Recovering my personal number from a business contract

[eltezz1]

My Company first supplied me with a phone in 2017 and asked if I wanted a new number or use my personal number. At the time I never gave it any thought and opted for my own number. Fast forward to now, September 2025 and I am being made redundant and the phone has to go back. I have asked to have my own number ported to another phone I have purchased 2nd hand so I don't lose it but have been told the only way to keep the number is to take on the remainder of the contract for the business phone.

I want my number back as it is 25 years old now and I would never be able to inform all parties that might need to contact me. I also can't take on the contract as it has two years to run at some £81 a month, the last thing I need while looking for a new job.

Is there any way that EE can allow me to get my personal number from the business phone back? Surely there must be a way?

[bristolian · Accepted solution]

When you transferred (what was) your number to your company account, it legally ceased being your number and became that of your employer. Thus your concept of this being "your personal number" ceased being accurate in 2017.

Practice between companies can vary in this scenario, but ultimately if your employer is willing for one of their numbers to be transferred out to you, then you'll need to accept whatever terms that comes with. If the line in question is within its minimum term, then EE as network operator will require that contractual obligation to be fulfilled - thus this will be a matter of negotiation between yourself & your employer.

As an aside, £81/month does seem a bit on the steep side - I would normally expect that sort of figure to include a device repayment element, as well as a generous data allowance.

[eltezz1]

Thank you for the reply, at least that clears it up for me. The price is for a 3-year contract on a iPhone 16 Pro max with unlimited data and European calling so as you say, would almost certainly include the handset.

I wasn't sure if this could be done, hence the question. I will take on a new number then, easiest way.

Thanks again for your help.