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How do I get an AT&T number-transfer PIN to switch carriers?

Answer

Pay any outstanding AT&T balance, sign in as the primary account holder, turn off Wireless Account Lock if it is enabled, then generate the number-transfer PIN from the official AT&T account tools. Give that PIN and account details only to the new carrier during the port request.

Before you start: stop right away if…

  • Canceling AT&T before the port finishes can release the number and make transfer harder.
  • Do not share the transfer PIN, account number, or one-time codes with unexpected callers or texts.

Follow these steps

  1. Clear the AT&T balance

    Sign in to the official AT&T account site or app, pay any outstanding balance on the line, and save the confirmation.

    You should see: The account shows a zero or eligible balance for porting.

  2. Sign in as the primary holder

    Use the primary account holder login. Only that role can usually generate the number-transfer PIN online or in the app.

    You should see: You can open account and line settings for the number you want to keep.

  3. Turn off Wireless Account Lock

    Find Wireless Account Lock or similar number-lock protection in AT&T account security settings and turn it off before requesting the port.

    You should see: The lock shows off so the new carrier’s port request is not blocked.

  4. Generate the transfer PIN

    Open AT&T’s official number transfer or port-out PIN tool, create the PIN, and write it down with the account number the new carrier will need.

    You should see: You have a current transfer PIN and the account details required for porting.

  5. Start the port with the new carrier

    Give the new carrier the phone number, account number, billing ZIP, and transfer PIN, then keep AT&T active until the new SIM or eSIM shows service.

    You should see: The new carrier accepts the port request and service moves to the new line.

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Extra tips

What to look for: An unpaid balance alert, a Wireless Account Lock or number lock setting, and the official AT&T screen that shows a transfer PIN or port-out PIN.

Before you change anything: Confirm you are the primary account holder on the AT&T line. Have the account number, phone number, and billing ZIP ready for the new carrier. Do not cancel AT&T service before the port completes. Never share the transfer PIN with anyone except the new carrier during an official port.

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