Beginning May 24th, 2004, wireless number portability will become available nationwide. Wireless number portability simply means keeping your phone number and choosing a new carrier to provide your service. Part of the wireless industry's commitment to its customers is helping you understand and prepare for the porting process.

That's what this Web site is all about. It's chock-full of information so that if you decide to move your phone number to a new wireless carrier, you can plan ahead. Here are some basic guidelines you should know before you transfer your home or mobile phone number.

What You Should Know…

• All Portability is Local. "Local" portability means that you can only take your number to a new carrier that serves the same location as your current carrier. In other words, you can't port your number from one metro area to a new carrier in another city hundreds of miles away.
• Prevent A False Start. Don't start by canceling service with your current provider - or you might lose your number. Start with the carrier you want to switch to. Your new carrier will then contact your current provider to transfer your phone number.
• Know Your Current Contract. Review the terms of your current contract. You may be subject to an early termination fee if you cancel your existing wireless service before a certain amount of time.
• The Devil is in the Details. Your new carrier will need to know specific information about your existing account. So for convenience, bring your most recent monthly bill when you go to transfer your phone number. If you don't have a copy of your bill, be sure to bring the exact details of your account, such as your name as it appears on the bill, your billing address, account number and current phone number. If any of that information is misspelled or written incorrectly on your application, your number transfer could be delayed significantly.
• Find a New Phone and A New Plan That Fits. You may need a new phone when you switch carriers, even if you are keeping your number. Wireless carriers offer a wide variety of feature-filled devices and numerous service plan options. Get to know the various rate plans, coverage areas and special features, so you can make a choice that's best for you.
• Plan for a Process. When you go to a retail store to transfer your phone number to a new carrier, schedule plenty of time to fill out the necessary application forms, choose your new phone and rate plan, and possibly wait while other customers do the same. Porting your phone number during the first few weeks following May 24 may take up to a few business days.
• Exceptions To The Rules May Apply. All wireless telephone numbers will be eligible for porting on May 24. However, if you are trying to transfer a wireline number (also called a landline number) to a wireless carrier, this service may not be available in your area. A few states have granted waivers to some rural wireline phone companies, and additional waivers may be granted in the future. You should check with your local phone provider or the state public service commission to learn if your wireline number is eligible or click here.