A couple of white telephones sitting on top of a wall
Switching wireless providers can feel daunting, but Cricket Wireless aims to make the process as smooth as possible. We understand you want to keep your number, use your current phone if possible, and find a plan that fits your budget. This guide will walk you through each step, ensuring a hassle-free transition to our reliable and affordable service.
1. Check Your Phone’s Compatibility
Before making the switch, it’s important to confirm that your current phone will work on the Cricket Wireless network. Most GSM-based phones are compatible, but it’s always best to verify. Cricket Wireless provides a convenient online compatibility checker. Here’s how to use it:
Enter your phone’s IMEI number. You can usually find this in your phone’s settings or by dialing *#06#
The checker will tell you if your phone is compatible.
What if my phone isn’t compatible?
If your phone isn’t compatible, don’t worry! Cricket Wireless offers a wide selection of affordable smartphones to choose from. Check out our latest deals on phones to find one that fits your needs and budget.
2. Unlock Your Phone
If your phone is currently locked to another carrier, you’ll need to unlock it before you can use it on the Cricket Wireless network. Contact your current carrier to request an unlock. Keep in mind that carriers often have specific requirements for unlocking a phone, such as:
The phone must be paid off.
The account must be in good standing.
The phone must have been active on their network for a certain period of time.
Unlock policies vary. Check with your current carrier for specific details.
3. Keep Your Number (Optional)
One of the biggest concerns when switching providers is whether you can keep your existing phone number. With Cricket Wireless, the answer is almost always yes! Here’s what you need to do:
During the activation process, choose the option to transfer your number from your previous carrier.
You’ll need to provide your account number and PIN from your previous carrier. This information is essential for Cricket to port your number over.
Keep your old account active until the transfer is complete. This usually takes a few hours to a day.
Important: Do not cancel your service with your old provider until your number has been successfully transferred to Cricket Wireless. Canceling beforehand can complicate the process.
4. Choose a Cricket Wireless Plan
Cricket Wireless offers a variety of plans to fit different needs and budgets. All our plans include taxes and fees in the price, so you know exactly what you’re paying each month. To choose a plan that suits you, consider the following:
Data Usage: How much data do you typically use each month? We offer plans with varying data allowances, including unlimited options.
Features: Do you need mobile hotspot, international calling, or other features? Some of our plans include these at no extra cost.
Budget: How much are you willing to spend on your monthly wireless service? We have plans starting as low as $25/month.
You can compare our plans on the Cricket Wireless website or visit a local Cricket store to discuss your options with a representative.
5. Activate Your Cricket Wireless Service
Once you have your compatible phone (or a new Cricket phone) and have chosen a plan, it’s time to activate your service. You can do this online or in a Cricket store.
A representative will assist you with the activation process, helping you choose a plan, transfer your number (if applicable), and set up your account.
Important: Have your phone, account information from your previous carrier (if transferring your number), and payment information ready before you start the activation process.
6. Troubleshooting After Switching
Even with careful planning, you might encounter a few minor issues after switching to Cricket Wireless. Here are some common problems and how to solve them:
My data isn’t working.
Make sure your phone’s data is turned on in your settings. You may also need to update your APN (Access Point Name) settings. Contact Cricket Wireless customer support for assistance with this.
I can’t make or receive calls.
Double-check that your number transfer is complete. If it is, try restarting your phone. If you’re still having problems, contact Cricket Wireless Customer Service.
My voicemail isn’t working.
You may need to set up your voicemail after switching. Dial *99 to access your voicemail and follow the prompts to create a password and record a greeting.
If you encounter any other issues, visit our Support Center for helpful articles and troubleshooting tips.
Pro Tip
Consider setting up Auto Pay to avoid late fees. Auto Pay ensures your bill is paid on time each month, and you may even be eligible for a discount!
7. Deals and Promotions
Cricket Wireless frequently offers deals and promotions for new customers, including discounts on phones, service plans, and accessories. Keep an eye on our Deals page for the latest offers. You may be able to save even more money when switching!
Conclusion
Switching to Cricket Wireless is designed to be a simple and straightforward process. By following these steps – checking your phone’s compatibility, unlocking your phone, choosing a plan, and activating your service – you can enjoy Cricket’s affordable and reliable wireless service in no time. And remember, our customer support team is always here to help if you need assistance. Welcome to the Cricket Wireless family!
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: What steps are involved in switching to Cricket Wireless?
A: Switching to Cricket Wireless involves checking your phone’s compatibility, unlocking your phone if necessary, keeping your number (optional), choosing a Cricket Wireless plan, and activating your service. You can activate online or in a Cricket store.
Q: Is it difficult to switch to Cricket Wireless?
A: The difficulty of switching to Cricket Wireless depends on your individual circumstances. Cricket aims to make it as smooth as possible, but unlocking your phone or transferring your number can sometimes present challenges. However, Cricket Wireless provides support to guide you through the process.
Q: What are the benefits of switching to Cricket Wireless?
A: Benefits of switching to Cricket Wireless include affordable plans with taxes and fees included, reliable network coverage, the option to bring your own phone, and potential deals and promotions for new customers.
Q: How do I check if my phone is compatible with Cricket Wireless?
A: To check if your phone is compatible with Cricket Wireless, visit the Bring Your Own Phone page on the Cricket Wireless website and enter your phone’s IMEI number. The compatibility checker will then tell you if your phone will work on the Cricket network.
Q: Can I keep my current phone number when I switch to Cricket?
A: Yes, you can keep your current phone number when you switch to Cricket Wireless. During the activation process, choose the option to transfer your number and provide your account number and PIN from your previous carrier. Keep your old account active until the transfer is complete.
Q: How do I unlock my phone before switching to Cricket?
