Turning off number lock and port protection

Several carriers put a security lock on your phone number that blocks it from being transferred — and some turn it on by default without telling you. A locked number rejects the transfer even when your account number and Transfer PIN are perfect, so check this before we submit.

Verizon: Number Lock is ON by default

Every Verizon line ships with Number Lock enabled. To turn it off:

1. Open the My Verizon app or website.
2. Go to Security Settings, then Number Lock.
3. Toggle it off for the line you're moving. (You can also dial *611 and ask.)

On prepaid, give it about 15 minutes after disabling before requesting your Transfer PIN.

AT&T

AT&T enables port protection by default on some accounts. If your transfer gets rejected even with a valid PIN, call AT&T and ask them to remove the port hold on your line.

Other carriers

• T-Mobile: Port Protection is on by default; you may need to call to release the line.
• Metro by T-Mobile: optional Port Out Protection — if it was ever turned on, it's still blocking.
• Visible: optional Line Lock, toggled in the app under your account settings.
• US Cellular: Account Lock, disabled in online Profile Settings or by phone.

If you're not sure whether your carrier has one, ask them directly: "Is there a number lock or port protection on my line? Please remove it — I'm transferring my number."

Then you're clear

With the lock off, grab your Transfer PIN (it's usually only valid a few days) and send us everything from the switching checklist.