Hi everyone.
I'm currently on a plan with Optus that I'd like to pay out then go onto a pre paid (Boost).
I'm just wondering the best steps to do it, and if possible keep my number.
I've heard it's probably best to change my Optus to a post paid first, and wondering if that's true.
Many thanks.
Simply port from Optus to Boost. Once completed, a final bill (including cancellation fees) will be sent, from Optus.
Please ensure you’re aware of all cancellation fees. For example, if you’re paying $10/m for your handset, that’ll most likely be a subsidised cost and the cancellation fee will be higher since the subsidisation is removed. Also ensure you’re not on a lease plan - these two would be some of the more common issues posted on OzB.
Initiate the port out. Let Optus know. You now need to give consent when trying to port a post paid plan.
Why would you want to pay out your service? Paying out generally means that you're going to pay for the months in advance and then not use them - so that you can escape the contract. That sounds like a bad deal unless the service is completely unsuitable for you.
I have ~$200 still owing on my device and 3 months left on my contract. The plan only takes out $20 towards the device so I'd have to spent $60 over next 3 months and still pay $140 at the end of contract.
There's no cancellation fee. Simply pay for remaining coat of device.
There's no financial benefit for me to stay on the service, and there's no cost except what I already had been paying.
Edit: Just chatted to Optus and it turns I was wrong, but they obsfucate information a bit which is why I was wrong.
Their "device charges" includes contract costs. So the device will be paid off by the end of the contract.
Which means you're right, and I'm better off just waiting until it finishes anyway.
When you set up your account with Boost there should be a section asking if you want a new number or use an existing. Should be straight forward.
Dunno if there'll be a fee but if you run into issues with Optus threaten involving the telecommunications ombudsman.
I've done this many times and never had a problem. You can definitely transfer your number and the only time I've heard this being an issue is transferring from one Optus provider to another Optus provider. They have to use a different process and it takes longer than if you're transferring from one provider to another (Voda to Telstra or Optus for example).
Thanks for the help everyone. Seems a lot easier than I thought. Appreciate the quick replies.
Can't hurt to call Optus first to let them know you want to leave; they may be willing to offer you a discount — especially if you've been around a while.
To my knowledge it's not a difficult thing. When you activate your boost account you tick the box that asks if you want to keep your number, and that's pretty much it.
I'm possibly uninformed, but recently switched from month-to-month plan with catchconnect to a boost sim without problems.