Martin Lewis Urges Mobile Users to Send Simple Text to Avoid Costly April Price Hikes
Financial expert Martin Lewis has issued a crucial warning to mobile phone users across the UK, revealing a straightforward three-step process to prevent significant fee increases from providers. With around 14 million people reportedly out of contract and unaware of their ability to switch without penalty, Lewis emphasised that immediate action could halve costs overnight.
The Annual April Mobile Contract Increase
Most UK mobile phone contracts undergo price adjustments on or around April 1 each year. During his ITV Martin Lewis Money Show Live, the consumer champion detailed that many customers face average monthly rises of approximately £2.50, even while mid-contract. However, he stressed that a substantial number of individuals are free to change providers and secure better deals.
"Mobile contracts typically rise even if you’re mid-contract around £2.50 a month," Lewis stated. "Here’s what you do - three steps. Text INFO for free to 85075 to check if you’re free to switch because 14 million of you are out of contract and free to switch."
Step-by-Step Guide to Potential Savings
Lewis outlined his recommended approach. First, customers should send the free text to 85075. They will typically receive a reply indicating whether they are subject to early termination or cancellation charges. If the response confirms no such fees, they are free to switch.
"What you’re looking for is you’ll get a text back in most cases," he explained. "From a multiple phone contract, you can’t do it. And if it says ‘no early termination or cancellation charge’ you are free to switch. If you’re free to switch go on to a SIM comparison site."
Viewer Christopher shared his success story, saying, "I changed my mobile contract and saved myself over £338 a year and the process was so easy. Thanks Martin!"
Comparison Sites and Network Options
The second step involves using SIM comparison websites to explore alternatives. Lewis highlighted that many competitive deals are exclusively available through these platforms, not directly from mobile companies, and are often short-lived.
He provided examples, noting, "Lebara 10GB Vodafone signal is the equivalent of over a year of £2 a month. Not going up £2 a month - paying £2 a month, 10GB, unlimited minutes, unlimited calls up to £5 a month." For those requiring specific network coverage, he advised, "A good comparison site you’ll be able to say ‘I only want this network’ show me all the different companies that use the same signal and I want to find the cheapest on that."
The 'Cheat Code' Text Strategy
The third step traditionally involves texting PAC to 65075 to obtain a porting authorization code for transferring your number to a new provider. However, Lewis revealed a potential shortcut.
"Finally, to keep your number text PAC to 65075 to give you a code to give to your new provider. But I have a cheat code here," he said. "I prefer you to do all 3, but if you don’t want to and you’re out of contract, just text PAC to 65075. What they often say is ‘Here is your PAC code, we’re sorry to hear you’re leaving. How about if we charged you half what you’re currently paying to stay with us - would you stay?’ You never know, it might just work."
Important Considerations and Final Advice
Lewis noted that customers on combined family mobile plans may not receive a reply from the initial text. He previously suggested a general rule: if you haven't changed suppliers in two years, you are likely out of contract.
He concluded with a clear message, "My main message. Do that text, see if you’re out of contract and check before prices go up. Whether you can save a shed load by switching, hope that helps." With the April price rises imminent, taking these steps could lead to substantial financial savings for millions of mobile users.
