Can I keep my landline number after the digital switch?
A long-held home number can matter for family, doctors, friends, care services and business contacts. The safest approach is to treat keeping the number as part of the order from the beginning rather than trying to recover it after the old service has been cancelled.
The short answer
Often, yes. Moving from an analogue landline to digital voice does not automatically require a new number, but number transfer depends on the specific service and order. Make number retention a requirement before the switch starts.
Digital technology does not automatically change the number
The underlying call technology can change while the familiar geographic number remains the same. What matters is whether the current number can be transferred or retained on the chosen digital voice service. Your new provider should confirm this for the actual order.
Do not cancel the old line first
If keeping the number is important, do not independently cease the existing service before a transfer has been arranged. Cancelling too early can make number recovery more difficult or impossible. Let the provider's migration or switching process coordinate the old and new services.
Give the number exactly as it appears on the account
Switching systems match information from the old and new providers. Use the correct service address, current provider and telephone number. If account details have changed recently, resolve discrepancies before the switch where possible.
One Touch Switch can simplify a provider change
For eligible residential broadband and landline switches, Ofcom's One Touch Switch process means the customer normally contacts the new provider and the providers coordinate the transfer. The old provider sends important switching information, including any implications of leaving.
Special services need separate checks
Keeping the telephone number does not prove that every device attached to the old line is compatible with digital voice. Telecare, alarms and other specialist equipment still need their own compatibility plan even when the number remains unchanged.
What to ask before you place the order
Ask: can this exact number be retained; which service will carry it; when will the transfer occur; is any action required from you; and what happens if the transfer cannot be completed as planned. Keep the order confirmation until incoming and outgoing calls have been tested on the new service.
FAQs
Next step
Find out what's available at your address, or talk to a human about your setup.
Written by OCCTA Telecom Team. Reviewed by OCCTA Compliance and Product Team. Published ; last reviewed .
General information only. Availability, estimated speeds, installation work, features and commercial terms are confirmed for the specific address and order.