Leave on last day?

andy2017

My mobile contract is finished in about 6 weeks.  I want to leave on that day and start with a competitor.  How do I arrange that timing?  Can I give notice to my current network provider now?  or do I need to do it on the day that is exactly 30 (or 31) days from the last day?  Or do I even need to give notice? 
Can I shop for a new deal now to start in 6 weeks?  Or when can I? 

flaneurs_lobster

You could try to time quit/start to have zero overlap but I think you'd be very lucky to hit it spot on.

Could I suggest getting your new contract up and running about a week before your old one ends, lets you make sure that everything is OK with signup, coverage, wi-fi calling etc. Bit of a pain if you don't have a dual sim phone but doable.

When the old contract is up get your PAC and swap. Should only be a day or less without service. Using the PAC will end your old contract, your old provider will either refund or bill depending on exactly when you leave.

andy2017

That's fine. I don't mind paying for a few days of overlap.  I fully agree to honour my existing contract by paying thru the last day. BUT:  does that mean I can't leave sooner, even though my direct debit will have already been taken for the final contract month?  I.e., can they refuse to give me a PAC until the day after my contact expires?

flaneurs_lobster

You can request your PAC at any time during your contract and if it's actioned then your service will cease. What won't cease is the contract, you'll still be bound by the minimum term to be paid for. 

What a PAC does is remove the need for a notice period, so if you are out of contract (more correctly out with your minimum term) then you can swap with no/minimal overlap.