Sim Only FAQs
Got a question? Check our SIM Only FAQs
What is Sim Only?
Sim only deals provide you with only a new sim card and not a new mobile phone handset. You keep your existing mobile and phone number and simply use your new sim card to get a much cheaper deal.
Why are Sim only deals so cheap?
New mobile phone’s can cost up to £500 so when you sign up for new mobile phone contract the cost of the phone is spread across your monthly payments over the length of the contract. With sim only deals there’s no new phone so the saving is passed on to the consumer meaning you pay a lot less each month.
Can I keep my existing phone number?
Yes you can always keep you existing phone number with sim only contracts even if you are switching networks.
What do I need to do in order to keep my existing number?
Contact your old mobile phone provider and ask them for a PAC number (Port Authorisation Code). Call your new sim only provider and give them the PAC code (you need to do this within 30 days or the PAC code expires). Your existing number will be transferred to your new provider within 2 days (often sooner). If you are with the same provider you don’t need a PAC code though you may need to inform your provider’s customer services team once the sim card has arrived.
What happens if go over my minutes or text allowance?
You’ll be charged at the standard rates in the same way you would with a normal mobile phone contract. If you consistently go over the limit you should be able to upgrade to a sim only plan with more minutes and/or texts.
Will I need to pass a credit check?
Yes you need to pass a basic credit check though this tends to be easier to pass than normal mobile phone contract credit checks as the monthly payments are lower.
Do I get a new Phone?
No you keep you old mobile phone handset and use the new sim card you will be sent in the post. Alternatively you could buy a new handset separately and use a sim only deal which might work out cheaper than a normal mobile contract.
What if I lose my phone or it breaks?
You’ll need to get a new phone but nearly all phones will work with sim only deals, so you’ll be free to chose the right model for your budget.
How does SimOnlyOffers.com make money?
We receive a small commission from the mobile providers. Despite this we are completely independent of all providers and this doesn’t impact the information shown on this site. Our aim is to provide an unbiased view of all sim only deals so you can make an easy and informed decision when selecting a new sim only tariff.