Leaving O2: the complete switching guide

Leaving O2 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 O2 customer service if you get stuck.

1. Keep your number: get your O2 PAC code

Text PAC to 65075 free from your O2 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 O2 app has a switching/PAC option under account settings
• By phone: call 202 free from your O2 mobile (PAYG: 4445)

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 O2 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 O2 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 202 free from your O2 mobile, or 0344 809 0202 from any other phone and give 30 days’ notice. You keep service until the notice period ends. The O2 app also has a “leave” or “end my plan” option.

4. Check coverage on your next network first

O2 claims around 99% 4G outdoor population coverage, with 5G in hundreds of towns and cities. But national averages don’t matter — what matters is the signal at your postcode.

• Official checker: o2.co.uk/coveragechecker — indoor/outdoor signal for calls, 4G and 5G; status.o2.co.uk for live faults and mast work.
• 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 — Giffgaff, Tesco Mobile and Sky 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

Giffgaff runs on the O2 network — identical coverage with rolling 30-day plans from £6/month, no contract and no credit check.

If Vodafone coverage is stronger where you live, Lebara is the equivalent on Vodafone’s network — plans from £5/month with international minutes included.

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

6. O2 customer service — every route

If you need O2 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, Sat 8am–8pm, Sun 8am–6pm.

Complaints: ask for your issue to be logged as a formal complaint — O2 publishes a complaints code of practice. If it’s unresolved after 6 weeks (or you get a deadlock letter sooner), escalate free to CISAS.