Recovering your number after a line is switched off

Guide reference: HG-0034

Quote this reference if you contact us about this guide.

Approx. 3 min read

You only have 30 days to get a ceased number back. If the phone line carrying your number has been ceased, you usually have only 30 days to transfer or recover...

Don't worry if your line has been switched off and you still want the number. There is a short window to recover it, but you need to act quickly.

Quick answer

If the phone line carrying your number has been ceased, you usually have only 30 days to transfer or recover that number. After that, it is lost permanently.

More detail

When a phone line is switched off, the number does not disappear straight away.

Industry rules allow a limited recovery period, usually 30 days from the cease date.

During that time, you or a provider may be able to transfer the number onto a new service.

After 30 days, the number is released and may be given to someone else. You cannot get it back.

This applies whether you left a provider, cancelled by mistake, or delayed ordering a transfer.

What to do if your line has ceased

Find out when the line was switched off. The 30-day window usually starts from that cease date.
If you want the number back with Simple Telecoms, contact us immediately through www.simpletelecoms.co.uk.
If you are joining another provider, ask them to start a number transfer straight away.
Have the exact number and old account details ready.
Do not wait until near the end of the 30 days if you can help it.
If you are still within the window, See Keeping your phone number for how transfer works when joining us.

Common mistakes

Waiting weeks after the line ceased before trying to recover the number.
Assuming the number is saved because you still remember it.
Cancelling the old line before a new provider is ready to transfer the number.
Thinking you can get the same number back after the 30-day window has passed.

Things to know

See Keeping your phone number for how to transfer a number before your old line is switched off.
See How 30-day contracts work for notice when leaving a provider.
See What setup fees cover for how transfer and new number orders may differ on your quote.

Frequently asked questions

Is it exactly 30 days?

The recovery window is set by industry rules and is usually 30 days from cease. Contact us as early as possible.

I cancelled by mistake. Can I get my number back?

Maybe, if you are within the recovery window. Contact us immediately.

What if 30 days have passed?

The number is lost permanently. You would need to order a new number instead.

Does this apply if I left Simple Telecoms?

Yes. Once your line with us has ceased, the same recovery rules apply. Ask your new provider to transfer quickly or contact us if you want to return.