How to Switch to AT&T (2026)

Thinking about making the jump to AT&T? Good move. AT&T offers the best combined 4G and 5G coverage in the country, and delivers a top-tier postpaid experience.

While switching to AT&T may seem like a daunting task, rest assured that it’s easier than you might think.However, you'll want to make sure you follow all of these steps to ensure a smooth transition to your new carrier. Skipping any one of them could complicate your switch.

Read on to learn, step-by-step, how to switch to AT&T.

Before You Make the Leap

Make sure to do this before making the leap to your new carrier. 

Check Your Current Phone Contract Status

Phone contracts often stipulate I repayment period of 24 to 36 months. You may be in the midst of that, meaning that in order to completely sever your ties to your current carrier, you’ll need to pay off your phone with them in full. This is something you’ll want to get figured out before you make the switch to Verizon.

Confirm Device Compatibility

If you have an even vaguely recent smartphone model, the chances are high it will work just fine on the AT&T network. However, only the most recent ones will be able to take advantage of all of AT&T’s fastest 5G network bands.

Fortunately, AT&T makes it easy to check your device’s compatibility on its network. Just visit Verizon's website and use their IMEI checker. Input your phone's unique identification number (usually found in your phone's settings under "About Phone" or by dialing *#06#), and they'll tell you if it's compatible.

Back Up Your Data

Before any major change involving your phone, back up everything: contacts, photos, videos, apps, messages, and any important documents. Use cloud services like Google Drive, iCloud, or even a good old-fashioned computer backup. Think of it as insurance; you hope you won’t need it, but you’ll be incredibly grateful if you do.

Gather Account Information

You'll need specific details from your current carrier to port your number (keep your existing phone number). This typically includes your account number, account holder's name, billing address, and potentially a PIN or password. Have these handy; any mismatch could delay your number transfer.

Switching to AT&T: Step-By-Step

Step 1: Choose Your AT&T Plan

AT&T offers an assortment of great plans, from low-cost limited data offerings to premium unlimited data options. Before making the leap to AT&T from your current carrier, you should figure out which AT&T plan best suits your lifestyle.

Step 2: Decide on Your Device Strategy

Are you bringing your own device (BYOD) after confirming compatibility? Or are you looking to upgrade to a new phone with AT&T? AT&T often has promotions for new lines of service or device trade-ins. If you're bringing your own, ensure it's unlocked from your previous carrier (we'll cover this pitfall shortly). If buying new, compare models and financing options.

Step 3: Initiate the Transfer (Porting Your Number)

When you sign up for service with AT&T, you'll explicitly state that you want to port your existing number. Provide all the account information you gathered in the preparation phase. AT&T will then handle the transfer process directly with your old carrier. Don't cancel your old service yourself before the port is complete, as doing so could result in losing your number forever.

Step 4: Activate Your New Device and Service

Once the number port is initiated or complete (AT&T will guide you), it's time to activate your new device. If you purchased a new phone from AT&T, it will come with a pre-installed SIM card. Follow the on-screen instructions or the provided activation guide. If you're using your own device, you'll need a new AT&T SIM card (either provided by AT&T or purchased separately) and follow their activation steps, which often involve inserting the SIM and performing a short setup process. Test calls, texts, and data immediately to ensure everything is working.

Step 5: Confirm Cancellation with Your Previous Carrier

Even though porting your number usually cancels your old line automatically, it's a good practice to follow up with your previous carrier a day or two after your Verizon service is fully active and confirmed. Call them to ensure your account is properly closed, that you won't be billed further, and to understand any final charges or credits. This prevents any lingering financial surprises.

What to Expect During and After the Switch

Understanding the nuances of what happens next will alleviate any anxiety.

The Porting Process

Porting your number usually takes a few hours, but in some rare cases, it can extend to a day or two. During this period, your old phone and new phone might both work intermittently, or you might experience a brief period where neither receives calls. This "limbo" is normal. Just make sure your old service remains active until the port is complete. You'll know it's done when calls and texts consistently come to your new AT&T device.

Setting Up Your New Device

If you opted for a new phone, take the time to set it up properly. Transfer your contacts, photos, and apps from your old device. Most modern smartphones have built-in tools for this, or you can use cloud backups. Explore AT&T's pre-installed apps and features, and customize your settings to your liking.

Managing Your New Account

Download the myAT&T app. This will be your hub for checking data usage, paying bills, changing plans, and getting support. Familiarize yourself with its features. Set up auto-pay if you wish, and review your first bill carefully to ensure everything is as expected.

The Bottom Line

Switching to AT&T doesn’t have to be complicated — in fact, with a bit of preparation, it can be surprisingly seamless. By checking your contract details, confirming device compatibility, backing up your data, and gathering your account information, you set yourself up for a stress-free transition. From there, choosing the right AT&T plan, deciding whether to bring your device or upgrade, and porting your number are all straightforward steps when you know what to expect.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I keep my current phone and number when switching to AT&T?

Yes, you can bring an unlocked compatible phone and transfer your existing number during activation as long as your current service remains active until the transfer completes.

What do I need from my current carrier to switch to AT&T?

You usually need your account number and a number transfer PIN or password so AT&T can port your number without interruption.

How long does it take to switch to AT&T?

Most number transfers finish within a few hours, though some may take up to a day. Your new AT&T service becomes fully active once the transfer is complete.