Keep Your Landline Number When Switching | UK Guide
Written by Hannah Hood, on . Last updated Many people worry about one thing when changing their phone provider:
can you keep your landline number when switching?
For lots of households, their home phone number has been the same for decades. Friends, family members, GP surgeries, banks and utility companies may all have it saved.
Because of this, many people avoid switching providers entirely, even when better deals are available.
The good news is that in most cases you can keep your landline number when switching providers in the UK. This is done through a process called number porting, which allows your number to be transferred to your new provider.
In this guide we’ll explain:
- How to keep your landline number when switching
- What number porting is
- The steps involved in transferring your number
- How long number porting takes
- Common mistakes to avoid
If you’ve been sticking with your current provider purely because you’re worried about losing your number, switching is usually much simpler than you might expect.
Can You Keep Your Landline Number When Switching Providers in the UK?
Yes! In most cases you can keep your existing landline number when switching providers or moving to a digital (VoIP) service.
Your number doesn’t change, only the provider handling your calls does.
This means:
- Friends and family can still call the same number
- You don’t need to update important services
- You avoid missing calls due to outdated contact details
This flexibility is one of the main reasons more households are now switching to digital landline providers.
Why People Avoid Switching Providers
Many households stay with the same provider for years due to a few common concerns:
- “If I switch, I’ll lose my number.”
- “Everyone already has this number.”
- “Switching sounds complicated.”
In reality, telecom providers are set up to transfer numbers between networks. As long as your number is still active, it can usually be moved without issue.
What Is Number Porting and How Does It Work?
Number porting is the process of transferring your phone number from one provider to another.
The number itself stays the same, only the network changes.
It’s a standard process used across the telecom industry and applies to:
- Landline numbers
- Mobile numbers
- Business phone systems
Your new provider typically handles the process by contacting your current provider and arranging the transfer on your behalf.
How to Transfer Your Landline Number (Step-by-Step UK Guide)
If you want to keep your number, the process is usually straightforward.
Step 1: Sign Up With Your New Provider
Choose a digital landline provider and create your account.
During signup, you’ll be asked whether you want to:
- Transfer your existing number
- Or receive a new one
Select the option to transfer your number.
Step 2: Complete the Number Porting Form
Your provider will send you a porting form, also known as a Letter of Authorisation (LOA).
This gives them permission to request the transfer.
You’ll usually need to:
- Check your details
- Confirm your current provider
- Ensure your name and address match your latest bill
- Sign the form
Incorrect details are one of the most common causes of delays.
Step 3: Return the Form
Send the completed form back to your provider. This can usually be done by:
- Uploading a scan
- Sending a photo
- Posting the document
Once received, your provider can begin the transfer process.
Step 4: Transfer Request Is Submitted
Your new provider contacts your current provider to request the number transfer.
During this stage:
- Your existing phone line continues working
- The providers coordinate the switch
Step 5: Wait for the Number to Be Ported
In most cases, transferring a landline number in the UK takes 7–14 working days.
During this time:
- Your current service remains active
- Your new equipment may arrive
- You can prepare for the switch
Once complete, your number will begin working through your new provider.
Important: Don’t Cancel Your Old Service Too Early
One of the biggest mistakes is cancelling your landline before the transfer is complete.
Your number must remain active to be ported. If it’s cancelled too soon, you may lose it permanently.
Don’t Forget About Broadband Bundles
If your broadband and phone line are with the same provider, cancelling your landline could also affect your internet.
If you’re only switching your phone service, make sure your broadband remains active.
What Happens During the Switch?
When the transfer completes, your number moves to your new provider.
You may notice a short interruption, such as:
- Calls briefly not connecting
- Your old line stopping
- Calls starting on your new device
This transition is usually quick, often just minutes or a few hours.
How Long Does Landline Number Porting Take?
Most transfers are completed within 7 to 14 working days, although this can vary depending on:
- Your current provider
- Accuracy of your details
- Type of service being switched
Common Mistakes to Avoid When Switching
- Cancelling your service before porting completes
- Entering incorrect account details
- Not checking broadband bundle impacts
- Assuming the process is complicated and delaying switching
Avoiding these issues can help ensure a smooth transfer.
The UK’s Move to Digital Landlines (PSTN Switch-Off)
The UK is phasing out traditional copper landlines as part of the PSTN switch-off.
New digital services use internet connections instead of analogue lines.
While the technology is changing, your phone number can usually stay the same thanks to number porting.
FAQs About Keeping Your Landline Number
Can I keep my BT landline number when switching?
Yes, in most cases BT numbers can be ported to another provider.
Does it cost to transfer a landline number?
Some providers charge a small fee (typically £0–£30), though many include it for free.
Can I port my landline number to VoIP?
Yes, this is one of the most common types of transfers.
What happens if my port request fails?
Your provider will usually explain the issue (often incorrect details) and allow you to resubmit.
Final Thoughts
Switching providers doesn’t mean giving up your long-standing phone number.
In most cases, you can transfer your landline number to a new provider with minimal disruption.
The process is simple:
- Sign up with a new provider
- Complete the porting form
- Return the document
- Wait for the transfer to complete
Within a couple of weeks, your existing number should be working with your new service, allowing you to switch providers without losing an important point of contact.
