With the cost of living still putting pressure on household budgets, many people are looking for easy ways to save money without making major lifestyle changes. While most consumers focus on cutting supermarket spending or reducing energy use, one monthly bill often goes unnoticed – the mobile phone contract.
According to money-saving expert Martin Lewis, there is a simple step that could help many customers avoid paying more than they need. A little-known phone code allows users to request important information about their current mobile contract, making it much easier to compare deals and switch providers if a cheaper option is available.
The process only takes a few minutes, but for some households, it could lead to significant savings over the course of a year.
What is the phone code?
The code highlighted by Martin Lewis is “Text STAC to 75075.”
Sending this free text message gives you a Service Termination Authorisation Code (STAC). This code is used when you want to leave your current mobile network without keeping your existing phone number.
Once you receive the code, you can give it to your new provider if you decide to switch. Your old contract will then be cancelled automatically, helping you avoid unnecessary delays or confusion.
If you want to keep your current phone number instead, you’ll usually need a PAC (Porting Authorisation Code) by texting PAC to 65075.
Why could this save you money?
Many people continue paying for expensive mobile contracts simply because they never review them.
After the minimum contract period ends, customers often remain on the same tariff, even though much cheaper SIM-only deals or new contracts may be available.
By requesting a STAC or PAC code, you’re able to compare prices with confidence and move to another provider if you find a better offer.
For someone paying £40 or £50 each month, switching to a lower-cost plan could save hundreds of pounds over a year.
You don’t have to call your provider
One reason many people delay switching is because they expect long phone calls or complicated cancellation procedures.
The text code system was introduced to make switching much simpler.
Instead of contacting customer services and negotiating over the phone, you can request the code by text and receive it within minutes.
This gives you the freedom to compare deals before making a final decision.
Should you switch immediately?
Not always.
Before changing providers, it’s worth checking how much time is left on your current contract.
If you’re still within the minimum contract period, leaving early could result in early termination charges. In some cases, waiting a few more weeks until your agreement ends may be the more cost-effective option.
It’s also worth checking whether your current provider is willing to offer a better deal if you decide to stay.
Compare more than just the monthly price
While a lower monthly payment is attractive, it shouldn’t be the only factor you consider.
Before switching, compare:
- Monthly cost
- Data allowance
- Call and text limits
- Network coverage in your area
- Contract length
- Roaming charges if you travel abroad
A slightly more expensive plan may still offer better value if it includes more data or stronger network coverage.
SIM-only deals can offer big savings
If you’ve already paid off your handset, moving to a SIM-only contract is often one of the easiest ways to reduce your monthly bill.
Many customers continue paying handset prices long after the phone itself has effectively been paid for.
Switching to a SIM-only plan allows you to keep your existing phone while benefiting from a much lower monthly payment.
For people who don’t need the latest handset every year, this can be one of the biggest money-saving changes they make.
Don’t forget to check your usage
Before choosing a new deal, take a look at your recent mobile bills.
Many people pay for unlimited data despite using only a small amount each month. Others choose expensive plans that include services they rarely use.
Matching your tariff to your actual usage can often reduce your bill without affecting the way you use your phone.
A quick review of your monthly data consumption could reveal that you’re paying for far more than you need.
Why Martin Lewis recommends checking now
Mobile phone providers regularly launch new offers, especially for new customers.
That means loyal customers can sometimes end up paying more than people joining the same network today.
Martin Lewis has repeatedly encouraged consumers to review their contracts regularly rather than allowing them to roll over automatically.
Even spending ten minutes comparing prices could lead to worthwhile savings over the next 12 months.
Final thoughts
The simple STAC text code may not seem like a big deal, but it can make switching mobile providers much easier and help you avoid paying more than necessary.
If your contract has ended or you’re close to the end of your minimum term, it’s worth checking what’s available before automatically staying with your current provider. A quick comparison of today’s deals, combined with the right switching code, could significantly reduce your monthly mobile bill without changing how you use your phone.
