What to Do When a Carrier Refuses to Port Your Number

When you switch to a new phone provider, your number belongs to you, not your old carrier. The FCC requires companies to transfer your number when you start service with another provider, even if you have an unpaid balance or early termination fee. Still, some carriers delay or deny requests, leaving businesses stuck without the number their customers already know.

What can you do if a carrier refuses to port your number?

1. Reach out to an agent at your new carrier

Whether it might be a mobile number or any account numbers you own, it's generally hassle-free to migrate an existing phone number. However, there are uncommon instances where you might run into some hiccups. The best first-step approach is to contact an agent at your new carrier.

When porting your business phone numbers to Telzio, the process is simple and can be done by completing a porting request online. There is no downtime to port phone numbers when you port your number to Telzio. We will inform you how many business days it takes with the port date and time, so you know exactly when your service will be switched over. Until that time, you should not cancel the service with the old provider.

Related:Number Porting from Telzio

2. Make sure your porting request is accurate

The most common reason for a rejected porting request is incorrect or mismatched account information. Even a small error, such as a wrong digit or outdated address, can cause delays. Before submitting, double-check that your porting form exactly matches what your current provider has on file, including the name, address, and account number. Getting it right the first time avoids unnecessary back-and-forth and keeps your communication running smoothly.

3. Call your old carrier

If your request keeps getting rejected, contact your old provider directly. Speaking with a live representative can often reveal what is causing the issue, especially when automated systems fail to flag the problem correctly. Be polite but firm. Remind them that, according to the FCC, carriers are legally required to release your number when requested.

4. File a complaint with the FCC

If your carrier continues to block your porting request, file a complaint with the FCC.

You can do this online at https://consumercomplaints.fcc.gov or by calling 1-888-CALL-FCC (1-888-225-5322). The FCC tracks these complaints and can step in when a provider ignores portability laws. When all else fails, file a complaint with the FCC.

Local Number Portability

Before choosing a phone service, review the terms of service to confirm that number portability is included. Even if you have a contract or owe an early termination fee, your provider cannot legally stop you from porting your number. At Telzio, portability is part of our promise.

We never lock your business numbers or [internet fax numbers], and we do not charge cancellation fees. You stay in full control. To check if your number can be ported, contact us at 888-998-9080, send an email, or text our support team.

See how easy it is to port your number to Telzio: https://telzio.com/porting

Useful Links:

Learn more about FCC portability rules.File a complaint with the FCC.