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Glossary
Number Porting
Number porting moves a phone number between providers. It is different from transferring account ownership or preserving voicemail.
Updated:
Definition
Number porting means moving an existing phone number from one provider to another. It can allow the number to remain in use on a different service, subject to eligibility and the providers' process. It is not the same as changing the named account holder within one provider.
Why It Matters
After a death, the representative may wish to keep a familiar number while changing the contract. A successful number move does not establish authority over linked online accounts, preserve the old voicemail or guarantee that every verification text will work on the new service.
Common Mistakes
- Do not cancel the old line first and assume the new provider can recover the released number. Do not assume a low-cost number-holding service supports every authentication message.
Safe Best Practices
- Ask both providers about eligibility, required authority, sequence, final charges and voicemail. Save recordings separately and review account dependencies before authorizing changes. Obtain confirmation that the move is complete.
Official sources
Related Terms
Two-Factor Authentication
Two-factor authentication adds a second proof step after the password, often through a text message, authenticator app, hardware key, or approval on another device.
Account Recovery
Account recovery helps a provider verify a user who has lost access. It is separate from a deceased-user data request or estate authority.
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