Can I keep my current phone number?

Absolutely! Tello allows you to port your existing phone number to their network. During the signup process, you'll have the option to transfer your number. Just make sure not to cancel your current plan until the transfer is complete.

Can I use Tello's plans for international calling?

Yes. Tello offers free international calling to 60 countries.

How to Switch to Tello - MoneySavingPro

3 min read

Updated October 20, 2023

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Are you tired of those jaw-dropping cell phone bills that leave you feeling like you've been taken for a ride?

As an MVNO, Tello phone plans could help save up to $600 a year on your cell phone plan. So it's time to break free from the shackles of expensive plans and discover a smarter way to save money without compromising quality.

Find out more below on how to switch to Tello and some of the features and plans available.

How to switch to a Tello plan

Switching to Tello is a breeze.

With Tello, you can choose a plan that suits your needs. Whether you're a light user or a data-hungry individual, Tello has options for everyone.

But before switching, there are a few things to consider:

Coverage: Before moving over to Tello, check our Tello coverage map. Pop in your ZIP code to find out how good coverage is in your area.
Assess your needs: Tello offers a variety of different plans, so be sure to decide what you really want and need from your cell phone plan to make sure you're not paying for features you don't need.
Compare plans: Compare Tello's affordable plans to find the one that best suits your needs.
Port your number: If you want to transfer your current number to Tello, you can do that when activating your SIM card. You'll often need your existing carrier's account number and PIN number. But don't cancel your current contract until your number's been transferred.
Bring your own phone: Keep your current phone and switch to Tello hassle-free if it's unlocked and compatible with T-Mobile's network.
Buy your SIM card: Once you've picked your plan, your Tello SIM card kit will arrive at your home in just a few days. Alternatively, if you have an eSIM-compatible phone, you can get started on your new plan within minutes.

Bring your own phone to Tello

One great benefit is that you can bring your own phone as long as it's compatible with T-Mobile's network.

Buying a new device and adding the cost to your monthly bill is unnecessary. Just insert your SIM card and enjoy Tello's affordable plans. Before making the switch, make sure your phone meets the compatibility requirements.

Unlock your phone: When buying, most devices are locked to a carrier's network. So you'll need to make sure to unlock yours if it's not already.
Phone compatibility: As long as your phone's unlocked from its existing carrier, it should be compatible with Tello. But if you're unsure, you can use our phone compatibility checker with your IMEI number.

Tello plans

Tello offers a range of plans tailored to suit different needs, and their plans start as low as $10 per month.

You can choose from plans with unlimited talk and text, unlimited data, or a family plan. The best part? Tello plans have no contracts, activation fees, or overage charges.

Unlimited data plan: Tello unlimited plans offer unlimited calls, texts, and data (capped at 25GB).
Build your own plan: Tello allows you to build your own plan. Pick the amount of talk time you want and your data allowance. So it's truly customizable for you.
Family plans: There are no multi-line discounts with Tello family plans, but you can customize each family member's plan to suit them. Which still can save you hundreds of dollars a year per line.

Activating your Tello card

You can activate your Tello SIM card online with a few simple steps.

Go to the "My SIM" section of your Tello account
Follow the steps and complete the information required
When instructed, pop the new SIM card into your phone
Follow a few more prompts. Then your phone should restart to activate your new plan
If it's still not activated, reboot your phone again after 30 minutes
If you're transferring a number across, once your SIM is activated, you can request your number to be ported over with Tello.

Why choose Tello?

You might wonder why Tello is a great choice for your next cell phone plan.

Tello operates on the nationwide T-Mobile network, ensuring reliable coverage and, according to this Root Metrics report, one of the best for data speeds and 5G coverage.

They also provide the option to amend your plan at any time. Giving you the flexibility to adjust based on your needs or budget.

Switch to Tello FAQs:

Recap

Switching to Tello can help you save hundreds of bucks on your cell phone plan.

With their affordable plans, bring-your-own-phone deals, and excellent coverage, Tello has established itself as a top choice for budget-conscious consumers.

Say goodbye to expensive bills and hello to financial freedom with Tello.

Read our Tello review to find out more about this low-cost carrier.