Published on

By Staci Lell

Switching to Cricket doesn't mean starting over. In most cases, you can keep the number you already use every day without interruption. Keeping your current phone number means you won’t have to share a new one with family, friends, coworkers, apps, or account providers. The best part? The process is designed to be simple, so you can spend less time managing your wireless service and more time getting on with your day.

Can you keep your number when switching to Cricket?

Yes. In most cases, you can keep your current phone number when you switch to Cricket Wireless. That means you can switch to Cricket without the extra hassle of telling everyone you have a new number.

Why keep your existing number?

Your number helps keep your life moving. It’s connected to your family, friends, work, school, apps, accounts, and two-factor authentication. Keeping it can make switching wireless providers feel a whole lot simpler and avoid a long list of updates. Keeping your number can help you:
 
  • Stay reachable to family and friends
  • Avoid updating contacts across apps and accounts
  • Keep existing two-factor authentication services working
  • Maintain continuity for work, school, and personal communications
  • Enjoy a smoother transition when switching providers

What you'll need before you start

Bringing your number to Cricket is a common part of switching wireless providers. Having a few key account details ready can help make the process smoother and reduce potential delays:
 
  • Your current phone number
  • Your account number from your current wireless provider
  • Your account PIN, password, or transfer PIN (depending on your provider)
  • An active account with your current carrier
One of the most important things you can do is keep your current service active until your number transfer is complete because your number generally needs to remain active with your current carrier while the transfer is processed.

 

What to expect during your transfer

Most number transfers are straightforward, but every carrier has slightly different account security and verification requirements. Having accurate account information ready and responding quickly to any verification requests can help keep things moving. Cricket will guide you through the information you'll need.

 

How to transfer your number to Cricket Wireless

Getting started is easy and can be completed in a few simple steps.
1. Gather your account details
Gather the account details you'll need from your current carrier, such as your account number and PIN or transfer PIN. Having accurate information ready can help avoid delays.
2. Bring your phone or choose a new one
If you are bringing your own phone, you can check if it will work on our network here.
3. Choose your Cricket phone plan
Choose the Cricket plan that fits your life, whether that's streaming, scrolling, keeping up with family, managing work, or just staying connected.
4. Request your number transfer
During the process, you'll have the option to bring your current number to Cricket. Be sure to provide your information exactly as it appears on your current account. This is one of those small details that can make a big difference. A typo in your account number or PIN could slow things down, so take a minute to check before you submit.
5. Wait for the transfer to complete
Transfer times can vary depending on your provider and the type of number being moved. Once the transfer is complete, you'll be ready to use your number with Cricket Wireless.

 

Tips for a smooth number transfer

Want to make the process even easier? Keep these tips in mind:
  • Double-check account numbers and PIN before submitting
  • Keep your current service active until the transfer is complete
  • Make sure your phone can receive messages and calls during the process when possible
  • Respond quickly if you are asked for additional verification
  • Start when you have access to your current carrier account information
 

A smart switch starts with keeping your number

Switching providers doesn't have to disrupt the connections that matter most. When you bring your current number to Cricket Wireless, you can stay connected to the people, apps, accounts, and everyday routines that already count on it while making the move with confidence.

 

Common questions about number transfers

 

How do I keep my phone number when switching to Cricket?

To keep your number, request a transfer during activation and provide the account information associated with your current carrier account.

 

How long does it take to transfer a phone number to Cricket?

Transfer times can vary by carrier and account setup, but providing accurate information upfront is one of the best ways to help avoid delays. That's why it's a good idea to double-check your account number and PIN before submitting your request.

 

Can I transfer a number from another wireless carrier?

In many cases, yes. Eligibility depends on factors like your account status and the transfer requirements from your current provider.

 

Should I cancel my current service before switching?

No. Canceling too early may affect your ability to transfer your number. It’s generally best to keep your current account active until the number transfer is complete.

 

Will I lose my contacts when I transfer my number?

Your phone number transfer and your contacts are separate. Contacts are typically stored on your phone, cloud account, or SIM card depending on your setup. You can learn more about transferring content here.

 

What if my number transfer is delayed?

If your transfer doesn't go through right away, don't panic. The most common causes are simple things like account information mismatches or verification requirements from your current carrier. Double-checking your information can often help resolve delays quickly.