Moved abroad and would like to keep number and can I get a refund?

[DollyC1014]

Hello, I have recently moved abroad for a few months and would like to keep my number for when I return to the UK. Because I'm no longer using it, what can I do in order to keep my number without paying for it every month? Also EE charged me for this month before I was able to remove my auto debit, can I get the refund as I was already abroad and did not use it?

[BrendonH]

No you can't get a refund.

Are you passed your minimum term? If so request to move it to PAYG closing your pay monthly account this will take 30 days as you need to give 30 days notice of cancelling your pay monthly.

Just cancelling Direct Debit doesn't make it cancelled and if you had you would still be liable for that monthly payment regardless.

[XRaySpeX]

Non-use of a contract no. doesn't absolve you from paying for it. EE still provides a service even if you choose not to use it. Cancelling your DD will mean you'll have to pay it in some other way.

[bristolian]

It's not clear whether you're on a pay-monthly contract or PAYG.

If PAYG, then simply make sure you make a chargeable action at least once every 179 days to avoid the phone being put into hibernation.

If on contract, then your options are limited. Your line will remain open for as long as you maintain your contractual monthly payments. Ceasing those will cause credit file issues once your line has been suspended for non-payment. Assuming you're outside the minimum term, you could request your plan is cancelled and number migrated to PAYG - but this process can't be completed abroad and your SIM will need to be reactivated in the UK first.