How to Transfer Telephone Numbers From Verizon to AT&T
By Stephanie Ellen
Verizon subscribers can transfer their phone number to AT&T. The Federal Communications Commission's wireless number portability act requires that all wireless telephone companies allow transfer of numbers between companies if the process if physically possible. In some cases, you also may be able to port your landline number. Transferring your number when you switch from Verizon to AT&T saves you the hassle of informing your contacts of your new phone number.
Click the "Bring Your Number to AT&T" link on the AT&T website (see Resources).
Type your Verizon number into the "Wireless Number" text box.
Type your ZIP code into the "ZIP code" text box and click "Submit."
Read the information presented on the screen. To continue with the porting process, you must receive a message that states your number is eligible for transfer. If your number is ineligible, you cannot port the number to AT&T.
Click on the AT&T home page (see Resources) and choose a cell phone. You'll be asked for your current phone number during the checkout process.
Wait for the porting process to complete. AT&T will contact Verizon to switch your number to the AT&T network. Your Verizon account will close automatically at the end of the porting process. The process should take no longer than seven days, during which time you may have service on both phones.
References
Tips
- Landline transfers may be possible in some cases: contact AT&T at 800-205-6268 to see if it's possible to port your landline.
Warnings
- During the porting process, the emergency 911service may not function properly. You can call 911 but the operator may not be able to call you back. Make sure you let the operator know that calling you back may not be possible and provide an alternate number, if you can.
Writer Bio
Stephanie Ellen teaches mathematics and statistics at the university and college level. She coauthored a statistics textbook published by Houghton-Mifflin. She has been writing professionally since 2008. Ellen holds a Bachelor of Science in health science from State University New York, a master's degree in math education from Jacksonville University and a Master of Arts in creative writing from National University.