Consumers Can Now Take Their Cell Phone Numbers With Them

In May 2004, portability of local cell phone numbers went nationwide in the United States. This means that you can keep your cell phone numbers when switching to a new service provider.

Customers in large markets have been able to move their cell phone numbers since November 2003. The Federal Communications Commission mandated that all wireless service providers support local phone number portability by May 24. Some providers in rural areas still do not offer the service. In July, the FCC showed it was serious about enforcing portability when it fined one such carrier $100,000.

Number portability now applies to both cell phones and landlines. Consumers have been able to move phone numbers between landline phones since 1999. Now it is possible to transfer your cell phone number to your home or vice versa. Unfortunately, both phones can’t use the same number.

You can only port your cell phone number to a landline or cellular service provider that covers the same location. In other words, you probably won’t be able to move your number from New York to L.A. Remember that your cell number includes an area code that determines your home service area. Even if you could transfer the phone number you use in New York to California, you’d be paying a lot of roaming charges.

Number portability has increased competition. Wireless providers have announced new incentives aimed at attracting customers who may like their cellular number but not their cell phone service. It might be a good time to make a change, especially if your current cellular service contract is up.

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Also See: prepaid cell phones.

About The Author:

Wendy Whittaker is a successful author and regular contributor to http://www.1st-in-cell-phones.com. A cellular phone industry resource featuring articles, comparisons and reviews of cellular phone and service plans.

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Consumers Can Now Take Their Cell Phone Numbers With Them