Step 1: Decide which carrier you want to go with
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If you've been with your current provider for a while, you might be stunned at how many affordable and feature-packed options are out there.
Whether you're looking for a classic data plan or premium features like customizable plans, data rollover, monthly plan flexibility, there's likely a plan that offers both flexibility and value for money.
The market now offers a wide range of plans to suit different needs — from basic, budget-friendly options to more comprehensive plans with lots of data and premium features.
For example, Fizz offers 60GB of data for just $40 monthly, including unlimited talk and text. Plus, unused data automatically rolls over into the next month, and you can gift data to your pals who are also with Fizz — meaning you never lose the data you paid for.
Step 2: Take stock of your current plan
Before ordering your new SIM or making any changes, take a close look at your current phone plan.
It's helpful to first list out what you need most (and what you're missing), like the amount of data you actually use on a monthly basis, talk time, or international calling. Then, take some time to explore different options to find the plan that best fits those needs.
You might also want to consider if you're still under a contract, or if it's ended. Are you still paying off your phone?
Early termination fees may apply depending on your situation, and you'll need to pay off what's left on your device to close your contract. These costs are generally added to your final bill after you switch services, so it's good to know about them.
If you plan to bring your current phone to the new network, check whether your device is compatible (most newer phones are) and make sure it's unlocked.
Step 3: Order your SIM card
Once you’ve selected your new carrier, go ahead and order your SIM card. With Fizz, you can easily order your SIM card online and have it delivered right to your door.
Just go to fizz.ca to create your perfect mobile plan and follow the on-screen steps, plus no delivery or activation fees.
Step 4: Activate your SIM card
Your SIM card will come with instructions for getting started. You might be tempted to swap your new SIM into your phone right away, but hold off until you've activated it — especially if you want to transfer your phone number from your current carrier.
Generally, you'll want to log in to your account at the new carrier and choose the option to activate a new SIM. With Fizz, you can activate a SIM here and select your monthly plan.
Step 5: Transfer your phone number
During activation, you'll be asked if you want a new number or if you want to transfer your current one. To successfully transfer your phone number, make sure not to cancel your existing mobile plan. Your new provider will handle the cancellation once the number transfer is complete. If you select your current number, Fizz will contact your carrier and organize a service transfer.
Generally, your current phone company will text you asking if you consent to transferring the number. The process can take up to two hours, but after that, your number will connect to your new SIM.
If you get a new number, your current one will stay connected to the old phone provider unless you call them to cancel the service.
Step 6: Put in your new SIM and enjoy your new service
Three people browsing smartphone.Ketut Subiyanto | Pexels
Once your SIM is activated, your phone number is set up, and your SIM is inserted into your phone, you're good to go! You might need to update your voicemail settings, but other than that, your phone should behave as it always had, but for a better deal.
If you switched to Fizz, for example, you'd enjoy a loyalty program, flexible plans, and super-generous data packages.
Step 7: Finalize the cancellation of your old plan
Transferring your number usually triggers your old phone company to close your account. If your phone is paid off and your contract term is over, you can expect to get a final bill, and that's about it.
If you have any outstanding charges, you might get a phone call from them to confirm that you're closing your account and finalize any related fees. You can often pay them upfront, or they'll add them to your bill. When you get your final bill, take a good look at it to make sure there aren't unexpected fees.
On the topic of surprise charges, Fizz doesn't play like that. Their plans are all-inclusive, with no nasty overage or roaming fees that sneak up on you.
Two smiling women working with laptop and smartphone.Alexander Suhorucov | Pexels
Switching phone plans in Canada is more straightforward than you might think, and it's a smart idea if you’re not satisfied with your current provider. By taking a few thoughtful steps — exploring new carriers, assessing your current plan, ordering and activating your new SIM card, and finally cancelling your old plan — you’ll be on your way to a better mobile experience.
If you’re looking for an affordable and flexible option, check out Fizz. With their straightforward plans, generous data allowances and no fixed-term contracts, you can enjoy better service without being locked into a long-term commitment. Plus, their easy online setup means you can get started with minimal hassle.
To learn more about Fizz, visit their website. You can also follow them on Instagram, Facebook, YouTube, and TikTok.
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