NumberNest

What is a STAC code?

Updated 30 October 2026

A STAC code lets you leave your mobile network without taking your number with you.

To get one, text STAC to 75075 from the phone you're leaving. It's free. Your code lasts 30 days. If you want to keep your number, you need a PAC code instead.

What does STAC stand for?

STAC stands for Service Termination Authorisation Code. Termination means your number ends when you switch.

You give the code to your new network. They set up your new SIM with a new number, and your old network closes your account. You don't have to call your old network to cancel.

STAC or PAC?

Both codes are free, and both let you switch networks with one text. The difference is what happens to your number.

  • PAC to 65075: keep your number and take it to your new network.
  • STAC to 75075: leave without your number. Your new network gives you a new one.
  • INFO to 85075: see what you'd owe before you leave, like an early exit fee.

These codes come from Citizens Advice. If you're not sure, get a PAC. You can still choose a new number with a PAC, but a STAC can't be undone.

How to get a STAC code

By text

  1. Open Messages on the phone with the number you're leaving.
  2. Send STAC to 75075.
  3. Wait for a reply with your code.

Some networks also want your date of birth. Send STAC followed by your date of birth, like STAC 241285. Three and SMARTY work this way.

Online or by phone

Most networks also let you ask in your online account or by calling them. If you have more than one number on your account, the text won't work, so use one of these instead.

STAC codes by network

EE STAC code

To get your STAC code from EE, text STAC to 75075. You can also ask in your EE account online or call EE. Find out more from EE

giffgaff STAC code

To get your STAC code from giffgaff, text STAC to 75075. You can also ask on your profile and settings page or call 43431 from your giffgaff phone. You need to be in the UK to ask. Find out more from giffgaff

SMARTY STAC code

To get your STAC code from SMARTY, text STAC and your date of birth to 75075, like STAC 241285. Turn off auto-renew in your account settings first, or payments carry on. Find out more from SMARTY

Three STAC code

To get your STAC code from Three, text STAC and your date of birth to 75075, like STAC 241285. Find out more from Three

Other networks

Most use the same text, STAC to 75075. If it doesn't work, check your network's help pages or give them a call.

How long does a STAC code last?

30 days. If you don't use it, nothing happens and your plan carries on as normal. Asking for a STAC doesn't end anything by itself.

How to use a STAC code

  1. Choose your new network and order a SIM.
  2. Give them your STAC when they ask how you're switching.
  3. They arrange the switch. It has to be done within one working day.
  4. Your old number stops working, and your old network sends a final bill if anything is owed.

Networks can't charge you for a notice period after your switch date.

What happens to your old number?

It's gone for good. giffgaff says a STAC permanently cancels your number after you switch. SMARTY says it can't bring a terminated number back.

Before you use a STAC, think about what's linked to your number. Banks, WhatsApp, Google and other accounts often send their codes there. Change the number on those accounts first, while you still have the old one.

Pay as you go credit

Use up your credit before you switch. EE says you'll lose what's left. giffgaff doesn't refund credit or unused plan days either.

Getting a STAC code from abroad

Texting 75075 doesn't always work outside the UK. giffgaff says you need to be in the UK to ask for one. Try your network's website or app instead, or call them.

Moving abroad? Think twice before a STAC

Lots of people get a STAC when they move abroad, because they don't need a UK plan any more. But your UK number is often still needed for bank codes and logins after you've gone.

With a PAC instead, you can bring your number to NumberNest. It lives in an app, without a UK plan. Messages and pictures arrive in the app, and calls ring over the internet, wherever you are.

NumberNest isn't open yet. Join the waitlist to hear when it opens for UK numbers.

Common questions

Is a STAC code free?

Yes. Asking for one is free, and so is the text to 75075.

Does asking for a STAC cancel my contract?

No. Nothing changes until your new network uses the code. If you don't use it, it runs out after 30 days.

Can I get my number back after using a STAC?

Usually not. Once the switch is done, the number is cancelled.

Do I need a STAC to leave my network?

Not always. You can still cancel the old way, by contacting your network. A STAC means your new network handles it for you, so you don't pay for both at once.

What's the difference between a PAC and a STAC?

A PAC keeps your number. A STAC ends it. Text PAC to 65075 to keep your number, or STAC to 75075 to leave it behind.

Can I use a STAC on pay as you go?

Yes. It works the same way for pay as you go and pay monthly. Use your credit first, because you'll lose it.

Bring your number with you