Leaving EE: the complete switching guide

Leaving EE is simpler than it sounds: there are two ways out depending on whether you want to keep your number, and the whole thing can be done by text. This guide covers the PAC code, exit fees, how to check coverage on your next network, and every way to reach EE customer service if you get stuck.

1. Keep your number: get your EE PAC code

Text PAC to 65075 free from your EE SIM. Your code arrives by text within minutes, along with a breakdown of any early-exit charge — requesting the code commits you to nothing.

• By text: PAC to 65075 (free, instant, valid 30 days)
• In the app: the EE app has a switching/PAC option under account settings
• By phone: call 150 free from your EE mobile

Give the code to your new network when you order or activate. The switch (and any exit fee) only triggers then — your number typically transfers within one working day.

Expired code? PACs last 30 days. Text PAC to 65075 again for a fresh one. On PAYG, unused credit doesn’t transfer — ask EE for a refund after switching.

2. Don’t need the number? Use a STAC code

Text STAC to 75075 instead. Give it to your new network and your EE contract cancels within one working day — same fee-transparent process as a PAC, no phone call required.

3. Cancelling without switching

If you’re not moving to another UK network, call 150 free from your EE mobile, or 07953 966 250 from any other phone and give 30 days’ notice. You keep service until the notice period ends. The EE app also has a “leave” or “end my plan” option.

4. Check coverage on your next network first

EE claims around 99% 4G population coverage and runs the UK’s largest 5G rollout by geographic reach. But national averages don’t matter — what matters is the signal at your postcode.

• Official checker: ee.co.uk/help/mobile-coverage-checker — indoor/outdoor signal for 4G and 5G; EE’s service status page covers live faults.
• Independent check: Ofcom’s coverage checker at checker.ofcom.org.uk compares all four networks at the same address.
• The definitive test: ask a friend on the network you’re considering (or an MVNO on it — 1pMobile, spusu and Lyca Mobile all share it) to check their signal at your home. Or order a free SIM and test for a week before moving your number.

5. What to switch to

There’s no giffgaff or Lebara equivalent on EE — budget MVNOs on the EE network include 1pMobile, spusu and Lyca Mobile. But before paying EE prices, check whether O2 or Vodafone is just as strong at your postcode — if so, a free Giffgaff or Lebara SIM could save you £10–20/month.

Both are free to test: order the SIM, check your signal for a week, then move your number with a PAC code.

Compare giffgaff vs Lebara side by side · or answer 3 questions for a recommendation

6. EE customer service — every route

If you need EE while you’re still a customer (final bill, PAC problem, exit-fee dispute), here are all the contact routes. Lines open Mon–Fri 8am–9pm, weekends 8am–8pm.

Complaints: ask for your issue to be logged as a formal complaint — EE publishes a complaints code of practice. If it’s unresolved after 6 weeks (or you get a deadlock letter sooner), escalate free to the Communications Ombudsman.