Regulate Number Release For Free

Consumers can file complaints with the FCC by going to fcc.gov/complaints. You should choose the phone form and the unwanted calls issue for all complaints involving unwanted calls, including if your number is being spoofed, blocked, or labeled.

While the FCC legally requires all carriers to allow you to port a number, you won't be able to port it if any of the following are true: Your new provider doesn't service your geographic area. If the company you're switching to doesn't offer service in your area, your number won't be able to be ported.

Companies may charge you to port your number, but you can ask whether any fees can be waived or negotiated. Once you request service from a new company, your old company cannot refuse to port your number, even if you owe money for an outstanding balance or termination fee.

Phone: 1-888-CALL-FCC (1-888-225-5322); ASL: 1-844-432-2275. Mail (please include your name, address, contact information and as much detail about your complaint as possible):

If you're switching service providers and remaining in the same geographic area, you can keep your existing phone number. This process ? often referred to as phone number porting ? can be done between wireline, IP and wireless providers.

If the company you're switching to doesn't offer service in your area, your number won't be able to be ported. The number you're trying to port is no longer in service. Only numbers that are currently active are eligible to be ported. Your new provider does not have an interconnection agreement with your old provider.

What is phone number recycling? Phone number recycling is the industry term that refers to the event when that deactivated/disconnected number gets reassigned to someone else. Typically, it takes at least 90 days for this reassignment to take place but it can be faster in high-demand area codes (212, 310, etc.).

Calls should go through, but 911 operators may not be able to call you back if disconnected. Before porting, ask your new company if your 911 service will be affected during the process. Also, your wireline long distance company will not move with you.