How to Cancel Consumer Cellular Without Losing Your Phone Number (2026)

Updated February 2026 • 5 min read

Consumer Cellular is an MVNO (mobile virtual network operator) popular with seniors and AARP members, offering simple plans on AT&T and T-Mobile networks. No contracts, no cancellation fees — but you need to handle the number port correctly or you will lose your phone number forever.

Step 1: Port Your Number (Do This First)

1. Choose your new carrier (see alternatives below)
2. Start the activation/port process with the new carrier
3. You will need your Consumer Cellular account number and PIN
4. Find these at: consumercellular.com/my-account or call 1-888-345-5509
5. The port typically completes in 1-3 hours (sometimes up to 24 hours)
6. Once the port completes, Consumer Cellular automatically cancels your service

Step 2: Cancel Without Porting (If You Do Not Want to Keep the Number)

If you do not need to keep your phone number:

1. Call 1-888-345-5509
2. Tell the agent you want to cancel your service
3. They may offer a lower-tier plan or discounts — decline if you are done
4. Confirm the cancellation date and ask about your final bill

You can also cancel online:

1. Log into consumercellular.com
2. Go to My Account → Account Settings
3. Look for cancellation or deactivation option

Phone Payment Plans

If you purchased a phone through Consumer Cellular on a payment plan:

• The remaining balance becomes due immediately upon cancellation
• Check your remaining balance at My Account → Billing before canceling
• The phone itself is yours — you can use it with another carrier if it is unlocked

Phone Unlock Policy

• Consumer Cellular unlocks phones after 180 days of active service
• If your phone is past 180 days, it should already be unlocked
• If not, call 1-888-345-5509 and request an unlock before canceling
• An unlocked phone works with any GSM carrier (AT&T, T-Mobile networks)

Cheaper Alternatives

• Mint Mobile ($15-30/month): T-Mobile network, 3-month minimum prepaid. Cheapest major MVNO.
• Visible ($25-30/month): Verizon network, unlimited everything, no throttling. Owned by Verizon.
• US Mobile ($10-25/month): Choose T-Mobile or Verizon network, flexible plans.
• Google Fi ($20-65/month): Switches between T-Mobile and US Cellular automatically. Good for travelers.
• T-Mobile Essentials 55+ ($27.50/line with 2 lines): If you are 55+, competitive senior pricing from the carrier directly.