Boost Mobile will replace a stolen phone, but not for free — you'll pay a replacement fee and may need to file a police report

If your Boost Mobile phone is stolen, you have options to get a replacement device. Boost Mobile does not automatically replace stolen phones at no cost. Instead, you'll need to contact Boost Mobile customer service, report the theft, and pay a replacement fee. The exact fee depends on which phone you're replacing and what Boost Mobile currently charges for that model. You may also need to provide a police report number, depending on the circumstances and Boost Mobile's current policy.

The process typically involves calling Boost Mobile, confirming the theft with them, and then either purchasing a replacement phone through Boost or buying one separately and activating it on your account. Some people choose to buy a used or refurbished phone from a third party and set up it themselves, which can cost less than Boost's replacement fee.

Key Takeaways

  • Boost Mobile will not replace a stolen phone for free; you will pay a replacement fee that varies by phone model.
  • Contact Boost Mobile customer service when ready to report the theft and suspend your service so the thief cannot use your account.
  • You may need to provide a police report number when you request a replacement, so file a report with local police first.
  • You can buy a replacement phone from Boost Mobile directly or purchase a compatible used or refurbished phone and set up it yourself.
  • Suspension of your old phone happens right away, but getting a replacement phone and reactivating service usually takes a few days.

Contact Boost Mobile when ready to suspend your account

The first step after discovering your phone is stolen is to call Boost Mobile customer service. You can reach them at 1-888-266-8787. Tell them your phone has been stolen and ask them to suspend your account when ready. This stops the thief from making calls, sending texts, or using data on your account, which protects you from unexpected charges.

When you call, have your account number or phone number ready. Boost Mobile will ask you to verify your identity by answering security questions or providing information from your account. Once your account is suspended, you can move forward with getting a replacement phone.

File a police report before requesting a replacement

Before you contact Boost Mobile about a replacement, file a police report with your local police department. You can do this in person at your local police station, or many departments allow you to file a report online through their website. When you file the report, provide details about when and where the phone was stolen, what model it was, and the phone's serial number if you know it.

The police will give you a report number. Keep this number — Boost Mobile may ask for it when you request a replacement phone. Having a police report also protects you if the thief uses your phone number to commit fraud or if charges appear on your account after the theft.

Request a replacement phone from Boost Mobile

After you've suspended your account and filed a police report, call Boost Mobile again to request a replacement phone. Tell the representative that your phone was stolen and provide your police report number. Ask what the replacement fee is for your phone model and what options are available.

Boost Mobile will quote you a price for a replacement device. This fee is typically higher than what you would pay if you were upgrading your phone under normal circumstances. The representative can also tell you which phones are currently in stock and available for replacement. If you want to think about the cost or explore other options, you don't have to decide when ready — your account will remain suspended until you're ready to move forward.

Buy a replacement phone through Boost or elsewhere

You have two main paths: buy a phone from Boost Mobile directly, or buy a compatible phone from another retailer and set up it on your Boost account yourself. If you buy from Boost Mobile, the representative will arrange to ship the phone to you or let you pick it up at a retail location. Shipping usually takes three to five business days.

If you buy a phone elsewhere — from a used phone retailer, a big-box electronics store, or online — make sure it is compatible with Boost Mobile's network. Boost Mobile uses the Sprint network (now part of T-Mobile), so the phone must support those bands. Once you have the new phone, you can set up it by calling Boost Mobile or using the Boost Mobile app. set up usually happens within a few hours, though it can take up to 24 hours for your service to fully transfer to the new device.

Consider the cost of replacement versus buying separately

Boost Mobile's replacement fee for a stolen phone is usually between $100 and $300, depending on the phone model. Before you pay that fee, check what the same phone costs elsewhere. You might find a used or refurbished version of your phone on eBay, Facebook Marketplace, or a site like Swappa for less than Boost's replacement fee. If you do buy elsewhere, make sure the phone is unlocked or compatible with Boost Mobile's network, and verify the seller's return policy in case the phone doesn't work.

Another option is to buy a different, less expensive phone that is compatible with Boost Mobile. You don't have to replace your stolen phone with an identical model — any phone that works on Boost's network will function on your account. This can save you money if your stolen phone was a high-end model.

Reactivate your service once you have a new phone

Once your replacement phone arrives or you have purchased a phone elsewhere, contact Boost Mobile to reactivate your service. If you bought the phone from Boost, they will often handle set up as part of the replacement process. If you bought the phone elsewhere, call Boost Mobile at 1-888-266-8787 and tell them you have a new phone ready to set up. They will transfer your phone number and account to the new device.

Have the new phone's IMEI number ready — you can find this by dialing *#06# on the phone, or it may be printed on the box or receipt. set up usually completes within a few hours, but service may not be fully restored until the next day. During this time, you may not be able to make calls or use data, so plan accordingly.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I have to buy a replacement phone from Boost Mobile?

No. You can buy a compatible phone from any retailer and set up it on your Boost account. Make sure the phone works on Boost Mobile's network (Sprint/T-Mobile bands) before you buy. Buying elsewhere is often cheaper than Boost's replacement fee.

What if I don't have a police report number?

Boost Mobile may still replace your phone without a police report, but having one strengthens your case and protects you if the thief uses your number fraudulently. If you haven't filed a report yet, do so before calling Boost about a replacement. Most police departments can file a report online or over the phone.

Will Boost Mobile refund the replacement fee if I find my stolen phone later?

Boost Mobile's refund policy for replacement phones varies. Once you've paid the replacement fee and activated a new phone, that fee is typically non-refundable. Contact Boost Mobile directly to ask about their specific policy before you pay.

How long does it take to get a replacement phone?

If you buy from Boost Mobile, shipping usually takes three to five business days. If you buy a phone elsewhere, you may have it when ready. Reactivation on your Boost account typically happens within a few hours to one business day after you contact them.

Can I keep my same phone number when I switch to a replacement phone?

Yes. When you reactivate your service on the new phone, Boost Mobile will transfer your existing phone number to it. Your number stays the same — only the device changes.