What is local number portability?
Local Number Portability is a government mandate that requires wireless and wireline service providers to allow customers with eligible phone numbers to retain their phone numbers when changing service providers. Nationwide WLNP became available November 24, 2003. ACS and carriers in smaller markets began porting on May 24, 2004.
When can I switch to ACS and keep my number?
Now. Local number portability became available on May 24, 2004.
How do I know if my current number is eligible to be ported?
All phone numbers are assigned to a local geographic area.
To port your number:
- it must remain associated with the same local geographic area where it is currently assigned
- the local geographic area with which your number is associated must be within an area where ACS currently provides service
You can check your number's eligibility at any ACS Storefront, authorized agent location or by calling us at 563-8000.
Should I cancel my existing service before porting?
No. Your number must remain active. Canceling your service prior to porting will prevent you from keeping your number. Please note: You are responsible to your old service provider for any contractual requirements and applicable charges, including an early termination fee, on your old account.
Will I need a new phone?
In order to enjoy all of ACS Wireless' services, you may need an ACS-issued phone.
How long will it take to port my number?
Wireless to wireless ports generally should take no more than three hours to one day, but could take longer. Landline to wireless ports generally should take no more than 4 days, but could take longer. Please note: Actual processing time may vary depending on the complexity of the port and your old service provider. Emergency 911 service availability should also be considered when porting from wireline/landline to wireless, as there will be no accurate call back information during the porting interval.
Will there be a charge to port my number?
No. Although carriers are allowed to recover their costs of implementing WLNP by charging fees to customers, ACS has made a decision not to charge fees associated with the porting process.
Who should consumers contact if they want to port their number to a new carrier?
Consumers should contact their prospective new carrier, who will start the porting process. The new carrier will first confirm the consumer's identity and then make a porting request of the old carrier. When consumers go to their new carrier to port a number, they should bring along a recent wireline or wireless bill, which will have their correct name and address as it appears in the carriers' data bases. This should aid in making the porting process go smoothly. Once a valid porting request has been made, the old carrier cannot refuse to port a number.