How to cancel a phone contract

Before cancelling your contract, you can check if your contract has finished or if you're still within the minimum term. If you're still locked into the contract, then you may have to pay a substantial fee to end it early. Typically you'll have to pay off the remainder of the contract (possibly with a small discount), so ending particularly early is rarely financially sound.

If you want to check, text INFO to 85075 from the phone number of the network you want to leave. You'll then get a text in response telling you whether you're still in contract and whether there are any charges if you leave now.

Almost all providers require 30 days' notice if you wish to leave.

Switching to a cheaper deal with another network is easier than ever, as you no longer have to call your current provider to ditch it, so you avoid the hard sell of them trying to make you stay. Here's what to do:

• Request a switching code by text. Simply text 'PAC' for free to 65075 on any network and you'll be sent your 'porting authorisation code' (PAC) immediately via text so you can keep your number.
  
  Its text must include important info such as any exit penalties, outstanding handset costs or credit balances.
  
  
• You need to give the switching code to your new provider within 30 days. You'll then be switched within one working day. You won't need to contact your old provider again.
  

What's more, if you're out of your minimum contract period, mobile providers are now banned from charging you for the remainder of your notice period after you've switched (which is typically 30 days), putting an end to paying for your old and new contract at the same time.

If you're still in contract, you could be charged early termination fees for leaving – check how much you'd be charged by sending a text with the word 'INFO' to 85075.