topic Re: Can call or text in Pay as you go

Can call or text

Thomasmore — Wed, 08 Jul 2026 08:41:55 GMT

Hi, this is my last resort.

Last week I switched my old three phone number to a EE payg sim.

I receive text messages and missed phone calls but can't send a text nor call.

I have topped up the sim, and i bought a UK&EU 200 text package, nothing has changed.

I can't call the support nor message them. When i call it hangs up after saying "abard", i have no idea what that means.

Is someone able to explain what is wrong or able to provide an email address i can contact support on.

Many thanks!

Tom

Re: Can call or text

Peter_W — Wed, 08 Jul 2026 11:17:54 GMT

Hey there @Thomasmore

Welcome to the Community 😊

It sounds like the error you're hearing is 'barred' - just to be sure, are you in the UK at the moment or are you trying to use your phone abroad?

Peter

Re: Can call or text

Thomasmore — Fri, 14 Aug 2026 09:23:51 GMT

Hi Peter,

Sorry I have only just figured out how to find your reply haha.

The sim was set up in the UK and then I left for Hungary. I will be back in a couple weeks.

Re: Can call or text

Leanne_T — Fri, 14 Aug 2026 11:31:44 GMT

Hi @Thomasmore

Thanks for coming back to us.

Did you make a call or send a text whilst connected to the EE network when you were in the UK?

Leanne.

Re: Can call or text

XRaySpeX — Fri, 14 Aug 2026 23:47:40 GMT

Had you used that PAYG SIM for making calls or texts in UK before going abroad? To be used abroad EE PAYG SIMs need 1st activating on EE's home UK network. If it wasn't you can't now use it until you return to UK.

Re: Can call or text

Thomasmore — Sat, 15 Aug 2026 08:08:32 GMT

Hi Leanne,

After setting up the sim and transferring my number I tried to send a message in the UK however it didn't work. I assumed it was still setting up.

Re: Can call or text

Thomasmore — Sat, 15 Aug 2026 08:09:31 GMT

I suppose I will update you when I return then 😁