A: To unlock your phone before switching to Cricket, contact your current carrier and request an unlock. Carriers usually have requirements, such as the phone being paid off and the account being in good standing. Check with your carrier for their specific unlock policy.
Q: Are there any deals or promotions when switching to Cricket?
A: Cricket Wireless frequently offers deals and promotions for new customers, including discounts on phones, service plans, and accessories. Check the Deals page on the Cricket Wireless website for the latest offers.
Q: How do I find my phone’s IMEI number?
A: You can find your phone’s IMEI number in your phone’s settings menu or by dialing *#06# on your phone’s keypad.
Q: What if my phone isn’t compatible with Cricket Wireless?
A: If your phone is not compatible with Cricket Wireless, you can purchase a new phone from Cricket Wireless. They offer a wide selection of affordable smartphones.
Q: Why do I need my account number and PIN from my previous carrier?
A: Your account number and PIN from your previous carrier are required to transfer your phone number to Cricket Wireless. This information allows Cricket to port your number over.
Q: When should I cancel my service with my old provider?
A: Do not cancel your service with your old provider until your number has been successfully transferred to Cricket Wireless. Canceling beforehand can complicate the process.
Q: How do I choose the right Cricket Wireless plan for me?
A: Cricket Wireless offers a variety of plans to fit different needs and budgets. Consider your data usage, desired features, and budget when choosing a plan.
Q: How do I activate my Cricket Wireless service?
A: You can activate your Cricket Wireless service online through the Cricket Wireless website or in person at a Cricket Wireless store.
Q: What do I do if my data isn’t working after switching?
A: If your data isn’t working after switching, make sure your phone’s data is turned on. You may also need to update your APN settings. Contact Cricket Wireless customer support for assistance.
Q: What do I do if I can’t make or receive calls after switching?
A: If you can’t make or receive calls after switching, double-check that your number transfer is complete. If it is, try restarting your phone. If problems persist, contact Cricket Wireless customer support.
Q: What do I do if my voicemail isn’t working after switching?
A: If your voicemail isn’t working, dial *99 to access your voicemail and follow the prompts to create a password and record a greeting.
Q: What is Auto Pay and why should I set it up?
A: Setting up Auto Pay ensures your bill is paid on time each month and may make you eligible for a discount.
Q: Are most phones compatible with Cricket Wireless?
A: Yes, most GSM-based phones are compatible with the Cricket Wireless network. However, it’s always best to verify using the online compatibility checker.
Q: Why do I need to unlock my phone?
A: Unlocking your phone allows you to use it on any compatible network, regardless of the original carrier. This is necessary if your phone is locked to another carrier and you want to use it on Cricket Wireless.
Q: How long does it take to transfer my number?
A: The time it takes to transfer your number to Cricket Wireless can vary, but it usually takes a few hours to a day.
Q: What if I have trouble switching to Cricket Wireless?
A: If you encounter issues during the switching process, you can visit the Cricket Wireless Support Center for helpful articles and troubleshooting tips, or contact Cricket Wireless customer support directly.
Q: Are taxes and fees included in Cricket Wireless plans?
A: Cricket Wireless plans include taxes and fees in the price, so you know exactly what you’re paying each month.
Q: Can I get help choosing a plan in person?
A: You can visit a local Cricket Wireless store to discuss your options with a representative and get help choosing a plan.
Q: What information do I need to activate my service?
A: You’ll need your phone, account information from your previous carrier (if transferring your number), and payment information to activate your Cricket Wireless service.
Q: What do I do with my old SIM card?
A: If you are transferring your number, keep your old SIM card in your phone until the transfer is complete and your Cricket Wireless service is activated. Then, replace it with your Cricket Wireless SIM card.
Q: Does my new Cricket Wireless phone come with a SIM card?
A: If you are purchasing a new phone from Cricket Wireless, the SIM card will be included with the phone.
Q: How can I contact Cricket Wireless customer support?
A: Cricket Wireless offers customer support through their website, by phone, and in stores. You can find contact information on their website.
Q: Does Cricket Wireless offer mobile hotspot?
A: Yes, Cricket Wireless offers mobile hotspot on some of its plans, allowing you to share your data connection with other devices.
Q: Does Cricket Wireless offer international calling?
A: Some Cricket Wireless plans include international calling features at no extra cost. Check the details of each plan to see which countries are included.
Q: What do I need to do if I am bringing my own phone to Cricket Wireless?
A: If your phone is compatible, unlocked, and you’re bringing it to Cricket Wireless, you’ll just need to purchase a Cricket Wireless SIM card and activate your service.
Q: What network does Cricket Wireless use?
A: Cricket Wireless uses the AT&T network, providing reliable coverage across the United States.
Q: Can I upgrade my Cricket Wireless plan?
A: Yes, you can easily upgrade your Cricket Wireless plan online or in a Cricket Wireless store. Any changes will typically take effect at the beginning of your next billing cycle.
Q: What happens if I go over my data limit?
A: If you exceed your data allowance on a Cricket Wireless plan, your data speeds may be reduced, depending on the specific plan. Some plans offer unlimited data with no overage charges, but speeds may be throttled after a certain amount of usage.
Q: How can I pay my Cricket Wireless bill?
A: You can pay your Cricket Wireless bill online, through the MyCricket app, by phone, in a Cricket Wireless store, or through Auto Pay.
Q: What is the MyCricket app?
A: The MyCricket app allows you to manage your account, check your data usage, pay your bill, and access customer support.
Q: What should I do if I have problems after switching to Cricket Wireless?
A: If you are having trouble with your phone or service after switching, try restarting your phone, checking your data settings, and contacting Cricket Wireless customer support for assistance.
