Your mobile contract is ending. Now’s the perfect time to review your options.
Whether you’re thinking about upgrading your phone, moving to a cheaper SIM-only deal or switching to a different network altogether, the end of your contract is a great opportunity to reassess your plan.
Here’s everything you need to know.
When does a phone contract actually end?
Typically, you can expect mobile phone contracts to last for a fixed minimum period – most commonly 12, 24 or 36 months. These types of payment plans are designed to help spread the cost of your device, and as a result longer, 36-month contracts are increasingly becoming standard for new handset deals.
During your contract period, you will usually pay for both the handset and the mobile service, and once the minimum terms ends, the contract will become more flexible and you’ll be free to cancel, change or switch to another provider without incurring fees.
Of course, it’s always best to check the details of your specific contract. To find your contract end date, you can:
- Check your original contract or order confirmation. This might have been sent to you via email.
- Log into your online mobile provider account and view your contract details.
- Contract your provider directly.
It’s also worth noting that in the UK, providers must always notify you when your contract is approaching its end.
What happens if you do nothing?
Generally speaking, if you don’t take any action when your contract ends it will transition into a rolling monthly plan. This means your service will continue exactly as before, at the same price per month, but you won’t be locked into a minimum term and can cancel at any time.
Sounds great, but there’s one pretty important thing to consider – if you were paying for your device as part of your monthly bill, you could keep paying the same amount even after the handset has been paid off.
Let’s take a look at an example (all values for illustrative purposes only):
| Plan Type | Monthly Cost | Yearly Cost |
| Handset Contract | £45 | £540 |
| SIM Only | £12 | £144 |
In this example, which uses some pretty average monthly prices, switching from a handset contract to SIM only (once the handset contract term is finished) could save you almost £400 per year.
That’s a pretty significant difference, and this is one major reason why it’s a good idea to review your options when your contract ends.
Your options when your phone contract ends
If your contract is finished, the good news is that there are a number of options available to you. The most common are:
1. Upgrade your phone
If you’re the kind of person who absolutely has to have the latest handset, you can upgrade to the newest model with your current provider, or switch to another network if there’s a particular deal that has caught your eye.
This will usually mean starting a brand new contract – likely with a 36-month minimum term – but you will receive a brand new shiny device with all the whizzy mod cons, and probably be the envy of all your tech-minded friends.
2. Switch to a SIM-only deal
If you’re happy to stick with your current phone, moving to a SIM-only plan could significantly reduce your monthly bill.
As you’ll no longer be paying for a device these plans are usually much cheaper, and, as an added bonus, they often come with shorter contract terms. You might even be able to find one that offers you more minutes or data than you currently have, still at a greatly reduced price.
3. Switch to a different network
The end of your current contract is also a great time to compare providers and see what else is out there.
Switching networks could net you more data, improved coverage in your area or even just a better monthly price. Some networks also offer pretty attractive customer incentives, and remember – you can usually keep your existing number when switching.
4. Cancel your plan
Finally, you could always choose to simply cancel your contract completely. You could keep your headset and move to pay-as-you-go or even rely mainly on Wi-Fi for calls and messaging.
This might seem like a more extreme option, but it could perfectly suit someone who uses their phone much less frequently.
Just remember – it’s important to look at your usage, lifestyle and budget, and choose the option that is right for you.
Can you leave your provider without fees?
Absolutely. Early termination charges only apply if you cancel during your contract period, so once your minimum term is up you should be able to switch providers without paying any exit fees.
If you do decide to switch, remember to request a PAC code so that you can transfer your existing number to your new network. Check out our in-depth guide for everything you need to know about keeping your number when moving networks.
Should you switch when your contract ends?
Switching providers isn’t always strictly necessary, but the end of your contract can be a great opportunity to review your options.
It might be worth switching if:
- You’re currently paying more than you would be on a newer deal
- You want more data
- You need better network coverage
- You want a new phone
Even if you decide to stay with the same provider, having a look at the deals available could help you secure a better price. As always, take stock of your needs and circumstances and choose the best option for you.
How to find the best deals after your contract ends
Before you renew, upgrade or switch, it’s a good idea to compare your options. Have a look at what’s out there, from as many providers as possible, and find a deal that ticks all your boxes.
Things to consider include:
- Monthly cost
- Data allowance
- Network coverage in your area
- Contract length
- Device features (if upgrading)
Whether you’re looking for a brand new phone or just a great SIM-only deal, be sure to check out our mobile comparison tool for a round-up of all the latest offers.
