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Can I keep my existing cell phone number?

Most people can transfer their existing cell phone number to Consumer Cellular. It depends on where you live and who is your old service provider.

Follow these guidelines for a successful transfer:

• Do not cancel your number with your old service provider. Your cell number must remain active during the transfer process. Once the number is transferred to Consumer Cellular, it will automatically be disconnected with your old service provider.
• If the number is in a contract, you may be charged an early termination fee by your old service provider.
• When you set up your Consumer Cellular account, make sure your billing information (name, address, etc.) matches the information on your old service provider’s account. You may want to have an old billing statement with you when you set up your new account.
• For your convenience, your number will automatically be activated 7 days after your phone ships. You can activate your number online or simply give us a call at 1-888-345-5509.

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Can I use my existing phone?

The only phones we can guarantee to work with our services are the phones we sell. Other GSM phones may work with our services, but many do not. If your phone is an unlocked GSM / AT&T phone, it may work. Please call our Customer Service team at 1-888-345-5509 for further information on using your own phone. We do not guarantee the functionality of any phone we do not sell.

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Can I buy a phone somewhere else?

Our phones are built to work with our SIM cards and service. Be aware that almost all advertised phones require a 2-year contract with the service provider selling the phone. Without signing the contract, the phone is usually hundreds of dollars more. This is because the company selling the phone is heavily discounting the phone to entice you to sign up for a long-term contract at a high monthly rate. Without the contract, they will sell the phone at its actual price.

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How long does it take to transfer my existing cell phone number?

In general, it takes 1-3 days to transfer an existing cell phone number to Consumer Cellular. This process could take longer depending upon your old provider. Several factors influence the transfer—your old provider, the demand for phone number transfers, and the accuracy of the information.

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