Free Text Message Could Save UK Mobile Users Hundreds on Phone Bills
Mobile phone users across the United Kingdom might be overpaying significantly on their monthly bills, but a simple and free text message could initiate the process of escaping costly contracts and securing more affordable alternatives, potentially saving hundreds of pounds annually.
Experts at the consumer advocacy group Which? have highlighted that sending a free SMS can inform customers whether they will face any penalties for leaving their current phone contract in pursuit of a cheaper option.
How to Check Your Contract Status
To utilize this service, users should text the word 'INFO' for free via SMS to 85075. It is important to note that this must be sent as a standard text message, not through WhatsApp or other messaging apps.
In response, individuals will receive a text detailing whether they are out of contract or if early termination fees would apply should they decide to switch networks. Some mobile providers may follow up with an additional text requesting your date of birth to verify identity.
Adam Snook, a senior researcher and writer at Which?, explained: "This service is provided by the telecoms regulator Ofcom and can help customers easily understand their situation. It does not initiate a switching process or impact your mobile plan, allowing you to make an informed decision based on the information received."
Understanding Early Termination Fees
Early termination fees are typically waived under specific circumstances. For instance, customers can cancel for free within 14 days of signing a new contract if they change their mind. Additionally, fees are often nullified if the provider unexpectedly raises prices during the contract term.
Once you have determined your contract status, the next step is to assess your data usage to identify potential savings. Most contracts in 2026 offer ample call minutes and text messages, but costs vary significantly based on internet data allowances.
How to Monitor Your Data Usage
- For iPhone users: Navigate to Settings, select Mobile Data to view usage in the current period, which resets based on your billing cycle.
- For Android users: Go to Settings, choose Connections, then select Data Usage or Data to see consumption since a specific date.
This data analysis helps users determine if they are overpaying for unused data, enabling them to tailor their search for a new contract that matches their actual needs.
Finding Affordable SIM Deals
Which? has compared numerous current deals and suggests that individuals with low data usage—less than 10GB—can find offers around £6 per month from providers like Sky and Asda. For moderate or high data users, options are available with prices capped at approximately £20 monthly.
Steps to Switch Mobile Networks
- To switch networks while retaining your existing mobile number, text 'PAC' to 65075.
- Your current provider should respond within one minute with a Porting Authorization Code (PAC), valid for 30 days, along with details on any early termination charges.
- Provide the PAC to your new provider, who is required to complete the switch within one working day.
By following these steps, UK mobile users can proactively manage their contracts, avoid unnecessary fees, and potentially achieve substantial savings on their phone bills through informed switching decisions.
