Martin Lewis is urging mobile phone customers to send two simple texts to reduce their bills before the upcoming price hikes in April. These increases will affect customers on networks such as Three, EE, O2, and Vodafone, and Martin is encouraging those impacted to take action now. The price rises, which will vary depending on the network and contract, are due to take effect next month, with new contracts being hit with increases based on a specific ‘pounds and pence’ figure, while those on older contracts will face a percentage-based rise.
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In January, a rule change by regulator Ofcom banned mid-contract inflation-linked price hikes, but this only applies to new contracts. Customers with existing contracts are still facing inflation-based price increases. Martin explained on ITV1: “Mobile contracts are rising, roughly six per cent or about £2 a month. Broadband prices are also rising, and it’s important to note that those on existing contracts may still be subject to inflation-linked price hikes.” He further clarified that the changes would affect millions of customers who are not on new contracts and may not realise they are still subject to price hikes.
Martin emphasised that many mobile customers are overpaying because they are out of contract but have not yet switched providers. For those who have paid off their handset, it’s time to take action. Martin advised sending two texts to reduce bills, starting with sending “INFO” to 85075 to find out whether early termination or cancellation charges apply. If charges are zero, it means the customer is free to switch providers and reduce their monthly payments. Martin suggested avoiding going directly to mobile phone companies as they tend to charge more, instead recommending comparison sites for the best deals.
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Finally, Martin pointed out that there are excellent offers available, such as the Lebara 10GB SIM for only £2 to £5 per month, depending on where it’s purchased. He added, “Most people are massively overpaying. SIM prices have dropped significantly. Five years ago, a 50GB SIM was £13 a month, but now the cheapest is £3 per month.” He also reminded customers that they can keep their phone number when switching providers by texting “PAC” to 65075, which will allow them to transfer their number to their new network provider.
