Which UK mobile networks offer to pay early exit fees?

While it’s rare for UK mobile networks to explicitly “buy out” your contract in cash, some providers do offer incentives that cover your early termination charges when you switch to them. These offers are typically promotional and come in the form of bill credit rather than a direct payment. As of 2025, these deals are not a standard feature for any network and tend to appear during specific sales periods.

For mobile contracts, these incentives are less frequent than for broadband services. Before considering a switch, your first step is to determine the exact cost to leave your current provider.

How to calculate your early termination charge

Under rules set by the regulator, Ofcom, all UK mobile customers can get key information about their contract status via a simple, free text message. This service, known as ‘Text-to-Switch’, removes the need to call your provider and navigate retention offers.

To find out your exit fee, text INFO to 85075. Your provider must reply promptly with details including whether you are still within your contract’s minimum term, the date your contract ends, and the exact early termination charge you would owe if you left that day.

An early termination charge is typically calculated by adding up your remaining monthly payments and then subtracting a discount. For example, EE calculates the fee by taking months left multiplied by monthly charge minus 20%. It’s crucial to note that if your contract separates the cost of your handset from your airtime, you will still be liable for paying off the remainder of your device.

The process for switching network and keeping your number

Ofcom rules have made the process of switching provider and keeping your mobile number straightforward.

1. Request a PAC code: Text PAC to 65075. Your current provider will reply within a minute with your Porting Authorisation Code (PAC), which is valid for 30 days. The message will also include any early termination charges.

2. Sign up with your new provider: Choose your new network and plan. During the sign-up process, you will be asked for your PAC.

3. The switch is completed: Once you give the PAC to your new provider, they must complete the switch within one working day. Your service with your old provider will be cancelled automatically.

If you do not wish to keep your number, you can text STAC to 75075 to receive a Service Termination Authorisation Code instead.

When you can leave your phone contract without paying penalties

You can cancel your contract for free in several circumstances:

Within 30 days of your contract ending: As your contract nears its conclusion, you can leave without fees by giving 30 days’ notice. You may receive retention offers, but you’re free to explore other deals.

Within the first 14 days (if signed online or by phone): Under distance selling regulations, there’s a 14-day cooling-off period where you can cancel without penalty. You’ll only need to pay for any usage charges. This cooling-off period applies if you signed up over the phone or online, but you don’t have the legal right to a 14-day cooling-off period if you signed up in person.

If the phone is faulty: Typically, you have 30 days to return a faulty device for a replacement or refund.

If your network raises prices: If your contract started on or after 17 January 2025, the contract should say exactly how much the price will increase each year. If your contract started before 17 January 2025, the contract might say the price will increase by a percentage, or the increase will be based on inflation. If your terms and conditions don’t say your provider can increase the price each year, your provider should give you 30 days’ notice before increasing the price, and you can cancel during this notice period.

Key considerations before you switch

Even if you find a network offering to cover your exit fees, it’s important to proceed with caution.

Credit, not cash: The reimbursement is almost always an account credit, not a cash payment. You must pay the final bill from your old provider yourself first. The new provider will then apply the credit to your future bills, often after a delay and only after you submit proof of the final bill.

Read the terms carefully: Check the offer’s small print for the maximum credit available and the specific requirements for claiming it. You typically need to provide a copy of your final bill showing the specific early termination charge.

Consider alternatives: If no attractive switching offers are available, you could wait until your current contract ends. Alternatively, you can contact your current provider to discuss your options; they may offer a better deal to persuade you to stay, especially if you are near the end of your contract term. If you are struggling to pay your bill, Citizens Advice recommends contacting your provider, as they may be able to help by offering a payment plan or moving you to a more suitable contract.