Choose a SIM-only plan
Compare data used over three recent bills, indoor signal and renewal term before comparing advertised allowances.
Read this guideLIBRARYIndependent UK mobile guidance / Guides
The field
guide index.
Plain-language steps for the most common mobile questions. Start with the topic, then confirm the live terms with your provider.
Call for free guidance 020 3996 8779Phone contracts & upgrades
A handset agreement and airtime service can have different payment schedules. Ask for the total repayable over the whole term.
Read this guideeSIM setup
First check that the phone supports eSIM and is unlocked. Keep Wi-Fi available while downloading a provider-issued profile.
Read this guidePAYG & rolling plans
PAYG credit, recurring 30-day packs and monthly contracts are different products. Identify which one you have.
Read this guideCoverage by postcode
Enter the full postcode into the provider map and Ofcom Map Your Mobile. Check indoor and outdoor predictions separately.
Read this guideRoaming abroad
Search the exact destination on your provider’s official roaming page before leaving. Review calls, texts, data, passes and fair use.
Read this guideUnlimited data explained
Unlimited plans can still have traffic management, tethering policies, roaming fair-use limits or speed tiers.
Read this guideBills and annual changes
Compare the bill against your signed agreement, add-ons, device instalments, roaming and out-of-bundle usage.
Read this guideKeep your number
Request a PAC from the current provider by texting PAC to 65075, then give it to the new provider when ready.
Read this guideMobile broadband
A 4G/5G home hub uses mobile signal; a fibre or cable service uses a fixed connection. Compare them by address, not just headline speed.
Read this guideNo signal or slow data
Check the provider’s live status page, airplane mode, SIM/eSIM status and whether the problem follows the phone or the location.
Read this guideApps and account safety
Use the official provider app or typed web address to view usage, bills, roaming and SIM controls.
Read this guideCancel or complain
Check minimum term and any device balance, then request the provider’s cancellation route in writing or through the official account.
Read this guideCompare monthly costs
Add airtime, device finance, add-ons and likely annual changes; compare the total cost over the full commitment.
Read this guidePlan choice checklist
List your postcode, data needs, travel destinations, handset compatibility and preferred commitment.
Read this guide