How to keep your landline phone number

You can usually keep your home phone number, even if your landline is shut off. Moving a number to a new company is called porting, and phone companies must allow it in most cases.

Your options

Move it to a cell phone. Your home number becomes your cell number.

Move it to a new home phone service, such as a cellular home phone base or internet phone service.

Keep it with your current company on its replacement service, like AT&T Phone - Advanced.

How to port your landline number

1. Don't cancel your landline first. If you cancel before the number moves, you can lose it.

4. Give them your account details exactly as they appear on your bill.

2. Get your account number and any PIN from your current phone company. It is often on your bill.

5. The new company handles the transfer. It often takes a few days.

3. Sign up with the new company and tell them you want to transfer your existing number.

6. Your old service usually ends automatically once the number moves.

Things to know

Some numbers can't move to every company, especially in rural areas. Ask the new company to check your number first.

You can also park a number with some services for a small fee if you aren't ready to use it yet.

This site is independent and not affiliated with any phone company.

If your number is tied to a medical alert or alarm, update those companies once the move is done.