Contract ended now added data to PAYG but account closed

[Lisaandsally]

My mobile 2 year contract ended. I live overseas now.  I wanted to keep my number so the UK shop told me  i just need to top up and call once every 3 months. 
But.  I  can’t get through to any number. I keep getting “calls to this number are barred” any time I try to call.  My account in the app says This account is closed. 
HELP!!’n

[Lisaandsally]

I have EXACTLY the same issue!!!  I am now overseas after contract ended. I was told by shop when I was in Uk it would be no problem. I am not returning to Uk for a year. I need to keep my number. Hope can I get round this???))

[Lisaandsally]

I have EXACTLY the sane issue!!! 

I was assured by the shop in Uk it would be fine. But it’s not. I’m overseas now and cannot call to keep my number. 

I won’t be home in Uk for at least a year how can I keep my number????

[bristolian · Accepted solution]

I've moved your other post into the same thread - you only need post once about any issue.

All new PAYG SIMs need to be first activated in the UK before they will work abroad, this includes transfers from pay-monthly. If you haven't done this, then roaming will not be activated until you do so. PAYG SIMs are also subject to the hibernation policy requiring chargeable use at least once every 179 days, to remain active.

If you are now abroad with a PAYG SIM that has not been activated, the only way to evade the hibernation clock is to somehow return the SIM to the UK for it to be activated. Either you return with it, or you post it to a friend or relative who does so for you.

Once the SIM has been activated in the UK, roaming will be auto-enabled allowing usage abroad. If the SIM is not used for 179 days after being converted from PAYG, it will go into hibernation. You then have a further 3months to reactivate the SIM by contacting EE CS, after which it is permanently disconnected and any credit lost.