Cancelling a Three contract is straightforward once you know which route applies to you — text-to-switch if you want to keep your number, or a standard cancellation if you don't. The one thing to check first: early termination fees if you're still within your minimum term.
First: are you still in contract?
Your minimum term is usually 12, 18 or 24 months. Check in the Three app or call 333 to find out your contract end date.
- Out of contract (rolling monthly): cancel free with 30 days notice — or instantly if you port your number out.
- Still in minimum term: you can still leave, but Three will charge the remaining months (usually minus a small discount for early payment).
Option 1: Keep your number — text PAC to 65075
The easiest exit. Text PAC to 65075 from your Three SIM. You'll get your PAC code plus a text spelling out any early termination charge — requesting the code doesn't commit you to anything. Only when you give it to a new network does the switch (and any fee) trigger.
Your Three contract then ends automatically on transfer day — no call centre, no retention scripts. Full details: how to get a Three PAC code.
Option 2: Cancel and get a new number — text STAC to 75075
Don't want the number? Text STAC to 75075 instead. A STAC code cancels your Three contract within one working day when you give it to your new network — same instant, fee-transparent process as a PAC.
Option 3: Standard cancellation (30 days notice)
If you're not switching networks, call Three on 333 free from your Three mobile, or 0333 338 1001 from another phone, and give 30 days notice. You'll keep service until the notice period ends. In the Three app, look for the "leave" or "end my plan" option.
Early termination fees: what to expect
Mid-contract exit fees are typically the remaining monthly payments, often reduced by a few percent since Three gets the money early. The exact figure arrives automatically in the PAC/STAC reply text — always request the code first so you see the real number before deciding.
Cancelling a Three device plan?
If you have a phone on finance with Three, the device plan and airtime are usually separate — cancelling airtime doesn't wipe the remaining device balance. Check both before you leave.
The cheaper way out next time
Contract exit fees exist because contracts lock you in. Rolling SIM-only plans don't have them — Giffgaff (O2 network) and Lebara (Vodafone network) both run 30-day plans from around £5-£6/month with no contract and no credit check. Order a free SIM, and if it doesn't work out, you simply stop.
Got your PAC? Switch free
Order a free Giffgaff or Lebara SIM — rolling plans from £5-£6/month, no contract, no credit check.