you in or out of contract?
Ofcom rules require mobile providers to send you an end-of-contract notification when your minimum term is ending, and an annual-best-price notification once a year if you stay out of contract. These notifications should tell you your contract end date, whether you are still in contract, and the provider's best available deal at that point.
If you are out of contract, you can usually leave without paying an early termination charge. If you are still in contract, check the terms before switching, as charges may apply.
Is your handset already paid off?
Many mobile contracts bundle a handset repayment with an airtime plan. Once the handset part is paid off, continuing on the same deal can mean paying more than you need to. Check your bill or contract to see whether the device is still being financed.
If you already own a suitable phone, a SIM-only deal may be worth considering. It is not automatically the best choice for everyone, but it can be cheaper if you do not need a new handset.
Text to Switch: PAC, STAC and INFO
Ofcom's Text to Switch service lets you request a switching code by text. Text PAC to 65075 if you want to keep your number, STAC to 75075 if you do not want to keep it, or INFO to 85075 for details about your contract.
PAC and STAC codes are usually valid for 30 days. Give the code to your new provider and they will arrange the switch. Do not cancel your old contract yourself before the switch is complete, or you may lose service or your number.
The old contract normally ends on the day the number is transferred, so you should not pay for both services after that date.
What to compare before taking a new deal
Cheapest is not always best. Look at the monthly price and total cost over the contract, any handset cost, data allowance, roaming charges, coverage where you live and work, contract length, how future price rises are described, and the early-termination terms.
Keeping your number
If you want to keep your current number, request a PAC and give it to your new provider. They will coordinate the transfer. Do not cancel your old service first, because the number may be lost.
What I'd do next
- Check your end-of-contract notification or account for the contract end date and in-contract status.
- Confirm whether your handset is paid off.
- Text INFO to 85075 if you are unsure of your status.
- Compare monthly and total cost, data, coverage, contract length and future price-rise terms.
- Request a PAC or STAC when you are ready, then give it to your new provider.
- Keep records of notice and the agreed switch date.
Official sources
- Ofcom — Switching mobile phone provider
- Ofcom — In or out of contract?
- Citizens Advice — Cancelling a phone, TV, internet or mobile contract
Last reviewed: September 2026
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Forward the email about it and Feoh pulls out the charge, the dates and the next step, alongside the official cancellation route where we have verified one.
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