Can you request a old ee mobile number thats been out of service for a while

Kenmac15 · ‎24-04-2026

Hi, I reckon I know the answer but don't ask I'll never know.

I was wondering if it's possible to exchange my current number with my late fathers old number if it hasn't been recycled?

Ali_A · ‎24-04-2026

Hi @Kenmac15

As @Northerner mentioned, numbers do get recycled once they have been disconnected for a while. Usually after 18 months to 2 years of quarantine.

However, that's not to say it's permanently lost, and may have been cancelled again since. You can give Customer Service a call on 150 where a guide will be able to search if the number is currently available, and let you know the options if it is.

Ali

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Northerner · ‎24-04-2026

Hi @Kenmac15

How long is a while.

The likely answer will be no, it will be recycled and likely gone.

Thanks

To contact EE Customer Services dial 150 From your EE mobile or 0800 956 6000 from any other phone.

EE standard opening hours are Monday to Friday, 8am to 9pm - Saturday and Sunday, 8am to 8pm.

Kenmac15 · ‎24-04-2026

Hi.

It's been 10yrs & it only popped in to my head as I was deleting old numbers & I thought it had been deleted already. But I found it in my phone contacts not my sim contacts

Ali_A · ‎24-04-2026

Hi @Kenmac15

As @Northerner mentioned, numbers do get recycled once they have been disconnected for a while. Usually after 18 months to 2 years of quarantine.

However, that's not to say it's permanently lost, and may have been cancelled again since. You can give Customer Service a call on 150 where a guide will be able to search if the number is currently available, and let you know the options if it is.

Ali