Cancelling a phone contract can be expensive. When looking for a new mobile phone deal, most people will search for the cheapest one available. This might not always be the best option as it can lead to higher than average cancellation fees if you want to terminate your contract early.
One of the most common reasons to terminate a contract is if you have lost your phone and it isn't insured. In this instance, you may want to cancel your existing contract and begin a new contract with a new mobile phone.
You may also be unhappy with the service provided. If this is the case, it's important that you complain to your provider to let them know that you're unhappy with the service. According to Ofcom rules, mobile network providers have to offer "swift and hassle-free" processes to allow you to switch providers if you are unhappy with the service.
And finally, you might have simply seen a better deal with another company that you want to take advantage of.
Whatever your reasons for cancelling, the process of cancelling a mobile phone contract will vary depending on a number of factors. Here are the steps you need to take to cancel a phone contract.
How to cancel a phone contract
It's rare for phone companies to allow their existing customers to cancel their phone contracts without paying an exit fee. Check your mobile phone contract to find out the exit fee. This is the fee you will need to pay in order to terminate your contract.
Most phone companies also require a 30-day notice period. This means you will need to pay your final bill, plus your cancellation fee to cancel your phone contract.
You can find out more about how to cancel Vodafone here .
Cancel and keep your number
If you don't take steps to keep your phone number, it will stop working and you will no longer be able to use that number.
To cancel a phone contract and keep your phone number, you will need to get something known as a Porting Authorisation Code, which is usually shortened to PAC.
Call your existing provider and ask for your PAC number. You then need to call your new mobile phone provider and give them the PAC number. They will then arrange for the phone number to be transferred to them at the end of your existing contract. You may choose to move it earlier if you are happy to have two concurrent phone contracts running.
Cancelling a new phone contract
If you recently started a new contract, you have the right to cancel within 14 days of the start of the service. This is your right under the Consumer Contracts Regulations.
If you order a new phone contract, you have the right to cancel from the moment you place the order right up until 14-days after you have received your new phone. If you had a contract-only deal, you have the right to cancel up to 14-days after your contract begins.
You will still be liable for the cost of services provided up until the point of cancellation. You don't have to provide a reason for cancelling.
Returning your phone
If your phone contract includes a handset, you will need to arrange for the safe return of this device to the company. The device will need to be free from damage or you may be liable for the cost of the device.
When a contract includes a handset, you don't automatically have the right to cancel your contract as you would with a contract-only arrangement. That said, many high street sellers have generous returns policies, provided the handset is returned in a sellable condition.