How to cancel your SIM only deal

Deciding to leave your current mobile provider can feel daunting, especially if you're unsure about cancellation rights, notice periods, or potential fees. Whether you've found a better SIM only deal elsewhere, you're unhappy with service quality, or your circumstances have changed, understanding how to cancel a SIM only contract properly ensures you avoid unexpected charges and switch providers smoothly.

Can you cancel a SIM only contract early?

Rolling monthly contracts (30-day SIM only deals) offer maximum flexibility. You can cancel anytime by giving 30 days' notice. You'll pay for the current month plus one more, then you're free to leave without penalties. This flexibility makes rolling contracts ideal for anyone wanting commitment-free mobile service. Fixed-term contracts (typically 12 or 24 months) can be cancelled early, but you'll usually face early termination charges (ETCs). These fees compensate the provider for the discounted rate you received in exchange for committing to a set period. The closer you are to your contract end date, the lower the ETC. Consumer rights provide additional protection. You have a 14-day cooling-off period after signing any contract, during which you can cancel without penalty (though you'll pay for any service used). Pro tip: If you are also looking to upgrade your home connectivity during this transition, checking for the latest broadband deals can help you consolidate your monthly outgoings.

How to cancel your SIM only contract without paying extra fees

The key to cancelling a SIM only contract without unnecessary costs is timing and following the correct process.

How much notice is required to cancel a SIM only contract?

Most SIM only contracts require 30 days' notice for cancellation. Contact your provider at least 30 days before you want service to end. If you're on a rolling monthly contract, this simply means your service ends after one more billing cycle. For fixed-term contracts nearing their end date, giving notice 30 days before the contract expires prevents automatic renewal onto more expensive rolling rates. Check your contract for specific notice requirements. Whilst 30 days is standard, some providers may have different terms.

Understanding early termination charges (ETCs)

If you need to cancel a fixed-term contract before it ends, you'll typically pay the remaining monthly fees for the rest of the contract. For example, cancelling a £15 monthly contract with 6 months remaining usually means paying £90 (6 × £15) as an ETC. Some providers calculate ETCs differently, potentially charging a percentage of remaining fees or a flat cancellation fee. Always request a settlement figure before proceeding with early cancellation. Your provider must provide this within a reasonable timeframe. Certain circumstances may waive ETCs. Moving to an area with no coverage from your provider, significant service degradation, or the provider changing contract terms substantially might allow penalty-free cancellation.

What happens after cancelling a SIM only contract?

If you're switching to a new provider, request a PAC (Porting Authorisation Code) from your current provider. This lets you keep your existing mobile number when moving to the new provider. By law, providers must issue PAC codes immediately when requested, either via text or through online account management. Give this code to your new provider, and they'll handle the switch whilst preserving your number. If you're ending service without switching, request a STAC (Service Termination Authorisation Code) instead. This terminates your contract on a date you specify without porting your number elsewhere. By UK laws, your provider must process PAC or STAC requests within one working day. You'll receive a final bill covering any remaining charges, including your notice period. Direct debits typically continue until this final payment process, after which you should cancel the payment instruction.

Troubleshooting common issues when cancelling a SIM only deal

Occasionally, cancellation doesn't proceed smoothly. Understanding common issues helps you resolve them quickly. Providers delaying PAC codes: By law, providers must issue PAC codes within one working day. If yours delays, escalate to their complaints procedure and cite Ofcom regulations. Requesting a PAC or STAC does not automatically cancel your service until it’s used. Unexpected final bills: Carefully review final bills for accuracy. Charges beyond your standard monthly fee plus notice period may indicate errors. Service continuing after cancellation: If your service remains active beyond the agreed end date, contact your provider immediately. Document all communications and refuse to pay for service beyond your cancellation date. Number porting failures: Stay in contact with both your old and new providers if your number doesn't transfer as expected. One provider (usually the new one) should resolve the issue.

Cancelling SIM only vs switching to a new provider

There's an important distinction between simply cancelling your contract and switching to a new provider. Switching directly to a new provider using a PAC code is often simpler than cancelling first, then signing up elsewhere. When you switch using a PAC, your new provider handles most of the process. They coordinate with your old provider, terminate your old contract, and port your number seamlessly. You avoid service gaps and typically don't need to contact your old provider at all beyond requesting the PAC code. Cancelling first, then signing up later creates a service gap. Your number gets released after 30 days of inactivity, meaning you'll lose it and need a new number from your next provider. Only cancel without switching if you genuinely don't need mobile service temporarily.

If you're leaving your current provider due to poor service, high prices, or inflexible contracts, consider what matters most in your next contract. Flexible rolling contracts eliminate long-term commitments and ETCs. Transparent pricing without mid-contract increases prevents bill shock. Reliable network coverage ensures consistent service. At Hey!Broadband, we offer 30-day rolling contracts for maximum flexibility, so you're never locked in long-term. Our pricing is transparent with no mid-contract surprises, and our UK-based support team is always available to help. Ready to switch to a provider that values flexibility and transparency? Call our UK-based team on 020 4579 0655 to discuss our SIM only options, or check out our plans online to find the perfect fit for your needs.