Guides › Broadband, Phone and Mobile Contracts › Switch Mobile Network by Text (PAC and STAC)
Switch Mobile Network by Text (PAC and STAC)
To switch mobile network, text PAC to 65075 to keep your number, or STAC to 75075 if you do not want it. Your provider must reply within a minute with your code and any early termination charges. Give the code to your new provider, which must complete the switch within one working day.
At a Glance
Your Rights
What the rules say, with a link to the official source for each.
Text-to-Switch
The Texts
To keep your phone number, text 'PAC' to 65075. If you do not want to keep it, text 'STAC' to 75075. Your provider must send the code within one minute, with key details such as early termination charges and any pay-as-you-go credit balance. Check these before going ahead. source
The Switch
The code is valid for 30 days. Your new provider must complete your switch within one working day. source
Charges and Compensation
No Notice Charges After
Your old provider must not charge you for any notice period after the switching date. Providers may need to compensate you if the switch is delayed or you are left without service for longer than allowed. source
Free Dispute Resolution
If your complaint is not resolved, you can use a free alternative dispute resolution (ADR) scheme once six weeks have passed since your initial complaint, or earlier if you receive a deadlock letter. The two schemes are the Communications and Internet Services Adjudication Scheme (CISAS) and the Communications Ombudsman. All providers must belong to one. source
Time Limits to Know
Miss a deadline and you can lose a right. Check the dates on your own paperwork.
- 1 minuteProvider must send your PAC or STACWith early termination charges and any credit balance
- 30 daysSwitching code is validGive it to your new provider in that time
- 1 working dayNew provider completes the switchFrom when you give it the code
- 6 weeksWait before going to a free ADR schemeSix weeks from your complaint, or earlier with a deadlock letter
Steps to Take
Step 1 of 5
Text PAC to 65075 to keep your number, or STAC to 75075 if you do not need it.
Step 2 of 5
Read the reply: it shows any early termination charges and pay-as-you-go credit.
Step 3 of 5
Choose your new deal and give the new provider your code within 30 days.
Step 4 of 5
Your new provider must switch you within one working day. Keep your old SIM until the new one works.
Step 5 of 5
If you are charged notice after the switch or left without service, complain to your old provider, then use its ADR scheme.
(Tap the numbers to reveal steps)
Where to Go If It Is Not Put Right
Your options, in order, and when each one applies.
Your Provider's Complaints Team
Always start here, in writing, and keep a copy.
CISAS or the Communications Ombudsman (ADR)
Six weeks after your complaint, or when you receive a deadlock letter. Free for you. Your provider will say which scheme it belongs to.
Good to Know
Small things that make your complaint stronger.
Your old contract ends when the switch happens, so you do not need to call to cancel separately.
Any handset you are still paying for on a device plan is separate: check what you still owe.
Want Help?
If you would like one of our team to look at your problem, our initial case review is free. We cannot guarantee any outcome and we do not give legal advice.
Lead reviewer
Luke Marley
Founder and Lead Reviewer
Luke founded CPUK in 2026 after seeing how hard it is for ordinary people to get problems with companies put right. He oversees our guides and checks them against official sources.
Research by Katie Burt, Co-founder and Operations Lead (17 years in the care sector, including managing services for vulnerable adults), and the CPUK Research Team. Researched with AI-assisted research tools, then checked and corrected by our team.
Last checked: 13 October 2026. We are not paid by the companies we write about. Adverts never affect our guidance. Read our editorial policy.
Sources and official links
- ofcom.org.uk/phones-and-broadband/switching-provider/switching-mobile-phone-provider Checked 13 October 2026
- ofcom.org.uk/complaints/complain-about-phones-or-internet-services/contracts Checked 12 October 2026