You can change your AT&T phone number online, by phone, or in person at a store
AT&T lets you change your phone number yourself through your online account, by calling customer service, or by visiting a store. The process takes a few minutes, and the new number is usually active within hours. There is no charge for a standard number change, though AT&T may charge a fee if you want to keep a specific number you choose from their inventory.
The fastest route is your online account if you have one set up. If you do not have online access or prefer to speak with someone, calling AT&T customer service works just as well. In-store changes are also an option if you have a nearby location and want to handle it face-to-face.
Key Takeaways
- You can change your number through your AT&T online account, by calling 611 from your AT&T phone or 1-800-331-0500 from any phone, or by visiting an AT&T store in person.
- A standard number change has no fee, but requesting a specific number may cost between $5 and $15 depending on your plan and location.
- Your new number becomes active within a few hours to one business day after you request the change.
- You will need to update your new number with your contacts, banks, employers, and any services that use your phone number for two-factor authentication.
Changing your number through your AT&T online account
Log into your AT&T account at att.com or through the AT&T mobile app. Go to your account settings or billing section — the exact menu name varies slightly between the website and app, but look for "Account" or "Settings" at the top or bottom of the screen. Find the option labeled "Change phone number" or "Manage phone number."
AT&T will show you available numbers in your area code or let you choose a different area code. Select the number you want, review the details, and confirm the change. If you are choosing a standard available number, there is no charge. If you want a specific number that AT&T marks as premium or reserved, you will see the fee before you confirm.
After you confirm, your new number is usually active within a few hours. AT&T will send you a confirmation text or email with your new number and the set up time. Your old number is released back into AT&T's inventory after a short hold period.
Changing your number by calling AT&T customer service
Call 611 from your AT&T phone, or call 1-800-331-0500 from any phone. A representative will ask you to verify your account by providing your phone number, account PIN, or other identifying information. Tell them you want to change your phone number.
The representative will offer you available numbers in your current area code or ask if you want a different area code. They will tell you the fee upfront if you are selecting a premium number. Once you agree, they will process the change and give you your new number when ready. set up usually happens within a few hours.
Keep the confirmation number the representative gives you. If your new number does not set up by the time they said it would, you can reference that number when you call back.
Changing your number in an AT&T store
Visit any AT&T store with your ID and your phone. A representative will look up your account, show you available numbers, and process the change on the spot. This method works well if you want to see your options in person or if you have questions about the process.
Bring a government-issued ID so the representative can verify your account. If you are changing the number on a line you do not own, bring documentation showing you have permission to make changes on that account — for example, a power of attorney or a letter from the account holder.
What happens to your old number
Your old AT&T number is not deleted when ready. AT&T holds it for a period of time — usually 30 to 90 days — before releasing it back into circulation. During that hold period, calls or texts to your old number will not reach you, and you cannot reactivate it.
If you realize you made a mistake and want your old number back, contact AT&T within the hold period. They may be able to restore it, though this is not may provide and may incur a fee. After the hold period ends, AT&T may assign your old number to another customer, so recovery becomes impossible.
Updating your contacts and services after the change
Once your new number is active, you will need to tell people and services that use your phone number. Start with the ones that matter most: your employer, your bank, your insurance company, and any medical providers. These organizations may use your number to reach you in emergencies or to verify your identity.
Update your number in any apps that use two-factor authentication — email, social media, banking apps, and password managers. If you do not update these, you may lock yourself out of your accounts when you try to log in from a new device. Go into each app's security or account settings and change the phone number on file.
Tell your contacts your new number through text, email, or a group message. You can also update your number in your social media profiles so people can find you. If you have a business or professional presence, update your number on your website, LinkedIn, or business cards.
Fees and charges for changing your number
AT&T does not charge for a standard number change — you can pick any available number in your area code at no cost. If you want a number with a pattern (like repeating digits) or a number that AT&T marks as premium, there is a fee. This fee varies by location and plan, but typically ranges from $5 to $15.
Some AT&T plans or promotions may waive the fee for a number change. Check your plan details or ask a representative when you call. If you are on a prepaid plan, the fee may be different than for postpaid customers.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long does it take for my new number to work?
Your new number is usually active within a few hours of requesting the change. In rare cases, it may take up to one business day. AT&T will give you an estimated set up time when you make the request. If your number is not working by that time, call customer service to check the status.
Can I keep my old number if I change my mind?
Not after the change is complete. Once you confirm a new number, your old number is released. AT&T may hold it for 30 to 90 days, and you can contact them to ask about restoring it during that window, but there is no may provide they can do so. After the hold period, the number may be assigned to another customer.
Do I lose my contacts or messages when I change my number?
No. Your contacts, text messages, and call history stay on your phone. Only your phone number changes. Your contacts will not automatically know your new number, so you will need to tell them separately.
What if I want a specific number that is not available?
AT&T shows you the numbers currently available in your area code. If the number you want is not listed, it is either already assigned to another customer or not yet released. You can ask a representative if they can put you on a waitlist, though AT&T does not may provide they will hold a specific number for you.
Can I change my number if I am on a family plan?
Yes, you can change the number on your individual line. The other lines on your family plan are not affected. If you want to change a line that you do not own, you will need permission from the account holder or documentation showing you have authority to make changes.