# SIM-only and mobile switching: cut your phone bill after the handset is paid off

> Bills & utilities · Last updated 4 July 2026

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## Quick answer

Once your handset is paid off, move to a SIM-only deal — monthly costs often drop from £40+ to £8–£15 for the same data. Compare 30-day rolling plans if you want flexibility; check social tariffs if you receive Universal Credit or Pension Credit.

Mobile is the second-fastest household saving after energy for many families. Network operators rely on customers staying on inflated contracts after the phone is theirs. SIM-only separates airtime from hardware cost.

## Key facts

- PAC code (text PAC to 65075) lets you keep your number when switching network
- SIM-only 30-day plans avoid long lock-ins; annual plans can be cheaper if you are certain of your usage
- Social mobile tariffs exist from some networks for benefit claimants — often £10–£15/month
- Roaming charges vary — check EU and worldwide bundles if you travel

## When to switch to SIM-only

Check your contract statement: if the handset charge has ended but the bill stayed high, you are subsidising airtime you could buy cheaper elsewhere.

Match data to actual use — many people overbuy unlimited data while on Wi-Fi most of the day.

## How to switch and keep your number

Request a PAC from your old network, give it to the new provider, and they schedule the port — usually within one working day.

Do not cancel the old contract before the port completes or you may lose the number.

## Frequently asked questions

### Is it worth buying the handset outright?

Often yes over two to three years — total cost can beat bundled contracts, especially if you keep phones longer. Pair with a cheap SIM-only plan.

### Do social tariffs include 5G?

Depends on the network — compare data limits and speeds. Eligibility usually follows the same benefits tests as broadband social tariffs.

## Primary source

https://www.ofcom.org.uk/phones-and-broadband

## Related

- [Compare mobile deals](https://moneyguide.org.uk/bills-utilities/compare-mobile-phone-deals-guide/)
- [Broadband switching guide](https://moneyguide.org.uk/bills-utilities/broadband-switching-guide/)
- [Broadband social tariffs](https://moneyguide.org.uk/bills-utilities/broadband-social-tariffs-and-mid-contract-rises/)
- [Bills & utilities hub](https://moneyguide.org.uk/bills-utilities/)

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Independent UK money guidance from [Money Guide](https://moneyguide.org.uk). Information only — not regulated financial advice.